Planning a trip to Sarawak and Sabah, the two stunning states on Malaysian Borneo? Great choice! From lush rainforests to pristine beaches and vibrant cultural festivals, these states have something for every kind of traveler.
Getting here might seem tricky at first, but it’s actually pretty straightforward once you know your options. Here’s an easy-to-follow guide on how to travel to Sarawak and Sabah by air, including connections to the interior regions and international routes.
Flying to Sarawak and Sabah: The Main Gateways
Both Sarawak and Sabah are well-connected to Malaysia’s main cities and several international destinations.
Sarawak
- Kuching International Airport (KCH)
The main gateway to Sarawak. Most flights from Peninsular Malaysia (like Kuala Lumpur and Penang) and neighboring Sabah land here. - Miri Airport (MYY)
A key airport for travelers heading to northern Sarawak or venturing into the interior regions. - Sibu Airport (SBW)
Convenient if you’re exploring central Sarawak or the nearby river towns. - Bintulu Airport (BTU)
Ideal for business travelers and those visiting the coastal region of Sarawak.
Sabah
- Kota Kinabalu International Airport (BKI)
This is Sabah’s busiest airport and the main entry point for travelers. Kota Kinabalu is a vibrant city and a popular launchpad for exploring Sabah’s attractions like Mount Kinabalu or the islands of Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park. - Sandakan Airport (SDK)
Perfect if you’re heading to the wildlife haven of Sepilok or the Kinabatangan River. - Tawau Airport (TWU)
Your stop if you’re planning a dive trip to the world-renowned Sipadan Island.
Flying to the Interior: Rural Air Services by MASwings
If you’re an adventurer at heart and want to explore Sarawak and Sabah’s interior regions, MASwings is your go-to airline. This regional airline, part of Malaysia Airlines, operates Rural Air Services to smaller airports and airstrips that connect remote areas.
Destinations in Sarawak
- Bario (BBN): Known as the “Land of a Thousand Handshakes,” Bario is a charming highland village surrounded by paddy fields and cool mountain air.
- Mulu (MZV): Fly here to explore Gunung Mulu National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its caves and karst formations.
- Kapuas Hulu and Long Akah: Perfect for cultural and eco-tourism experiences with indigenous communities.
Destinations in Sabah
- Kudat (KUD): Visit the Tip of Borneo for stunning coastal views.
- Lahad Datu (LDU): A key entry point for Danum Valley, one of Sabah’s most pristine rainforests.
- Keningau and Long Pasia: For off-the-beaten-path adventures, these areas are rich in biodiversity and cultural heritage.
Pro Tip: These rural flights operate small aircraft, so pack light and check the baggage allowance in advance!
International Routes to Sarawak and Sabah
Both states are accessible from several international destinations, making them easier to reach than you might think.
Direct Flights to Sarawak
- Kuching International Airport (KCH):
- Singapore (Scoot, AirAsia, Malaysia Airlines)
- Pontianak, Indonesia (AirAsia)
Direct Flights to Sabah
- Kota Kinabalu International Airport (BKI):
- Singapore (Scoot, AirAsia)
- Seoul, South Korea (Jeju Air, Jin Air)
- Manila, Philippines (Cebu Pacific, Philippines Airlines)
- Taipei, Taiwan (China Airlines)
- Tokyo, Japan (All Nippon Airways via charter flights)
Connecting from Peninsular Malaysia
The easiest way to reach Sarawak or Sabah is to fly from Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA). Both Malaysia Airlines and AirAsia offer frequent flights to all major airports in these two states. Other domestic airports like Penang (PEN) and Johor Bahru (JHB) also provide direct flights to Kuching, Kota Kinabalu, and more.
Final Tips for Your Journey
- Booking Flights: Book early if you’re traveling during peak seasons or festivals like Gawai in Sarawak or Kaamatan in Sabah.
- Travel Insurance: Don’t forget to get insurance to cover any unexpected travel hiccups.
- Explore Beyond Cities: While Kuching and Kota Kinabalu are fantastic cities, the true magic lies in the countryside and interiors of Sarawak and Sabah.
Now that you know how to get to Sarawak and Sabah, pack your bags and get ready to explore the wonders of Malaysian Borneo. Safe travels!
