STB Senior Deputy CEO Tay Shu Lan (sixth right) in a group photo with STB Senior Marketing Manager Humphrey Ginibun (fifth right); Malaysia Airports Senior Airport Manager Jefry Ramli (fourth left); T’way Air Regional Manager KK Airport Station Kim Minkeun (fourth right); and T’way Air pilots and cabin crew.
KOTA KINABALU: The Sabah Tourism Board (STB) welcomed a new charter service by T’way Air, connecting Daegu in South Korea directly to Kota Kinabalu.
Operating four times a week, every Monday, Thursday, Friday and Sunday – this seasonal route runs from July 24 to August 24, 2025.
The first flight, which landed at Kota Kinabalu International Airport (KKIA) at 9.35pm last night, received a strong response with 182 passengers on board.
This seasonal route marks a key development in enhancing international air connectivity to Sabah and is expected to significantly boost inbound tourism from South Korea, one of the state’s key markets.
“We are thrilled to welcome T’way Air and its passengers to Sabah,” said STB CEO Julinus Jeffery Jimit
“This new charter flight service reflects Sabah’s position as a key destination for South Korean travellers, known for their love of tropical nature and cultural discovery. We are confident this will be an important step in revitalising tourism flows and offering South Koreans easier access to the incredible experiences Sabah has to offer.”
As of May 2025, Sabah received 76,685 South Korean visitors, reflecting a growing demand for the state’s unique natural and cultural offerings.
This seasonal charter complements T’way Air’s existing daily service between Incheon and Kota Kinabalu, further reinforcing the airline’s commitment to the Sabah market.
Sabah offers a range of attractions perfect for South Korean tourists, including world-class diving, pristine islands, lush jungles, indigenous heritage and Mount Kinabalu – a UNESCO World Heritage site. Known for their love of eco-tourism and tropical escapes, South Korean travellers will find Sabah an ideal destination for nature and adventure.
This charter initiative is a result of close collaboration between STB, T’way Air and local tourism operators, further strengthening Sabah’s position as a must-visit destination for travellers from South Korea.
The board is confident that this service will not only drive more immediate tourism growth but also set the stage for expanded air services in the future.
