Ahead Of Citrawarna Malaysia 2026: Tourism Malaysia Promotes The Vibrant Cultural Celebration Through TV3 & TV9 Interview

 

PUTRAJAYA, 15 July 2026 – Tourism Malaysia Director General, Mr. Mohd Amirul Rizal Abdul Rahim, participated in a special interview with TV3 and TV9 to promote Citrawarna Malaysia 2026, one of the flagship cultural festivals under the Visit Malaysia 2026 campaign, taking place from 24 to 26 July 2026.

During the interview, the Director General highlighted the festival's four signature experiences  which are Colours of Parade, Colours of Culture, Colours of Flavour and  Colours of Art – each designed to showcase the richness, diversity, and vibrancy of Malaysia's cultural heritage.

The interview also shared key event information, including the festival dates, venue, and free admission. Viewers were introduced to the spectacular Colours of Parade featuring more than 3,500 participants from all 14 states and Malaysia's diverse cultural communities. In addition, audiences were invited to experience an exciting lineup of cultural performances, authentic Malaysian cuisine, traditional arts and crafts, as well as engaging interactive activities throughout the three-day celebration.

The television coverage is expected to reach an estimated 33 million viewers across TV3 and TV9, significantly expanding the campaign's reach and enhancing public awareness of Citrawarna Malaysia 2026. The exposure is anticipated to encourage greater visitor participation while further strengthening the Visit Malaysia 2026 campaign in positioning Malaysia as a premier destination for culture, heritage, and unforgettable travel experiences.

-Tourism Malaysia.

StarCruises, Golden Destinations perkasa Pelabuhan Klang sebagai hab pelayaran serantau

 

KUALA LUMPUR: Kerjasama strategik antara jenama pelayaran StarCruises dan Golden Destinations Group Bhd dijangka memperkukuh kedudukan Pelabuhan Klang sebagai antara hab pelayaran utama di rantau ini. 

Inisiatif memperkasakan ekonomi pelancongan itu direalisasikan menerusi pemeteraian Memorandum Persefahaman (MOU) antara kedua-dua pihak sempena pembukaan rasmi acara CruiseWorld Malaysia 2026 di Kuala Lumpur, hari ini. 

Majlis pemeteraian MOU itu disaksikan Menteri Pelancongan, Seni dan Budaya Malaysia, Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing, yang mencerminkan sokongan kerajaan terhadap usaha memperkukuh industri pelancongan pelayaran negara. 

Turut hadir ialah Presiden StarDream Cruises, Michael Goh dan Pengarah Urusan Golden Destinations Group Bhd, Mita Lim.

Menerusi perjanjian berkenaan, Golden Destinations akan menyewa khas kapal Star Voyager bagi siri lima pelayaran istimewa yang berlepas dari Pelabuhan Klang. 

Kesemua pelayaran sewaan khas itu dijadualkan berlangsung sepanjang musim cuti persekolahan bermula 5 hingga 22 Disember 2026.

Pakej pelayaran berkenaan menawarkan pilihan perjalanan selama dua malam dan tiga malam dengan destinasi utama melibatkan Phuket serta Krabi di Thailand. 

Program sewaan khas itu dilaksanakan bagi memenuhi permintaan yang semakin meningkat terhadap percutian pelayaran dalam kalangan pelancong tempatan, sekali gus menyokong pertumbuhan sektor pelancongan pelayaran negara. 

Menurut kenyataan media, kerjasama itu menggabungkan kekuatan kedua-dua pihak melalui rangkaian pengedaran perjalanan Golden Destinations yang meluas serta pengalaman pelayaran StarCruises yang kukuh. 

"Dengan menggabungkan rangkaian pengedaran perjalanan Golden Destinations yang meluas bersama pengalaman pelayaran StarCruises yang mantap, kerjasama ini bertujuan menjadikan percutian pelayaran lebih mudah diakses," katanya. 

Akses lebih luas itu menyasarkan penyertaan pelbagai segmen pelanggan termasuk keluarga Malaysia, pelancong santai, kumpulan korporat serta pengembara acara Mesyuarat, Insentif, Persidangan dan Pameran (MICE). 

Susulan pengumuman berkenaan, tempahan pelayaran khas kapal Star Voyager kini dibuka menerusi rangkaian rakan kongsi perjalanan dan ejen sah Golden Destinations di seluruh negara. 

Pihak syarikat menggalakkan pelanggan membuat tempahan lebih awal berikutan permintaan dijangka meningkat menjelang musim cuti persekolahan Disember 2026.

-berita harian online.

Global air travel nears 10bil passengers; KLIA breaks into world's top 20

 

KUALA LUMPUR: Global air travel moved closer to the 10 billion-passenger mark in 2025, with the Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) in Sepang emerging as one of the biggest gainers in global rankings, according to data released by Airports Council International (ACI) World. 

KLIA climbed six places to 20th from 26th in 2024, the largest jump among the world's 20 busiest airports, after handling 63.4 million passengers, an 11 per cent increase from a year earlier. 

The airport's growth was driven by a 17 per cent rise in domestic traffic, an 8.7 per cent increase in international passenger volumes, expanded airline capacity and stronger connectivity with China and other key markets, strengthening its position ahead of Visit Malaysia 2026. 

Shanghai Pudong International Airport recorded the second-largest improvement, rising five places to fifth from 10th after passenger traffic grew 10.7 per cent, supported by China's easing of visa policies, expanded international connectivity and a rebound in overseas travel. 

