Kuching: Sarawak-owned airline AirBorneo will begin operating jet aircraft from July next year as part of the state’s plan to strengthen regional air connectivity, Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said. He noted that the airline would commence initial operations next month using turboprop aircraft before transitioning into jet services.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Abang Johari mentioned at the Sarawak Economic Development Corporation (SEDC) 2025 corporate dinner that the effort would enhance Sarawak’s competitiveness in the regional aviation sector. He shared that Singapore’s Prime Minister Lawrence Wong welcomed Sarawak’s plan to establish direct flights between the two destinations. Transport Minister Anthony Loke, who was present during the meeting, had given AirBorneo the green light for the proposal.

Sarawak also intends to expand beyond Singapore with proposed services to Jeju Island in South Korea, which is a UNESCO Global Geopark, thus connecting it with Sarawak Delta Geopark, which achieved similar status in September this year. Abang Johari further stated that the operations of AirBorneo would complement efforts done by SEDC, which has been involved in Sarawak’s hospitality, infrastructure, and tourism development over the last five decades.

He emphasized the need for SEDC to continue evolving by embracing innovation and technology to meet Sarawak’s future economic needs, urging the importance of critical and strategic thinking. Abang Johari expressed his aspiration to see SEDC pioneer new economic activities that will uplift the standard of living of Sarawakians.

SEDC is well-positioned to take part in the state’s emerging industries, particularly in renewable energy, algae-based fuels, and other technology-driven ventures. Abang Johari stated that the corporation could spearhead the development of algae as a new green fuel for Sarawak, expressing hope that this initiative will become a reality, thus securing a bright and calculated economic future for the people of Sarawak.