ASEAN Travel Exchange 2025 to debut in Kota Kinabalu this June

 

The inaugural ASEAN Travel Exchange (ATEX) 2025 will take place at The Magellan Sutera Resort, Kota Kinabalu, from June 19 to 21, marking a significant milestone in regional tourism collaboration and recovery efforts.

The event is organised by leading South-east Asia’s tourism bodies, including the ASEAN Tourism Association (ASEANTA), Federation of ASEAN Travel Associations (FATA), and the Malaysian Association of Tour and Travel Agents (MATTA). It is supported by the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Environment Sabah, Sabah Tourism Board, Sabah Convention Bureau, and strategic partners AirAsia Group and Jetama Water.

ATEX 2025 is expected to attract 354 delegates, comprising 229 semi-hosted buyers and 125 sellers. Buyers will attend from 17 countries, including China, India, Nepal, Pakistan, Oman, South Korea, Iran, Myanmar and Vietnam. They primarily represent tour operators, travel agents, hoteliers, and tourism product owners.

Sellers represent seven ASEAN member states – Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia, the Philippines, Thailand, Cambodia and Vietnam – and cover sectors such as accommodation, transport, attractions, and destination management services.

FATA president Tan Kok Liang said: “This is a timely event that not only aligns with Visit Malaysia Year 2026 but also positions Sabah as a central player in ASEAN’s multi-destination travel ecosystem. ATEX supports ASEAN connectivity goals by facilitating increased visitor flows and regional cooperation. It also reinforces Sabah’s growing reputation as a premier business events destination, helping to enhance its international visibility and economic prospects.”

The official opening on June 19 will feature speeches by Sabah’s chief minister, Hajiji Noor, and the state’s minister of tourism, culture and environment, Christina Liew. The programme will include product presentations from Sabah Parks, Sabah Wildlife, Sabah Convention Bureau, Sabah Tourism Board, and AirAsia. The day will conclude with a welcome dinner at Shangri-La Tanjung Aru.

June 20 will be dedicated to B2B speed-dating sessions between buyers and sellers. On June 21, hosted buyers will take part in curated post-show tours designed to showcase Sabah’s cultural, natural, and island attractions.

Tan added: “The post-tours are designed to give buyers immersive experiences and a deeper understanding of Sabah’s tourism offerings. It’s not just about selling a destination, it’s about experiencing it.”

Looking ahead, Tan confirmed that there are plans for ATEX to become a recurring ASEAN tourism trade event, rotating among member countries. The continuation and future host of the event will depend on the outcomes of this first edition, with factors such as stakeholder feedback, participation, and regional interest playing a role in decisions going forward.

-TTG Asia.

Jom Kunjungi Reruai Kementerian Pelancongan, Seni & Budaya di Program Madani Rakyat 2025 Perak

 

Program Madani Rakyat 2025 Perak

Jom oqhang Perak! Kunjungi reruai Kementerian Pelancongan, Seni dan Budaya (MOTAC) sempena Program Madani Rakyat 2025 di Perak.

Tarikh: 13 - 15 Jun 2025

Lokasi: Lumut Waterfront, Lumut, Perak

Pelbagai pameran interaktif, inisiatif kerajaan dan aktiviti menarik menanti anda:

> Khidmat Nasihat Peluang Pendidikan di bawah MOTAC

> Virtual Tour Pelancongan

> Pameran kraf dan demonstrasi

> Kaunter Khidmat Nasihat dan Aduan Awam

Komer nunggu ape lagi? Ate moh le ke datang nengok booth kami ni ha! Jumpe sane!

-MOTAC.

Promosi Cuti Santai Anak Muda Sempena Hari Belia Kebangsaan 2025 @ Dataran Merdeka, Kuala Lumpur ( 13 ~ 15 Jun 2025 )

 

𝗝𝗼𝗺 𝗦𝗲𝗺𝗮𝗿𝗮𝗸𝗸𝗮𝗻 𝗦𝗮𝗺𝗯𝘂𝘁𝗮𝗻 𝗛𝗮𝗿𝗶 𝗕𝗲𝗹𝗶𝗮 𝗡𝗲𝗴𝗮𝗿𝗮 𝗣𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗻𝗴𝗸𝗮𝘁 𝗞𝗲𝗯𝗮𝗻𝗴𝘀𝗮𝗮𝗻!