The 2026 ACI World Airport Traffic Dataset showed global passenger traffic reached 9.8 billion in 2025, up 3.7 per cent from 2024 and 6.5 per cent above pre-pandemic 2019 levels. 

The dataset, covering 2,817 airports across more than 180 countries and territories, showed the world's 20 busiest airports handled 1.59 billion passengers, accounting for 16 per cent of global traffic. Airports in the Asia-Pacific region recorded the biggest shifts in the rankings, driven by infrastructure expansion, improved connectivity and strong tourism demand.

ACI World director general Justin Erbacci said global air travel is approaching a historic milestone, but record demand is also exposing growing pressures on capacity. 

"The planning and investment decisions made today will determine whether aviation can meet the demands of the next generation of travellers," he said. 

Global air cargo volumes rose 3.3 per cent to more than 131 million metric tonnes in 2025, exceeding 2019 levels by 7.4 per cent, as e-commerce growth and supply chain reconfiguration continued to support demand for air freight. 

The world's top 20 cargo airports handled 53.1 million metric tonnes, or nearly 41 per cent of global cargo volumes, up 2.4 per cent from 2024. 

Aircraft movements worldwide increased 2.0 per cent to more than 103.1 million in 2025, returning to around pre-pandemic levels. The top 20 airports recorded 11.3 million aircraft movements, representing 11 per cent of the global total, up 2.5 per cent from 2024 and 2.8 per cent above 2019 levels.

-nst online.

Aswara's FTA 2026: A vibrant cultural celebration of contemporary Southeast Asian theatre

 

KUALA LUMPUR: The Theatre Faculty of the National Academy of Arts, Culture and Heritage (ASWARA) will host Festival Teater Antarnusa 2026 (FTA 2026) at the Aswara campus, here, from July 16 to 19. 

The four-day festival is expected to serve as a dynamic platform bringing together theatre practitioners, industry figures and emerging artistes from five neighbouring countries to celebrate the diversity of the regional theatre landscape. 

Held under the theme "Tanda. Temu. Tamu.", FTA 2026 is positioned as a holistic platform for cultural interaction while promoting greater appreciation of contemporary theatre. 

Visitors are expected to experience the richness of regional cultures, modern aesthetics and the creativity of theatre practitioners through a wide range of programmes throughout the festival. 

FTA 2026 will open with an official ceremony at the Aswara Orchestra Hall on July 16, officiated by Tourism, Arts and Culture Ministry secretary-general Datuk Shaharuddin Abu Sohot. 

The event will from 9am to 10pm daily, featuring theatre workshops led by regional artistes aimed at nurturing talent and enhancing participants' understanding of the performing arts.

The festival will also feature the Work in Progress programme, an interactive sharing and performance session showcasing the creative process behind the scenes while exploring new theatrical works. 

Another highlight will be Kedai Cerita Runcit, a series of short site-specific monodramas offering audiences an alternative and unconventional theatre experience. 

Using casual venues as performance spaces, the productions go beyond entertainment, serving as platforms for artistic dialogue, the exchange of ideas and stronger collaboration within the creative community. 

The Showcase programme will feature large-scale contemporary theatre performances by invited artistes and theatre groups from Malaysia and abroad. 

Aswara said the festival reflects its proactive role in strengthening arts and cultural education, not only at the academic level but also as a catalyst for a more progressive and competitive creative arts industry. 

The festival also serves as a platform to elevate Malaysia's arts and cultural heritage on the international stage while exploring contemporary theatre without compromising the authenticity of traditions that define the region. 

To ensure the arts remain accessible to all, admission to all FTA 2026 activities is free, except for the Showcase performances, which require a RM10 entry fee. 

Seat reservations can be made via the CloudJoi platform.

-nst online.

Holiday Villa to open flagship hotel in KLCC as tourism outlook brightens

KUALA LUMPUR: HOLIDAY Villa Hotels & Resorts is strengthening its presence in Kuala Lumpur with a new city-centre property, positioning the hospitality group to tap into the expected recovery in tourism demand under the extended Visit Malaysia campaign, which runs through 2027. 

The group has taken over Crown Regency Serviced Suites on Jalan P. Ramlee and will rebrand it as Holiday Villa Hotel Suites Kuala Lumpur by early next year, adding a flagship asset in the capital's commercial and tourism district. 

The upgraded property will offer 103 suites, comprising one-, two- and three-bedroom units, catering to business travellers, families and long-stay guests seeking accommodation in the heart of Kuala Lumpur. 

Holiday Villa Hotels & Resorts chief executive officer and managing director Nina Karina Tan Sri Azman Shah said the group is refurbishing and upgrading the property to enhance its positioning and guest experience. 

She said the Kuala Lumpur opening forms part of Holiday Villa's broader expansion strategy, which includes partnerships with international hospitality operators and growth through management and licensing agreements. 

"We currently operate 28 hotels across five countries, and we continue to expand in key cities with high demand rates as we grow our regional hospitality portfolio," she told Business Times.

Nina said the group's expansion strategy is being supported by its strategic partnership with GreenTree Inns (GTI) Hotel Management Group, the parent company of New York Stock Exchange-listed GreenTree Hospitality Group Ltd. 

