21/12/2023 (Sarawak. Malaysia) - The Sarawak government is on track to finalize its acquisition of MASwings Sdn Bhd, a regional airline, by the second or third quarter of the next year. Premier of Sarawak, Tan Sri Abang Johari Abang Openg, detailed the ongoing efforts towards this significant development in the state's aviation sector.
Currently, an extensive evaluation process is underway, involving the Sarawak Ministry of Transport along with the Ministry of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts, in collaboration with the Ministry of Transport and Khazanah Nasional Bhd. This assessment is crucial to determine the fair value and potential of MASwings as an asset.
Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari stressed the strategic importance of this acquisition for Sarawak. "For us, this takeover project is like a bridge. Sarawak has no other option; we can't expect people to swim because we are an island," he said, emphasizing the necessity of robust aviation services for the region's connectivity and growth. These remarks were made during a book launch event.
The move towards the takeover was further corroborated by Sarawak's Deputy Minister of Transport, Datuk Dr. Jerip Susil, on November 23. He outlined that the state government is actively engaged in fair valuation processes for MASwings Sdn Bhd, preparing for the impending acquisition. Additionally, negotiations are ongoing with Malaysia Aviation Group (MAG) and Khazanah for the purchase of shares in MASWings.
This acquisition marks a pivotal step for Sarawak, as it aims to enhance its aviation capabilities and connectivity, crucial for the island's economic and social development. The successful takeover of MASWings is expected to bring new opportunities and efficiencies to the region's air travel sector.