Kuching: Sarawak needs a skilled and capable workforce to support the operations of its state-owned airline, AirBorneo. Sarawak Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg emphasized the necessity of this workforce to ensure smooth operations across all the airline's functions.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Abang Johari highlighted the critical need for pilots, engineers, and ground handlers proficient in state-of-the-art technology. "We need people to fly the planes. Not only do we need pilots, but we also need engineers to look after the aircraft's engines. We also need ground handlers with state-of-the-art technology to ensure everything runs smoothly," he said. He made these remarks during his speech at the 9th Convocation ceremony of the Centre For Technology Excellence Sarawak (CENTEXS).

On February 12, the Sarawak government formalized its acquisition of MASwings through a sale and purchase agreement with Malaysia Aviation Group (MAG). The airline was renamed AirBorneo following the acquisition. Abang Johari explained that Sarawak's decision to establish its own airline is due to its geographical location on the island of Borneo, which is only accessible by air and sea.

"We cannot build a bridge across the South China Sea from Kuching to Singapore or Kuala Lumpur. That is why we need this bridge called AirBorneo," he stated. The airline will initially operate flights to Kuala Lumpur, Singapore, and Jakarta, with plans to expand to destinations such as Japan, South Korea, and Hong Kong to enhance connectivity and attract visitors to Sarawak.