Sarawak deputy premier Awang Tengah Ali Hasan said the proposal is being refined, including possible collaboration with airlines such as AirAsia, or via Air Borneo.

“Sarawak already has flights to several destinations, including Kota Bharu, Langkawi, Johor and Singapore,” he said after officiating the Sarawak Entrepreneurs Showcase 2026 at Kuantan City Mall, Bernama reported.

Awang Tengah, who is also Sarawak international trade, industry and investment minister, said the proposed route is expected to boost tourism and strengthen trade links between Sarawak and Pahang.

“The direct service will create more opportunities in tourism and facilitate trade, given the relatively short distance between the two destinations,” he said, adding that the proposal was raised during his courtesy call on Pahang menteri besar Wan Rosdy Wan Ismail yesterday.

Awang Tengah also said Pahang’s plan to develop a new port would open up broader cooperation between the two states, particularly in trade and investment.

“In principle, we have agreed to leverage part of the port facilities for logistics and halal processing,” he said.

Awang Tengah said Sarawak is also planning cruise terminal developments in Kuching and Miri to strengthen its port sector and enhance investment appeal.