The potential cooperation follows a courtesy visit to Sarawak transport minister Lee Kim Shin today by a high-level delegation from Comac, the Commercial Aircraft Corporation of China.

Lee said Sarawak is actively looking into expanding air connectivity and its aviation capabilities. “We welcome collaborations that can support our long-term goals in enhancing air travel and boosting economic growth,” The Borneo Post quoted him as saying.

Comac introduced its range of aircraft, including the 90-seat twin-engine C909 regional jet, which conducted a demonstration flight from Subang to Kuching last year.

Sarawak premier Abang Johari Openg has said the state has plans to connect Kuching to key destinations such as Jakarta, Bali, Hong Kong and Shenzhen. The state recently completed its acquisition of MASwings, which was rebranded as AirBorneo.