Tarikh: 13 – 15 Jun 2025

Lokasi: Dataran Merdeka, Kuala Lumpur

Bersedia untuk Cuti Santai Anak Muda dengan pelbagai tawaran istimewa menanti anda! Jangan lepaskan peluang untuk jadi sebahagian daripada perayaan penuh semangat ini.

Imbas Kod QR di atas untuk maklumat lanjut dan aktiviti menarik!

-Tourism Malaysia.

Malaysia Airlines Enhances Bonus Side Trip for International Travellers

 

Malaysia Airlines continues to redefine the travel experience with its innovative Bonus Side Trip (BST) programme, offering international travellers the opportunity to explore Malaysia’s hidden gems at no extra fare. Whether transiting through Kuala Lumpur or planning an extended stay, travellers can explore a second Malaysian destination effortlessly, experiencing more of the country’s cultural richness, natural landscapes, and authentic local hospitality. 

Available to Malaysia Airlines’ international passengers who travel through Kuala Lumpur, BST offers a domestic return flight to one of seven selected Malaysian destinations at no extra fare. Travellers can choose to stop over in Langkawi, Penang, Johor Bahru, Kuantan, Alor Star, Kuala Terengganu and Kota Bharu before continuing to the last leg of their journey. Unlike traditional stopover packages, BST is fully integrated into the ticket fare and booking journey, turning every international journey into a multi-destination Malaysian adventure. 

Dersenish Aresandiran, Chief Commercial Officer of Airlines, Malaysia Aviation Group said, “As the national carrier, Malaysia Airlines invites global travellers to experience more and uncover the vibrant beauty of Malaysia through a side trip to one of seven handpicked domestic destinations. The Bonus Side Trip reflects our commitment to championing Malaysia as a preferred destination in Asia. It goes beyond connectivity, curating experiences that extend our Malaysian Hospitality into every corner of the country.” 

The Bonus Side Trip programme is part of Malaysia Airlines’ broader strategy to support Visit Malaysia Year 2026 and stimulate sustainable tourism growth. The initiative is designed to encourage domestic exploration beyond Malaysia’s capital, allowing international travellers to explore secondary destinations that are rich in culture, heritage, and natural beauty. By strengthening the connection between international arrivals and local tourism economies, the programme drives inclusive growth and supports businesses and communities across the country. It also reinforces Malaysia Airlines’ role as the gateway to Asia and beyond, seamlessly bridging international access with local discovery. 

Coinciding with the Malaysia Airlines Trade Elevation Summit held in Langkawi this week, the airline hosted a group of international key opinion leaders (KOLs) from Indonesia, China, Hong Kong, Thailand, Australia, India and Korea to experience Langkawi as a featured Bonus Side Trip destination. Their curated itinerary brought the island to life through immersive experiences that included the UNESCO-certified Kilim Geoforest Park, Langkawi SkyCab, sunset cruises, and authentic local crafts, showcasing the island’s blend of nature, culture, and lifestyle. 

The specially curated journey offered a taste of what makes Langkawi a standout destination, where nature, culture, and hospitality come together to create a truly Malaysian holiday experience. Through this immersive visit, Malaysia Airlines demonstrated how the Bonus Side Trip transforms a single international journey into something far more memorable. 

The Bonus Side Trip reflects the airline’s unwavering commitment to delivering its signature Malaysian Hospitality at every step of the touchpoint. As Visit Malaysia Year 2026 approaches, this unique offering by Malaysia Airlines invites international travellers to discover more of Malaysia’s charm, seamlessly and meaningfully. 

Travellers are encouraged to book with Malaysia Airlines and unlock the added value of exploring a second destination, all in one unforgettable trip. For more details and to book exclusive travel deals, please visit www.malaysiaairlines.com.

-Malaysia Airlines.

