Malaysia Airlines returns to Busan after 28 years, Firefly enters China

 

KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia Airlines Bhd will resume flights to Busan on Dec 2 after a 28-year absence, while sister airline FlyFirefly Sdn Bhd (Firefly) will make its first foray into China with direct services to Kunming. 

Malaysia Aviation Group (MAG) president and group chief executive officer Captain Nasaruddin A Bakar said the new routes reflected the group's focus on markets with sustainable demand and opportunities to support tourism, trade and connectivity. 

"These new routes reflect our focus on markets where we see sustainable demand and opportunities to support tourism, trade and people-to-people connections," he said at the MATTA Fair today. 

Malaysia Airlines will operate four weekly Kuala Lumpur-Busan flights using Boeing B737-8 aircraft, marking its return to South Korea's second-largest city after last serving the route between 1996 and 1998. 

Upon resumption, Malaysia Airlines will be the only carrier offering non-stop flights between Kuala Lumpur and Busan. The service will complement its existing flights to Seoul. 

The Busan flights will operate on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Saturdays and Sundays, with introductory return fares starting from RM2,139 for Economy Class and RM4,999 for Business Class.

Meanwhile, Firefly will launch direct flights to Kunming in southwest China using B737-800 aircraft, marking the airline's first route into the country. 

"This will open a new connection to an important regional centre, while complementing Malaysia Airlines' network in China, which now serves nine key hubs," Nasaruddin said. 

MAG has yet to announce the commencement date or ticket sales for the Kunming service. 

Malaysia Airlines will also increase its Kuala Lumpur-Fukuoka services from five times weekly to daily from Dec 1, following the route's resumption on Sept 2. 

Brisbane services will increase from six times weekly to daily from Oct 25, with the airline deploying its Airbus A330neo aircraft on the route. 

Flights to Surabaya will increase from 14 to 16 times weekly from Nov 1. 

Nasaruddin said Malaysia Airlines is also exploring another destination in South Asia, subject to regulatory approvals, with details to be announced in due course. 

Separately, MAG is building its own in-flight catering facility near Kuala Lumpur International Airport through MAG Culinary Solutions (MAGCS). 

Nasaruddin said groundworks began in July, with the facility targeted for completion in the fourth quarter of 2028 and operations expected to begin in the second quarter of 2029. 

The facility is expected to produce about 50,000 meals a day, almost double MAG's current handling capacity, and will cater to the group's airlines and third-party carriers. 

MAGCS was established as a MAG subsidiary in September 2025 following the insourcing of Malaysia Airlines' catering operations in 2023. 

MAG said customer satisfaction with in-flight dining has increased to 78 per cent from 72 per cent, while catering on-time performance now consistently stands at 99.9 per cent. 

The catering unit has secured a Ground Handling Licence and Technical Approval Certificate from the Civil Aviation Authority of Malaysia, as well as an interim Manufacturing Licence from the Malaysian Investment Development Authority.

-nst online.

Tourism Malaysia Participates In Malaysia Airlines’ Tourism Partnership Showcase At MATTA Fair 2026

 

KUALA LUMPUR, 4 September 2026 | Tourism Malaysia participated in the Malaysia Airlines Tourism Partnership Showcase at MATTA Fair 2026. The special showcase brought together Malaysia Airlines and tourism partners from across the region, reflecting a shared commitment to strengthening tourism collaboration, enhancing destination awareness and driving travel growth across Malaysia and the region.

Tourism Malaysia was represented by YBrs. Mr. Mohd Amirul Rizal Abdul Rahim, Director General of Tourism Malaysia. Also in attendance were Mr. Samuel Lee Thai Hung, Deputy Director-General (Promotion II); Madam Nuwal Fadhilah Ku Azmi, Senior Director of the Asia & Africa Division; Mrs. Baizuri Baharum, Director of International Promotional Division Southeast Asia, Tourism Malaysia; and Mr. Mohamad Libra Lee Haniff, Director of International Promotion (Americas, Europe & Oceania).

The showcase further highlighted the strong collaboration between Tourism Malaysia and Malaysia Airlines in jointly promoting Malaysia to both domestic and international travellers. Through continued strategic partnerships, Tourism Malaysia remains committed to strengthening Malaysia’s destination visibility and inspiring more travellers to discover the diverse experiences the country has to offer.

-Tourism Malaysia.

Buy Domestic. Explore Malaysia. Win! Only At MATTA Fair @ MITEC, KL ( 4 ~ 6 September 2026 )

 

Buy Domestic. Explore Malaysia. Win!

What if your next local getaway came with a chance to win RM50,000 worth of prizes?

