KUCHING: Sarawak's own airline is set to take off after Chinese New Year with the takeover of MASwings Sdn Bhd from Malaysia Aviation Group (MAG), says Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.
The Premier said the takeover agreement would be signed soon after the completion of the evaluation process.
"I sincerely hope that after the New Year and before Hari Raya, we will witness the realisation of our ambition to have our own airline," he said in his Chinese New Year message on Monday (Jan 27).
Abang Johari said Sarawak would develop the airline into a competitive regional carrier with a business model suited for the purpose.
He said the state government planned to construct a new ultramodern international airport in Kuching, making the state capital a new aviation hub in future.
The Premier also said Sarawak was keen to develop the gas downstream sector to spur economic growth.
He said this included using gas as feedstock to manufacture other products and to generate power.
"Developing our domestic gas industry will provide high-paying jobs and boost the local economy.
"With this approach, I am confident that our gas resources can be a major downstream industry to transform our economy in the next five years and beyond, with the ultimate aim of increasing Sarawak’s household income to be on par, if not surpassing, the national average," he said.
In addition, Abang Johari said a 500MW combined-cycle gas turbine power plant was being developed in Miri.
He said the RM2bil project would use gas to generate power for industries and for export to neighbouring areas.
"Although our gas has been exported to other countries for the last 40 years, it is still not too late for us to make use of more gas to develop our own domestic gas industry so that Sarawak can benefit more from value-added products and services," he added.
Abang Johari also extended Chinese New Year greetings to those celebrating.
"May we keep making efforts to strengthen the unity among Sarawakians from all races, religions and cultures.
"Let's also visit our Chinese friends in the spirit of mutual respect," he said.
