Kota Kinabalu: The Sabah Youth Council (MBS) has voiced concern over soaring airfares between Kota Kinabalu and Kuala Lumpur, particularly during peak travel seasons, warning that high costs hinder education access, economic opportunities, and family ties.
MBS President Abqaree Fawwaz Abekan (pic) said air travel remains a necessity rather than a luxury for Sabahans given the complete absence of road or rail links connecting the State to the peninsula.
He noted that exorbitant fares leave tertiary students struggling to return to campus, cause young entrepreneurs and athletes to miss crucial opportunities, and place severe financial strain on families dealing with emergencies.
Abqaree added that Sabah's overall development is undermined when its people are forced to bear a "geographical penalty" to pursue national-level education, employment, and business prospects.
The council urged the Federal Government and relevant authorities to intervene by increasing seat capacity during peak periods, promoting airline competition, tightening fare-surge monitoring, and introducing targeted fare assistance for students, athletes, and emergency travel.