Purchase a domestic travel package at the MATTA Fair September 2026 and join the MATTA Fair Buyers’ Contest to qualify for dedicated domestic rewards!

Prizes up for grabs:

2 × Honda Dash 125

20 × RM500 Domestic Holiday Packages

Cameras, gadgets & lifestyle prizes

It’s time to discover more of Malaysia, and you could walk away with more than just great holiday memories!

-MATTA Fair KL.

Malaysia Airlines returns to Fukuoka

 

KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia Airlines has resumed direct flights between Kuala Lumpur and Fukuoka, strengthening its network in Japan and restoring the only direct air link between the two cities. 

In a statement, the national carrier said the service will operate up to five times weekly, bringing its total frequency to Japan to 26 flights a week, alongside its existing services to Tokyo via Narita, and Osaka. 

The inaugural flight MH56 departed Kuala Lumpur International Airport Terminal 1 at 11.45pm on Sept 2 and arrived at Fukuoka International Airport at 7.05am on Sept 3. 

The Boeing 737-8 service recorded an 88 per cent load factor on its outbound leg, while the return flight MH57 achieved a 90 per cent load factor. 

The service marks an important milestone for Malaysia Airlines' joint business partnership with Japan Airlines. 

Under their codeshare arrangement, passengers travelling via Fukuoka can connect to Japan Airlines-operated domestic services to Amami, Sapporo, Izumo, Kochi, Miyazaki, Kagoshima, Yakushima, Matsuyama and Tokushima.

Japan Airlines also places its code on Malaysia Airlines-operated services between Kuala Lumpur and Fukuoka, giving passengers more travel options between Malaysia and Japan. 

"For travellers from Japan, the route offers convenient onward connections via Kuala Lumpur to destinations across domestic Malaysia, Asean, South Asia and Australasia, while supporting inbound tourism in conjunction with Visit Malaysia 2026," the company said. 

To celebrate the resumption, Malaysia Airlines is offering savings of up to 30 per cent under its Matta Fair promotion for bookings made by Sept 14. 

Enrich members are eligible for an additional five per cent discount, while customers paying with a Visa card through the Malaysia Airlines website or mobile app can receive a further five per cent discount.

-nst online.

KRU expands cultural footprint in Shah Alam

 

KRU Entertainment is broadening its creative footprint beyond music and film with an ambitious push into culture, entertainment and community programming, unveiling 18 events at Aneka Walk in Shah Alam through the end of the year. 

The initiative is part of a larger vision to transform the destination into a vibrant lifestyle and cultural hub where audiences can experience performances, food, heritage, arts and entrepreneurship in one space. 

At the heart of the programme is Kayangan, a signature weekly cultural experience that combines traditional Malay cuisine curated by Datuk Chef Zam with storytelling, live music, dance, visual elements and theatrical performances. 

Its inaugural production, titled 'Hikayat Nusantara', will take audiences on a journey through the history and culture of the Nusantara (the Malay Archipelago), bringing together different forms of traditional and contemporary presentation. 

Beginning Sept 4, Kayangan will run every Friday, Saturday and Sunday night, making it a regular fixture at Aneka Walk rather than a one-off cultural showcase. 

TOURIST ATTRACTION

KRU Entertainment hopes the production will develop into a cultural tourism attraction capable of drawing not only Shah Alam residents, but also visitors from across Malaysia and international tourists. 

For KRU Entertainment president and chief executive officer Datuk Norman Abdul Halim, consistent programming will be crucial to the venue's long-term appeal. 

"Today, we are not merely introducing Aneka Walk, but what visitors can look forward to here over the coming months," he says. 

"A total of 18 events have been planned through the end of 2026, with each offering a different experience and appealing to different audiences." 

The line-up will span music, arts, culture, gastronomy, entertainment, as well as family and community activities. 

Among the traditional elements are performances such as 'wayang kulit' and 'joget lambak', allowing audiences to appreciate various forms of Malaysian heritage alongside more contemporary entertainment. 

The intention, says Norman, is to create a destination where visitors will have a reason to return regularly rather than simply attend a single event.

BEYOND THE KRU BRAND 

That wider vision also reflects Norman's belief that KRU should no longer be viewed solely through the achievements of the three Abdul Halim brothers — he, Datuk Yusry and Edry. 

While the trio remain closely associated with the KRU brand, Norman sees the company as a broader creative platform capable of working with artistes, performers, filmmakers, entrepreneurs and other industry players. 

"Don't look at KRU as just the three of us. KRU is much bigger," Norman says. "We'll collaborate with artistes who are under our wings. It doesn't have to be limited to the three of us." 

