KUCHING: Sarawak Minister for Transport Dato Sri Lee Kim Shin welcomed efforts by the private sector to strengthen air connectivity between Sarawak and China, describing direct flight services as an important catalyst for tourism, trade, investment and people-to-people exchanges.

He said this during a courtesy call by Baohang International Chief Executive Officer Brandon Zhu at his office in Bangunan Baitulmakmur, Kuching yesterday.

During the meeting, Brandon Zhu briefed the Minister on the performance of the Guangzhou–Kuching direct flight service operated by Batik Air, which commenced operations on March 17 this year.

According to the company, as of June 6, the route had completed 22 return flights, carrying a total of 5,892 passengers with an average load factor of 85 per cent.

About 40 per cent of passengers travelled as part of organised tour groups, while the remaining 60 per cent were independent travellers and bookings made through Online Travel Agencies (OTAs).

The route has also handled a cumulative cargo throughput of 44 tonnes since its launch.

Dato Sri Lee said the encouraging performance demonstrates the growing demand for direct connectivity between Sarawak and China and reflects the strong potential of the Chinese market.

“I welcome the initiative by the private sector in opening and promoting direct international routes to Sarawak. Such services not only benefit travellers from both sides, but also facilitate business exchanges, tourism growth and economic cooperation.

“The Sarawak Government fully supports efforts that enhance our international connectivity and bring more visitors and investment opportunities to Sarawak,” he said.

The Minister noted that China remains one of Sarawak’s most important economic partners, with an increasing number of Chinese companies investing and participating in development projects across the state, particularly in sectors such as renewable energy, manufacturing, infrastructure, logistics and technology.

At the same time, he said Sarawak has become an increasingly attractive destination for Chinese tourists due to its unique cultural diversity, rich natural attractions, eco-tourism offerings and reputation as a safe and welcoming destination.

During the meeting, Dato Sri Lee proposed that Baohang International explore the possibility of introducing direct flights between China and Miri in the future.

“Miri has tremendous potential as a tourism and business destination. Geographically, it is closer to China, resulting in shorter travelling times and potentially lower operating costs.

“Miri also serves as the gateway to northern Sarawak and offers access to world-renowned attractions such as Mulu National Park, Niah National Park, the Brunei-Sarawak growth corridor and various eco-tourism destinations,” he said.

Meanwhile, Brandon Zhu also shared the company’s intention to explore the launch of a future Shanghai–Kuching direct service.

Dato Sri Lee welcomed the proposal, noting that Shanghai is one of China’s leading economic and financial centres, and direct connectivity would further strengthen business and investment links between Sarawak and China.

The Minister was also informed that Baohang International is exploring potential cooperation with AirBorneo, including the possibility of serving as the airline’s General Sales Agent (GSA) in China.

He said such collaboration could help AirBorneo expand its market reach in China and support future route development efforts.

Dato Sri Lee reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to working closely with airlines, industry players and strategic partners to expand international air connectivity and further position Sarawak as a preferred gateway to Borneo and the wider ASEAN region.

Also present were the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Transport Sarawak Datu Wong Hee Sieng, the Ministry’s Aviation Technical Advisor Sio Yew Hua, and the Head of the Aviation Division Dayang Nurhayati Abang Ahmad. -UKASnews

Prepared by: Ryan Lim