Shanghai Airlines' arrival a boost for Sabah air links

The Shanghai Airlines flight after touchdown at KK International Airport on July 2.

KOTA KINABALU: Sabah's efforts to bolster its air connectivity and tourism industry achieved another milestone with the arrival of a Shanghai Airlines flight here on Sunday (July 2).

Shanghai Airlines is now the second China-based airline to resume direct flights into the city, following the return of China Southern Airlines in April.

State Assistant Tourism, Culture, and Environment Minister Datuk Joniston Bangkuai, who is also Sabah Tourism Board chairman, welcomed the 159 passengers of the inaugural Shanghai Airlines flight.

ALSO READ: 194 visitors arrive in KK from Guangzhou after flights resume

State Tourism, Culture, and Environment Minister Datuk Christina Liew, along with a high-level delegation from the Ministry, then boarded the aircraft to Shanghai for an official working visit to China.

“The collaboration between Sabah and China-based airlines marks a significant step in fostering stronger international relations and opens up new opportunities for economic growth and cultural exchanges.

Bangkuai (left) welcoming visitors who arrived on Shanghai Airlines.

“Sabah looks forward to the positive impact of these direct flight connections in promoting tourism, trade, and cultural understanding between the two regions,” Bangkuai said in a statement on Monday (July 3).

Shanghai Airlines will operate daily direct flights between Shanghai and Kota Kinabalu, providing increased convenience and accessibility for travellers, he added.

In April, China Southern Airlines resumed its direct flights from Guangzhou to Kota Kinabalu.

Liew's working visit until July 9 will cover Shanghai, Xian, and Beijing.

She will lead important meetings with Chinese government officials and airline representatives to discuss tourism-related matters and explore opportunities for collaboration.