He adds that KRU is open to giving other artistes opportunities to perform, organise programmes, run businesses and operate booths during events at Aneka Walk. 

The emphasis on collaboration extends to the venue's commercial offering. 

Aneka Walk, part of the SA Sentral development, covers 4,500sq m and stretches 300m, with capacity for up to 3,000 visitors. 

It has 150 business lots catering to food, fashion, crafts, arts and music, creating space for entrepreneurs and creative practitioners to build their own audiences alongside KRU's programming. 

Temasya Aneka will also introduce some of the destination's first tenants, including Kek Lapis Warisan, which highlights 'kek lapis' as a local heritage product, and KRU Cafe, which will open its first outlet at Aneka Walk. 

Together with the cultural programming, the businesses are intended to create an environment where food, retail, performance and heritage complement one another. 

ECONOMIC ROLE 

The project is also expected to play an economic role. 

Selangor State Development Corporation (PKNS) group chief executive officer Datuk Mahmud Abbas says Aneka Walk is being developed not merely as a place for visitors to spend time, but also as a platform for building a community of traders and opening new economic opportunities, particularly for Bumiputera entrepreneurs. 

"PKNS built Aneka Walk to attract people. With Aneka Walk, it is not only about people coming to enjoy the atmosphere, but also about building a community of traders through activities." 

He notes that its location near shopping centres, the PKNS Complex, Taman Tasik Shah Alam, hotels and commercial areas gives the destination an advantage in attracting visitors. 

For Norman, the cultural push at Aneka Walk represents another way for KRU to use its experience in entertainment to create opportunities for others. 

Rather than keeping the spotlight exclusively on its own productions, the company wants the venue to become a meeting point for different creative communities. 

SOLO PROJECTS 

Though both Yusry and Edry are working on their own solo ventures, Norman is not worried about catching up with them. 

With a characteristic joke, he says he is happy to let his younger brothers go first, just like they did when it came to marriage. 

"I let my younger brothers go first. I used to want them to get married quickly, so they got married before me. I was the last one," he says. "So, it's the same with solo projects. Let them go first." 

For now, Norman's focus is less on stepping out alone and more on building a larger stage for others. 

Through Aneka Walk, KRU is betting that culture, heritage, entertainment and entrepreneurship can come together to create a destination that is not only commercially viable, but also rooted in the communities and traditions it seeks to celebrate. 

The Temasya Aneka programme is expected to continue into 2027 through a collaboration between PKNS and KRU Entertainment.

-nst online.

Sun Phu Quoc Airways Soars Into Malaysia, Strengthening Malaysia-Vietnam Connectivity

 

SEPANG — Tourism Malaysia celebrates the official launch of Sun Phu Quoc Airways' inaugural direct flight from Phu Quoc to Kuala Lumpur today, marking a significant milestone in boosting regional air connectivity and strengthening bilateral tourism ties between Vietnam and Malaysia. 

The new route, operated by an Airbus A321neo with a 236-seat capacity, will begin its service daily from 1 September 2026. This initiative provides greater accessibility and convenience for travellers from Phu Quoc and southern Vietnam to visit Malaysia, particularly during the ongoing Visit Malaysia 2026–2027 (VM2026–2027) campaign. 

The new air service marks an important milestone in strengthening connectivity between Vietnam and Malaysia, providing greater convenience and accessibility for Vietnamese travellers to visit Malaysia, particularly in conjunction with VM2026–2027. 

The Vietnamese market remains a vital and promising tourism market for Malaysia, with 156,747 visitor arrivals recorded from January to June 2026. This further drives strong potential for leisure, family holidays, shopping, culture, Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions (MICE), and experiential travel. The new direct route is expected to further strengthen air connectivity, enhance accessibility, and support continued growth in visitor arrivals from Vietnam. 

The launch of the new Phu Quoc–Kuala Lumpur air connection is therefore expected to revitalise the Vietnamese market by improving accessibility and offering an additional direct travel option to Malaysia for travellers from Phu Quoc and surrounding areas. 

Mr Mohd Amirul Rizal Abdul Rahim, Director General of Tourism Malaysia, said, “The inaugural Sun Phu Quoc Airways flight is a timely development as Malaysia continues to strengthen its connectivity with Vietnam. With the commencement of this new route, we look forward to welcoming more visitors from Phu Quoc and southern Vietnam to Malaysia. Improved air connectivity will play an important role in supporting our efforts to regain momentum in this market, particularly during Visit Malaysia 2026–2027.” 

The new flight service connecting Vietnam and Malaysia also comes at an opportune time as Malaysia celebrates VM2026–2027, which aims to position the country as a leading tourism destination and encourage more international visitors to discover Malaysia’s diverse attractions, culture, gastronomy, and immersive travel experiences. 