Under the partnership, the first GreenTree Hotel in Malaysia is scheduled to open in Permas Jaya, Johor, in the fourth quarter of this year. The more than 200-room property is being developed by Malpakat Leisure Group, which also owns the four-star, 345-room Holiday Villa Johor Bahru City Centre. 

The partnership has also gained traction in China, with the opening of the 360-room five-star Holiday Villa Xilin Mountain Hotel in Guizhou and a city-centre hotel in Weihai, Shandong, in 2025. The partners have since expanded their footprint further with the launch of Holiday ViVilla Hotel, Miao Village in Guizhou, and CitiVilla Tianjin Hotel in Beichen, Tianjin. 

"Our strategic partnership with GreenTree Hospitality Group continues to support our expansion strategy, allowing us to strengthen our footprint in key markets while delivering consistent quality and value to our guests," Nina said.

Next year, the partnership will open Holiday Villa Spring Resort & Villas Nanyue, in Hengyang, Hunan, and Holiday ViVilla Hotel Shanghai by Holiday Villa in Shanghai. 

In Malaysia, Holiday Villa Terengganu is slated for a soft opening by the end of 2026. 

The group is understood to be in discussions with several developers and investors to expand the Holiday Villa brand through hotel management and licensing agreements in Malaysia and other Asian cities and resort destinations. 

Established in 1987 with its first resort in Cherating, Pahang, Holiday Villa Hotels & Resorts has expanded into an international hospitality group with properties across Malaysia, Indonesia, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and China. 

The expansion comes as Malaysia prepares for stronger tourism growth under the extended Visit Malaysia campaign, with the government targeting 47 million international tourist arrivals and RM329 billion in tourism receipts. 

Tourism Malaysia chairman Datuk Manoharan Periasamy recently told Business Times that extending the campaign through 2027 could enable Malaysia to surpass its original tourism targets. 

He said Asean remains Malaysia's largest visitor market, contributing about 70 per cent of total arrivals, followed by China and India. 

There are currently more than 700 weekly flights connecting Malaysia and various cities in China, and discussions are underway with airlines to further increase frequencies in response to growing demand, he said. 

While higher airfares and geopolitical tensions had temporarily dampened international travel, Manoharan said booking trends are improving as conditions stabilise. 

He added that domestic tourism continues to provide a strong foundation for the industry, with Malaysians maintaining robust travel activity following the pandemic. 

Official data showed domestic tourism expenditure rose 13.6 per cent to RM121.3 billion in 2025, while total domestic visitor trips increased 11.5 per cent to 290.1 million.

-nst online.

Thunderstruck By APAC Wrestling @ ESI Grand Hall, Spacerubix, Puchong ( 22 August 2026 )

 

The storm is almost here.

On 22 August, APAC Wrestling returns with THUNDERSTRUCK—a night of championship battles, international stars, dream matches, and the very best professional wrestling Malaysia has to offer.

Witness APAC Wrestling Champion “Master of All” Shaukat defend his championship against former WWE Superstar The Brian Kendrick, while APAC Wrestling Women’s Champion Mio Shirai begins her reign with her first title defence.

From rising stars to established names, every match has something at stake—and every competitor is fighting to make a statement.

Early Bird tickets are available for a limited time only. Once they’re gone, prices go up.

Don’t miss your chance to be part of the APAC Army.

http://t2u.asia/e/50634 or Link in bio

Date/Time: 22 August 2026 | 4:30PM

Venue: ESI Grand Hall, Spacerubix (near LRT Taman Perindustrian Puchong)

SPayLater accepted

This is one you don’t want to miss. See you at THUNDERSTRUCK.

-APAC Wrestling.

Malaysia Airlines’ Inaugural Direct Flight From Changsa (CSX) To Kuala Lumpur (KUL) – MH521

 

Tourism Malaysia and Malaysia Airlines welcomed the inaugural direct flight operated by Malaysia Airlines between Changsha, China, and Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA), marking another milestone in strengthening air connectivity between Malaysia and China.

Malaysia Airlines officially commenced its daily scheduled service between Changsha and Kuala Lumpur on 9 July 2026, operating a Boeing 737 MAX 8 with a seating capacity of 180 passengers. The inaugural flight, MH523, departed Changsha Huanghua International Airport (CSX) at 2:05 a.m. local time and arrived at Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) at approximately 6:45 a.m., establishing a new direct air link between the two cities.

To commemorate the inaugural service, Tourism Malaysia hosted a welcome reception for arriving passengers at KLIA. The reception was led by Mr. Samuel Lee, Deputy Director General (Promotion II) of Tourism Malaysia, together with representatives from Malaysia Airlines. Arriving passengers were presented with goodie bags and were welcomed by the VM2026 mascots, Wira and Manja.

The commencement of the daily Changsha–Kuala Lumpur service strengthens Malaysia's direct air connectivity with China and provides additional capacity to facilitate travel between the two destinations. The new route is expected to increase visitor arrivals from the Chinese market and complement Tourism Malaysia's ongoing market engagement and destination promotion initiatives under the VM2026 campaign.

-Tourism Malaysia.

Miss Shophia Shopping Hunt 2026

 

Seharian yang penuh dengan keseronokan, cabaran dan pengalaman bermakna meneroka keunikan bandar raya Kuching!

Tahniah kepada semua peserta yang berjaya menyahut pelbagai cabaran menarik di setiap checkpoint – daripada aktiviti kraftangan, kuiz warisan, cabaran kulinari hinggalah shopping hunt yang menguji kreativiti, kerjasama dan semangat berpasukan.

