SIBU: The establishment of AirBorneo is not merely about providing an air transport option for the people, but is a strategic move by the Sarawak Government to ensure more affordable airfares while supporting the growth of the state's tourism sector and economy.

Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Abdul Rahman Zohari Tun Datuk Abang Openg said the state-owned airline would also serve as a medium to promote Sarawak's identity through a flight experience that highlights local culture, heritage and gastronomy.

He said among the planned initiatives is introducing local dishes such as nasi dabai and other traditional food into the in-flight menu, to give passengers, particularly tourists, a more authentic experience.

"We in the government decided to set up our own airline, AirBorneo, and we have fixed the ticket price at RM375, unchanged.

"Regardless of whether it is a festive season or not, it remains RM375, inclusive of baggage charges and airport tax. If you use other airlines' services, if you want to buy food, you have to pay first before the food comes.

"But at AirBorneo, it is given for free. Its Chairman, Datuk Amar Mohamad Abu Bakar Marzuki, wants to include nasi dabai on the menu so that tourists can taste nasi dabai from Sarawak themselves," he said.

He said this during the Sarawakku Sayang Programme for Sibu Division 2026 at Dataran Tun Tuanku Haji Bujang, on Saturday.

Meanwhile, he explained that the Sarawakku Sayang Programme serves as a platform to strengthen the delivery of government services through a grassroots approach and public feedback, rather than merely being a programme for meeting the public.

"The purpose is to obtain feedback and subsequently improve service delivery by government officers.

"I would like to express my thanks, on behalf of everyone, to the Sarawak civil service for not tiring of meeting the people, giving advice and subsequently implementing the policies determined by the government," he said. -UKASnews

Translator : Uilson Ng