SEPANG: Efforts to strengthen Sarawak’s air connectivity, including additional flights during the upcoming Hari Raya festive season and the potential introduction of new international routes, were among the key issues discussed in a meeting between Sarawak Transport Minister Dato Sri Lee Kim Shin and Batik Air Malaysia chief executive officer Datuk Chandran Rama Muthy on Monday.

In a statement it said the meeting reaffirmed the commitment of the Sarawak Ministry of Transport (MOTS) and Batik Air Malaysia to continue working closely to improve connectivity to the state, meet increased travel demand during peak festive periods, and promote Sarawak as an attractive destination for both domestic and international travellers.

Dato Sri Lee attended the meeting with a MOTS delegation comprising Permanent Secretary Datu Wong Hee Sieng and Technical Advisor for Aviation Sio Yew Hua.

Among the matters discussed was the scheduling of Batik Air flights to Sarawak, including the possibility of increasing flight frequencies during peak travel periods such as the Hari Raya season to accommodate higher passenger demand.

The meeting also touched on special festive airfares in line with an initiative announced by Transport Minister Anthony Loke to stabilise ticket prices for flights from Peninsular Malaysia to Sabah and Sarawak during festive seasons.

Under the initiative, a ceiling base fare of RM499 has been set for selected flights during the peak travel period, with the government subsidising any difference should ticket prices exceed the ceiling.

The discussion also explored the potential introduction of new international routes into Sarawak, including services from Guangzhou, Zhangjiajie and Kunming.

Batik Air Malaysia also shared updates on its international chartered scheduled flights between Kuching and Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport, which are scheduled to commence on March 17, 2026.

The twice-weekly service will depart Kuching for Guangzhou on Tuesdays and Saturdays at 10.20 pm, arriving at 2.20 am local time.

Return flights will depart Guangzhou at 3.20 am on Wednesdays and Sundays, arriving in Kuching at 7.20 am.

Dato Sri Lee said improving air connectivity would strengthen Sarawak’s accessibility while supporting tourism and economic growth, particularly ahead of Visit Malaysia Year 2026. -UKASnews