Kuching: Frequently, when called upon to push the Sarawak Government to do better, SUPP always attempts to frame the issue as a Sarawak-versus-Federal Government narrative.
This is unnecessary and unhelpful. The people only want solutions to the high cost of air travel.
DAP Sarawak is not against reducing airfares. Instead, DAP Sarawak has consistently acknowledged the need to reduce airfares.
That is precisely why we have strongly advocated for government intervention, which has already materialised in the Federal Ministry of Transport’s move to cap festive-season airfares.
This never materialised during past administrations under SUPP and only started after DAP Sarawak became part of the Federal Government.
At the same time, it is hypocritical for SUPP to ignore AirBorneo’s role.
While regulatory oversight is needed, it must be balanced to avoid overly burdening the private sector.
One practical way to achieve this balance is for a government-backed airline like AirBorneo to play a stronger role in offering competitive and affordable fares.
Previously, intra-Sarawak routes were served by AirAsia and MASWings.
Following the Sarawak Government’s acquisition of MASWings, AirBorneo is now positioned as the main alternative in the domestic aviation space.
With that position comes responsibility.
If SUPP is serious about addressing high airfares, they must also ask why AirBorneo’s fares are often higher than AirAsia’s for similar routes.
Why has AirBorneo not leveraged its position to offer more competitive pricing and better scheduling to win over passengers?
On the ground, many Sarawakians have spoken up, stating that they previously chose MASWings over AirAsia because they wanted to support a government-linked airline.
When AirBorneo was introduced, there was similar goodwill and willingness to support it.
However, pricing and flight schedules have driven many away.
Faced with limited options, people are left with no choice but to return to commercial carriers like AirAsia.
This is the reality that SUPP must acknowledge.
No one is disputing that Sarawak faces unique geographical challenges, nor are we dismissing the state government’s infrastructure efforts.
But these points do not excuse the failure to deliver affordable air connectivity, especially when public funds and expectations are involved in the setting up of AirBorneo.
The current issue is not about defending any minister or attacking any government.
It is about ensuring that all players (be it Federal or State) fulfil their responsibilities to the people.
If SUPP truly believes that airfares are too high, then they should stop deflecting and start holding AirBorneo to the same standard they demand of others.
Michael Kong Feng Nian
Assistant Publicity Secretary
Special Assistant to Stampin MP Chong Chieng Jen
21 April 2026