The new service is expected to offer Vietnamese travellers easier access to Malaysia’s diverse tourism offerings and vibrant destinations, including Kuala Lumpur, Putrajaya, Penang, Langkawi, and Melaka, while also facilitating smoother travel for Malaysians visiting Phu Quoc. 

Tourism Malaysia will continue to work closely with airlines and industry partners in Vietnam to maximise the potential of this new connectivity and further promote Malaysia as a preferred tourism destination among Vietnamese travellers and the broader ASEAN region.

-Tourism Malaysia.

Tourism Malaysia Supports Creator Family In Environmental & Sustainable Programmes

 

KUALA LUMPUR — Tourism Malaysia launched the Creator Family, a platform designed to connect brands with modern audiences through real creators and experiences across Asia, in a ceremony officiated by Ms Zuraini Abdul Ghani, Director of Package Development Division, Tourism Malaysia, representing Mr Mohd Amirul Rizal Abdul Rahim, Director General of Tourism Malaysia. 

Working together with culturally relevant creators within the region, the Creator Family platform activates them through destinations, campaigns, and brand partnerships designed to drive visibility, engagement, and growth. The platform builds ongoing creator partnerships that deliver measurable business impact not only to the brands they work with but also to the NGOs that partner with them. 

With Tourism Malaysia’s support, Creator Family has introduced two new campaigns. The first is Routes & Roots, a state-by-state road trip across Malaysia, focusing its inaugural season on Peninsular Malaysia, while revealing the country through live cultures. Next, Sea Heroes is an awareness-driven programme that showcases the work of marine conservation partners through creators’ raw experiences, amplifying their learning experience while simultaneously inspiring audiences to acknowledge and help protect our oceans. 

Ms Zuraini Abdul Ghani noted that visitors, whether local or international, can fulfil their appetite for adventure and discovery by exploring many stellar destinations and new attractions in Malaysia, in conjunction with Visit Malaysia 2026–2027. 

“As the Visit Malaysia 2026 campaign extends to 2027, we support these homegrown initiatives which pave the way to creatively showcase Malaysia on a global scale. Visitors, both local and international, can fulfil their appetite for adventure and discovery by exploring our stellar destinations and new experiences, as well as the abundance of delicacies our multicultural country has to offer. From exciting urban quests to exotic beach escapades, to lofty mountaintop retreats and everything in between, Malaysia certainly has it all, with so much just waiting to be seen and discovered,” said Ms Zuraini Abdul Ghani. 

Mr Sangeet Singh, Founder of Creator Family, said, “Creator Family was developed to bring together a network of like-minded creators as part of a meaningful initiative. Embarking on these two exciting proprietary programmes enables us to explore the road less travelled, create awareness of lesser-known destinations, and drive essential conversations. We aim to shed a new perspective on each location’s best-kept local secrets and conservation efforts, beyond the ordinary. Through this platform, we also hope to demonstrate how travelling to the unknown can be much more enjoyable, while encouraging the public to participate in a conservation programme on their next trip.” 

Mr Daniel Lai, Marketing Director of iCAUR Auto Malaysia Sdn. Bhd. said, “In line with ‘Born to Play’, our brand promise around a lifestyle-driven, rugged electric adventure, we are proud to be part of this inaugural initiative to support these creators in their journey to uncover lesser-known spots across all types of terrain and the stories behind them. Ask any local, and they would say that the best way to explore the country is by taking a road trip. With well-established road connectivity, equipped with accessible roads and transportation infrastructure, road trips in Malaysia are made more possible, with ease and comfort." 

Routes & Roots – experiencing Malaysia through lived culture 

Guided by Ms Wayne Phoo, the Story Traveller, the journey undertaken by Routes & Roots explores how food, beliefs, and everyday life shape regional identities in Peninsular Malaysia. The programme will be launched as four episodes on online platforms, focusing on real environments and people rather than highlighting attractions, presenting Malaysia as it is experienced, not staged. 

The Routes & Roots programme will also be joined by international creators from Indonesia, India, and the Philippines, each bringing a distinct voice through their own cultural lens and responding to Malaysia through food, beliefs, landscapes, and human interaction. Together, these voices create a shared narrative, one that reflects how Malaysia is seen locally and felt globally. 

Some of the key destinations include the multicultural life and modern movement of Kuala Lumpur’s urban pace; the layers of history and cultural continuity of Melaka; the culture, adventures, and regional heartlands of Kuantan, Kuala Terengganu, Kota Bharu, and Penang; the coastal and sea rhythms of Redang Island, as well as Kuala Selangor and Gopeng’s serene life where time slows and stories deepen. 

