Premier confident state airline to take off next year

KUALA LUMPUR: Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg has expressed optimism that Sarawak’s long-awaited state airline will begin operations next year.

“Insyallah, all the issues concerning our airline will be resolved within two months, and we will have our own aircraft next year.

“These planes will facilitate travel for Sarawakians between Sarawak and Peninsular Malaysia. We will be able to bring tourists to Sarawak’s two Unesco World Heritage Sites, namely Gunung Mulu National Park and Niah National Park,” he said.

He said this during his speech at the Lan Berambeh Anak Sarawak 2024 (Lan Berambeh) dinner at the Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre (Mitec) here last night (Oct 19).

The event was officiated by Head of State Tun Pehin Sri Dr Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar and his wife Toh Puan Datuk Patinggi Fauziah Mohd Sanusi.

Reflecting on Lan Berambeh, the Premier acknowledged the notable changes in the event’s organisation over the years.

“I understand that many changes have taken place, as it appears that the exhibitions have increased, and the children of Sarawak have raised many impressive questions to the leaders and have also contributed, in some ways, to the development of our state,” he said.

He added that various issues were discussed during the programme, including renewable energy, the green economy, and climate change.

“These are global issues. But it seems that the children of Sarawak are also aware of the world’s problems,” he stressed.

Also present were Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof and National Unity Minister Datuk Seri Aaron Ago Dagang.