it true. we started using SZB as destination alternate last month, when the weather is good and chances of a diversion is low. i believe it's not under the purview of MAB though because MAS has relocate some of our equipments (steps, refuelling trucks, etc) over to SZB. specific instructions have been given to crew to park at MAS hangar for ground handling in case of diversion.
it saves several hundred kilos of fuel (esp. for long-haul sectors) per flight and can add up over time...
SR