Why have airfares to Sarawak surged after GE15 announcement?

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Airfares to Sarawak Saw a Significant Increase Following the GE15 Polling Day Announcement

Airfares between peninsular Malaysia and Sarawak have experienced a notable surge in price immediately after the Election Commission (EC) announced the polling day for the 15th general election. This increase has raised concerns that it could discourage eligible voters residing in the peninsula from travelling back to Sarawak to cast their ballots. The Sarawak state government has indicated that it is unable to directly intervene to lower these ticket prices.
Airline Pricing and National Responsibility

The surge in airfares has prompted questions regarding the rationale behind the price hikes by airlines. Sarawak Deputy Premier Datuk Sri Dr Sim Kui Hian expressed his disappointment, questioning the timing of the increases and suggesting that airlines have a national responsibility to maintain affordable air travel, especially during significant national events like a general election. He highlighted that such price increases could inadvertently disenfranchise voters.
State Government's Limited Control Over Airfares

The Sarawak government has stated that it has no direct means to control or reduce the airfares. As airlines are privately owned and operated entities, their pricing decisions fall outside the direct purview of the state government. Dr Sim noted that without ownership stakes in any airlines, the state cannot implement measures to cap ticket prices, underscoring the challenge in addressing the issue.
Potential for Postal Voting in Future Elections

In light of the current situation, there is a hope that newly elected Members of Parliament from Sarawak will champion the cause for expanded postal voting options. The suggestion is to introduce postal voting for Sarawakians residing and working in the peninsula for future elections. This would provide an alternative voting mechanism, mitigating the impact of potentially high airfares or other travel-related deterrents on voter turnout.

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Why have airfares to Sarawak surged after GE15 announcement?

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