SEPANG, Dec 28 — Travellers flying from the peninsula to Borneo Malaysia next month will be able to do so for as low as RM199 one-way on AirAsia.

The local budget carrier announced today two fixed fare flights for the Chinese New Year period from January 17 to 30, 2023.

The RM199 deal is for travellers departing from Kuala Lumpur and Johor Baru to Kuching, Bintulu, Miri and Sibu in Sarawak.

The second RM249 deal is for travellers to Kota Kinabalu and Tawau in Sabah, also departing from Kuala Lumpur and Johor Baru.

Transport Minister Anthony Loke hailed the airline’s fixed price initiative despite the aviation industry’s challenges.

"Our fellow Malaysians in the East have no choice but to fly back when necessary, that's why this initiative is very important.

"It was also a very personal initiative for me as this was part of my election manifesto,” he said during AirAsia’s announcement at its headquarters here.

"Every stakeholder must come together to ensure this initiative works despite the challenges the aviation industry is facing,” he added.

AirAsia Aviation Limited Group CEO Bo Lingam said he is happy that travel is picking up now as the past few years have been challenging.

"Undoubtedly, these last few years have been tremendously hard for everyone and even as travel is now fast rebounding this year, we are unable to put out as many extra flights as we would like, simply because of the ripple effect of the pandemic.

"However, despite the rising operational costs and leaner fleet size, we are doing all we can and remain committed to reuniting Malaysians for the upcoming Chinese New Year celebration.

"Today, we are pleased to be able to introduce special extra late night flights at fixed low fares with a total of 25,020 extra seats to selected cities in East Malaysia for the upcoming festive period,” he said.

Tickets go on sale at 12pm today.

Malaysia will observe Chinese New Year on January 22 and 23 next year.