KOTA KINABALU: China Southern Airlines resumed its direct flights from Guangzhou to Kota Kinabalu after flights were suspended due to Covid-19 travel restrictions nearly three years ago.
China Southern Airlines's Airbus A321 with 194 passengers touched down in Kota Kinabalu International Airport at 7.10pm Saturday (April 29) to mark the resumption of flights from the Baiyun International Airport in Guangzhou.
The aircraft's arrival was given a rousing water cannon salute at the airport here.
State Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister Datuk Christina Liew and Assistant Minister Datuk Joniston Bangkuai garlanded the visitors with Sabah's native bead necklaces.
The thrilled visitors also received “orangutan” promotional bags filled with several local products.
China Southern Airlines (Kuala Lumpur Office) general manager Eric Wang said with the resumption of Kota Kinabalu's route, the airlines will be operating three routes in the near future between China and Malaysia with departure from Kuala Lumpur, Kota Kinabalu and Penang to Guangzhou, totalling 31 flights per week.
According to Wang, previously, China Southern Airlines, affected by the pandemic, only operated flights between Kuala Lumpur and Guangzhou once a week.
"Following recovery from the pandemic, flights between China and Malaysia have gradually resumed, and China Southern Airlines' Kuala Lumpur-Guangzhou route will also resume operations to three flights per day starting from May 15, 2023.
"The resumption of direct flights between Guangzhou and Kota Kinabalu will give an additional lift to business development, tourism growth and cultural exchanges between China and Malaysia," he said.
On future plans, Wang said China Southern Airlines would carry out deeper and cross-border cooperation with the key businesses and tourism stakeholders in the two countries in seeking the common good to achieve a win-win result.
Speaking to members of the China tour group, Liew said that Sabah had many attractions including the sea, wildlife, mountain and forest that the visitors could choose for a memorable holiday.
"Sabah offers a wide choice of holiday spots and activities. Some of you love the sea and beaches or intend to go snorkelling or diving.
"We also have Mount Kinabalu, iconic wildlife and a world-class diving paradise at Sipadan on the east coast of Sabah.
"From Tanjung Aru Beach here, you will be able to view one of the most beautiful sunsets in the world. Some of you may opt for adventure, eco tourism, golf tourism or even wellness tourism.
"For cultural enthusiasts, you have the opportunity to experience Sabah's rich cultural heritage," she said.
