In addition to these 52 extra flights to six destinations in East Malaysia, the airline will be operating 274 flights weekly at regular rates to the same destinations.

Malaysians can now fly from Kuala Lumpur to Kuching, Sibu, Bintulu and Miri, and from Johor Bahru to Kuching, Sibu and Miri at only RM199 (one-way). Other flights from Kuala Lumpur to Kota Kinabalu and Tawau, and Johor Bahru to Kota Kinabalu are at RM249 (one-way).

The public can begin booking their flights starting today.

AirAsia CEO Bo Lingam said, “Despite rising operational costs and leaner fleet size, we are doing all we can and will remain committed to reuniting Malaysians this Chinese New Year celebration.

“Reconnecting our guests with their families and friends at affordable fares is important to AirAsia, and we are doing our best with the present limitations in our operations,” he said.

“Although we are unable to put out as many extra flights as we would like, we are pleased to introduce these special extra late-night flights at fixed low fares with a total of 25,020 extra seats to selected cities in East Malaysia,” he added.

Transport minister Anthony Loke said the ministry is pleased with AirAsia’s efforts in supporting the government’s initiative to bring down fares during this festive season, despite operational constraints.

“I encourage all other airlines to emulate this same initiative or other initiatives which can reduce the airfares during this time,” he said at the press conference.

“As we usher in the new year, we look forward to continuously working with industry players such as AirAsia to cater to the needs and welfare of Malaysians,” Loke said.

Passengers are encouraged to self-check-in using the airasia Super App, available as early as 14 days before departure date, and use the e-Boarding pass to board.