Sabah introduces new diving safety SOPs ahead of Visit Malaysia Year 2026

 

Sabah Dive Squad Club president Sim Fui (second from left) presents a token of appreciation to Sabah Tourism, Culture and Environment permanent secretary Datuk Josie Lai during a courtesy visit here yesterday. - Courtesy of Sabah Dive Squad Club

KOTA KINABALU: The Sabah Tourism, Culture and Environment Ministry has established a set of safety standard operating procedures (SOPs) for scuba diving activities in the state.

The move underscores the government's commitment to responsible and sustainable tourism in the lead-up to the Visit Malaysia Year 2026 campaign.

Sabah Dive Squad Club president Sim Fui welcomed the initiative, describing it as both timely and crucial in enhancing diver safety while supporting the state's tourism industry.

"Sabah is renowned for its beautiful diving spots from the state capital, Sepanggar, Kota Belud, Kudat, Lahad Datu, to Semporna.

"According to the Sabah Fisheries Department, the scuba diving industry has contributed over RM500 million to the state's revenue. That figure is a significant boost to Sabah's economy.

"However, it is concerning when diving accidents occur, especially those involving international visitors. Strengthening SOP compliance is essential to maintain our reputation as a world-class diving destination," he said in a statement.

Sim and the committee members from the club had paid a courtesy visit to the ministry's Permanent Secretary, Datuk Josie Lai at Wisma Tun Fuad Stephens here yesterday.

During the meeting, Lai had said that the ministry expressed its intention to release the SOP publicly soon and welcomed the club's support in educating industry stakeholders.

In line with this, the Sabah Dive Squad Club will be organising a safety and medical talk for its members on July 20, aiming to raise awareness and reinforce best practices among divers and operators.

The event follows recent incidents involving diver fatalities, some of which have been attributed to negligence.

"We welcome this collaboration with the ministry and will incorporate the updated SOPs into our upcoming safety talk.

"By engaging more stakeholders, particularly dive operators who work directly with clients, we hope to minimise diving accidents as much as possible."

-nst online.

Tourism Malaysia Celebrates Gawai Dayak Festive And VM2026 In IBIS KLCC

 

KUALA LUMPUR, 10 June 2025 – The vibrant spirit of the Gawai Dayak Festival came alive in Kuala Lumpur as Tourism Malaysia, in collaboration with ibis KLCC, launched a two-week Sarawak Food and Cultural Festival, in support of the upcoming Visit Malaysia 2026 (VM2026) campaign.

Running from 8 to 22 June 2025, the festival showcases authentic Sarawakian dishes including Laksa Sarawak, Manok Pansoh, Nuba Laya, Umai, and the colourful Kek Lapis — all prepared by chefs from Sarawak Cultural Village. Guests are also treated to traditional dance performances that highlight the rich cultural tapestry of Borneo.

The event was officially launched by Datuk Manoharan Periasamy, Director General of Tourism Malaysia, and witnessed by Mr. Chen Yang, Executive Director of Goldstone Holdings Berhad (ibis KLCC), alongside Datin Rafidah Idris, Senior Director of the Domestic & Events Division, and Madam Rubiah Tul Adawiyah Mohd Yusof, Director of Tourism Malaysia Sarawak office.

This initiative not only celebrates Sarawak’s heritage but also aims to bridge cultural understanding between East and West Malaysia, while building momentum for VM2026.

Let’s celebrate unity in diversity and the beauty of Malaysian culture!

-Tourism Malaysia.

Ombak Festival @ Desaru Coast, Johor ( 12 ~ 14 September 2025 )

 

Golden hour on the beach. World-class performances under the stars. Ombak Festival 2025 brings a new wave of music, art and memory-making to Desaru Coast, Johor, Malaysia.

Be part of The Ultimate Weekend from 12 -14 September. Limited Early Bird tickets are officially live, book yours before they’re gone.

Head to www.ombakfestival.com for more info.

-Ombak Festival.

