PETALING JAYA: The increased flight frequency to Sarawak from this month will address the domestic airfare issues in Malaysia, said Transport Minister Datuk Seri Dr Wee Ka Siong.

       This is especially true for the impending Sarawak elections, he said.

       “The main obstacle to reducing airfares is the low flight frequency to a number of domestic destinations in Malaysia.

       “This should be addressed soon after Sarawak increases the frequency of flights from 89 to 223 per week from Nov 1, particularly with the state elections about to be announced soon,” he said on Facebook on Wednesday.

       Following concerns about the high airfare, Dr Wee said he had a meeting with Malaysia Airlines, AirAsia and Malindo Air on Wednesday to find a solution.

       He said that ideally, a situation where airlines are allowed to decide on their flight frequency based on market forces and their operational considerations, is preferred.

       “This would ensure they can provide the best price to consumers.

       “We don’t want to unduly burden travellers, many of whom need to fly between Sabah and Sarawak to work, study or reunite with their family after a long time due to Covid-19,” he said.

       Dr Wee noted there is a need to find a balance between the best fares for consumers and maintaining a healthy and sustainable aviation industry.

       If the government intervenes too much, it could lead to a price war, with the airlines seeking to outdo each other, he said.

       “Ultimately, in the long term, no one wins – not even the consumers – if our airlines go bust because they are unable to sustain operations,” he added.

       For now, he called on travellers to secure the best prices by buying air tickets two weeks in advance or more.

       He said he has also instructed the Malaysian Aviation Commission and the ministry’s aviation division to work with the airlines to find ways to address the pressure from increased supply chain costs, including logistics services and fuel.