Sarawak Finalises Zero-Liability Takeover of MASwings
Sarawak Finalises Zero-Liability Takeover of MASwings
The Sarawak government has officially completed its acquisition of MASwings without assuming any liabilities, marking a major milestone in the state’s aviation development. The airline will undergo an 18-month transition before being rebranded as AirBorneo to ensure operations remain stable and uninterrupted.
Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg confirmed that AirBorneo will be fully owned by the state government and overseen by a Board of Directors led by the Sarawak State Secretary.
All MASwings Assets Transferred, No Liabilities Inherited
Abang Johari explained that all MASwings assets—including staff and aircraft operating in Sabah—will be transferred under the new management. The transition plan also includes the introduction of newly proposed ATR aircraft with updated cabin configurations.
He emphasised that the state is taking over MASwings on a clean slate.
He said, “There will be zero liabilities. Sarawak is taking over with a fresh start. It is a good deal.”
New Destinations Including KL, Singapore and Jakarta
With the signing of the Sale and Purchase Agreement (SPA), Sarawak is now free to negotiate new aircraft purchases and expand its route network. While AirBorneo will continue using ATR aircraft for now, discussions are underway to introduce jet aircraft for longer-haul destinations.
Planned expansions include Kuala Lumpur, Singapore and Jakarta, with Jakarta highlighted as a priority due to rising tourist arrivals and medical tourism potential.
A New Livery Inspired by Sarawak Identity
AirBorneo will undergo a full rebranding, with its aircraft livery redesigned to reflect Sarawak’s cultural identity and replacing the green colour scheme previously used by MASwings. The move aligns with the state’s broader economic ambitions, including heavy investment in renewable and green energy that has attracted interest from the Middle East, Japan and Korea.
Boost to Logistics, E-Commerce and Investment
Abang Johari said owning an airline significantly strengthens Sarawak’s investment ecosystem. Improved air connectivity supports logistics, accelerates e-commerce deliveries and helps local craft businesses reach overseas buyers more efficiently.
He compared Sarawak’s population of 2.9 to 3 million to Scandinavian countries which, despite similar population sizes, operate strong aviation and logistics networks. He noted that this model will guide AirBorneo’s development.
Continued Service for Rural Air Routes (RAS)
AirBorneo will continue operating the Rural Air Services (RAS) sector to ensure reliable connectivity for remote communities while the airline expands into regional and international routes in stages.
New AirBorneo CEO Confirmed, Effective 1 January 2026
AirBorneo has appointed Malaysia Airports Holdings Berhad (MAHB) Chief Strategy and Aviation Officer Megat Ardian Wira Mohd Aminuddin as its Chief Executive Officer. His appointment takes effect on 1 January 2026.
The confirmation was issued by AirBorneo Holdings Sdn. Bhd. chairman Datuk Amar Mohamad Abu Bakar Marzuki, who also serves as the Sarawak State Secretary.
Megat Ardian’s background and experience in aviation had sparked widespread speculation earlier, now settled with this official announcement.
A New Chapter for Sarawak’s Aviation Future
The takeover of MASwings and birth of AirBorneo is regarded as a transformative move for Sarawak, projected to deliver long-term benefits across tourism, logistics, investment and local economic opportunities.
Source : DayakDaily
