KUCHING: The flight frequency to Sarawak has been increased to support the state’s economic revival and reopening of the tourism sector, says state Transport Minister Datuk Lee Kim Shin.

       He said to date, the new flight frequency and schedule for major airports in Sarawak that has been approved by the Malaysian Aviation Commission (Mavcom) was 76 flights per week.

       Of the total, Kuching will see 42 flights per week, Miri (19), Bintulu (four), Sibu (six), Limbang and Lawas (two), and Mulu (three).

       “In addition, the Sarawak Disaster Management Committee Secretariat is conducting engagement sessions with airlines, the Malaysian Civil Defence Force, Malaysia Airport Holdings Bhd, and other relevant stakeholders on the new entry process into Sarawak.

       “This is to further strengthen the process through greater application of IT and user-friendly approaches, as well as to monitor incoming passengers.

       “It will also eliminate congestion and the time-consuming process at airports in Sarawak,” he added.

       Lee said engagement with relevant stakeholders was necessary to ensure the smooth implementation of the new flight schedule.

       “It is hoped that this will ease the movement of passengers here as we are already in Phase Three of the National Recovery Plan,” he said.

       “We believe that with the increase in the flight frequency to Sarawak, airlines will offer reasonable and affordable fares.” — Bernama