Tourism Malaysia Welcomes Inaugural Flight From Dili, Timor-Leste To Kuala Lumpur

 

6 June 2025- Tourism Malaysia proudly welcomed the inaugural Batik Air flight from Dili, Timor-Leste to Kuala Lumpur, marking a historic moment in strengthening regional air connectivity and tourism cooperation.

Held at KLIA Terminal 1, the reception featured a warm Malaysian welcome for the 95 passengers on board, including cultural greetings and specially prepared gift packs to commemorate the first-ever direct commercial flight between the two nations. The reception was led by Puan Salinda Sany, Director of the International Promotion Division (ASEAN), Tourism Malaysia, together with representatives from Batik Air and Malaysia Airports Holdings Berhad (MAHB).

Operating twice weekly with a Boeing 737 aircraft, this new route is a strategic addition to Batik Air’s growing network and supports efforts to boost visitor arrivals as part of the upcoming Visit Malaysia 2026 campaign.

-Tourism Malaysia.

A New Era Of Travel And Retail At KLIA

 

AS MALAYSIA’S largest international airport, KL International Airport (KLIA) plays a pivotal role in welcoming international visitors.

Last year, KLIA recorded 93.8 million passenger movements, with China, India and Indonesia ranking among the top nationalities.

This recovery, reaching 90% of 2019 passenger levels, has been bolstered by initiatives such as the mutual visa-free policy between Malaysia and China.

Alongside this growth, KLIA is undergoing a vibrant transformation in its retail and dining offerings, setting new standards for the modern airport experience.

A vibrant transformation

At the heart of KLIA’s transformation is the commercial reset initiative, a strategic effort to elevate the airport’s retail and shopping experience.

This initiative has already led to the opening of 791 stores across both terminals, with full completion targeted for mid-2025.

A key focus of this transformation is the revamp of KLIA’s duty-free offerings, ensuring travellers have access to a diverse range of premium brands, exclusive products and enhanced retail experiences.

Beyond duty-free, KLIA is also introducing innovative shopping concepts, including interactive digital storefronts, immersive brand showcases and personalised retail services that cater to evolving passenger preferences.

Through continued investment, strategic partnerships and agility in seizing new opportunities, Malaysia Airports remains committed to redefining the passenger journey—ensuring a seamless, engaging, and world-class shopping experience at KLIA.

This is exemplified by the recently revamped Eraman Duty-Free Mall at the international departure at the Main Terminal Building, KLIA Terminal 1.

Operated by Eraman Malaysia, the mall offers an extensive selection of chocolates, cosmetics, perfumes and spirits, highlights include South-East Asia’s first Charlotte Tilbury airport store, alongside enhancements like self-checkout kiosks and upcoming RFID technology.

Meanwhile, the Eraman Duty-Free Emporium at KLIA Terminal 2 is set for completion by November, further driving innovation in travel retail.

Beauty retail remains a key focus, with Dimensi Eksklusif expanding its Dimensi Beauty store at KLIA Terminal 1, now featuring luxury brands like Helena Rubinstein, Maison Margiela and the exclusive Prada Beauty.

A taste of Malaysia

KLIA’s dining scene blends 40% local flavours with 60% international cuisines, driving a 40% increase in food and beverage sales compared to 2019.

Eateries like Petit Cafe Chef Wan, Jibby Chow and Serai offer authentic culinary experiences that leave a lasting impression.

As Malaysia Airports Holding Bhd commercial services senior general manager Hani Ezra Hussin puts it, “An authentic culinary experience gives travellers a memory worth cherishing and sharing.

“Striking the right balance between the local authentic and international familiarity makes airport dining a memorable part of the journey.”

Celebrating Malaysian craftsmanship

The Sense of Malaysia stores showcase the country’s rich cultural heritage.

These stores feature artisanal crafts, traditional delicacies and fashion items from over 30 local brands, including Borneo Pearls, Kapten Batik and Royal Selangor.

This focus on storytelling through local arts and craft has boosted souvenir sales by 40%, creating meaningful connections between travellers and Malaysia’s heritage.

“The cultural story behind products drives engagement, proving how powerful storytelling is in shaping consumer choices,” Hani noted.

