Feel the beats of Bhangra at Visit Malaysia Vaisakhi Fest!
Experience Malaysia's vibrant festivities and be amazed by
electrifying performances by Malkit Singh MBE & B21, along with a lively
showcase of traditional music, dance and cultural activities that bring
Malaysia’s unique heritage to life.
Date: 18 April 2026 (Saturday)
Time: 2.00 PM
Venue: Lanai, MaTiC, Kuala Lumpur
FREE ENTRY for all!
Feel it. Live it. Love it.
Discover the true essence of Malaysia — Truly Asia!
-Tourism Malaysia.
SINGAPORE — The 38th edition of the Travel Malaysia Fair 2026 officially commenced today at Singapore Expo Hall 6A. Organised by the Express & Excursion Bus Association (EEBA) in partnership with Tourism Malaysia Singapore, the three-day event was inaugurated by His Excellency Dato' Indera Dr Azfar Mohamad Mustafar, High Commissioner of Malaysia to Singapore, at the Tourism Malaysia Pavilion (Booth C10). The fair runs from 10 to 12 April 2026, showcasing the very best of Malaysia's tourism offerings.
Featuring approximately 22 booths, visitors can enjoy attractive deals on coach tickets, hotel stays and travel packages. The fair presents a wide range of curated experiences tailored for the upcoming June school holidays in Singapore, making it an ideal platform for travellers to plan their mid-year getaways.
During the travel fair, Tourism Malaysia officially launched the Craft Trail Packages, a curated cultural tourism programme developed in collaboration with the Malaysian Handicraft Development Corporation (Kraftangan Malaysia). These packages showcase the diversity and authenticity of Malaysia's traditional crafts through immersive and experiential journeys, with prices starting from as low as RM109 per person.
Mr. Mohd Amirul Rizal Abdul Rahim, Director General of Tourism Malaysia stated, "Whether you are a traveller seeking meaningful keepsakes or a cultural enthusiast eager to uncover the stories behind Malaysia's handmade treasures, this package invites you to discover some of the nation's most iconic craft makers and witness their artistry brought to life."
Travellers at the fair can explore several new trails, including:
KL - Seremban Arts and Craft Trail: A two-day one-night journey
connecting guests with local artisans, offering first-hand experiences in batik
painting and sculpture-making.
Jemari Halus @ Kuala Lumpur: A unique day tour that combines
traditional craftsmanship with a visit to the iconic Petronas Twin Towers
Skybridge.
Heritage and Handicraft Showcase: Multi-day explorations through
Selangor and Negeri Sembilan, featuring hands-on sessions in pottery, songket
weaving and wood carving.
The Tourism Malaysia Pavilion serves as a key showcase of Malaysian hospitality featuring 10 prominent co-exhibitors. These include unique attractions such as Camp5 Climbing Gym in Kuala Lumpur, Evolt Karting in Shah Alam, Desaru Fruit Farm in Johor and Monkeys Canopy Resort in Cheras. The pavilion also highlights notable accommodation partners including Meritz Hotel Miri in Sarawak, 1969 Business Suites Hotel in Ipoh, Lotus Desaru Beach Resort & Spa and ibis KLCC in Kuala Lumpur. Visitors who purchase travel packages from participating partners will also be eligible to redeem exclusive gifts from Tourism Malaysia.
Malaysia's tourism sector continues to demonstrate strong growth. In
2025, Malaysia recorded 21.1 million visitor arrivals from Singapore,
representing an 11.8 per cent increase compared to the previous year. This
performance underscores Singapore's importance as a key source market. By
combining rich cultural heritage with evolving sustainable tourism offerings,
Malaysia continues to present a compelling value proposition where familiar
experiences are reimagined through a fresh lens of discovery.
-Tourism Malaysia.
A lunch engagement with Ignite Travel Group from Australia was
organised as part of the Ignite Travel Group Agents FAM Trip programme at the
InterContinental Hotel Kuala Lumpur.