Program ini bukan sahaja memeriahkan Kempen Malaysia Mega Sale 2026, malah turut menyokong Visit Malaysia 2026 dengan mengetengahkan tarikan membeli-belah, budaya dan pelancongan di Kuching, di samping mengukuhkan kerjasama antara agensi, media, pemain industri serta Key Opinion Leader (KOL).

Terima kasih kepada CATS FM, semua peserta, rakan strategik dan semua checkpoint yang telah menjayakan cabaran ini. Semoga kita berjumpa lagi dalam program Tourism Malaysia yang akan datang!

-Tourism Malaysia Sarawak.

Tourism Malaysia Showcases Malaysia In The Netherlands Through Visibility With KLM

 

THE HAGUE – Tourism Malaysia strengthened Malaysia's destination presence in the Netherlands through a series of promotional initiatives in collaboration with KLM, reinforcing the country's visibility among Dutch travellers in support of the Visit Malaysia 2026 (VM2026) campaign.

The campaign adopted a multi-channel approach to engage audiences across the Netherlands by showcasing Malaysia's rich cultural heritage, breathtaking natural landscapes and renowned hospitality. As part of the promotional efforts, Malaysia was prominently featured in KLM's Flying Dutchman publication, reaching a targeted audience of frequent flyers and travel enthusiasts.

The campaign also extended to outdoor advertising through the KLM Bus service operating between Maastricht Central Station, Maastricht Aachen Airport, Eindhoven Airport and Amsterdam Airport Schiphol. Since 12 June 2026, the bus had prominently featured imagery of Cameron Highlands, while passengers were introduced to Malaysia through the official Visit Malaysia 2026  promotional video screened onboard. The video offered an immersive journey through Malaysia's diverse tourism experiences, from the vibrant cityscape of Kuala Lumpur to the idyllic beaches of Langkawi and the ancient rainforests of Borneo.

-Tourism Malaysia.

Exclusive Hotel Deals And Citra Rasa Gastronomy: Citrawarna 2026 Boosts VM2026 Campaign

 

KUALA LUMPUR — In conjunction with Citrawarna 2026, which will take place from 24 to 26 July 2026 at Dataran Merdeka, Kuala Lumpur, selected hotels around the Klang Valley and several states are offering exclusive accommodation promotions to further stimulate tourism activities throughout the event period. 

Citrawarna 2026, themed “Ritma Warisan, Nadi Nusa dan Bangsa” (The Rhythm. The Soul. The Nation.), is a thrilling three-day iconic cultural event. This year’s festival offers a unique twist by highlighting Malaysia’s diverse art, culture, heritage, and natural beauty through a mesmerising showcase of vibrant colours. The event provides a magnificent platform for both domestic and international visitors to experience the nation's rich identity and cultural diversity firsthand. 

In support of the Citrawarna 2026, more than 40 hotels and accommodation premises are participating to offer an array of exclusive lodging promotions. These special offers include attractive room rates and unique staycation packages designed to provide a comfortable experience in Klang Valley and several states. Booking is available from mid-July until mid-August 2026, providing excellent options for travellers planning a short getaway around the festival. 

Beyond accommodation offers, participating hotel chains are also enlivening the festival through the Citra Rasa (Colours of Flavour) initiative. This culinary showcase introduces dishes inspired by the gastronomic heritage of every Malaysian state across respective hotel cafes and restaurants. Through this authentic gastronomy initiative, visitors will have the opportunity to savour a diverse spread of traditional dishes rich in unique and distinct heritage flavours. 

Visitors can enjoy these accommodation offers by booking directly through the official websites of the respective hoteliers or via direct purchase. Further information, including the list of participating hotels, package details, and the Citra Rasa initiatives, will be announced progressively via official social media platforms at @citrawarna.my and @malaysia.truly.asia, or can be accessed at www.malaysia.travel. 

This collaboration between Tourism Malaysia and industry players reflects a shared commitment to strengthening Malaysia’s position as a world-class cultural tourism destination. This strategic step not only enriches the visitor experience but also supports inclusive tourism growth, empowers local communities, enhances industry resilience, and drives sustainable economic development throughout the Visit Malaysia 2026 (VM2026) campaign period.

-Tourism Malaysia.

Tawaran Hotel Eksklusif Dan Gastronomi Citra Rasa: Citrawarna 2026 Merancakkan Kempen Melawat Malaysia 2026

 

KUALA LUMPUR — Bersempena dengan penganjuran Citrawarna 2026 yang akan berlangsung pada 24 hingga 26 Julai 2026 di Dataran Merdeka, Kuala Lumpur, hotel-hotel terpilih di sekitar Lembah Klang dan beberapa negeri menawarkan promosi penginapan eksklusif bagi merancakkan lagi aktiviti pelancongan sepanjang tempoh program dilaksanakan. 

Citrawarna 2026 dengan tema “Ritma Warisan, Nadi Nusa dan Bangsa” yang berlangsung selama tiga hari merupakan acara kebudayaan ikonik negara yang cukup mengujakan. Festival ini menampilkan kelainan dengan mengetengahkan kepelbagaian seni, budaya, warisan, serta keindahan alam semula jadi Malaysia menerusi persembahan rona warna yang memukau. Acara ini menawarkan platform unik kepada pengunjung domestik dan antarabangsa untuk merasai sendiri kekayaan identiti serta kepelbagaian budaya tanah air. 

