JOHOR BARU: The government has been urged to offer subsidised flights from all airports in the peninsula to Labuan, Sabah and Sarawak for Hari Raya.
Anak Borneo Semenanjung Association president Gangging Sanggau said the cheaper flights should not be restricted to those from Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA).
“We are grateful that the Transport Ministry has kindly offered subsidised flights for the coming festive season.
“Last year, the ministry made a similar move during Chinese New Year and Christmas.
“But I urge the ministry to offer these tickets not only at KLIA but also at other airports in the peninsula that have direct flights to Labuan, Sabah and Sarawak,” she said when contacted.
Gangging said there were Sabahans and Sarawakians who complained that subsidised flight tickets were not offered at other airports.
She said the subsidised price ticket of RM599 would also not be of much help if the airline “shifted extra charges for the luggage payment”.
“Most of those travelling back usually stay longer, and that would mean heavier luggage.
“At the moment, the price of RM599 offered is only for the seat, excluding luggage payment.
“The reality here is that when we return home, there are other expenses that we must pay, especially if the airport is located far away from the village.
“The last time I flew back home to Limbang, it cost me around RM900 for a one-way ticket as I had to take connecting flights from either KLIA to Kuching or to Miri, and then to Limbang.
“Imagine the luggage and expenses for those with families,” she said.
Johor Anak Sarawak Welfare Association president Muhammad Danish Sangkan Jantom said subsidised tickets were not available for the Senai International Airport to Kuching International Airport route.
“The price is over RM600 for a one-way flight, which is still very expensive.
“The majority of us here are working in the industry with a general income of RM3,000; the ticket price alone is already 25% of our salary,” he added.
Transport Minister Anthony Loke announced last Friday that subsidised flights would apply for journeys from April 6 to 9.
Tickets bought for travel on those four days will not cost more than RM599, excluding taxes and fees, with the government bearing the price difference for these flights taken during peak travel periods.