The FAM trip programme forms part of AERO Division Geran Sepadan
Penerbangan Antarabangsa & Charter (GSPC) with Ignite Travel Group, with a
six week campaign running from 13 April to 24 May 2026.
The familiarisation trip took place from 8 to 16 April 2026,
involving a total of 10 participants, and covered Kuala Lumpur, Penang, and
Langkawi, with key highlights including iconic attractions such as KLCC
(Petronas Twin Towers) and Batu Caves in Kuala Lumpur, Georgetown in Penang,
and the Langkawi SkyCab experience in Langkawi.
This initiative is also a follow through from the official visit by
YB Minister to Australia last year, aimed at strengthening collaboration with
key Australian travel trade partners and stimulating inbound travel to
Malaysia. Through this strategic collaboration between Tourism Malaysia and
Ignite Travel Group, participants were introduced to Malaysia’s rich cultural
diversity and culinary heritage, complemented by cultural visits and the
sampling of local delicacies, providing a well-rounded Malaysian experience.
-Tourism Malaysia.
PUTRAJAYA — Malaysia will continue to move forward in a measured and responsible manner as Kuala Lumpur prepares to celebrate the World Labour Day Celebration cum Rain Rave Water Music Festival from 30 April to 2 May 2026 in Bukit Bintang. The festival presents an opportunity to welcome visitors from across the region and beyond to be part of a shared, cross-cultural experience in Malaysia.
In addition to the main event in Kuala Lumpur, seven states have also expressed their readiness to organise complementary related-themed activities, tailored to their respective local contexts and cultural elements. These include Negeri Sembilan, Johor, Melaka, Kedah, WP Labuan, Pahang and Terengganu, reflecting a broader nationwide participation in celebrating the occasion.
The event is co-organised by Tourism Malaysia and The Fame as part of the broader Visit Malaysia 2026 (VM2026) tourism ecosystem. While the global environment remains uncertain, it is precisely during such periods that we must place greater emphasis on sustaining economic activity and ensuring that growth remains inclusive. Well-planned tourism initiatives play an important role in supporting local businesses, strengthening industry resilience, and ensuring that the benefits of tourism growth are more broadly distributed, including to B40 communities.
The Rain Rave Water Music Festival is positioned as a strategic urban tourism activation that reflects Malaysia’s multicultural society and promotes inclusivity, bringing together industry players, creative partners and commercial stakeholders, while driving visitor traffic and stimulating spending across retail, hospitality and services sectors.
Beyond entertainment, the festival integrates Malaysian multicultural elements, local creative talent and curated lifestyle experiences, reflecting the strength of Malaysia’s creative industry ecosystem while appealing to both domestic and international audiences. Visitors can expect immersive environments inspired by rain, a diverse lineup of international and regional DJs alongside Malaysian acts, as well as curated local market experiences featuring Malaysian food, culture and creative expressions.
Rain Rave remains rooted in Malaysian identity with a contemporary approach that reflects both tradition and modern creativity. Inspired by rain as a vital natural element in Malaysia’s environment, the festival transforms this familiar element into a creative and cultural expression while showcasing Malaysia’s diverse cultural traditions, through traditional performances, food, and games. Held in conjunction with Labour Day, the festival serves as a meaningful tribute to the contributions of all working communities and will be developed as a signature annual event, strengthening its role as a key highlight in Malaysia’s tourism calendar and positioning the country as a youthful and energetic destination.
The event is further supported by a network of public and private stakeholders. Cultural and content support is provided by agencies such as Istana Budaya, Malaysian Handicraft Development Corporation, the National Department for Culture and Arts and the Department of National Heritage, enhancing the overall visitor experience.
Tourism Malaysia supports the initiative through destination promotion efforts under Visit Malaysia 2026 (VM2026), while the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture plays a facilitative and coordinating role, working alongside relevant authorities to ensure smooth execution, regulatory compliance and public safety.
Comprehensive planning is in place, including traffic management, crowd control measures, safety protocols and coordination with enforcement agencies, to ensure a safe, orderly and well-managed environment for all visitors.
