KUALA LUMPUR: Sarawak’s own state airline is in the pipeline, says its Minister of Tourism, Arts, Culture, Youth and Sports, Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah.

       He said it is vital for the state to be able to cater to the internal and regional travel market.

       “In the Borneo region, given its geography, the fastest mode of transportation would be via air. Unless we have cruise ships coming in and other types of facilities to cater to the market.

       “Currently, we are having discussions with airline companies on whether we could cap or reduce airfares.

       “Apart from that, the state government is also looking into having our own airline,” he told the press after officiating the 50th edition of the Malaysian Association of Tour and Travel Agents (MATTA) Fair 2022 at the World Trade Centre here yesterday.

       In his speech, Abdul Karim said the state is urging the Federal Government to seriously look into flight frequencies for Sarawak from Peninsular Malaysia and Sabah, and airfares.

       He added that Sarawak wants to bring in more tourists, but the high price of airfares would escalate their holiday cost.

       Abdul Karim represented Sarawak Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg at the fair held at the World Trade Centre Kuala Lumpur yesterday and today.

       On state tourism, Abdul Karim said the state is projecting RM3.2bil in tourism receipts through its target of 1.2 million visitors into the state this year.

       Based on the 229,678 visitor arrivals from January to March, the state is confident about reaching its target.

       “In terms of tourism receipts for January to March, a total of RM517mil has been recorded, and this is a growth of 569.25%, compared with the same period last year. So, based on all these numbers, we are really looking forward to 2022,” he said.

       “I believe with the events and preparations that have been made, things will be better this year.”

       Sarawak is the featured destination at the fair, having also taken the three largest booths at the venue that has 348 booths spread over two halls.

       Sarawak is reportedly looking at the possibility of setting up its own boutique airline with the Federal Government to improve its tourism sector.

       Abang Johari was quoted as saying that the state is in advanced discussions with Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob who is receptive to the idea on a new Sarawak state airline.