Banjarmasin: AirAsia Malaysia (AK) today celebrated its inaugural service connecting Kuala Lumpur and Banjarmasin (BDJ), the first scheduled international link between Malaysia and South Kalimantan.
As one of the most connected foreign carriers in Indonesia, AirAsia serves 18 and counting destinations across the country, this route is set to deepen people-to-people ties, promote travel and trade while showcasing Banjarmasin’s unique riverine culture as well as its growing potential as a halal-friendly destination.
The timing of this inaugural flight is particularly meaningful as AirAsia was recently honored at the 2025 World Travel Awards Asia and Oceania, hot on the heels of Kuala Lumpur’s highly coveted recognition as the world’s leading low-cost carrier hub by OAG. The new route will also expand travel options for AirAsia guests from Banjarmasin thanks to the airline’s extensive fly-through network spanning more than 130 global destinations.
Datuk Captain Fareh Majputra, CEO of AirAsia Malaysia, said: “Indonesia has always been an important market for us, and this move to provide direct connectivity between Kuala Lumpur and Banjarmasin reinforces our aim to boost regional connectivity and support the vibrant communities of South Kalimantan. This is another step towards providing affordable travel experiences that can be enjoyed across the region. Connects people and opportunities. “We look forward to making Kuala Lumpur directly accessible to the Banjar community and welcoming more travelers from around the world to explore the unique travel experiences Banjarmasin has to offer.”
Governor of South Kalimantan, H. Muhyiddin, said: “The inauguration of AirAsia’s first direct international flight to Banjarmasin is important for South Kalimantan. This new connectivity will not only boost our local economy and tourism sector but will also strengthen cultural and trade ties within the region. We warmly welcome AirAsia and look forward to the opportunities this connectivity brings to our people. We are looking forward to promoting South Kalimantan as a vibrant, halal-friendly travel destination. Destination.”
In October 2024 alone, almost 100,000 domestic tourist entries were recorded in South Kalimantan, reflecting a rapidly growing tourism market.
These numbers are expected to increase rapidly in 2025, with the launch of a direct international route to Kuala Lumpur, boosting both inbound and outbound tourism. In addition to enabling affordable and direct connectivity with Malaysia’s capital, this new service will also provide travelers with more seamless and affordable options to visit other stunning destinations in the country, complementing the efforts of the upcoming Visit Malaysia 2026 campaign and supporting the region’s economic growth through halal-friendly travel and business opportunities.