The Ministry remains committed to balancing economic priorities with responsible execution. As Malaysia navigates a complex global landscape, the focus remains clear to sustain growth, strengthen confidence and ensure that Malaysia remains competitive, stable and forward-looking.
Once again, Malaysia continues to welcome visitors from around the
world.
-Tourism Malaysia.
1 Day To Go — See You Tomorrow!
The wait is almost over! Travel Malaysia Fair 2026 is happening
TOMORROW!
Get ready to discover exclusive travel deals, special packages &
unbeatable offers — all in one place!
Your next getaway starts here:
> Bus tickets & hotel deals at special rates
> Limited-time travel packages
> Family-friendly attractions & experiences
> Direct deals from top travel brands
Plan your trip, bring your travel kakis & come early for the
best deals!
Venue: Singapore Expo, Hall 6A
Date: 10 – 12 April 2026
Time: 10:30 AM – 9:00 PM
Don’t miss out — your Malaysia adventure begins tomorrow!
-Travel Malaysia Fair.
PENANG, 8 April 2026 — In celebration of the MSC Magnifica’s maiden
call, Dato’ Yeoh Soon Hin, Deputy Chairman of Tourism Malaysia, joined
representatives from Tourism Malaysia and Swettenham Pier Cruise Terminal
(SPCT) to welcome nearly 3,000 passengers at a festive reception today.
The event featured vibrant cultural and musical performances,
interactive demonstrations, and the distribution of commemorative goodie bags,
creating a lively and hospitable atmosphere for the arriving guests.
-Tourism Malaysia.
Sarawak will stage the 3rd Southeast Asian Tourist Guides Conference from October 13 to 15, 2026, at the Kingwood Hotel in Sibu, bringing together around 1,000 delegates from across the region.
The event follows the inaugural conference held in Kuching in 2024 and forms part of activities linked to Visit Malaysia Year 2026. It is organised by the Sarawak Tourist Guides Association in collaboration with the Malaysian Tourist Guides Council and supported by Business Events Sarawak (BESarawak).
The conference will focus on challenges facing the tourist guiding profession, including the impact of digital tools, changing visitor expectations and a shortage of qualified guides. It also aims to strengthen regional cooperation among tourism professionals in South-east Asia.
Under Sarawak’s Post Covid-19 Development Strategy 2030, the state is targeting annual visitor growth of 7.5 per cent through 2030. Tourism authorities have identified the role of tourist guides as central to delivering visitor experiences and supporting sustainable tourism development.
The conference programme will include professional development sessions and outdoor learning activities, including a cultural exchange component focused on community-based tourism. Organisers said this is intended to support skills development and promote understanding of cultural preservation among guides.
Sibu has been selected as the host city to support tourism development beyond major urban centres and to distribute the economic impact of business events more widely across Sarawak.
Snowdan Lawan, deputy minister for Creative Industry and Performing Arts Sarawak, commented: “Tourist guides are storytellers, cultural ambassadors, and the frontline of how our destination is understood and remembered.
“Sustaining this growth requires a highly skilled, future-ready tourism workforce. That is why we are positioning this conference as a dedicated platform for learning and professional development, while accelerating the training of new Registered Regional Specific Tourist Guides and Sarawak Park Guides to build a strong, resilient talent pipeline for the future.”
Edwin Lim, honorary chairman of the Sarawak Tourist Guides Association, said: “The role of a tourist guide is becoming more demanding in a fast-changing, digital world. This conference focuses on strengthening regional networks and building meaningful collaborations to elevate the profession.”
“Business events today must deliver more than attendance. They must
deliver impact. Through this conference, we are strengthening legacy outcomes
and advancing a high-value tourism economy while positioning Sarawak as the
legacy capital of business events in Malaysia and Borneo,” added Jason Tan Chin
Foo, acting CEO of BESarawak.
-TTG Asia.
