KUCHING (Bernama) – The Sarawak government on Wednesday formalised its acquisition of MASwings through the signing of a sale and purchase agreement with Malaysia Aviation Group (MAG), and has named the state’s new airline AirBorneo.
The signing ceremony was witnessed by Sarawak Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg, Transport Minister Anthony Loke Siew Fook, and several federal and state ministers.
Signing for the Sarawak government was state secretary Datuk Amar Mohamad Abu Bakar Marzuki while MAG was represented by its group managing director, Datuk Captain Izham Ismail.
Abang Johari announced AirBorneo as the new name for MASwings following the acquisition. “AirBorneo is poised to create balance between connectivity, affordable fares and economic benefits.
“Operating as a full-service carrier (FSC), AirBorneo can significantly enhance the passengers through superior in-flight services,” he said.
Abang Johari said the Sarawak government had made a bold investment decision in acquiring MASwings in the commitment to enhance regional connectivity and boosting the state’s economic growth.
“By taking this strategic step, we are positioning Sarawak as an aviation hub for Borneo and a gateway to ASEAN, opening doors to new opportunities and fostering greater connectivity and accessibility to both domestic and international destinations that will benefit our local communities and businesses alike,” he said.
He assured that AirBorneo would still maintain its focus on rural air services before expanding further in the future.
“The rural air services, by subsidising less profitable routes, will ensure that remote areas get connected to the rest of the world,” he said.
He also expressed his gratitude to MAG’s parent Khazanah Nasional, MAG and the Transport Ministry for their close cooperation and strong support throughout the transfer process of MASwings.
“The cooperation among us would not end here as we anticipate more collaborations in the near future,” he added.