Sea Heroes – driving sustainability in Malaysia through real environmental action 

In addition, the Sea Heroes programme is centred on three conservation missions across Malaysia this year. Each mission is delivered with trusted NGO partners and reputable brands across the region, where participating creators document real environmental action and amplify awareness through the Creator Family network. 

The World Oceans Day mission on 8 June 2026 began with Coral Ecology and Dive Against Debris, programmes under the PADI AWARE Foundation. Alongside partners YBD Dive Centre, YBD Conservation, and Perhentian Marriott Resort & Spa, the first Sea Heroes programme was conducted successfully with the removal of underwater debris and 10 metres of ghost netting. 

Other upcoming missions include The Clean Wave during International Coastal Cleanup Day, with beach- and island-wide clean-up, waste sorting and classification, apart from coastal debris documentation. Rounding up the missions for the year would be Reef Warriors, led by an understanding of Crown-of-Thorns (COTs) reef, identification and surveying skills, safe handling techniques, removal and control methods, real-time reef impact awareness, and conservation strategy insight. 

The synergistic combination of these programmes presents a powerful spotlight on Malaysia as a vibrant multicultural destination on the world stage. Beyond the programme, this speaks to what Malaysia stands for: a nation that demonstrates unparalleled hospitality, heritage, and culture; values that are very much at the heart of Malaysians. 

The Creator Family programme in collaboration with GoPro is supported by Tourism Malaysia, with iCAUR Auto Malaysia as the Official Mobility Partner, Mamee as the Official Snack Partner, TNG eWallet as the Exclusive Digital Financial and Lifestyle Platform Partner, Small Towns Malaysia as the Production Partner, and GO Communications as the PR and Communications Partner. 

Creator Family will also work with other partners across the region for these two programmes. Some partners include A Quiet Place as the Venue Partner, Concorde Hotel Kuala Lumpur, Casa Del Rio Melaka, and Redang Bay Resort as the Accommodation Partner, and fellow Activity Partners Fangtooth Dive Centre Redang, DM Scuba Dive Team, Summercruise – Green Horizon, Paragliders Malaysia, Nomad Adventure, and Jetty Skymirror HGL, respectively. Conservation Partners also include Reef Check Malaysia, Dive Tioman by B&J, and Peridot by the Sea @ Redang. All Sea Heroes projects are supported by the PADI AWARE Foundation and GoPro.

-Tourism Malaysia.

MATTA Fair @ MITEC, KL ( 4 ~ 6 September 2026 )

 

Three days. Thousands of possibilities. One destination for every traveller.

Mark your calendars for the MATTA Fair September 2026, returning to bring together the best of travel experiences, exclusive deals, and exciting destinations all under one roof.

Date: 4–6 September 2026

Venue: MITEC, KL

The destinations are waiting. The deals are coming. The next travel chapter starts here.

Keep watching MATTA Fair KL facebook as we unveil what awaits at MATTA Fair September 2026!

-MATTA Fair KL.

Tourism Malaysia Raikan Kepelbagaian Malaysia Di Hari Kebangsaan 2026!

 

PUTRAJAYA, 31 Ogos 2026 | Kementerian Pelancongan, Seni dan Budaya (MOTAC) turut memeriahkan Sambutan Hari Kebangsaan 2026 di Dataran Putrajaya menerusi Kontinjen Kesejahteraan: Tahun Melawat Malaysia 2026–2027.

Kontinjen ini melibatkan seramai 90 peserta merangkumi pegawai MOTAC, kakitangan Tourism Malaysia, rakan strategik serta agensi pelancongan. Kontingen ini diketuai oleh YBrs. Encik Mohd Akbal Setia, Ketua Sekretariat Visit Malaysia 2026–2027. Turut menyerikan perarakan ialah empat kenderaan berhias yang mengetengahkan kepelbagaian Malaysia melalui ikon pelancongan setiap negeri, flora dan fauna Malaysia, busana tradisional, alat muzik tradisional serta maskot rasmi Visit Malaysia 2026–2027, Wira dan Manja.

Kontinjen ini mencerminkan kekayaan seni, budaya, warisan dan khazanah pelancongan Malaysia, selaras dengan tema “Malaysia MADANI: Kesejahteraan Dinikmati”.

Marilah kita terus menyemarakkan semangat patriotisme dan bersatu padu demi kejayaan negara yang lebih gemilang.

-Tourism Malaysia.