PUTRAJAYA: Pelaksanaan Tahun Melawat Malaysia 2026 (VM2026) akan dilanjutkan hingga penghujung 2027.
Timbalan Perdana Menteri, Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, berkata ia diputuskan dalam Mesyuarat Jawatankuasa Kebangsaan Induk VM2026 kali kedua hari ini.
Beliau berkata, keputusan perlanjutan itu akan dibawa ke Mesyuarat Jemaah Menteri untuk pertimbangan serta persetujuan selanjutnya.
"Keputusan ini diambil bagi membolehkan Malaysia mengambil pendekatan proaktif dalam memperkukuh strategi promosi, menonjolkan negara sebagai destinasi yang selamat, stabil dan berdaya saing serta merebut peluang daripada perubahan corak perjalanan pelancong," katanya.
Beliau berkata demikian dalam satu kenyataan media hari ini.
Ahmad Zahid yang juga Pengerusi Jawatankuasa Kebangsaan Induk VM2026, berkata langkah berkenaan juga diambil dengan mengambil kira perkembangan semasa, termasuk konflik yang tercetus di Asia Barat pada 28 Februari lalu, yang memberi kesan ketara terhadap kestabilan serantau.
Jawatankuasa itu terdiri daripada enam jawatankuasa kerja diterajui Kementerian Pelancongan, Seni dan Budaya, Kementerian Komunikasi, Kementerian Perumahan dan Kerajaan Tempatan serta Kementerian Pengangkutan, dengan keanggotaan daripada pelbagai agensi kerajaan berkaitan.
Beliau berkata, konflik itu turut menjejaskan sektor pelancongan global.
Katanya, unjuran yang dibuat juga menunjukkan ketibaan pelancong dari Asia Barat boleh merosot antara 11 peratus hingga 27 peratus, atau kehilangan sehingga 38 juta pelawat, membabitkan kerugian mencecah AS$56 bilion.
"Ini memberi kesan kepada negara-negara tumpuan pelancongan di Asia dan ASEAN.
"Konflik ini juga mengganggu laluan penerbangan antarabangsa, meningkatkan kos perjalanan dengan kenaikan harga minyak dan kos pengangkutan.
"Keadaan ini juga menurunkan keyakinan pelancong, yang dijangka memberi implikasi kepada aliran pelancongan dunia dalam jangka masa terdekat," katanya.
Justeru, Ahmad Zahid berkata, mesyuarat berkenaan yang diadakan hari ini di Putrajaya, membincangkan serta meneliti perkara-perkara berkenaan.
Pada masa sama, beliau berkata, mesyuarat berkenaan turut dilaksanakan bagi menyelaras program dan aktiviti yang sudah dilaksanakan serta merancang langkah-langkah bagi merancakkan kempen VM2026.
"Usaha ini bertujuan memperkukuh kerjasama strategik, menarik
lebih ramai pelawat, meningkatkan tempoh penginapan serta perbelanjaan
pelancong, dan menonjolkan Malaysia sebagai destinasi selamat, stabil dan
berdaya saing," katanya.
-berita harian online.
Tourism Malaysia Taipei, in collaboration with AirAsia, successfully
organised a joint Fam Trip from 30 March to 4 April 2026, bringing together 7
representatives from leading Taiwanese travel operators, alongside delegates
from the media, AirAsia, and TM Taipei. The programme showcased the unique
charm of Malaysia’s East Coast, covering Kota Bharu, Perhentian Island, Lang
Tengah Island, and Kuala Terengganu. Leveraging AirAsia’s red-eye flight
connectivity from Taipei to Kota Bharu, the initiative highlighted the seamless
accessibility and growing appeal of these emerging destinations for the Taiwanese
market.