Bersempena Citrawarna 2026, lebih daripada 40 buah hotel dan premis penginapan mengambil bahagian dalam menawarkan pelbagai promosi penginapan eksklusif. Tawaran istimewa ini merangkumi kadar bilik pada harga menarik serta pakej gabungan unik bagi memberikan penginapan yang selesa di sekitar Lembah Klang dan beberapa negeri. Promosi ini boleh ditempah mulai pertengahan Julai hingga pertengahan Ogos 2026, sekali gus memberi pilihan terbaik kepada pelawat yang merancang percutian singkat sempena festival tersebut. 

Selain tawaran penginapan, rangkaian hotel yang terlibat turut menyemarakkan festival ini menerusi inisiatif Citra Rasa (Colours of Flavour) dengan memperkenalkan hidangan yang diinspirasikan daripada warisan kulinari setiap negeri di Malaysia di kafe dan restoran hotel masing-masing. Menerusi inisiatif gastronomi asli ini, para pengunjung berpeluang menikmati kepelbagaian hidangan tradisional yang kaya dengan keunikan warisan rasa yang tersendiri. 

Para pengunjung boleh menikmati tawaran penginapan ini dengan membuat tempahan terus melalui laman sesawang rasmi pengusaha hotel atau secara belian terus. Maklumat lanjut termasuk senarai hotel yang terlibat, butiran pakej, serta inisiatif Citra Rasa akan diumumkan secara berperingkat menerusi platform media sosial di @citrawarna.my dan @malaysia.truly.asia, atau boleh didapati di www.malaysia.travel. 

Kerjasama antara Tourism Malaysia dan para pemain industri ini mencerminkan komitmen bersama dalam memperkukuh kedudukan Malaysia sebagai destinasi pelancongan budaya bertaraf dunia. Langkah strategik ini bukan sahaja memperkaya pengalaman pengunjung, malah menyokong pertumbuhan pelancongan inklusif, memperkasa komuniti tempatan, meningkatkan daya tahan industri, serta memacu pembangunan ekonomi yang mampan sepanjang tempoh Kempen Melawat Malaysia 2026 (VM2026)

-Tourism Malaysia.

Batik Air, IJN bekerjasama tarik pelancong perubatan ke Malaysia

 

KUALA LUMPUR: Batik Air Malaysia dan Institut Jantung Negara (IJN) menjalinkan kerjasama strategik bersama Tourism Malaysia bagi memperkukuh ekosistem pelancongan perubatan negara, khususnya dalam bidang rawatan kardiovaskular. 

Kerjasama itu menggabungkan rangkaian penerbangan, kepakaran rawatan jantung IJN serta usaha promosi pelancongan kesihatan negara bagi meningkatkan akses kepada perkhidmatan penjagaan jantung, selain memperkukuh kedudukan Malaysia sebagai hab pelancongan perubatan serantau. 

Ketua Pegawai Eksekutif Batik Air, Datuk Chandran Rama Muthy, berkata kerjasama itu mencerminkan komitmen bersama dalam meningkatkan akses kepada penjagaan kesihatan pencegahan serta kesedaran terhadap kepentingan pengesanan awal penyakit.

 Beliau berkata, Malaysia terus memperkukuh kedudukannya sebagai antara destinasi pelancongan kesihatan utama di rantau ini, walaupun Thailand masih menjadi peneraju ASEAN dengan menerima lebih tiga juta pelancong perubatan setiap tahun.

"Malaysia merekodkan kira-kira 1.85 juta pelancong kesihatan pada 2025, menjana hasil sekitar RM3.35 bilion dan melepasi sasaran RM3 bilion yang ditetapkan. 

"Perkembangan ini menunjukkan peningkatan keyakinan terhadap ekosistem penjagaan kesihatan Malaysia serta keupayaan negara menyokong pesakit yang mendapatkan rawatan merentasi sempadan," katanya pada majlis menandatangani Memorandum Persefahaman (MoU) antara Batik Air dan IJN di sini, hari ini. 

Menerusi inisiatif berkenaan, penumpang antarabangsa Batik Air layak menikmati diskaun 15 peratus bagi pakej 'Essential Health Screening' IJN menerusi kempen 'Fly High with a Healthy Heart' dengan hanya mengemukakan pas masuk penerbangan Batik Air semasa pendaftaran di IJN. 

Pakej saringan kesihatan berkenaan ditawarkan pada harga RM765 selepas diskaun dan bertujuan menggalakkan pengesanan awal risiko penyakit jantung serta membantu individu mengambil langkah proaktif dalam menguruskan kesihatan kardiovaskular. 

IJN turut menawarkan diskaun 20 peratus bagi pakej 'Premier Heart Screening' kepada 1,000 penumpang antarabangsa pertama Batik Air. 

Pakej yang ditawarkan pada kadar khas RM1,760 selepas diskaun itu merangkumi penilaian kardiovaskular dan vaskular lanjutan, pengimejan abdomen, pemeriksaan makmal tambahan, analisis komposisi badan, kaunseling pemakanan serta konsultasi bersama pakar kardiologi. 