Tourism Malaysia Continues Impactful Roadshow To Australia | Second Stop In Sydney

 

SYDNEY — Building on the momentum from its successful first stop in Melbourne, Tourism Malaysia continued its Roadshow to Australia with the second city programme held in Sydney on 27 August 2026. The initiative forms part of Tourism Malaysia’s ongoing efforts to strengthen international tourism ties and intensify promotional activities for Visit Malaysia 2026–2027 (VM2026–2027).

Led by Mr Mohamad Libra Lee Haniff, Director of International Promotion Division (Americas, Europe & Oceania), the Sydney programme highlighted key tourism pillars including VM2026–2027, the Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H) programme, and Malaysia’s medical tourism offerings through the Malaysia Healthcare Travel Council (MHTC).

The delegation comprised 20 Malaysian organisations, representing travel agencies, hotels and resorts, tourism product operators, associations, and MM2H agents. The Sydney session recorded an encouraging turnout of approximately 170 Australian buyers, bringing the total number of buyers engaged across both Melbourne and Sydney to around 300. This strong participation underscores the continued interest of the Australian market and provides an expanded platform for Malaysian industry players to forge new partnerships, strengthen existing business ties.

The networking dinner in Sydney also featured engaging cultural elements, including a lucky draw session and a lively batik and kain pelikat fashion showcase, offering guests a colourful glimpse into Malaysia’s heritage while enhancing the overall event experience.

Through this second-city roadshow, Tourism Malaysia continues to reinforce collaboration with Australian tour operators, hotels, airlines, and ensuring Malaysia remains a preferred destination not only for leisure travel but also for long-stay programmes, cultural exchanges, and lifestyle migration.

-Tourism Malaysia.

25,000 Peserta Meriahkan Edisi Sulung Malaysia Marathon 2026!

 

KUALA LUMPUR, 30 Ogos 2026 – Malaysia Marathon 2026 mencatatkan sambutan meriah dengan menghimpunkan kira-kira 25,000 peserta tempatan dan antarabangsa dalam edisi sulungnya di Kuala Lumpur.

Acara melibatkan kategori 42KM, 21KM, 10KM dan 5KM, selain pelbagai pengisian menarik termasuk Larian Bendera Malaysia 5KM yang melibatkan 1,000 pelajar KPTM Bangi, membawa semangat patriotisme dan perpaduan dalam acara bertaraf antarabangsa ini.

Pelepasan acara 5KM telah disempurnakan oleh YAB Dato’ Seri Dr. Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, Timbalan Perdana Menteri, di KLCC. Turut hadir YB Dato Sri Tiong King Sing, Menteri Pelancongan, Seni dan Budaya; YB Datuk Seri Dr. Ahmad bin Maslan, Timbalan Menteri Kerja Raya; YBrs. Encik Mohd Amirul Rizal Abdul Rahim, Ketua Pengarah Tourism Malaysia; Encik Mohd Akbal Setia, Timbalan Ketua Pengarah (Promosi I) Tourism Malaysia; Encik Lee Thai Hung, Timbalan Ketua Pengarah (Promosi II) Tourism Malaysia, serta tetamu kenamaan yang lain.

Kemeriahan acara turut diserikan dengan persembahan artis tempatan, HOT FM BIG JAM, robot HONOR serta cabutan bertuah dengan hadiah utama sebuah Proton Saga 1.5.

Penganjuran ini bukan sekadar meraikan sukan dan gaya hidup sihat, malah menjadi platform untuk memperkenalkan Malaysia sebagai destinasi pelancongan sukan kepada peserta dari seluruh dunia, selari dengan aspirasi Tahun Melawat Malaysia 2026–2027.

-Tourism Malaysia.

Strenghening Partnership With Luxury Escapes (LE)

 

Tourism Malaysia expressed its appreciation for the strong partnership established with Luxury Escapes and highlighted the potential for expanding collaborative efforts to drive more high-end bookings to Malaysia.

The discussion focused on understanding current preferences among Australian luxury travellers and identifying how Malaysia can be positioned more attractively within this segment. Luxury Escapes shared several market insights, noting strong growth for Kuala Lumpur, with Langkawi and Pangkor Laut emerging as standout leisure destinations.

They also provided a general overview of several hotels that are performing well among their travellers, offering useful insights that may help Tourism Malaysia refine future promotional strategies. Luxury Escapes further emphasised its global strength, supported by a membership base of 9 million loyal & high-value travellers.

Both parties also discussed several collaborative programme ideas planned for 2027, aimed at strengthening Malaysia’s visibility and desirability among premium Australian travellers.

-Tourism Malaysia.

Disney Adventure adds special sailings with Langkawi port calls

 

In keeping with its promise to continually offer new experiences, Disney Cruise Line will add a port call at Langkawi, Malaysia for select Disney Adventure four-day sailings starting December 31, 2026. 

