AirAsia unveils special tribute livery honoring Sabah Tourism icon Datuk Irene Benggon Charuruks

Monday, December 4, 2023

AirAsia unveiled a distinctive tribute livery today in memory of the late Datuk Irene Benggon Charuruks, an esteemed figure in Sabah’s tourism and the former General Manager of the Sabah Tourism Board.

A pivotal force in shaping and promoting Sabah’s tourism sector for over two decades, Datuk Irene played a significant role in supporting AirAsia as a key player in the state’s tourism landscape since its inception 22 years ago. The special tribute livery serves as a manifestation of the airline’s gratitude for her impactful contributions, symbolizing the strong bond between AirAsia and Sabah.

Datuk Kamarudin Meranun, Executive Chairman of Capital A, expressed appreciation, saying, “After more than two decades of unwavering support from Datuk Irene, we are honored to unveil a special livery dedicated to her. Her instrumental role in shaping Sabah’s tourism and fostering a collaborative spirit was crucial in establishing our Kota Kinabalu hub, and we owe her a debt of gratitude for steadfast support. Datuk Irene, we salute you and thank you for being a true partner and an integral part of the AirAsia journey.”

Tony Fernandes, CEO of Capital A, added, “Sabah holds a special place for AirAsia, and Datuk Irene was one of the believers who truly supported us from the beginning. This special livery is our tribute to her – the first plane we’ve ever named, dedicated in her memory. Look for it soaring over Sabah, a reminder of her legacy. Rest in peace, Datuk Irene, and receive our love from all of us at AirAsia.”

Having established Kota Kinabalu as a hub in 2002 with Datuk Irene’s support, AirAsia has grown to make it their second-largest hub after Kuala Lumpur. With 21 routes and 331 weekly flights from Kota Kinabalu, Sandakan, and Tawau to domestic and international destinations, the airline remains the largest with the widest connectivity in the state.

In 2014, AirAsia introduced the ‘Thank You Sabah’ livery as a token of appreciation for the unwavering support from the Land Below the Wind. Today, the airline takes another step to honor both Sabah and Datuk Irene by naming one of its planes after her. AirAsia continues to operate flights from Kota Kinabalu, Sandakan, and Tawau to various destinations, with plans for new routes, including Seoul to Kota Kinabalu, in the upcoming year and beyond.

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