By MOHD IZHAM BIN HASHIM
KOTA KINABALU: State-owned Sabah Air has been urged to pursue measured growth, explore niche markets, and practice careful strategic planning as it marks 50 years of service.
Speaking at the airline’s golden jubilee celebration, State Finance Minister Datuk Seri Masidi Manjun said Sabah Air should focus on realistic, achievable goals and specialized services such as regional connectivity, chartered flights, and other revenue streams that leverage the airline’s unique strengths.
“Sabah Air should understand what it can do best and build on that steadily,” Masidi said, stressing that incremental growth and financial prudence are crucial for long-term sustainability.
He warned against competing directly with larger commercial airlines, noting that ambitious expansion without proper planning could threaten financial stability. Instead, he advised a step-by-step approach: start small, consolidate operations, and expand gradually.
Highlighting Sabah’s aviation potential, Masidi noted the state currently has 141 international flights weekly to 14 destinations—providing a strong base for niche services without overextending resources.
“Airlines are capital-intensive which include aircraft, crews, maintenance, and a robust business model. Understanding the costs and mechanics of aviation is crucial before ambitious expansion,” he said during the event on Saturday night.
Masidi also compared Sabah Air with Sarawak’s new state-owned airline, cautioning that Sabah must remain realistic about its resources. He emphasized that while some airlines operate despite losses due to wealthy owners, Sabah Air cannot rely on such advantages.
“Financial prudence and aligning growth with key state priorities—like infrastructure, electricity, water supply, roads, and poverty alleviation—will strengthen Sabah’s overall development,” he said.
Meanwhile, Sabah Air Chairman Kenny Chua reflected on the airline’s 50-year journey.
“From day one, Sabah Air’s mission has been about serving the people. We’ve become a symbol of dedication, public service, and social responsibility—supporting medical emergencies, rescue operations, essential goods transport, and connecting remote communities,” he said.
Chua credited the airline’s employees for its success and shared his vision for the future, spotlighting Sabah Air’s recent acquisition of 17 hectares at KKIBA Terminal 2 as a major milestone.
“This land is pivotal as we plan our future. Let us honour our past, dream boldly, and build a brighter future together,” he said.
