KUALA LUMPUR: An aide to the Sarawak Premier has questioned DAP's Chong Chieng Jen over his call for the state government to address rising flight ticket prices.

"The authority to regulate and oversee aviation matters rests with the federal government. The minister responsible is Chong's boss in DAP, Anthony Loke," said Fazzrudin Abdul Rahman.

Fazzrudin, Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Openg's chief political secretary, said he was "perplexed" as to why Chong, the Sarawak DAP chief, did not approach Loke, given their personal, and party connections.

"The real question is, why doesn't he trust his boss, and instead, is urging the Sarawak government to intervene?" he said in response to Chong's statement.

Yesterday, Chong urged the Sarawak government to engage with airlines to reduce flight ticket prices for Sarawakians. He argued that negotiating with airlines for more affordable fares "can be done", and questioned if the Sarawak government cared enough to do so.

Fazzrudin pointed out that the Sarawak government subsidises flight tickets for Sarawakian university students under the 'Graduan Pulang Sarawak' scheme.

"This scheme benefits up to 12,000 students annually, allowing them to apply twice a year and receive subsidies of up to RM600 for their flights. It alleviates the financial burden on students and their parents in paying for airfares to return home."

https://www.nst.com.my/news/nation/2024/09/1099713/sky-high-flight-tickets-dap-man-told-ask-party-boss