Sarawak state secretary Datuk Amar Mohamad Abu Bakar Marzuki (seated left) and MAG group managing director Datuk Capt Izham Ismail (seated right) signing the sale and purchase agreement, witnessed by Sarawak Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Openg (standing centre), Transport Minister Anthony Loke (in red shirt) and other state dignitaries. - ZULAZHAR SHEBLEE/The Star
KUCHING: Sarawak has formalised its takeover of MASwings Sdn Bhd from Malaysia Aviation Group (MAG), with the airline to be renamed AirBorneo as the state's own carrier.
The Sarawak government signed a sale and purchase agreement with MAG on Wednesday (Feb 12) for the transfer of ownership.
"Today I am proud to announce our Sarawak airline will be known as AirBorneo," Sarawak Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Openg said at the signing ceremony here.
He said AirBorneo would operate as a full-service carrier, creating balance between connectivity, affordable fares and economic benefits.
The new airline will continue to focus on rural air services (RAS) while progressing to destinations within a four- to five-hour radius, before expanding further in future.
It will also engage in strategic partnerships and code sharing agreements with other airlines, including Malaysia Airlines.
Abang Johari said the acquisition was a strategic investment by the Sarawak government, underlining its commitment to enhancing regional connectivity and boosting economic growth.
He said the move would position Sarawak as an aviation hub for Borneo and gateway to Asean, improving connectivity to domestic and international destinations.
"This empowers us to take control of and manage our air connectivity, allowing us to tailor services that meet the needs of our people and our economy.
"With plans for new international routes and key markets, we are elevating Sarawak into a prominent player in the regional aviation sector," he said.
Abang Johari also said Sarawak was working closely with MAG to ensure a smooth handover and minimise disruptions.
He added that Sarawak was also keen to collaborate with MAG on training programmes to develop the aviation sector.
Meanwhile, MAG said the transfer of ownership was expected to be completed by the end of the year.
"(We are) working closely with all stakeholders, including shareholder Khazanah Nasional Bhd, to ensure a seamless transition and compliance with all legal and regulatory frameworks," it said in a statement.
MAG also said MASwings would continue operating as usual under its purview throughout the transition period, with no disruptions to flight schedules to ensure uninterrupted air services.
The sale and purchase agreement was signed by Sarawak state secretary Datuk Amar Mohamad Abu Bakar Marzuki on behalf of the state government and group managing director Datuk Capt Izham Ismail for MAG.
