Kota Kinabalu ideal transit hub, says Tony
Published on: Wednesday, August 14, 2024
By: Crystal E Hermenegildus
Joniston presenting the award to Tony.
Kota Kinabalu: Sabah is AirAsia’s second-largest hub in Malaysia with 13 domestic and 14 international direct routes involving a fleet of 11 Kota Kinabalu-based aircraft and with plans to add another by the end of the year.
Daily flights between KK and Subang Airport would also commence from Aug. 30.
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Besides, the airline is set to introduce 10 new destinations in the next six months, including to China and Vietnam, underscoring its commitment to making Sabah a preferred travel destination in the region.
This was highlighted when Capital A CEO Tan Sri Tony Fernandes was conferred the Sabah Tourism Appreciation award for his exceptional contributions to Sabah tourism by Sabah Tourism Board.
“This award is not just an honour for me, but for the entire Capital A and AirAsia family who have made it possible for us to make such a meaningful impact in ensuring that this beautiful state continues to grow and prosper.
“I am incredibly proud of what we have achieved together, and I am excited for what the future holds for Sabah,” said Tony, who said the state has always held a special place in his heart.
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He said AirAsia’s commitment to Sabah’s development the past 22 years is unshakeable and thanked STB for recognising the significant contributions we have made over the years across various sectors.”
“One of my last dreams is to make Kota Kinabalu a transit or stopover airport for countries like a mini Dubai or Doha. Those flying between Japan and Australia can use Sabah as a stopover,” he said.
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Fernandes said there was potential for Sabah due to its strategic location between Oceania and North Asia.
“We are planning to have flights between Tokyo and Osaka soon, and then around the first quarter of next year, introduce Sydney, Melbourne and Perth to start with.
“From there, we can open more connections and opportunities for Sabah especially with places like Phuket and Bali. They can stopover in KK; who wouldn’t like to come to KK?” he said.
Fernandes said AirAsia has brought some 80 million passengers to Sabah over the past two decades and wanted to continue to expand its tourism potential.
He said that at the current expansion rate, AirAsia would require a terminal of its own to to be effective.
State Assistant Minister of Tourism, Culture and Enviroment cum STB chairman Datuk Joniston Bangkuai, said Tony and AirAsia have been invaluable partners in the journey to make Sabah a world-class tourism destination.
“Their efforts have brought immense benefits to our state, from increasing tourist arrivals to creating jobs and stimulating the local economy.
“AirAsia’s contribution to Sabah tourism is simply amazing and the Sabah Tourism Appreciation Award is a token of our deep appreciation for their steadfast commitment to our shared vision.
“We look forward to many more years of fruitful collaboration,” he said.
CEO of Sabah Tourism Board, Julinus Jimit said as of Aug. 1 2024, AirAsia contributed 55 per cent or 216 out of 392 domestic flights weekly and 54 per cent or 84 out of 156 international flights weekly with 12 international destinations to Sabah and more to come.
Chairman of AirAsia Aviation Group, Tan Sri Jamaludin Ibrahim commended Tony for his relentless efforts and contribution in driving Sabah's tourism and economic growth.
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