Sarawak’s upcoming state-owned airline, AirBorneo, symbolises the region’s ambition to strengthen connectivity and economic cooperation across ASEAN, according to Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.
Speaking through Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Awang Tengah Ali Hasan during the gala dinner of the 33rd ASEAN Socio-Cultural Community (ASCC) Council Meeting on Thursday night, Abang Johari said the airline, expected to begin operations in 2026, would serve as a strategic platform for enhancing trade, tourism, and investment across Southeast Asia.
“In line with our aspirations for regional connectivity, Sarawak is proud to announce the upcoming launch of our airline, AirBorneo,”
the Premier stated.
He emphasised that improved air links would not only make travel more convenient, but also streamline business across ASEAN capitals and major cities. This move forms part of Sarawak’s broader strategy to leverage its strategic location, rich resources, and strong cultural ties to drive regional growth and uplift livelihoods.
In addition to the airline, Sarawak is also advancing major infrastructure projects to cement its role as a regional hub. These include the construction of a new international airport and a deep-sea port in Tanjung Embang, Kota Samarahan.
“These developments will enhance both air and maritime connectivity, making Sarawak more attractive to investors, businesses, and tourists alike,”
Abang Johari added.
He further highlighted the importance of the Brunei Darussalam–Indonesia–Malaysia–Philippines East ASEAN Growth Area (BIMP-EAGA), a subregional initiative aimed at complementing ASEAN’s economic integration efforts. Sarawak’s shared land borders with Brunei and Indonesia’s Kalimantan position it as a key player in the region’s cross-border development efforts.
“The relocation of Indonesia’s capital to Kalimantan will generate significant economic spillover effects throughout Borneo, creating new prospects for investment, trade, and infrastructure growth,”
he said.
The gala dinner was also attended by Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing and ASEAN Secretary-General Dr Kao Kim Hourn.
The ASCC Council Meeting, held from 22 to 26 April, brings together ministerial representatives from all 11 ASEAN nations, including the recently admitted Timor-Leste, to discuss pressing socio-cultural priorities across the region.