Airport lounges have also become sanctuaries of comfort, significantly enhancing passenger satisfaction.

Offering amenities like virtual reality games, spas and transit hotels, lounges contribute 61% of KLIA’s Services segment’s revenue, ensuring travellers are well-rested and refreshed.

Redefining airport retail excellence

As KLIA prepares to welcome the world for Visit Malaysia Year 2026, it continues to raise the bar in passenger experience, retail innovation and cultural storytelling.

Through enhanced facilities, immersive shopping experiences and a strong emphasis on showcasing Malaysia’s rich heritage, KLIA is positioning itself as more than just an airport—it is a dynamic gateway that reflects the nation’s vibrant culture, diversity and hospitality.

-thestar online.

Malaysia Won Best Booth Operation Award At 40th Seoul International Travel Fair

 

SEOUL, 8TH JUNE |  Malaysia through Tourism Malaysia has won the Best Booth Operation Award at the 40th Seoul International Travel Fair (SITF 2025)!

Visitors enjoyed teh tarik demonstrations, tasty Malaysian food and traditional games like congkak, giving them a real taste of Malaysia Truly Asia.

Mr. Azmi bin Abdullah received the award on behalf of Tourism Malaysia remarked a proud win at one of Asia’s biggest travel fairs!

-MOTAC.

Mandarin Oriental to expand in Malaysia with beachfront resort at Desaru Coast

 

Mandarin Oriental is set to expand its presence in Malaysia with the rebranding of a luxury resort and private residences in Desaru Coast, Johor. Surrounded by rainforest and fronting the South China Sea, the resort is expected to join the Mandarin Oriental portfolio in June 2025, ahead of a full rebranding as Mandarin Oriental, Desaru Coast in January 2026.

Located along 17km of unspoiled beachfront, the property benefits from its proximity to Kuala Lumpur and Singapore.

The resort blends tropical modernism with the natural landscape, featuring 44 suites and villas, many with plunge pools and sea or rainforest views. Five dining venues offer global cuisine with local flavours, while a beach club and lounge bar add to the relaxed atmosphere.

Wellness is a central focus, with The Spa at Mandarin Oriental offering Oriental-inspired treatments, a yoga pavilion, gym, salon, and tennis and padel courts. A Kids’ Club with indoor and outdoor facilities enhances the family-friendly appeal.

The resort also offers event spaces and panoramic views for weddings and private gatherings, and is located near the Els Club Desaru Coast, which features championship courses by Ernie Els and Vijay Singh.

Looking ahead, 40 branded residences are planned to provide year-round luxury living with Mandarin Oriental’s signature service.

“Mandarin Oriental, Desaru Coast represents a significant step in our strategic vision to bring the group’s legendary service and crafted experiences, that resonate deeply  with today’s luxury traveller, to new and exceptional locations,” said Laurent Kleitman, group chief executive of Mandarin Oriental.

Karina Ridzuan, interim group CEO of Destination Resorts and Hotels, added: “We are confident this partnership will set a new global benchmark and firmly place Desaru Coast as a destination for luxury travel.”

-TTG Asia.

Malaysia Airlines Launches Global Campaign 'Time for Premium Escapades'

 

Malaysia Airlines today launched  its latest global campaign, Time for Premium Escapades, inviting travellers to elevate their journey with exclusive Business Class fares. The campaign runs from 4 to 19 June 2025for travel period from 4 June 2025 until 31 May 2026  and offers access  to a wide range of destinations across Asia, Australia, Europe, and beyond. Travellers departing from Malaysia, Singapore, and across ASEAN can enjoy all-in return fares starting from RM699 in Business Class for domestic routes, and from RM1,149 for international destinations. 

Enrich, the travel and lifestyle loyalty programme of Malaysia Airlines, is offering members early access to the campaign via an exclusive Priority Sale on 4 and 5 June, with an additional 5% savings.  Travellers who are not yet members can sign up for Enrich to access these exclusive deals during the Priority Sale Designed for those seeking a comfortable, seamless journey from take-off to touchdown, the campaign offers an exclusive fares across its extensive domestic and international network. 

