The Sarawak premier said the negotiations are at an advanced stage, Bernama reported.

“Sarawak needs control over its own air services, not only to facilitate passenger transportation but more importantly as an investment for economic growth,” he said in his speech during the grand parade in conjunction with the 78th birthday celebration of Sarawak Yang di-Pertua Negeri Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar in Kuching today.

Yesterday, transport minister Loke Siew Fook was reported to have said that Putrajaya will extend the interim subsidy for rural air services in Sabah and Sarawak for another year.

Loke said the Cabinet agreed to this as negotiations on the MASwings takeover have not been finalised.

“In principle, the federal government has no issue with continuing the subsidy worth RM209 million a year for rural air services. That is our commitment,” he was quoted as saying in a Dayak Daily report.

The current agreement, which covers five years from Jan 1, 2019, will expire on Dec 31, 2024.

Meanwhile, Abang Johari said a study is being conducted for the development of a new airport in Kuching.

He said the new airport will be inspired by Doha International Airport in Qatar.

“The new airport will also be equipped with advanced facilities, in line with the goal of developing it as a regional aviation hub,” he added.