Disney Cruise Line believes that the itinerary enhancement will offer guests of the Singapore-homeported Disney Adventure “more choice by combining magical days at sea… with the opportunity to explore another destination in South-east Asia”.  

Disney Princesses reign supreme at the Town Square on board the Disney Adventure cruise ship

Sharing initial details of the newly-launched itineraries, a Disney Cruise Line spokesperson told TTG Asia that the port call will be made on the third day of the journey, and guests will be able to enjoy nature-based experiences, family-friendly activities, local crafts, and cultural attractions on shore. 

These are expected to complement a Disney Adventure cruise vacation. 

The spokesperson added that Disney Cruise Line works with independent third-party operators to offer Port Adventures options, which will be priced across a range. 

Guests can view the Port Adventures offerings via My Reservations on the Disney Cruise Line website or on the Navigator App. Bookings may be made through these channels or on board the ship at the Port Adventures Counter. 

When asked if the new Langkawi port call offering would allow Disney Cruise Line to attract a different segment of guests or offer a strong lure for repeat Disney Adventure fans, the spokesperson said: “Introducing Langkawi gives guests another vacation choice while retaining the four-night format and keeping the Disney Adventure experience at the heart of the vacation.” 

She emphasised that the cruise ship remains both the journey and the destination. 

“These options provide guests with more reasons to travel and encourage repeat guests to sail again with us on the four-night sailing,” she added. 

Besides the new Langkawi port of call, Disney Cruise Line has updated Disney Adventure’s three- and four-night itineraries from September to December 2027.

-TTG Asia.

Pesta Air Antarabangsa Kuala Perlis 2026

 

Kuala Perlis bakal bergemerlapan dengan pesta air, tradisi dan pelbagai aktiviti menarik!

FASA 1 | 4–6 September 2026

Lokasi: Terusan Lencongan Banjir Barat, Kampung Wai, Kuala Perlis

MAJLIS PERASMIAN

Tarikh: 4 September 2026

Masa: 8.45 malam

FASA 2 | 18–20 September 2026

Lokasi: Dataran MBI, Kuala Perlis

MAJLIS PENUTUP

Tarikh: 20 September 2026

Masa: 5.00 petang

> Pertandingan Perahu Tradisi

> Pertandingan Perahu Naga

> Pertandingan Perahu Berhias

> Sukan Rakyat

> Persembahan Kesenian

> Pertunjukan Simfoni Air

> Dan pelbagai lagi aktiviti menarik!

Jom ajak keluarga, sahabat dan geng-geng anda untuk sama-sama memeriahkan Pesta Air Antarabangsa Kuala Perlis 2026!

Jangan lepaskan peluang — kita jumpa di Kuala Perlis!

“Transformasi Diteruskan, Tradisi Dikekalkan”

-JKKN Perlis.

Batik Air-Tourism Malaysia Trade Event In Seoul

 

SEOUL, 26 August 2026 | The Batik Air and Tourism Malaysia Trade Event, held at The Westin Josun Seoul, brought together Tourism Malaysia, Batik Air and key Korean tourism industry stakeholders to strengthen cooperation and create new opportunities to promote Malaysia in the South Korean market.

The event was officiated by YB Dato Sri Tiong King Sing, Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture Malaysia, and attended by YBhg. Datuk Chandran Rama Muthy, Chief Executive Officer of Batik Air, and Mr. Mohd Amirul Rizal Abdul Rahim, Director General of Tourism Malaysia.

Around 60 Korean travel agents, industry partners and media representatives participated in the event, which comprised a tourism seminar followed by the Batik Air Trade Partner Appreciation Night.

The programme provided an important platform for Tourism Malaysia, Batik Air and Korean tourism industry stakeholders to exchange market insights, explore business opportunities and strengthen cooperation in promoting Malaysia. It also showcased Malaysia’s diverse tourism offerings and the Visit Malaysia 2026–2027 campaign, while encouraging the development of more attractive Malaysia travel packages tailored to the Korean market.

The collaboration between Tourism Malaysia and Batik Air extends beyond this event through joint promotional activities, tourism seminars, familiarisation trips and consumer campaigns under the Geran Sepadan Penerbangan Charter (GSPC) Matching Grant, supporting efforts to stimulate travel demand and enhance connectivity to Malaysia.

Highlighting the importance of the Korean market, YB Dato Sri Tiong King Sing said that South Korea remains an important tourism market for Malaysia, and that the partnership with Batik Air plays an important role in strengthening Malaysia’s presence in key source markets, enhancing connectivity and positioning Malaysia as a preferred tourism destination.

