KUALA LUMPUR – In a move poised to transform the tourism and aviation landscape in East Malaysia, Batik Air today announced a landmark direct route connecting Kota Kinabalu, Sabah (BKI), to Incheon International Airport, Seoul (ICN), with operations set to begin on 12 September 2025.
This strategic new service operating three times a week marks Batik Air’s continued commitment to elevating East Malaysia’s global connectivity, eliminating the need for layovers in Kuala Lumpur or other transit points. For travellers from South Korea, it means faster, more direct access to Sabah’s stunning natural landscapes and cultural gems. For Sabahans, it offers a more convenient route to a top international destination steeped in contemporary appeal and rich tradition.
“This new route not only enhances connectivity between Sabah and South Korea but also reflects Batik Air’s commitment to building a stronger regional network across Asia,” said Datuk Chandran Rama Muthy, Chief Executive Officer of Batik Air, in a press statement. “As our footprint continues to expand, we are creating more meaningful links between cultures, economies, and communities.”
The announcement comes at a time when Sabah is solidifying its place on the global tourism map. From January to September 2024, nearly 152,000 South Koreans visited the state, drawn by its pristine beaches, lush rainforests, world-class diving sites, and the majestic Mount Kinabalu. With Korean tourists ranking among the top international arrivals, the direct route stands to further increase interest in Sabah as a preferred Southeast Asian destination.
The impact of the new service extends beyond tourism. It signifies a strategic step in positioning Kota Kinabalu as an emerging aviation hub in North Asia. With direct connectivity, Batik Air is not only supporting economic growth in East Malaysia but also nurturing cultural exchange between two dynamic regions.
Meanwhile, outbound travel to South Korea continues to climb. Over 300,000 Malaysians made the journey in 2024, according to the Korea Tourism Organisation (KTO), with East Malaysians contributing significantly to that figure; a testament to the rising popularity of Korean culture and lifestyle in Sabah and Sarawak.
Industry watchers say the launch of the Kota Kinabalu–Seoul service is more than just another route addition; it is a timely recalibration of regional air travel post-pandemic, putting East Malaysia at the centre of a growing North Asia-Southeast Asia corridor.
As the travel industry rebuilds with a renewed focus on direct access and traveler experience, Batik Air’s expansion into South Korea is a confident stride forward, promising not just a new journey for passengers but a new chapter for Sabah’s aviation and tourism ambitions.
Travellers can plan their journeys by visiting www.batikair.com or downloading the Batik Air mobile app. -MalayaDailyToday
