Sarawak is open to sharing ownership of its new airline, AirBorneo, with Sabah if the state is willing to invest in the venture, says premier Abang Johari Openg.
Abang Johari said he had informed the Sabah governor and several state leaders that Sarawak was willing to accept Sabah as a partner, Harian Metro reported.
“I told them if they want to be part of it, we are open to sharing because we’re both on the island of Borneo,” he was quoted as saying.
However, he said the Sabah leaders informed him that they would need to hold discussions before making any decision, adding that such an investment would require exploring financing options.
“For Sarawak, we already have the capital to establish our own airline, which is why we can move forward,” the Gabungan Parti Sarawak chairman said.
Abang Johari said AirBorneo is expected to commence operations next year, subject to regulatory approvals and the completion of planning processes.
AirBorneo, owned by the Sarawak government through Hornbill Skyways Sdn Bhd, is a rebranding of MASwings.
Abang Johari had said the airline would offer fares below market rates and prioritise connectivity within the state and with Peninsular Malaysia, with air travel often being the only viable option.
