KUCHING: Efforts to strengthen air connectivity between Sarawak and Indonesia are being hailed as a catalyst for a new era of regional economic cooperation, following the re-establishment of the direct Kuching–Pontianak flight, which began operations in September 2025.

Sarawak Premier, Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Abdul Rahman Zohari Tun Datuk Abang Openg, stated that this move is expected to boost trade, tourism, and the efficient movement of people, thereby optimising the potential of the border checkpoints in Western Sarawak.

He clarified that the air link is more than just a physical corridor; it is a strategic route that opens the door for the exchange of ideas, business opportunities, and social interaction between communities in the two territories.

“This connectivity will enable the people and industry players from both sides to connect more closely than ever before, stimulating economic growth and fortifying regional relations,” he said.

He made the remarks in a text speech delivered by Sarawak Transport Minister, Dato Sri Lee Kim Shin, during the Indonesia Evening ceremony commemorating the 80th Anniversary of Indonesia's Independence and the 20th Anniversary of the Establishment of the Consulate of the Republic of Indonesia on Wednesday.

Elaborating further, the Sarawak Premier added that the launch of Air Borneo's operations in 2026 will also open a new dimension in Sarawak–Indonesia cooperation, as the airline is set to provide direct flight networks to several major cities in Indonesia.

He explained that this effort will not only simplify travel but also expand the tourism sector, strengthen business networks, and encourage cultural exchange.

According to him, regional development becomes more significant with Indonesia's capital city moving to Nusantara in East Kalimantan, which he described as a strategic opportunity for Sarawak to be more closely involved in the development of that region.

“As a neighbouring territory, Sarawak is ideally positioned to support the Nusantara vision, including exploring collaborations in infrastructure, trade, health, and research that can deliver tangible and lasting benefits to both parties,” he stated.

He further added that this opportunity will reinforce the stability of the Borneo region and enhance the prosperity of its people through more structured and forward-looking economic cooperation.

Also present were Deputy Minister for Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts (Tourism), Datuk Sebastian Ting Chiew Yew, Deputy Minister in the Premier's Department (Corporate Affairs, Information and UKAS), Datuk Abdullah Saidol, Deputy Sarawak Secretary (Operations), Datu Hii Chang Kee, Consul General of the Republic of Indonesia in Kuching, Dr. Abdullah Zulkifli, Consul General of the People's Republic of China in Kuching, Xing Weiping, Consul General of Brunei Darussalam to Sarawak, Sheikh Abdul Mahdani Dato Paduka Sheikh Abdul Ghani, Director of the Regional Office of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) in Sarawak, Fenny Nuli, SAINS Chairman, Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Dr. George Chan Hong Nam, and other distinguished guests. - UKASnews

Reporter: Gabriel Rommy
Translator: Ryan Lim
Photographer: Haqeem