Sibu – AirAsia Malaysia CEO Riad Asmat has not yet responded to the Sarawak Transport Ministry’s request to reconsider the airline’s decision to suspend flights from Singapore to Miri and Sibu, starting February 21 next year. This lack of response follows a letter sent by the ministry to Asmat on November 8, urging the airline to maintain these routes with reduced frequency until load issues are resolved.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Sarawak Transport Minister Datuk Seri Lee Kim Shin, in a statement today, highlighted the importance of these routes for the region. He suggested that AirAsia could eventually increase flight frequency once the load capacity stabilizes and improves. Currently, AirAsia operates these routes with an average load capacity of 69% to Miri and 67% to Sibu.

The ministry was informed via an email from AirAsia Berhad on November 7 about the suspension of these flights, citing low load factors, significant losses, and the need for fleet operation rationalization.

In contrast, Scoot Pte Ltd, represented by its chief commercial officer Calvin Chan, has confirmed plans to expand its services in Sarawak. The airline is considering increasing flights to Kuching and Miri, as well as introducing a new route to Sibu next year. However, the exact dates for these changes are still uncertain, pending the arrival of new aircraft, expected in the second quarter of 2024.

Lee emphasized the strategic importance of Miri and Sibu for business travelers and tourists, anticipating that Scoot’s expanded operations would significantly boost tourism and economic activity in Sarawak. Both destinations are known for their wildlife, pristine rainforests, and harmonious social environment.

Furthermore, Lee announced that Firefly Sdn Bhd would begin operating two weekly flights between Miri and Kota Kinabalu from November 22. He expressed optimism that this initiative would strengthen the relationship between Firefly and Sarawak, enhancing air connectivity for business, investment, and tourism between Sarawak and other regions.

The situation underscores the dynamic nature of airline operations in Malaysia and the critical role air travel plays in regional connectivity and economic development.