New commercial flights to boost S'wak communications, tourism sectors: Abang Johari

KUCHING: The decision by MASWings to cease operations on four routes in Sarawak next year to provide access to commercial aviation system will boost the communications and tourism sectors in the state, said Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Tun Openg.
He said AirAsia would provide direct flights on the Kuching-Shenzhen route while the low-cost Scoot had introduced a new route connecting Kuching and Singapore.
"The decision for the rural air services to become commercial routes means more jet services can enter (the rural air services sector) and this will further boost communications.
"I see the future of tourism in the state is very bright," he said when met by reporters after opening the Sarawak Regatta-Kuching Waterfront Festival 2017 here today.
Also present was Sarawak Tourism. Arts, Culture, Youth and Sports Minister Datuk Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah.
In Oct, MASWings was reported to cease operations on six routes in Sabah and Sarawak by next year to give way to the commercial flight system.
The routes are Kota Kinabalu – Sandakan, Kota Kinabalu - Tawau, Kota Kinabalu - Miri, Kuching - Miri, Kuching - Kota Kinabalu, and Kuching - Sibu.
On the 145th Sarawak Regatta being held from yesterday until Nov 19, Abang Johari said the festival helped promote more organised tourism in the state.
"This week we start with the dragon boat race, which witnesses 23 teams participating from within and outside the state, such as Brunei which sends seven teams.
"Next week the boat race will compete and craft exhibitions, as well as art performances, will also be held throughout the Sarawak Regatta-Kuching Waterfront Festival," he added. – Bernama