KUCHING: Sarawak Minister for Transport, Dato Sri Lee Kim Shin, has voiced his full support for the launch of two new AirAsia routes – Kuching–Pontianak and Kuala Lumpur–Pontianak – via a special video message played during the Sarawak Travel Fair in Pontianak, Indonesia.

Although unable to attend in person due to prior official commitments, Dato Sri Lee conveyed his appreciation to all parties involved in making the cross-border services a reality, including AirAsia Berhad and aviation regulators from both Malaysia and Indonesia.

“I wish to first extend my sincere apologies for not being able to attend today’s very special event,” he said.

“Nonetheless, I am truly delighted and would like to extend my heartfelt congratulations to the Sarawak Tourism Board for the successful organisation of the Sarawak Travel Fair here in Pontianak,”he added.

He also thanked the Indonesian Government for reopening Supadio Airport in Pontianak for international flights, and acknowledged the strong support of the Governor of West Kalimantan in facilitating this initiative.

Scheduled to commence on 12 September 2025, the new Kuching–Pontianak service will operate twice daily, offering increased flexibility and convenience for travellers on both sides of the border.

Dato Sri Lee noted that the new air link marks a significant step forward in enhancing cross-border connectivity between Malaysia and Indonesia, particularly within the island of Borneo.

“The opening of these air routes is not just a milestone in aviation, but also a testament to the strong historical, cultural, and familial ties shared by our people,” he said.

“It will boost tourism, trade, education, and social linkages, especially among border communities,” he explained.

He expressed hope that the new services would pave the way for more cross-border air routes in the future, ultimately fostering stronger ties and mutual development across the region. -UKASnews