Kuching-Kota Kinabalu Inaugural Flight Warmly Welcomed by Batik Air

(Kuching, 16th) Batik Air officially launched its inaugural flight for the Kota Kinabalu (BKI) to Kuching (KCH) route today, marking a strategic step to strengthen the direct flight network between Sabah and Sarawak.
Sarawak Deputy Minister of Transport (Aviation & Road), Dato Jerip Susil, stated that this inaugural flight reflects Sarawak's ongoing commitment to strengthening cooperation with federal government agencies and airlines.

He pointed out that the opening of this new route offers travelers and tourists more options and greater flexibility when traveling between Kota Kinabalu and Kuching.
"Direct flights provide a more efficient option than long overland journeys or transfer flights, and also benefit businesses, institutions, tourism, and communities, while enhancing economic integration between the two states," he said when officiating the Batik Air inaugural flight welcome ceremony and holding a press conference at Kuching International Airport (LTAK) VIP Arrival Hall.
The inaugural flight carried 120 passengers from Kota Kinabalu, whom Dato Jerip Susil and other dignitaries welcomed upon their arrival at 6:20 pm.
Dato Jerip Susil further explained that the BKI-KCH route will operate 11 flights per week, a strategic measure to increase the frequency of direct flights between Sabah and Sarawak.
"The inaugural day’s 120 arriving and departing passengers demonstrate strong market demand and confidence in this route."

"Thus, enhancing connectivity will support the development of trade, services, logistics, tourism, and SMEs. More robust air links are vital for balanced and resilient economic development," he highlighted.
He also stated that the Ministry of Transport thanks Batik Air for its confidence in the Sarawak market and its ongoing commitment to expand operations in East Malaysia.
"This service further strengthens Batik Air's role in supporting regional travel and economic growth, aligns with Sarawak's vision to develop Kuching as a regional aviation hub, and complements future airport development plans," he explained.

In addition, he pointed out that strengthening the connectivity between Sabah and Sarawak is timely and significant, providing convenience for the upcoming Visit Malaysia Year 2026.
"More convenient transportation will boost Sarawak’s multi-destination tourism, enabling direct flights and transfer connections via Kota Kinabalu."
"Therefore, we highly appreciate the close cooperation among Sarawak Tourism Board (STB), Malaysia Tourism Board, Malaysia Airports Holdings Berhad (MAHB) and Batik Air in jointly welcoming the inaugural passengers and showcasing Sarawak’s hospitality," he added, stating that the Ministry of Transport is always ready to collaborate with industry partners to open up new growth opportunities for Sarawak.