According to The Borneo Post, Lee said his ministry aimed to strengthen Sarawak’s land, air and sea transport routes to stimulate economic growth, especially within the tourism sector.

“We remember the convenience of direct flights between Miri and Manila in the past and we hope to re-establish such vital air links to enhance connectivity.

“We have also established a new air route from Jakarta to Kuching in June this year,” said Lee.

The state minister said Sarawak is also looking to bring back direct flights from Kuching to Pontianak, and introduce new routes to Kalimantan and other cities within the region.

Previously, Sarawak premier Abang Johari Openg said AirAsia would provide direct flights from Kuching to Shenzhen while Singapore’s low-cost carrier Scoot has introduced a new route connecting Kuching and Singapore.