Designed to introduce new tourism products beyond Malaysia’s key
cities, the trip showcased unique experiences aligned with Taiwanese
travellers’ preferences for island getaways, nature-based activities, and
gastronomy. Participants experienced local highlights including Kopitiam Kita,
Desa Gemalai Baruh Padi Alami, Siti Khadijah Market, snorkeling and marine
activities at Perhentian and Lang Tengah Islands, as well as Terrapuri Heritage
Resort, Payang Market, Noor Arfa Craft Complex, Mayang Mall, and popular local
delicacies such as ‘keropok lekor’ and ‘ikan celup tepung’ in Kuala Terengganu.
The programme was made possible with strong support from AirAsia
(official airline sponsor), while accommodation was hosted by ibis Styles Kota
Bharu, Perhentian Marriott Resort & Spa, Summer Bay Lang Tengah Island,
Paya Bunga Hotel Kuala Terengganu, and ibis Styles Sepang KLIA. Ground
arrangements were supported by HTC Travel.
A key highlight of the programme was the series of networking
dinners hosted by the Department of Tourism and Culture, Kelantan and the
Office of the State Secretary of Kelantan at Perdana Hotel Kota Bharu, as well
as Tourism Terengganu at Elysium Hall, Terengganu Drawbridge Tower. The event
in Kelantan was graced by the Honourable Chairman of the State Committee for
Tourism, Culture, Arts and Heritage, Datuk Kamarudin Md. Nor, while the
Terengganu session was officiated by the Honourable Chairman of the State
Committee on Tourism, Culture, Environment and Climate Change, Datuk Razali
Idris. Both evenings were attended by distinguished guests, including the
Director of Tourism Malaysia East Coast Region, Mr. Mohd Azizul Arif Yahaya and
key local industry players, providing a valuable platform to strengthen
collaboration and explore future business opportunities.
-Tourism Malaysia.
KUALA LUMPUR: Sabah is stepping up efforts to position the Kaamatan Festival as a major tourism draw, tapping growing demand for authentic cultural experiences.
The state is using its participation in the Matta Fair at the Malaysian International Trade and Exhibition Centre (MITEC) to drive visitor interest ahead of the month-long harvest festival in May.
The Sabah Tourism Board (STB) is taking part in the fair with 37
Sabah-based travel agents operating more than 100 booths, offering travel
packages to boost forward bookings.
Huguan Siou (paramount leader) of the Kadazan Dusun, Murut and Rungus communities, Tan Sri Joseph Pairin Kitingan, said Kaamatan reflects Sabah's rich cultural heritage and unity among its diverse communities.
He said the festival serves as a thanksgiving celebration and a platform to strengthen social bonds through shared traditions and communal activities.
"Sabah is a beautiful place, with many tribes and a rich
culture of celebrations. One of the most important is Kaamatan, which is
celebrated over a month.
"This is an occasion to give thanks, work together in the spirit of 'mogitatabang', and celebrate as a community. It strengthens friendship and solidarity within society and families," he said after launching the Kaamatan invitation video at the Sabah Pavilion.
Earlier, Sabah Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister Datuk Jafry Ariffin launched the refreshed Explore Sabah destination brand to strengthen the state's tourism positioning.
He said Kaamatan remains one of Sabah's strongest cultural assets and a key reason for visitors to plan trips to the state.
"The presence of the Huguan Siou highlights the cultural significance of this harvest festival for our indigenous communities, while reinforcing its appeal among visitors seeking authentic cultural experiences," he said.
Jafry added that Kaamatan offers travellers an opportunity to engage more deeply with Sabah's people, traditions and way of life.
Celebrated annually across Sabah, Kaamatan features a month-long line-up of cultural performances, traditional rituals, local cuisine and the Unduk Ngadau pageant, with highlights on May 30 and 31.
With strong participation at the three-day Matta Fair, which ends on April 5, Sabah aims to convert interest into confirmed bookings, particularly for the mid-year period anchored by the festival.
Travel packages also highlight Sabah's attractions, including Kundasang for views of Mount Kinabalu, Semporna for island and diving trips, and wildlife experiences.
A teaser for the Visit Sabah 2027 campaign was also unveiled at the Sabah Pavilion, offering a preview of the state's long-term tourism plans.
