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TAWAU: AirAsia’s new direct route from Tawau to Guangzhou saw the inaugural flight landing at Tawau Airport at 7am, Sunday.

The maiden flight brought a mix of passengers, including solo travellers, families and a business delegation.

AirAsia Commercial Marketing Manager Carson Lim said the Guangzhou route represents a significant strategic step in expanding the airline’s network on Sabah’s east coast.

He said AirAsia is confident in the strong potential of Tawau and Semporna as international tourism destinations. The new route is also expected to boost cross-border trade, seafood exports and the agriculture sector.

The Tawau-Guangzhou service would operate four times a week, with tickets available on AirAsia’s official website, the AirAsia MOVE mobile application and the AirAsia WeChat mini programme.

Tawau Chinese Chamber of Commerce (TCCC) Vice-President William Tan said it marks an important step in strengthening Tawau’s international ties.

“This is another milestone in the cross-border flight network on the east coast of Sabah,” he said.  

Tan believes with the launch of the direct Tawau-Macau service previously, and now the direct Tawau–Guangzhou route, the district is on the right track to achieving two-way growth in tourism and the economy.

He said the introduction of new international routes enhances the competitiveness of Sabah’s east coast region, while stimulating growth in the hotel, diving, restaurant, transportation and other tourism-related industries, ultimately creating a more comprehensive tourism ecosystem.

He added that improved connectivity also strengthens Tawau’s role as an emerging international hub in the region.