Dersenish Aresandiran, Chief Commercial Officer of Airlines, Malaysia Aviation Group said, “At Malaysia Airlines, we are proud to offer a Business Class experience that reflects our continuous commitment to providing our passengers with comfort, innovation and the signature warmth of Malaysian Hospitality. From private terminal transfers and Chef-on-Call gourmet dining to lie-flat seats and full connectivity onboard, every detail has been carefully crafted to ensure a seamless and indulgent journey for our passengers. The introduction of our A330neo aircraft —featuring our all-new Elevation seats and individual suites with privacy doors —underscores our commitment to setting new standards in premium travel. Through the ‘Time for Premium Escapades’ campaign, we invite travellers to rediscover the joy of flying, where every moment is designed to feel exceptional.” 

Travellers flying Business Class can expect a seamless experience from the moment they arrive at the airport—including fast-track services, access to Malaysia Airlines’ Golden Lounge and even private transfers at Kuala Lumpur International Airport Terminal 1 (KLIA T1) in partnership with Mercedes Benz. Comfort meets sophistication as guests can unwind in lie-flat seats, personalised service and complimentary Wi-Fi  – available onboard select aircraft for all guests regardless of cabin class or loyalty tier, ensuring guests stay effortlessly connected throughout their journey. 

The journey is further elevated with a range of thoughtful enhancements designed to delight every type of traveller. Passengers can savour the airline’s Best of Asia menu — a regional culinary showcase, now refreshed with new chef-curated dishes inspired by destinations across the network. Guests can also pre-select their preferred meals via Chef-on-Call for added personalisation. For added comfort on longer journeys, Business Class passengers can also enjoy premium touches such as pyjamas, while families are welcomed with child-friendly meals and activity packs for a more inclusive inflight experience on selected flights. Elegantly served and thoughtfully designed, the inflight offering reflects Malaysia Airlines’ commitment to comfort, care and the warmth of the Malaysian Hospitality. 

This campaign also features affordable and rewarding journey in Economy Class, with great value across the network where travellers can enjoy all-in return fares starting from RM119 to domestic destinations and from RM469 for international destinations. Economy Class’ travellers can expect the same warm service and thoughtful touches across regional and long-haul routes. 

All fares are available for booking via malaysiaairlines.com, the MHmobile app, and authorised travel agents worldwide. 

Whether flying for business or leisure, short-haul or long-haul, the Time for Premium Escapades campaign invites travellers to rediscover the joy of flying with Malaysia Airlines — where every journey is elevated, and every moment delivered with care.

-Malaysia Airlines.

Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur rise in ICCA global rankings

 

KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia and Kuala Lumpur have strengthened their global standing in the International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA) 2024 Country & City Rankings, reaffirming their position as premier destinations for international business events.

The country hosted 129 international association meetings last year, moving up two spots to 31st in the global country rankings and holding firm at 9th place in the Asia Pacific, remaining within the region's Top 10.

Kuala Lumpur also made impressive gains, jumping six places to 26th in the World City Rankings.

"Malaysia and Kuala Lumpur's growing reputation reflects their compelling value proposition," said Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre's (the Centre) general manager John Burke.

With Kuala Lumpur International Airport served by 79 airlines and visa-free access for 175 countries, Malaysia provides the great connectivity that global business events demand, he said in a statement.

"On top of that, we have a mature supply chain aligned with global standards, wide English proficiency and a favourable exchange rate. Combined with its rich cultural heritage and natural assets, Malaysia is a competitive choice."

According to the Malaysia Convention & Exhibition Bureau (MyCEB), business events are projected to contribute RM42.12 billion to the economy by 2030 and attract 5.9 million delegates. These events are expected to drive trade, boost tourism, and support job creation.

The Centre was a key venue last year, hosting many of the city's 78 international association events.

Owned by KLCC (Holdings) Sdn Bhd, a Petroliam Nasional Bhd subsidiary, the Centre is located beneath the Petronas Twin Towers in the KLCC precinct. It offers 34,000 sqm of flexible, purpose-built space with integrated facilities.

