Scoot’s Singapore-Sibu flight symbolises enhanced connectivity, says S’wak Transport minister
New Air Route Opens Doors for Cultural Exchange and Economic Growth
SIBU (June 6): The inaugural flight of Scoot TR410 from Singapore to Sibu marked not only a physical connection between the two destinations but also a significant step towards fostering stronger ties between their cultures, economies, and people, according to Dato Sri Lee Kim Shin, Sarawak’s Transport Minister.
During the welcoming ceremony for the Scoot Embraer’s maiden flight from Singapore to Sibu, Lee emphasized the broader implications of this new air route, highlighting its potential to facilitate not just travel but also understanding and cooperation between communities. He expressed his delight in the launch of this route, underlining its alignment with the ministry’s goals of enhancing accessibility to and from Sarawak.
Enhanced air connectivity, Lee noted, plays a pivotal role in driving economic growth, supporting local businesses, and positioning Sarawak as a prime destination for tourism and investment on the global stage. The new route is expected to unlock numerous opportunities for both Sarawakians and Singaporeans, offering a direct pathway for tourists to explore Sarawak’s rich cultural heritage and natural beauty.
Last year, Sarawak witnessed a remarkable surge in visitor arrivals, with a significant increase from Singapore. This partnership with Scoot is poised to further amplify visitor numbers from Singapore, bolstering Sarawak’s position as a top tourist destination.
Lee emphasized that Sarawak is not just a destination but a place teeming with natural wonders, diverse cultures, adventurous opportunities, and culinary delights. Singapore, with its strategic location and advanced infrastructure, serves as a crucial hub connecting Sarawak to the world, enhancing its economic and cultural connectivity.
Agatha Yap, Scoot’s Marketing and New Revenue director, revealed that the flight frequency for the Singapore-Sibu sector would be three times weekly, offering a seating capacity of 112 passengers for each flight.
The welcoming ceremony was attended by federal Deputy Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Khairul Firdaus Akbar Khan, Sarawak Transport Ministry permanent secretary Datu Wong Hee Sieng, Sarawak Tourism Board chief executive officer Sharzede Salleh Askor, Senator Robert Lau, Bukit Assek assemblyman Joseph Chieng, and Sarawak Trade and Tourism Office Singapore (Statos) chief executive officer Chew Chang Guan.