Air connectivity remains fundamental to sustaining this growth. As of July 2026, South Korea and Malaysia are connected by approximately 47 weekly direct flights from Incheon and Busan, providing more than 11,000 seats.

Malaysia welcomes greater participation from airlines and charter operators to further expand connectivity from South Korea. Increased air capacity will be instrumental in stimulating travel demand, creating more opportunities for the tourism industry and attracting more Korean visitors to discover Malaysia.

Through stronger cooperation between the public and private sectors, Tourism Malaysia will continue to work closely with airlines and Korean tourism industry partners to turn the momentum of Visit Malaysia 2026–2027 into sustainable tourism growth and further strengthen Malaysia’s position in the South Korean market.

-Tourism Malaysia.

Malaysia Strengthens Australian Travel Trade Partnerships Through Roadshow To Australia

 

MELBOURNE — In a bold step to further strengthen international tourism ties and amplify momentum for the ongoing Visit Malaysia 2026-2027 (VM2026–2027) campaign, Tourism Malaysia has kicked off an impactful Roadshow to Australia. The roadshow runs in Melbourne (25 August) and Sydney (27 August), bringing together industry leaders and tourism stakeholders to strengthen tourism partnerships and showcase Malaysia’s vibrant tourism offerings under the unifying banner of Malaysia MADANI. 

Spearheaded by Mr Mohamad Libra Lee Haniff, Director of International Promotion Division (Americas, Europe and Oceania), the Roadshow to Australia promotes VM2026–2027, the Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H) programme, and Malaysia’s medical tourism through the Malaysia Healthcare Travel Council (MHTC), in an effort to elevate the nation’s reputation and image as a sustainable and culturally rich travel destination. 

The Malaysian delegation comprises 20 organisations, including travel agencies, hotels and resorts, associations, and MM2H agents, united in their goal to boost business opportunities through business-to-business (B2B) meetings, Malaysian Trade Evening sessions, and strategic networking events. Across both Melbourne and Sydney, the roadshow is expected to attract an estimated 300 buyers, further strengthening engagement and expanding Malaysia’s reach within the Australian market. These sessions aim to promote Malaysia’s multicultural appeal, modern infrastructure, and continued commitment to sustainable tourism. 

Malaysia remains a leading travel destination in the Australian market, with visitor interest continuing to grow. As of June 2026, Malaysia recorded a total of 252,086 Australian visitors, representing an 8.1 per cent increase compared with 233,147 visitors from the same market in the corresponding period last year. This strong performance reflects the resilience and growing importance of the Australian market in sustaining Malaysia’s tourism momentum and broadening its global appeal. 

Mr Mohd Amirul Rizal Abdul Rahim said, “Australia remains one of Malaysia’s key medium-haul markets, and this mission is a timely opportunity to renew partnerships and invite more Australians to rediscover Malaysia. With Visit Malaysia 2026 now in full swing and continuing into 2027, we are intensifying efforts to attract high-value travellers who appreciate our diversity, hospitality, and evolving tourism experiences.” 

Through this roadshow, Tourism Malaysia will continue to solidify partnerships with Australian tour operators, airlines, and media, ensuring Malaysia remains a preferred destination not only for holidays but also for long-stay programmes, cultural exchanges, and lifestyle migration. 

The Roadshow to Australia serves as a pivotal platform to deepen Australia–Malaysia tourism ties while showcasing Malaysia’s cultural heritage, hospitality, and sustainable offerings, in line with VM2026–2027. This roadshow also reinforces the nation’s standing as a leading travel destination in the Asia-Pacific region, attracting travellers seeking enriching and culturally immersive experiences.

-Tourism Malaysia.

Taman Ekuestrian Putrajaya - Pakej Perkahwinan, Pakej Nikah & Tunang, Dan Pakej Mesyuarat

 

-Taman Ekuestrian Putrajaya.

Tourism Malaysia Intensifies VM2026 Promotion In Vietnam As Campaign Extends Into 2027

 

HO CHI MINH CITY — Tourism Malaysia is intensifying its promotional efforts in Vietnam following the extension of the Visit Malaysia 2026 (VM2026) campaign through the end of 2027, providing greater opportunities to sustain travel demand, deepen industry engagement and strengthen Malaysia’s position as a preferred destination among Vietnamese travellers.

Building on this extended campaign momentum, Malaysia will continue to strengthen destination promotion and industry engagement through key tourism and travel trade platforms, including Vietnam Travel Day 2026 in Gia Lai and HORECFEX Vietnam 2026 in Da Nang, both taking place in August.

-Tourism Malaysia.