Burke noted that with sustainability becoming a growing priority in global events, responsible and long-term growth will be vital.

-nst online.

Malaysia Tourism Centre (MATIC) Events June 2025

 

Subject to changes.

-MATIC.

𝐌𝐚𝐣𝐥𝐢𝐬 𝐩𝐞𝐫𝐚𝐬𝐦𝐢𝐚𝐧 𝐩𝐫𝐨𝐠𝐫𝐚𝐦 ‘𝐋𝐚𝐮𝐧𝐜𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐨𝐟 𝐕𝐢𝐬𝐢𝐭 𝐌𝐚𝐥𝐚𝐲𝐬𝐢𝐚 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟔’ 𝐨𝐥𝐞𝐡 𝐘𝐀𝐁 𝐓𝐢𝐦𝐛𝐚𝐥𝐚𝐧 𝐏𝐞𝐫𝐝𝐚𝐧𝐚 𝐌𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐢, 𝐃𝐚𝐭𝐮𝐤 𝐒𝐞𝐫𝐢 𝐃𝐫 𝐀𝐡𝐦𝐚𝐝 𝐙𝐚𝐡𝐢𝐝 𝐇𝐚𝐦𝐢𝐝𝐢 𝐝𝐢 𝐉𝐮𝐦𝐞𝐢𝐫𝐚𝐡 𝐂𝐚𝐫𝐥𝐭𝐨𝐧 𝐓𝐨𝐰𝐞𝐫, 𝐋𝐨𝐧𝐝𝐨𝐧.

 

YAB Timbalan Perdana Menteri, Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi telah menghadiri dan seterusnya merasmikan program ‘Launching of Visit Malaysia 2026’ yang diadakan di Jumeirah Carlton Tower, London pada 3 Jun 2025.

Program ini telah diselaras sepenuhnya oleh Pejabat Tourism Malaysia London yang turut dihadiri seramai hampir 100 tetamu jemputan yang terdiri dari agen dan penggiat industri pelancongan tempatan, syarikat penerbangan, syarikat korporat termasuk media tempatan.

Program ini dimeriahkan dengan acara pembukaan oleh Kumpulan Seni Silat Gayong Malaysia, ucapan alu-aluan oleh YAB Timbalan Perdana Menteri yang disusuli dengan sesi tayangan Video VM2026 dengan durasi 3 minit sebelum acara perasmian diteruskan dengan gimik paluan gong.

Pemberian Sijil kepada Rakan Strategik di pasaran United Kingdom turut diadakan yang kemudian diakhiri dengan pembentangan oleh pempengaruh dari UK iaitu Sophie Storm Roberts yang dikenali sebagai Executive Coach, Growth Mindset Expert & Keynote Speaker, yang turut berkongsi pengalaman beliau selama beberapa kali mengunjungi Malaysia.

-Tourism Malaysia.

Pengusaha penginapan tidak berlesen jejas industri pelancongan Malaysia - MyBHA

 

KUALA LUMPUR: Persatuan Hotel Bajet dan Bisnes Malaysia (MyBHA) mendakwa pengusaha penginapan jangka masa pendek (STRA) yang tiada lesen terus berleluasa menjalankan aktiviti penjualan dan promosi di platform Agensi Pelancongan Dalam Talian (OTA) sehingga mengancam pemain industri berdaftar.

Sehubungan itu, Presiden MyBHA, Dr Sri Ganesh Michiel, menggesa kerajaan segera bertindak tegas antaranya dengan mengawal selia STRA yang dilihat aktif mempromosikan perniagaan tidak berdaftar itu di media sosial.

Selain mengancam industri penginapan negara, beliau juga bimbang ia boleh menjejaskan reputasi pelaksanaan Tahun Melawat Malaysia 2026.

"Kewujudan unit STRA yang tidak berlesen dan tidak di kawal selia, termasuk apartmen, kondominium dan kediaman persendirian yang ditukar menjadi penginapan sementara mencetuskan ekonomi penginapan haram.