Dalam usaha menyokong mobiliti pesakit antarabangsa, Batik Air turut menyediakan diskaun tambang penerbangan sebanyak 10 peratus kepada pesakit antarabangsa yang mendapatkan rawatan di IJN dengan mengemukakan surat temu janji rasmi daripada institusi berkenaan. 

Tambah Chandran, pemilihan IJN sebagai rakan strategik dibuat berdasarkan reputasi institusi itu yang bukan sahaja terkenal dalam rawatan jantung, malah mempunyai rangkaian perkhidmatan kesihatan yang lebih luas. 

Dalam pada itu, Batik Air juga menyasarkan pasaran yang lebih mudah dicapai terlebih dahulu contohnya Indonesia sebagai pasaran utama bagi memperkukuh segmen pelancongan perubatan Malaysia menerusi kerjasama strategik IJN dan Tourism Malaysia ini. 

"Batik Air kini terbang ke 21 negara dan 65 destinasi namun Indonesia menjadi pasaran paling mudah untuk dimulakan berikutan kedudukannya yang dekat dengan Malaysia, selain mempunyai populasi sekitar 280 juta penduduk. 

"Selain Indonesia, Batik Air turut melihat potensi pasaran lain seperti Kemboja, Thailand, Bangladesh dan China bagi segmen pelancongan perubatan," katanya. 

Ketua Pegawai Eksekutif Kumpulan IJN, Prof Datuk Seri Dr Mohamed Ezani Md Taib, berkata tanggungjawab IJN bukan hanya tertumpu kepada rawatan penyakit jantung, tetapi turut merangkumi usaha meningkatkan kesedaran terhadap pencegahan, pengesanan awal dan intervensi tepat pada masanya. 

"Melalui kerjasama dengan Batik Air, kami berharap dapat menggalakkan lebih ramai pelancong dan masyarakat mengambil langkah proaktif dalam memahami tahap kesihatan jantung mereka. 

"Kerjasama itu turut menyokong peranan IJN dalam menyediakan rawatan khusus kepada pesakit tempatan dan antarabangsa, terutama mereka yang melakukan perjalanan ke Malaysia bagi mendapatkan rawatan kardiovaskular dan toraks," katanya.

-berita harian online.

Tourism Malaysia And Tripadvisor Forge Strategic Partnership For Visit Malaysia 2026 Success And Beyond

 

PUTRAJAYA — Tourism Malaysia and Tripadvisor today formalised a strategic partnership through the signing of a Memorandum of Collaboration (MoC), marking an important milestone in advancing Malaysia's tourism growth agenda and strengthening the country's position as a preferred global travel destination ahead of Visit Malaysia 2026 (VM2026). This partnership represents a significant digital and public-private milestone for the national tourism campaign, underscoring the government's commitment to driving growth in international visitor arrivals. 

The MoC was formalised by Mr Mohd Amirul Rizal Abdul Rahim, Director General of Tourism Malaysia, and Mr Scott Wegener, Director of Enterprise Sales, Asia Pacific (APAC) at TripAdvisor. Together, the two organisations will collaborate on a wide range of joint marketing, data sharing, and promotional initiatives designed to put Malaysia firmly on the radar of digital-savvy travellers worldwide. 

Under the MoC, Tourism Malaysia will gain access to valuable travel insights and performance data from Tripadvisor, enabling more informed, evidence-based tourism planning and marketing strategies. Simultaneously, both parties will explore opportunities for co-branded marketing campaigns, digital innovation initiatives, and targeted programs that recognize and promote excellence within Malaysia's tourism and hospitality industry. 

The collaboration will also focus heavily on supporting Malaysian tourism stakeholders by improving their digital presence and strengthening their capabilities within the global tourism ecosystem. By enhancing destination content and tourism listings, the partnership aims to increase visibility for Malaysian tourism products and experiences while helping local businesses connect more effectively with international travellers. 

Mr. Mohd Amirul Rizal Abdul Rahim, Director General of Tourism Malaysia said the partnership comes at a strategically important time as Malaysia intensifies preparations for Visit Malaysia 2026 (VM2026). He noted that this partnership will strengthen the ability to make data-driven decisions, enhance destination marketing effectiveness, and support the digital transformation of Malaysia's tourism industry to deliver long-term benefits for local stakeholders. 

Meanwhile, Mr. Scott Wegener, Director of Enterprise Sales, Asia Pacific (APAC) at TripAdvisor welcomed the partnership and reaffirmed Tripadvisor's commitment to supporting Malaysia's tourism growth ambitions. He highlighted that through Tripadvisor's global platform, trusted traveller community, and deep travel insights, they are excited to showcase the country's unique attractions, multicultural heritage, and world-class hospitality to inspire millions of travellers worldwide. 

The collaboration is further strengthened by Malaysia's continued recognition on Tripadvisor's 2026 Travellers' Choice Best of the Best Awards, reflecting the country's growing appeal among global travellers. Kuala Lumpur was recognised among the Top Food Destinations in Asia, reaffirming Malaysia's reputation as a world-class culinary destination. The iconic Petronas Twin Towers was also named among the Top Attractions in Asia, while Pantai Cenang, Langkawi, earned recognition among the Best Beaches in Asia. These accolades underscore Malaysia's diverse tourism offerings and reinforce the country's positioning as a preferred destination for international travellers ahead of Visit Malaysia 2026. 

