Kota Kinabalu Becomes Key East Malaysia Hub as Batik Air Adds New Routes

KOTA KINABALU: Batik Air proudly launched two new routes from Kota Kinabalu International Airport (BKI), connecting Sabah to Sarawak and within the state, with the inaugural flight between Kota Kinabalu and Kuching, alongside direct service between BKI and Sandakan (SDK), offering travellers faster, seamless connections across Borneo.

The new daily services provide seamless connectivity, offering convenient alternatives to long land journeys or connecting flights, while strengthening regional ties and enhancing accessibility across Sabah and Sarawak.


The inaugural KCH–BKI flight was warmly received at Kota Kinabalu International Airport with traditional celebrations, showcasing Sabah’s rich culture and renowned hospitality. Arriving passengers were presented with local bead garlands by Sabah Tourism Board (STB), symbolising a heartfelt welcome and the state’s vibrant heritage.  

Batik Air Chief Executive Officer, Datuk Chandran Rama Muthy, said that launching these new services from Kota Kinabalu marks a major milestone as the airline continue to establish Kota Kinabalu as a key base in East Malaysia.  

“These routes not only enhance connectivity within the region but also pave the way for more exciting developments. We will also introduce direct flights from Kota Kinabalu to Singapore, launching in February next year. This supports Visit Malaysia Year 2026 and reinforces our commitment to linking communities and boosting tourism across Sabah and beyond,” he added.

Sabah Tourism Board Chief Executive Officer Julinus Jeffery Jimit said the expanded flight schedules help meet growing travel demand between neighbouring cities like Kuching and Kota Kinabalu, while improving access to Sandakan, a gateway to Sabah’s wildlife and nature attractions.

“These flights enhance convenience, support smoother movement across Borneo, and improve access to Sabah’s destinations. These developments align with Explore Sabah 2026, which

focuses on connectivity as a foundation for spreading visitors, encouraging longer stays, and promoting balanced tourism growth across the state.”

Starting 15 December 2025, Batik Air will add 7 weekly flights on both the Kuching–Kota Kinabalu and Sandakan–Kota Kinabalu routes, providing 1,120 seats per week on each route.

The inaugural celebration in Kota Kinabalu form part of a broader network expansion officially launched today, reinforcing Batik Air’s position as one of the fastest-growing carriers in the region. In Peninsular Malaysia, new routes such as Tashkent, Uzbekistan (TAS)–Langkawi (LGK), as well as Kansai, Osaka (KIX)–Kuala Lumpur (KUL) which were launched today, further demonstrate the airline’s commitment to connecting communities, enhancing tourism opportunities, and delivering seamless travel experiences.

For more information and to plan your next journey, download Batik Air mobile app or visit www.batikair.com