"Entiti ini beroperasi di luar rangka kerja undang-undang, tidak membayar lesen atau cukai, tidak terikat dengan aspek keselamatan serta menjejaskan pemain industri pelancongan sah yang telah banyak melabur bagi mematuhi undang-undang serta peraturan-peraturan sedia ada.

"Pengusaha STRA tidak berlesen ini sedang menghakis kredibiliti dan kelestarian ekosistem pelancongan Malaysia," katanya dalam kenyataan hari ini.

Ganesh Michiel mendakwa ketiadaan pemantauan yang berkesan terhadap kegiatan itu mengakibatkan pelbagai masalah termasuk risiko keselamatan kepada pelancong, akibat kegagalan pengusaha penginapan tidak berdaftar itu dalam mematuhi peraturan keselamatan kebakaran dan kesihatan.

Selain itu, beliau mendakwa kewujudan STRA mencetuskan gangguan terhadap komuniti kediaman akibat penginapan sementara yang tidak dikawal.

"STRA juga mengakibatkan kehilangan hasil cukai kepada pihak berkuasa tempatan (PBT) dan kerajaan Persekutuan. Ia turut boleh mencetuskan penyelewengan harga pasaran yang merugikan pengusaha hotel yang sah;

"Kita juga bimbang STRA membiarkan pelancong terdedah kepada penipuan dan premis yang tidak selamat kerana mempunyai perlindungan pengguna yang lemah," katanya.

Bagi menangani isu berbangkit, beliau turut menyarankan penubuhan satu jawatankuasa khas dianggotai Kementerian Perumahan dan Kerajaan Tempatan (KPKT) bersama Kementerian Pelancongan, Seni dan Budaya (MOTAC) untuk segera memperkenal serta menguatkuasakan undang-undang bagi pengoperasian STRA.

Beliau mencadangkan PBT diberi kuasa untuk menguatkuasakan undang-undang secara konsistem tanpa menjejaskan perniagaan hotel berlesen.

"Jawatankuasa itu disarankan untuk menetapkan standard operasi dan keselamatan minimum bagi semua penyedia penginapan," katanya.

-berita harian online.

Malaysia Welcomes Exclusive 'Voyages Des Patrons' Fam Trip

 

Tourism Malaysia Paris, in collaboration with Malaysia Airlines, Tour Mag (a leading trade magazine in France), and ASEAN Trails, is currently hosting a FAM trip to Malaysia from 29 May to 4 June 2025. The delegation is led by Datuk Eldeen Husaini, the Ambassador of Malaysia to France, and comprises 20 Presidents and CEOs from leading tour operating companies in France.

This initiative celebrates the resumption of direct flights between Malaysia and Paris and supports the promotion of Visit Malaysia Year 2026.

On 1 June, the delegation arrived at Langkawi International Airport, where they received a warm welcome from the Langkawi Development Authority (LADA). Upon arrival, the group was treated to a delightful lunch at Dangau Langkawi in Ulu Melaka.

In the evening, after a visit to the stunning Kilim Geoforest Park, LADA hosted a dinner at PARKROYAL Langkawi Resort, where a welcoming speech was delivered by YBhg. Dato' Haslina binti Abdul Hamid, CEO of LADA.

On 2 June, LADA continued to assist the group with visits to Langkawi SkyCab and the newly launched Eagle’s Nest Skywalk. After the excursions, the delegation was sent to Langkawi International Airport for their onward journey to Sabah.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to Tourism Malaysia and all supporting partners for making this FAM trip a memorable one. We look forward to welcoming more guests from Paris to our beautiful island of Langkawi in the near future.

-Naturally Langkawi.

Tourism Malaysia Brings Gawai Dayak Festive Cheer To Sarawak Airport

 

1 June 2025: The vibrant spirit of the Gawai Dayak Festival filled Sarawak’s airports today as Tourism Malaysia, in collaboration with Malaysia Airports Holdings Berhad (MAHB), hosted festive celebrations at Kuching International Airport and Sibu Airport.

These events, held in conjunction with the Visit Malaysia 2026 (VM2026) campaign, aimed to share the unique cultural joy of Gawai with domestic and international traveller.

-Tourism Malaysia Sarawak.