Sarawak wants AirBorneo showcased as official airline at 2027 SEA Games

KUCHING (Jan 20): Sarawak is pushing for AirBorneo to be featured prominently during the 2027 SEA Games, including the possibility of serving as an official airline for events hosted in the state, particularly in Kuching.

Sarawak Minister for Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Datuk Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah said the idea was raised during an earlier coordination meeting in Kuala Lumpur on preparations for the SEA Games, which Sarawak will co-host.

He noted that AirBorneo has yet to commence operations.

Abdul Karim, who is also Minister of Sports, Youth and Entrepreneur Development, said the discussions involved national sports authorities and the then federal Minister of Youth and Sports, Hannah Yeoh.

“One of the requests was for AirBorneo to be recognised as one of the official airlines for the Games, at least for events taking place in Kuching,” he said at a press conference on Monday.

He added that Sarawak is expected to host the bulk of the sporting events, including the opening ceremony, making it fitting for the state’s own airline to be showcased during the regional sporting meet.

Abdul Karim expressed hope that by September 2027, AirBorneo would have larger jet aircraft available.

“Even if the aircraft are not yet operating scheduled routes, they could be chartered and branded with the AirBorneo logo to serve SEA Games-related travel.

“That aircraft can go to all 10 destinations of the Southeast Asian countries participating in the SEA Games,” he added.

He said this would provide significant regional exposure for the airline.

Sarawak is also seeking a role for state broadcaster TVS in the Games’ media coverage, noting that discussions on this matter are ongoing and that TVS is already aware of the state’s aspirations.

When asked about the response from federal authorities, Abdul Karim said Sarawak’s requests carry weight given the scale of the event and the state’s financial commitment to hosting it.

“The cost of hosting the SEA Games is RM700 million. The Sarawak government has set aside RM350 million,” he said.

He pointed out that he personally signed a guarantee (for the sum) on behalf of the state, which was later presented to the federal Cabinet with the approval of the Premier.

“That is the level of confidence we have in organising this Games. So when we ask for consideration to support AirBorneo and TVS, they will have to listen.”

Malaysia is set to host the SEA Games in 2027, with Sarawak playing a central role as the main host state.

Earlier, Abdul Karim received a courtesy call from AirBorneo chief executive officer Megat Ardian Wira Mohd Aminuddin.

Also present were Permanent Secretary to the Ministry of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Morshidi Fredrik and the minister’s special administrative officer Datu Sherrina Hussaini.