Premier hints at new AirBorneo model to address high airfares

File photo of AirBorneo plane on the runway of Kuching International Airport.

By Shikin Louis

BAU, June 22: Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg has hinted at a new operating model for AirBorneo that could help address the issue of expensive airfares while improving connectivity for Sarawak in the long term.

While declining to reveal details due to commercial considerations, he said the State government has its own plans for the airline once it completes the transition process and gains full control of operations.

Abang Johari delivering his speech during the launch of the Bidayuh Cultural Centre (BCC) Bau on June 22, 2026.

“Airfares are very expensive now. A return trip to Kuala Lumpur can cost more than RM2,000.

“That is why I have my own model. In time, I will explain how we intend to properly manage ticket prices. We are still in the transition phase.

“Once we complete the process and have full control, we will introduce our new model,” he said when speaking at the opening ceremony of the Bidayuh Cultural Centre (BCC) here today.

Abang Johari further described AirBorneo as part of Sarawak’s broader infrastructure strategy, likening air connectivity to an “air bridge” that complements the State’s investments in roads and bridges.

He said reliable transportation infrastructure is essential to unlocking economic opportunities, particularly in tourism and the creative industries.

“Besides building bridges and roads, we also want to build an air bridge because we regard our airline as a bridge. We are on an island.

“When this infrastructure is in place, industries such as tourism and the creative sector will be able to grow,” he added.

Among those present were Minister of Food Industry, Commodity and Regional Development; Minister of Education, Innovation and Talent Development Dato Sri Roland Sagah Wee Inn; Deputy Minister of Transport (Riverine and Marine) Datuk Henry Harry Jinep; Jerip Susil; Miro Simuh; Ik Pahon Joyik; Sarawak Land and Survey Department director Datu Awang Zamhari Awang Mahmood; Sarawak Public Works Department (JKR) director Cassidy Morris; and Dayak Bidayuh National Association (DBNA) president Datu Ik Pahon Joyik. — DayakDaily