KUCHING: For those planning to go back to their various hometowns during the forthcoming Chinese New Year, fret not as they now have more options.
AirAsia has announced more flights to Sabah and Sarawak with fixed rates starting from RM199 one-way, just in time for the Chinese New Year.
As of Wednesday, Dec 28, 2022, AirAsia’s website and mobile app are now open for reservations for these additional flights. This is valid for travel from Jan 17 through Jan 30, 2023. One-way tickets cost RM199 from Kuala Lumpur to Kuching, Sibu, Bintulu and Miri and RM199 from Johor Bahru to Kuching, Sibu and Miri.
Transport Minister Anthony Loke commended the Civil Aviation Authority of Malaysia (CAAM) for supporting more flights at fixed fares initiative. He said that in order to extend the working hours for the airports in Sabah and Sarawak, any extra flights would need the assistance of CAAM.
During the busiest holiday season, he said, it is inevitable that prices of airline tickets would increase, and, as such, the government is pushing airlines to add additional flights to lower airfares.
New Sarawak Tribune spoke to a few individuals to get their views on the matter,
NUR HASMIN KAMAROLLZAMAN, 42
Chief Operating Officer, Tok Bali Supply Base (TBSB)
I strongly encourage the airlines to offer certain sort of packages for festive seasons since the volume of travellers is increasing. I really hope they extend the offer to every festive season and if possible during school holidays as well. But I believe it goes back to business requirement. Off season the volume of travellers is not as much as during the festive season, therefore it might be difficult for the airlines to continue the offer as they might be running at deficit cash flow.
NUR NAZERA ZAHARUDIN, 29
Teacher
The good news that all Malaysians are hoping is that the price of flight tickets is kept low during festive seasons. Hopefully, the promotion price for early booked tickets and low airfares during festive seasons are maintained. Also consider reducing ticket prices, especially for civil servants stationed at Sarawak wishing to return to the peninsula during long leave, school or semester break and festive seasons. There are also Sarawakians who go back and forth between Sarawak and the peninsula due to their family, work or study
commitments.
FAVIAN LAWRENCE AVIT, 31
Dynamic Lab Manager
In my opinion, it is a good initiative for the state, this will definitely boost the state economy besides giving the opportunity to local tourists to travel within the country. The airlines must continue this type of fares as it will also help those seeking medical treatment, increase the frequency of family reunions for those working abroad or outside Sarawak.
NUR JANAH BAIZURA JEMAN, 31
Document Control Executive
The flight tickets are still not affordable since AirAsia’s trademark is that of the airlines that offered the lowest fares and, hence, they need to relook their prices since there are new competitors with the lowest fares.
IQMAL DANISH DZULKARNAIN, 22
Customer service
It is a good plan for an affordable flight. Yes, please continue. Most Sarawakians are unable to have frequent air travel back to their hometowns due to increasing flight prices. Other airlines should promote the same initiative to have more affordable competitive prices. Travelling will be easier and can create positive economic growth.
