SUNDAY, 10 MARCH, 2024
KABONG: The acquisition process of MASwings airline is expected to be completed by the end of this year, said Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Abdul Rahman Zohari Tun Datuk Abang Openg.
The move is to address the issue of airfare increases, including during festive seasons, thus reducing burdens especially for Sarawakians residing in Peninsular Malaysia.
“This will make it easier for people in Sarawak and Sabah as well as students studying in the peninsula to return home during the festive holidays.
“When it comes to festive holidays, fares will definitely go up. Going to Kuala Lumpur alone costs up to RM1,000 or more.
“Like it or not, the Sarawak government has to bear it, for the sake of Sarawakians,” he said.
He said this while speaking at the Adjournment Ceremony of the Kabong International Kite Festival 2024, at Tanjung Kembang Beach Hall, Kabong on Sunday.
The Premier of Sarawak previously reiterated the state government’s commitment to create long-haul flights in the Asian region.
In addition to flights to the Peninsula, long-haul destinations planned include South Korea, Japan, Hong Kong, India and one destination in Australia.
Meanwhile, he also commented on the 12 bridge projects that will connect the ‘missing link’ along Sarawak’s coastal road.
He explained that with the completion of the bridge project, it will benefit development in the coastal area, especially for residents of the Kabong State Assembly area.
“When completed, it is expected to shorten the travel time from six hours to two and a half hours from Kuching to Sibu and vice versa.
“Of course the journey to Kabong is less than two hours. If there is a big party in Kabong, foreigners will definitely come here to visit,” he said.
Also present were Sarawak State Secretary Datuk Amar Mohamad Abu Bakar Marzuki, Deputy Minister for Women, Early Childhood and Community Welfare Development Datuk Mohamad Razi Sitam, Kalaka Assemblyman Mohamad Duri, Kabong Assemblyman, Mohd Chee Kadir, Senator Pele Peter Tinggom, Betong Division Resident Richard Michael Abunawas, representative of the Malaysian Shipping Council DSP (Retired) Mohd Nazari Ismail, community and village leaders (KMKK) and department heads. -UKASnews