More direct flights to Kuching welcomed as Sarawak eyes Batik Air for first direct int’l route

KUCHING, July 29: Sarawak has welcomed efforts by airlines to introduce more direct routes to Kuching, following the launch of Batik Air’s inaugural Subang–Kuching flight (OD1612) yesterday (July 28), with hopes that the airline will be the first to operate direct international routes from the State to destinations such as China or Korea.

During a press conference held at the Kuching International Airport VVIP Terminal following the arrival of flight OD1612, Sarawak Transport Minister Dato Sri Lee Kim Shin expressed appreciation to Batik Air for launching the new route, which touched down with 133 passengers, close to the aircraft’s full 162-seat capacity.
“This is a very good passenger load,” he said. “On behalf of my ministry and the Sarawak government, I would like to thank Batik Air for providing another access point from Kuala Lumpur to Kuching. Currently, all flights are from Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) or KLIA2, but now passengers have the convenience of flying from Subang.”

Lee noted that for many travellers, Sultan Abdul Aziz Shah Airport (SZB) in Subang is easier to reach, especially given its closer proximity to central Kuala Lumpur and reduced travel time compared to KLIA.

“There are passengers who prefer to fly from Subang as it is more convenient, typically a 30- to 45-minute journey depending on traffic,” he said. “So having another option is certainly very much welcomed.”

He revealed that the Ministry of Transport Sarawak (MOTS) is also engaging with airlines to explore additional domestic routes, such as from Penang, Johor Bahru, and Ipoh to Sarawak, to further enhance air connectivity.

Turning his focus to international ambitions, Lee expressed hope that Batik Air would make history again by becoming the first airline to launch direct international flights from Kuching to destinations like China and Korea.

“I have always requested Batik Air to help Sarawak promote international routes,” he said. “For example, to Shenzhen, Guangzhou, or other Chinese cities. This would be a milestone, and we hope Batik Air will support our request.”

Lee said Batik Air has already shown its commitment by operating daily flights from KLIA to Kuching, Miri, Sibu, and Bintulu, effectively covering all major airports in Sarawak.

“I would like to thank Batik Air chief executive officer (CEO) Datuk Chandran Rama Muthy, whom I personally met with my ministry team, to discuss expanding routes to Sarawak. Not only has Batik Air fulfilled that request, but they have also added this new Subang–Kuching route,” he added.

Lee reiterated his appreciation to the airline and urged Batik Air to explore the possibility of introducing direct international routes from Kuching.

“With this, Batik Air will create history as the first airline to do so. This is our sincere request, and we truly appreciate their continued support in connecting Sarawak to the world,” he said.

Today’s inaugural flight was warmly celebrated with a welcoming ceremony co-hosted by the Sarawak Tourism Board (STB), reflecting the strong and growing collaboration between Batik Air and Sarawak’s tourism authorities.

Passengers of flight OD1612 were warmly greeted upon arrival with traditional Sarawakian bead garlanding, personally presented by Lee.

The Subang–Kuching service will operate daily, with seven flights weekly aboard the Boeing 737 aircraft. With both Economy and Business Class options available, travellers can expect a seamless and comfortable experience designed for modern travel needs.