This digital push matches the exceptional upward trajectory of the national tourism sector. Throughout 2025, Malaysia recorded 42.2 million international visitor arrivals, representing an increase of 11.2 per cent compared to 38.0 million in 2024. This strong growth has successfully extended into the current year, with Malaysia recording 17.5 million visitor arrivals from January until May, marking a 3.4 per cent growth compared to the 16.9 million visitor arrivals captured during the same period last year. 

Tourism Malaysia remains committed to fostering high-impact, strategic partnerships that elevate the nation's global competitiveness in an increasingly digitally connected travel landscape. By forging robust ties with global digital leaders like TripAdvisor, Tourism Malaysia continues to pave the way for sustainable economic expansion, which directly underscores the government's long-term commitment to enhancing Malaysia's overall tourism profile well beyond the campaign period.

-Tourism Malaysia.

Malaysia Expands Indian Outreach With Visit Malaysia 2026 Roadshow In Nashik And Sambhajinagar

 

NASHIK — Tourism Malaysia continues to strengthen its presence in the Indian market with Visit Malaysia 2026 (VM2026) Roadshow in Nashik and Sambhajinagar from 7 to 9th July 2026. This is part of the ongoing efforts to further enhance collaboration with the Indian tourism trade partners while promoting Malaysia’s tourism offerings, unique experiences and upcoming events under the VM2026 campaign. 

The roadshow provides an important platform for travel trade partners from the state of Maharashtra to engage directly with Malaysian industry stakeholders, reinforcing business relationships and exploring new collaboration opportunities. This initiative also highlights Malaysia’s continuous commitment to delivering diverse, accessible and value-driven travel experiences tailored to Indian travellers. 

Led by Ms. Haryanty Abu Bakar, Director of Tourism Malaysia Mumbai, the 11-member delegation comprises representatives from travel agencies, airlines, and tourism product operators. “India continues to be one of Malaysia’s key source markets, and Maharashtra has shown tremendous growth potential for outbound tourism,” said Ms. Haryanty Abu Bakar. 

“Through this roadshow, we aim to enhance our partnerships with the travel trade fraternity in Nashik and Sambhajinagar, the tier-two cities in Maharashtra, while showcasing Malaysia’s diverse tourism offerings and experiences during the ongoing Visit Malaysia 2026 (VM2026) campaign.” 

India is one of the key markets for Malaysia’s tourism industry. In 2025, Malaysia welcomed 1.5 million visitors from India, marking a 14.6 per cent increase compared to 1.3 million in 2024. From January to May 2026, over 600,000 Indian visitors travelled to Malaysia, demonstrating Malaysia’s tourism appeal to the Indian market as a premier destination. 

Air connectivity between Malaysia and India remains prominent in boosting this momentum, with airlines such as Malaysia Airlines, AirAsia, Batik Air and IndiGo, connecting 11 Indian cities including Mumbai, New Delhi, Bengaluru, Chennai, Hyderabad, Kochi, Kolkata, Ahmedabad, Amritsar, Trivandrum and others to Malaysia. The India-Malaysia sector currently operates more than 200 weekly direct flights, further boosting travel convenience and tourism growth between the two countries. There are currently 17 weekly direct flights operating between Mumbai and Kuala Lumpur by Malaysia Airlines and Batik Air, providing convenient direct access to Malaysia for travellers from Maharashtra. 

Tourism Malaysia remains committed to working closely with Indian travel trade partners, airlines, media, and stakeholders. By nurturing these vital relationships, we aim to elevate our market presence and drive sustainable visitor arrivals, ensuring the Visit Malaysia 2026 (VM2026) campaign delivers unforgettable experiences and mutual growth for all involved.

-Tourism Malaysia.

Malaysia ranked world's 6th-best medical tourism destination, led by Penang

 

State Tourism and Creative Economy Committee chairman Wong Hon Wai described the achievement as a proud moment for both the nation and the state. NSTP / AURIS FAQRURAZZI

GEORGE TOWN: Malaysia has been ranked the world's sixth-best medical tourism destination, with Penang continuing to lead the country's healthcare travel sector. 

State Tourism and Creative Economy Committee chairman Wong Hon Wai described the achievement as a proud moment for both the nation and the state. 

"Congratulations, Malaysia, and congratulations, Penang!

"The latest ranking of the world's Top 10 Medical Tourism Destinations is a proud achievement that reflects the collective efforts of Malaysia's healthcare system, tourism industry and government agencies over many years. 

"Malaysia has emerged as one of Asia's leading medical tourism destinations, supported by internationally accredited hospitals, English-speaking healthcare professionals, modern medical technologies, affordable healthcare services and strong government support," he said in a Facebook post.

According to the 2026 Global Top 10 Medical Tourism Destinations ranking published by Travel And Tour World, Turkey topped the list, followed by Thailand, India, Mexico, South Korea, Malaysia, Costa Rica, Singapore, the United Arab Emirates and Colombia. 

The report said Turkey secured first place due to its affordable treatment costs, advanced medical technologies and high-quality healthcare services, while Malaysia's ranking was driven by its internationally accredited hospitals, English-speaking medical workforce and well-developed medical tourism ecosystem. 

It also noted that Malaysia is particularly sought after for cardiology, oncology, fertility treatments, orthopaedics, cosmetic and plastic surgery, dental care, ophthalmology, health screening, rehabilitation services and wellness programmes. 

According to the latest figures, Malaysia's medical tourism revenue increased 23.2 per cent to RM3.35 billion in 2025 from RM2.72 billion in 2024. 

