Pricey domestic airfares: PH S’wak secretary calls on govt to take action

MIRI (Oct 27): Pakatan Harapan (PH) Sarawak secretary Alan Ling is calling upon the government to tackle the issue of expensive domestic flight tickets, particularly on routes between Sarawak, Sabah and Peninsular Malaysia.

In a statement, he suggested the government set a price ceiling or provide subsidies to ease the burden of those affected by the ever-increasing cost of air travel.

“An Economy class flight ticket from Miri to Kuala Lumpur can now cost more than RM1,000 for a one-way trip, while a Business class ticket is close to RM2,000, especially during festive seasons or for last-minute bookings.

“This situation will undoubtedly increase the financial burden on the people who use flights as their main means of travel.

“The people often face emergency situations, including medical or educational needs that require urgent travel.

“With uncontrolled ticket prices, the situation will only worsen for them,” he said, urging MPs from Sarawak and Sabah to bring the issue up in Parliament in view of it involving the interests of many.

Ling, a former Piasau assemblyman, expressed his support for Sarawak government’s efforts in taking over a special airline for the state.

“I believe this move can be a long-term solution that will reduce the dependence of Sarawakians on existing commercial airlines; thus, stabilising ticket prices.

“As a leader who often receives complaints from the people on this issue, I hope the government could act immediately to enact policies that would curb the unreasonable increase in ticket prices,” he said, also calling upon the stakeholders to find more effective methods in improving the country’s aviation system for the well-being of the people.

Ling stressed that the government’s proactive measures would not only ease the burden off the people, particularly those in Sabah and Sarawak, but would also ensure that the right to affordable travel could be guaranteed.