MIRI: The Sarawak government has meticulously followed the proper process before taking over MASwings, ensuring a smooth and efficient transition.
According to Minister for Transport Datuk Seri Lee Kim Shin, currently the state government is carrying out proper due diligence with Malaysia Aviation Group (MAG) before taking over MASwings, which will take some time.
“It is anticipated that this may be completed by the second half of this year. After the acquisition has been completed, our Sarawak government’s plan is to expand the airline to become a regional airline,” Lee pointed out.
He was speaking at the launching of City Rise hotel at Jalan Brooke here today.
“My ministry is also engaging with several airlines to look into having direct flights from selected destinations into Sarawak. I have also personally met with Singapore Airlines (SIA) and Scoot to increase Scoot’s direct flights from Singapore to Miri and Miri/Singapore. Currently Scoot has three direct flights weekly to and from Singapore,” Lee disclosed.
On Miri Airport’s proposed terminal extension, Lee said he was given an assurance by the federal Transport Minister that the project would be included in the Budget 2025.
“I sincerely hope it will be approved and can be implemented next year. This is a long overdue project,” he pointed out.
Also present at the hotel launching were Deputy Minister I for Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Datuk Sebastian Ting Chiew Yew; Miri mayor Adam Yii Siew Sang; deputy mayor Ariffin Mohamad; group executive chairman of Chiong Ho Ling Sdn Bhd, Tan Sri Ling Chiong Ho; and group managing director of Chiong Ho Ling Sdn Bhd, Datuk James Ling Lu Kiong.
