Direct Kuching–Kuantan Flights May Take Off This Year

KUANTAN, April 30 (Bernama) -- Sarawak and Pahang expect a proposed direct flight route between Kuching and Kuantan to be realised by the end of this year, subject to aircraft availability.

Sarawak Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Awang Tengah Ali Hasan said the proposal is being refined, including possible collaboration with airlines such as AirAsia or via Air Borneo.

“Sarawak already has flights to several destinations, including Kota Bharu, Langkawi, Johor and Singapore,” he told reporters after officiating the Sarawak Entrepreneurs Showcase (SUS) 2026 at Kuantan City Mall here today.

Awang Tengah, who is also Sarawak Minister of International Trade, Industry and Investment (MINTRED), said the proposed route is expected to boost tourism and strengthen trade links between Sarawak and Pahang.

“The direct service will create more opportunities in tourism and facilitate trade, given the relatively short distance between the two destinations,” he said, adding that the proposal was raised during his courtesy call on Pahang Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Wan Rosdy Wan Ismail here yesterday.

Meanwhile, he said Pahang’s plan to develop a new port would open up broader cooperation between the two states, particularly in trade and investment.

“In principle, we have agreed to leverage part of the port facilities for logistics and halal processing,” he said.

Awang Tengah added that Sarawak is also planning cruise terminal developments in Kuching and Miri to strengthen its port sector and enhance investment appeal.

“Air and sea connectivity are crucial today as they facilitate tourism, trade and investment,” he said.

Earlier in his speech, he said SUS 2026, held from yesterday until May 3, features 49 micro, small and medium enterprise (MSME) exhibitors from across Sarawak.

The showcase is expected to generate up to RM3 million in sales through promotional activities and business matching sessions.

-- BERNAMA