Shantou has become the ninth Chinese city with direct links to Kota Kinabalu, joining major hubs like Shanghai and Beijing.
This route will operate thrice weekly, increasing the total weekly flights from China to 55. Meanwhile, the Kaohsiung route, the second direct link from Taiwan, aims to draw tourists from southern Taiwan and nearby cities such as Tainan and Pingtung.
AirAsia’s ongoing partnership with Sabah includes a five-year plan to enhance Kota Kinabalu International Airport as a regional aviation hub, supporting tourism growth in anticipation of Visit Malaysia Year 2026.
Sabah Tourism Board CEO Julinus Jeffery Jimit noted that these new routes will make Sabah’s rich natural and cultural attractions more accessible, driving the state's success as a top tourist destination.
AirAsia opens routes from Shantou and Kaohsiung
News in Asia
Sabah is poised to achieve its target of 3 million tourist arrivals with the launch of two new AirAsia direct flights connecting Shantou and Kaohsiung to Kota Kinabalu on November 16 and 17.