Also present were Assistant Minister to the Chief Minister and STB
chairman Datuk Joniston Bangkuai; Assistant Minister of Tourism, Culture and
Environment Dr Andi Mohd Shamsureezal Mohd Sainal; Permanent Secretary Datuk
Josie Lai; and STB chief executive officer Julinus Jeffery Jimit.
-nst online.
KARACHI — Tourism Malaysia returned to Pakistan Travel Mart 2026 (PTM 2026) after a five-year hiatus, participating from 3 to 5 April 2026 at the Karachi Expo Centre. The participation marks a strategic re-engagement with Pakistan’s travel trade and consumers, as Tourism Malaysia showcases the country’s diverse tourism offerings in line with PTM’s theme, “Shaping the Future of Travel: Innovation, Sustainability & Global Connectivity.”
This renewed participation follows the last appearance at PTM in 2019 and underscores efforts by Tourism Malaysia to rebuild market momentum while strengthening long-standing partnerships with key stakeholders in Pakistan. The 2026 edition of PTM introduces enhanced programming, including curated thematic districts and industry-focused platforms designed to encourage collaboration, promote sustainable tourism solutions and support global connectivity.
Tourism Malaysia’s presence at PTM 2026 is bolstered by a delegation of 8 Malaysian tourism sellers including travel agents and hotel representatives. These companies will engage in structured B2B meetings and networking sessions with Pakistani travel trade stakeholders. The primary objectives are to develop market-ready travel packages, strengthen distribution partnerships and explore joint promotional opportunities to stimulate travel demand to Malaysia.
“We are delighted to re-engage with Pakistan’s travel market at PTM 2026. This participation reflects Malaysia’s commitment to strengthening tourism ties, enhancing air connectivity and promoting sustainable holiday experiences, while also highlighting new growth segments such as MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions) and educational tourism. Through strategic collaborations, we aim to drive long-term visitor growth and generate mutual economic benefits,” said Mr. Mohd Amirul Rizal Abdul Rahim, Director General of Tourism Malaysia.
At the exhibition, the Malaysia pavilion features immersive content across key segments, including leisure tourism, MICE and halal-friendly travel. The delegation is also conducting media briefings and consumer outreach activities to promote direct air connectivity, curated travel packages and collaborative marketing initiatives with Pakistani partners. In parallel, Tourism Malaysia will explore new partnerships that leverage innovation and sustainability, the core pillars of PTM 2026 which are to support long-term tourism growth while delivering meaningful benefits to local communities.
PTM 2026 also features several concurrent programmes aligned closely with Tourism Malaysia’s strategic priorities. Key highlights include the PTM Live Podcast which will host thought leadership discussions on emerging travel trends and the Sustainable Destinations Forum focusing on ecotourism, responsible destination management and community-based tourism.
The engagement continues with a two-day Islamabad Roadshow scheduled from 7 to 8 April 2026 aimed at strengthening engagement with travel trade partners and media in Pakistan’s capital city. These platforms provide valuable opportunities for Tourism Malaysia to introduce new itineraries, cultural experiences and green tourism initiatives to both trade buyers and consumers.
Pakistan continues to be a consistent contributor to Malaysia’s international visitor arrivals. From January to December 2025, Malaysia welcomed 135,867 visitors from Pakistan, representing a 27.7 per cent increase compared with 2024. This also reflects a 24.1 per cent growth compared with the 109,521 visitors recorded in 2019, successfully surpassing pre-pandemic levels.
This growth is supported by robust air connectivity between Malaysia and Pakistan. Currently, 14 weekly flights operated by Batik Air, AirAsia X and Pakistan International Airlines connect Kuala Lumpur with Karachi, Lahore and Islamabad, providing a total weekly seat capacity of 4,293, making travel between the two nations accessible and convenient.
Malaysia remains a premier holiday destination for the Pakistani
market, offering diverse experiences, rich cultural attractions and
halal-friendly tourism products tailored to the preferences of Pakistani
travellers.
-Tourism Malaysia.
KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia Airlines Bhd will launch two new destinations in China namely Shenzhen and Changsha as well as resume services to Fukuoka, Japan from Kuala Lumpur between July and September this year.
Parent company Malaysia Aviation Group (MAG) president and chief executive officer (CEO) Captain Nasaruddin A. Bakar said the new routes will be operated using its Boeing B737-8 aircraft.
He added that the Fukuoka route will initially be operated using the B737-8 aircraft but the airline may deploy a larger aircraft such as the Airbus A330neo (new engine option) depending on demand and new aircraft delivery schedules.
"We have ordered, in total, 95 aircraft – 40 A330neo and 55 737-8 and 737-10 and we expect deliveries in the next six to seven years up to 2032-2033 and because of the issues that the global industry is facing, in particular with supply chains, we are seeing a little bit of delay in our delivery."
"Hence, today, we are planning for Fukuoka using the B737-8. However, if we have the capacity and once we have the aircraft on time, we should be able to swap accordingly.
"If there is demand, we will change the aircraft," he said
at a press conference after announcing the destinations at MATTA Fair 2026.
The inaugural flights to Shenzhen and Changsha will be on July 1 and July 8, respectively while Fukuoka will be on Sept 2.
The launch of Changsha and Shenzhen brings Malaysia Airlines' network in China to nine destinations.
The national carrier also flies to Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Xiamen, Hong Kong, Taipei and Chengdu Tianfu in China.
MAG chief commercial officer for airline business Dersenish Aresandiran said ticket sales for the new services start today with Changha and Shenzhen offered at promotional fares during the MATTA Fair 2026 starting from RM1,088, while Fukuoka fares start from RM1,788.
"This expansion is an important strategic move that strengthen our network and position Malaysia as a key gateway into Asia.
"It reflects our broader strategy to strengthen Kuala Lumpur's position as a key gateway to Asia and beyond while supporting Malaysia's vision for tourism aspiration under Visit Malaysia Year 2026," he said.
Malaysia Airlines will also increase flight frequencies from Kuala Lumpur to Brisbane, Manila and Colombo to meet rising demand and support growing tourism and trade links.
The airline will also operate ad-hoc Kuala Lumpur-London flights on April 18 and 22 to accommodate passengers affected by disruptions involving Middle Eastern carriers.
Meanwhile, MAG is returning as official airline partner and premier
sponsor of MATTA Fair 2026 where the group will showcase its next-generation
travel technology at its 46,000 sq ft pavilion.
-nst online.
MATTA FAIR 2026 kembali lagi!
Jom kunjungi booth “Putrajaya Destinasi Mesti Lawat” di Malaysian
International Trade & Exhibition Centre (MITEC), Kuala Lumpur pada 03
hingga 05 April 2026 (Jumaat hingga Ahad).
Temui kami di Booth 1Q29 - 1Q34, Hall 2, Domestic Hall, Level 1
Ground Floor yang akan menawarkan pelbagai pakej menarik!
Rakan-rakan pengusaha dan penggiat industri pelancongan domestik
kembali dengan kebersamaan di bawah pasukan promosi Putrajaya Destinasi Mesti
Lawat destinasi pelancongan antaranya :-
> Choc Souq Putrajaya
> Cruise Tasik Putrajaya
> Hotel Everly Putrajaya
> Hotel Pulse Grande Putrajaya
> Taman Ekuestrian Putrajaya
> Taman-taman Awam Putrajaya
> Wetland Studios Putrajaya
& Pelbagai cenderahati menarik menanti anda di sini. Masuk
adalah percuma!
-Perbadanan Putrajaya.
Hulu Kelang, 1 April 2026 - Tourism Malaysia dan Perbadanan Kemajuan
Filem Nasional Malaysia (FINAS) telah memeterai Memorandum Persefahaman (MoU)
yang ditandatangani oleh Encik Mohd Amirul Rizal Abdul Rahim, Ketua Pengarah
Tourism Malaysia dan Dato Azmir Saifuddin Mutalib, Ketua Pegawai Eksekutif
Perbadanan Kemajuan Filem Nasional Malaysia (FINAS).
