Cainiao Network has launched direct air freight services from China to East Malaysia to enhance Lazada’s cross-border logistics and slash costs by over half for customers in Sabah and Sarawak.

The Alibaba logistics arm has arranged direct flights to Kota Kinabalu and Kuching operated three times weekly.

Cainiao estimates that this will speed up delivery times into East Malaysia by two days since shipments no longer need to pass through Kuala Lumpur, where international freight was previously brought in.

“Traditionally, shipping to East Malaysia such as Sabah and Sarawak entails multiple modes of transportations comprising international freight to Malaysia’s airport in Kuala Lumpur, domestic flight to Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, or Kuching, Sarawak, followed by last mile courier delivery to consumers’ doorsteps,” the company explained.

Also read: Cainiao starts new service between China and Africa

Cainiao’s move comes amidst pandemic-related movement restrictions on  commercial and cargo flights that have further lengthened delivery time and exacerbated delivery challenges.

“We have launched a direct air freight route to East Malaysia, effectively removing domestic air freight and ground transfers,” said Shawn Louis, executive general manager for Cainiao and chief LazGlobal logistics officer. “This logistics upgrade will benefit consumers in East Malaysia as they can now enjoy the same delivery timeliness and shipping cost as those in West Malaysia.”

Lazada was the first customer to use Cainiao’s e-fulfillment hub located at Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) in November 2020.