Sarawak, Malaysia’s largest state, is setting bold plans in motion to attract 5 million visitors by 2025. The launch of a new state-owned airline, Air Borneo, and a major airport project are key to this vision.
Earlier this year, Sarawak took over MASwings from Malaysia Aviation Group, marking a major step in Premier Abang Johari Openg’s strategy to improve air travel and boost the local economy. The new airline, set to begin operations in 2026, will focus on affordable flights to drive tourism growth.
Air Borneo will target travelers from six key markets, including Thailand, Japan, South Korea, and Germany. While exact routes are still being finalized, the airline will initially use MASwings’ existing fleet of 8 ATR 72-500s and 6 De Havilland Canada DHC-6-400s, with two more ATR 72-600s on order.
To handle future passenger growth, Sarawak is also planning a new international airport in Tanjung Embang, near Kuching. The project, part of a MYR 100 billion ($22 billion) investment, aims to position Sarawak as a regional travel hub by 2032.
Tourism in Sarawak is already exceeding expectations. In 2024, the state welcomed 4.83 million visitors, beating its target of 4 million. January 2025 saw 400,531 visitors, a 13.4% increase from the previous year, as reported by Deputy Tourism Minister Sebastian Ting at Routes Asia 2025 in Perth.
With these ambitious projects, Sarawak is on track to become a major destination in Southeast Asia.
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