KUCHING (Dec 15): Batik Air has officially launched its direct Kota Kinabalu–Kuching flight service, marking a major step forward in strengthening air connectivity between Sabah and Sarawak.
The inaugural flight, carrying 120 passengers, was welcomed here by the Sarawak Ministry of Transport, which said the new route offers travellers greater choice and flexibility while supporting economic growth and regional integration. Sarawak Deputy Minister of Transport Datuk Dr Jerip Susil said the introduction of Batik Air on the route, alongside Firefly and AirAsia, provides a more efficient alternative to long overland travel or indirect flights. “Direct connectivity offers a more efficient alternative to long land journeys or indirect flights, benefitting businesses, institutions, tourists and communities while strengthening inter-state linkages,” he said at a press conference after representing Minister Dato’ Sri Lee Kim Shin at the welcoming ceremony.
Dr Jerip said the Kota Kinabalu–Kuching service, operating 11 times weekly, is a strategic milestone in enhancing direct air links between the two states. On the economic front, he said improved air connectivity would support growth in trade, services, logistics, tourism and small and medium enterprises (SMEs). “Stronger inter-state air-links are essential for balanced resilient economic development across Malaysia.” “These efforts are part of the state’s strategy to reposition Kuching as an aviation gateway, supported by Sarawak’s hospitality and strong inter-agency collaboration.” Dr Jerip said the new route also aligns with Sarawak’s strategy to reposition Kuching as an aviation gateway, supported by the state’s hospitality sector and strong inter-agency collaboration.
With Visit Malaysia Year 2026 approaching, he said enhanced Sabah–Sarawak connectivity is timely and strategic, as improved access would encourage multi-destination travel within Sarawak through direct and indirect connections via Kota Kinabalu. He added that the ministry appreciates Batik Air’s confidence in Sarawak’s aviation market and its continued expansion in East Malaysia. “This service strengthens the airline’s role in supporting regional mobility and economic connectivity,” he said. Batik Air, part of the Lion Air Group, began operations in 2013. Its Malaysian operation, formerly known as Malindo Air, rebranded as Batik Air to unify the group’s full-service airline brand.
Among those present were the ministry’s aviation technical adviser Sio Yew Hua, Kuching International Airport senior airport manager Jun Iskandar Murshidi and Batik Air station manager Marilyn Roberta Jeffery.
