Short-landing aircraft plan aims to cut Batang Ai’s four-hour journey

Abang Johari (seated fifth left) speaks during a press conference after the Sarawakku Sayang programme in Betong on Sept 26, 2026. Photo credit: UKAS

By Shikin Louis

KUCHING, Sept 26: Batang Ai’s four-hour road trip could soon be a thing of the past, with Sarawak planning to use short-landing aircraft capable of carrying around 18 passengers to improve access to the tourism destination.

Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said the improved air connectivity would address the logistics challenge that had previously made it difficult to bring tourists, particularly international visitors, to Batang Ai.

Recalling his experience bringing foreign tourists to the area, he said the journey from Kuching used to take at least four hours by bus, leaving visitors tired by the time they arrived.

“The problem is logistics. Four hours — at least four hours on a bus, and they get tired,” he said during a press conference after the Sarawakku Sayang programme in Betong today, which was broadcast live by Sarawak Public Communication Unit (UKAS).

He said the newly developed Bebuling STOLport would improve access to the area, adding that Sarawak was looking beyond the Twin Otter aircraft currently associated with short-distance rural air connectivity.

“We already have the STOLport, which can improve the logistics. And we will not use only the Twin Otter. We will use short-landing aircraft, but the passenger capacity may be 18 people,” he said.

Abang Johari said Batang Ai had strong potential to be developed as a tourism destination, with its attractions including Rentap Fortress, local culture and distinctive food.

He also highlighted the Kabong International Kite Festival (KIKF) as another attraction that could be incorporated into tourism offerings around the wider Betong area.

He said local communities should play a role in developing tourism packages, which could create new business opportunities for them.

“Packaging can be done by the locals, and this will create new business opportunities for the Betong area,” he said.

Abang Johari said improving accessibility would be important in allowing visitors to experience Batang Ai and other attractions in the area more easily.

Also present were Deputy Premiers Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas and Datuk Amar Awang Tengah Ali Hasan; Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah; Minister of Utility and Telecommunication Dato Sri Julaihi Narawi; Minister of Education, Innovation and Talent Development Dato Sri Roland Sagah Wee Inn; Minister of Transport Sarawak Dato Sri Lee Kim Shin; and Sarawak Secretary Datuk Amar Mohamad Abu Bakar Marzuki. — DayakDaily