The number of medical tourists also grew 15.6 per cent to 1.85 million in 2025 from 1.6 million a year earlier, reflecting continued international confidence in the country's healthcare services and competitive pricing. 

Wong said Penang remained Malaysia's leading medical tourism destination, contributing about 45 per cent of the country's total medical tourism revenue. 

Data from the Penang Centre of Medical Tourism (PMED), covering 16 private hospitals in the state, showed Penang received 527,176 foreign patients in 2025, up 25.94 per cent from 418,608 in 2024. 

Medical tourism revenue in the state rose 26.6 per cent to RM1.137 billion in 2025 from RM898.07 million the previous year. 

"Penang's sustained leadership is driven by several key advantages, particularly its ability to provide exceptional value for money through high-quality healthcare services at competitive prices. 

"Compared with Singapore and many Western countries, patients can enjoy substantial cost savings while receiving internationally recognised standards of care. 

"We also have a significant multilingual advantage. Penang's population is proficient in Malay, English, Mandarin, Tamil and Chinese dialects including Hokkien, Teochew, Hakka and Cantonese, enabling effective communication with international patients. 

"For Indonesian patients, especially those from Medan who commonly speak Hokkien, language barriers are minimal. 

This enhances their overall experience and further strengthens Penang's position as the preferred medical tourism destination for Indonesian patients," he added.

-nst online.

From Heritage To Hospitality: Positioning Malaysia’s Kopitiam Culture As A Global Tourism Brand

 

KUALA LUMPUR | 6 JULY 2026

Tourism Malaysia Director General, Mr. Mohd Amirul Rizal Abdul Rahim was featured on RTM's Fresh Brew alongside Mr. Nick Ng, Founder of Hock Kee Kopitiam, to discuss how Malaysia's kopitiam culture has grown beyond a traditional coffee shop into a unique tourism experience.

The interview highlighted the importance of preserving Malaysia's culinary heritage while showcasing the country's authentic flavours, warm hospitality and vibrant café culture to both local and international visitors.

Through iconic experiences such as the Malaysian kopitiam, Tourism Malaysia continues to support the goals of Visit Malaysia 2026 (VM2026) by promoting Malaysia as a world-class food and cultural tourism destination.

-Tourism Malaysia.

Asia’s First And Largest Integrated Durian Experience Centre And Malaysia Durian Festival 2026 Launched In Kuala Lumpur

 

KUALA LUMPUR, 4 July 2026 – The Kuala Lumpur Durian Experience Centre (KLDEX) was officially opened, marking the establishment of Asia’s first and largest integrated durian experience centre.

The ceremony was officiated by the Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture, YB Dato Sri Tiong King Sing, with the presence of the Secretary-General of the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture, Datuk Shaharuddin Abu Sohot; Senior Director of Advertising & Digital Division and Head of Secretariat Visit Malaysia 2026, Mr. Mohd Akbal Setia; Managing Director of MyBolehBoleh, Mr. Edison Phang; and Founder and Director of the Kuala Lumpur Durian Experience Centre (KLDEX), Mr. Ang Kean Wee.

In conjunction with the opening, KLDEX also launched the Malaysia Durian Festival 2026, themed “One Durian. A Whole Malaysia.” The festival is set to celebrate Malaysian durian as a unique tourism product and cultural heritage, offering visitors immersive experiences through durian tastings, cultural storytelling, interactive exhibitions, theatre performances, workshops, and a curated selection of food, beverages and retail products.

The establishment of KLDEX and the launch of the Malaysia Durian Festival 2026 reflect ongoing efforts to strengthen Malaysia’s tourism offerings by promoting experiential and gastronomy tourism. The initiative is expected to enhance the country’s appeal as a premier travel destination while creating greater opportunities for local communities, tourism stakeholders and the durian industry, in support of the aspirations of Visit Malaysia 2026.

-Tourism Malaysia.

Receiving Ceremony For Batik Air’s Inaugural Flight From Sydney To Kuala Lumpur

 

KUALA LUMPUR - Tourism Malaysia together with Batik Air representatives organized a receiving ceremony at KLIA Terminal 1 on 2 July 2026 to celebrate the new direct flight route from Sydney to Kuala Lumpur, marking the significance of this new service in enhancing air connectivity and supporting the ongoing Visit Malaysia 2026 campaign. Passengers were warmly welcomed with special goodie bags and the Visit Malaysia 2026 mascot, creating a memorable experience that reinforced the branding of VM2026.

The ceremony was headed by Datuk Musa bin Yusof, Deputy Director General (Promotion) of Tourism Malaysia, together with Mr. Mohamad Libra Lee Haniff, Director of the America, Europe and Oceania Division of Tourism Malaysia, and Mr. Suresh Vanan, Head of Communications and Promotions, Batik Air. Prior to the Receiving Ceremony, Tourism Malaysia Sydney also participated in a Send-Off Ceremony at Sydney Kingsford Smith Airport on 1 July 2026. The inaugural flight OD120, operated by an Airbus A330 with a seating capacity of 377, recorded a load factor of 88%.

Batik Air will now operate this new direct flight route daily, providing greater convenience for travelers between Sydney and Kuala Lumpur and expected to further boost tourist arrivals from Australia to Malaysia in support of Visit Malaysia 2026.

-Tourism Malaysia.