More direct flights between major China hubs and Sabah from next month, says state deputy tourism minister
KOTA KINABALU, June 20 — Sabah expects to see more international tourist arrivals from China in the coming months with the introduction of more direct flights both to and from China next month, as well as Macau.
Assistant State Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister Datuk Joniston Bangkuai said Shanghai Airlines is scheduled to reinstate daily direct flights to Sabah on July 2.
AirAsia will also commence daily flights from Beijing to Kota Kinabalu on July 2, and from Macau to Kota Kinabalu (four times weekly) on July 16.
Bangkuai said that direct flights were important to boost international connectivity to Sabah.
“Having more international direct flights creates a vital balance that not only benefits our tourism industry but also fuels economic growth in Sabah.
“By enhancing connectivity, we are opening the door to more visitors to experience the natural wonders and cultural heritage that Sabah offers while simultaneously generating employment opportunities and driving sustainable development,” he said.
Currently, Sabah is connected to 10 international cities, namely Singapore, Bandar Seri Begawan, Taipei, Hong Kong, Guangzhou, Shenzhen, Wuhan, Incheon, Busan, and Manila.
South Korean carrier Jin Air will also be upgrading its aircraft from the B738 to the B777, with a maximum capacity of 393 passengers, instead of the current 189, from July.
Earlier, Bangkuai welcomed an inaugural flight from South Korea-based low-cost airline, T’way Air, which was debuting its first-ever direct scheduled flight from Incheon to Kota Kinabalu with 188 passengers.
Bangkuai, who is also Sabah Tourism Board chairman, said South Koreans were among the top contributors to Sabah’s tourism industry and have consistently shown a keen interest in exploring Sabah’s natural attractions.
The Sabah Tourism Board registered 68,685 South Korean visitors between January and April this year compared to 720 arrivals in the same period last year.
The debut of T’way Air’s direct flight is expected to accelerate this growing trend and build even deeper tourism links between the two destinations.
T’way Air, which initially began as Hansung Airlines, underwent reorganisation and rebranding in 2010. As of 2019, it was the third-largest South Korean low-cost carrier in the international market.
This surge in South Korean tourists underscores the growing popularity of Sabah as a preferred destination, fuelled by its captivating natural wonders, cultural heritage, and renowned hospitality.
Sabah’s islands, beaches, and golf courses are popular among South Korean tourists. They are also interested in diving and birding.
