KUCHING / JAKARTA, 22 May 2023 – The highly anticipated direct route connecting Indonesia’s capital city, Jakarta, and Kuching, the state capital of Sarawak, will bring significant benefits to both the business community and leisure travelers.

Starting from 15 June 2023, Indonesia AirAsia will operate three weekly flights on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, providing passengers with convenient travel options.

Tickets can be booked through the airasia Superapp and website.

In addition to passenger travel, the new route will create numerous opportunities for manufacturers and exporters from both countries thanks to the comprehensive cargo and logistics services offered by Teleport by AirAsia.

Senator Jaziri Alkaf Abdillah Suffian, Director of International Affairs for the Indonesia-Malaysia Business Council (IMBC), expressed confidence in this development.

He welcomed AirAsia’s efforts to enhance connectivity within ASEAN, particularly between Malaysia and Indonesia. The route not only strengthens the bond between the two nations, which share many similarities, but also facilitates commercial and trade links between two of the region’s largest economies.

“This new route will foster greater economic sharing, especially among micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), benefiting people on both sides of the border.

“The pandemic has brought about significant changes in business practices, consumer behavior, and the digital economy.

“The Jakarta-Kuching route will not only support corporate travel but also provide opportunities for small traders and benefit local industries,” said Senator Jaziri Alkaf.

He emphasised the close ties between Malaysia and Indonesia as neighboring countries with shared language, culture, and lifestyle.

Many people have family members on the other side of the border, making this new route an excellent opportunity to strengthen social and economic relationships. Furthermore, it prepares the two regions for the establishment of Indonesia’s new administrative capital, Nusantara.

“We must also promote Sarawak’s unique offerings to our Indonesian neighbors, including its culture, eco-tourism, gastronomy, and more. Sarawak has much to offer, and we encourage our Indonesian friends to experience and enjoy the distinctiveness of Malaysia in Sarawak,” added Jaziri Alkaf.