Douglas Uggah Embas, who is Sarawak deputy premier, and second minister for finance and new economy, said private jets also offered greater flexibility in travel arrangements.

“The safety of the state leaders as well as high-ranking government officials is of utmost importance and cannot be quantified by money.

“We take all necessary precautions to ensure a safe and secure journey, especially for travel overseas.

“As such, using private jets is a viable option that can provide the necessary level of security and safety,” he said when delivering the winding-up speech for his ministry at the Sarawak state assembly here today.

On May 17, Violet Yong (PH-Pending) had questioned the use of a private jet by Sarawak premier Abang Johari Openg and other state leaders on their official trip to London recently.

Uggah said the Sarawak government had entered into a contract with Hornbill Skyways for the provision of aircraft services for the state government, including the governor, premier, deputy premier and Cabinet ministers.

“The type of jet used by state leaders or government officials is not decided by the Sarawak government, but determined by Hornbill Skyways, based on the journey and technical suitability of the aircraft for long-haul travel,” he said.