KUCHING: The Sarawak Government is committed to ensuring a seamless transition and successful launch of AirBorneo, further enhancing the state’s connectivity and driving economic growth.

As part of this initiative, Sarawak Minister for Transport, Dato Sri Lee Kim Shin, chaired a crucial engagement meeting with the board members and management team of AirBorneo at his office on Wednesday.

According to a statement from the ministry, the meeting focused on the airline's operational readiness, addressing key regulatory, operational, and strategic considerations to ensure a smooth takeover process.

"Key discussions included compliance with the Civil Aviation Authority of Malaysia (CAAM) and the Malaysian Aviation Commission (MAVCOM) to meet national and international aviation regulatory standards," the statement said.

The session also delved into AirBorneo’s rebranding efforts, its strategic roadmap, and future direction, with the aim of finalising preparations within this year to enable the airline’s operational launch by the first quarter of 2026.

Dato Sri Lee noted that significant groundwork has already commenced, including the establishment of AirBorneo’s office and the recruitment of key personnel.

He emphasised that the next phase of development will involve discussions with Malaysia Aviation Group (MAG) to facilitate a seamless transition.

Additionally, dialogues with MASwings employees will be conducted to gain insights into current operations and ensure workforce readiness.

In a bid to involve the public in the creation of Sarawak’s very own airline, the meeting also approved the launch of a Logo and Livery Design Competition, inviting public participation to shape the identity of AirBorneo.

“Details of the competition will be announced soon, and we encourage the public to actively engage in this exciting initiative,” Dato Sri Lee added.

He further stressed that during the transition period, which extends until December 31, 2025, AirBorneo must meet several regulatory, operational, and financial conditions before the full legal and beneficial transfer of MASwings can be completed.

Among the conditions to be fulfilled by AirBorneo Holdings by the end of 2025 are approvals from MAVCOM, CAAM, and international bodies such as IATA for an accounting code and 2LD, and ICAO for 3LD.

Additionally, approval from the Federal Government for the change of shareholders of MASwings is required, alongside the finalisation of a new Rural Air Services (RAS) Agreement.

These steps are critical to ensuring that AirBorneo is fully compliant, operationally prepared, and ready to take over its new role in Sarawak’s aviation landscape.

Also present during the meeting was Sarawak Deputy Minister for Transport (Land and Aviation), Datuk Dr Jerip Susil and Permanent Secretary for the Sarawak Ministry of Transport, Datu Wong Hee Sieng. -UKASnews