Kerjasama ini menandakan pendekatan baharu yang memanfaatkan
kandungan filem dan televisyen sebagai medium strategik dalam mempromosikan
keunikan budaya, warisan serta destinasi pelancongan Malaysia kepada pasaran
global.
Selain itu, FINAS akan menerajui pembangunan kandungan kreatif
berimpak tinggi yang mengetengahkan keunikan Malaysia, manakala Tourism
Malaysia menyediakan akses kepada aset promosi strategik termasuk bahan visual,
kempen nasional dan platform global seperti Kempen Melawat Malaysia 2026
(VM2026).
Kerjasama ini dijangka akan merangsang peningkatan pelaburan dalam
produksi antarabangsa, memperkukuh pembangunan projek kandungan bersama,
menggalakkan penyertaan yang lebih aktif dalam pasaran kandungan global, serta
membuka lebih banyak peluang pekerjaan dalam industri kreatif.
-Tourism Malaysia.
PENANG – Tourism Malaysia welcomes the arrival of the inaugural direct flight connecting Qingdao and Penang, marking another significant step in strengthening Malaysia’s international air connectivity and supporting the nation’s tourism growth in line with the Visit Malaysia 2026 (VM2026).
The inaugural flight, QW923, departed from Qingdao Jiaodong International Airport and arrived at Penang International Airport at 3.15 p.m. Operated by Qingdao Airlines using an Airbus A320N aircraft, the service offers a seat capacity of 179 passengers. The flight will operate three times weekly on Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday, further enhancing travel convenience between China and Malaysia.
The introduction of this route is expected to contribute positively to Malaysia’s tourism sector by facilitating greater travel flows from China, which remains one of Malaysia’s most important source markets. This route will support leisure travel, business exchanges, and visits among friends and relatives, while strengthening Malaysia’s position as a preferred short-haul destination for Chinese travellers.
The flight was warmly welcomed by YB Wong Hon Wai, Penang State Executive Councillor for Tourism and Creative Economy, together with Mr. Lee Thai Hung, Deputy Director General (Promotion II) of Tourism Malaysia, Mr. Abdul Hadi Che Man, Director of Tourism Malaysia North Region, and representatives from Malaysia Airports Holdings Berhad and Qingdao Airlines.
In a statement, Mr. Mohd Amirul Rizal bin Abdul Rahim, Director General of Tourism Malaysia, said, "The launch of the direct air service between Qingdao and Penang marks an exciting milestone in strengthening Malaysia’s connectivity with China, a key source market for our tourism. By making travel easier and more convenient, this route will increase visitor arrivals and support the continued success of VM2026. Penang’s unique mix of cultural heritage, world-class cuisine, and vibrant urban experiences makes it an irresistible destination, and we are confident that this new connection will further capture the hearts of Chinese travellers."
Penang International Airport has recorded steady growth in China connectivity, with airlines including China Southern Airlines, Xiamen Airlines, Spring Airlines, Juneyao Airlines, and 9 Air operating direct routes to Guangzhou, Shanghai, Xiamen, and Haikou.
For international visitors, Penang remains one of Malaysia’s most distinctive tourism destinations, renowned for its UNESCO-listed heritage areas, vibrant multicultural environment, and world-famous culinary offerings. The state continues to attract travellers seeking authentic cultural experiences alongside modern urban attractions and diverse lifestyle offerings.
China continues to play a vital role in Malaysia’s tourism landscape. Malaysia recorded 4.7 million visitor arrivals from China between January and December 2025, representing a 25.1 per cent year-on-year increase, which reflects the strong demand for Malaysia as a travel destination. The expansion of direct air services aligns with the broader strategy of Tourism Malaysia to enhance international connectivity, stimulate tourism growth, and position Malaysia as a leading destination in the region.
Tourism Malaysia remains committed to working closely with airline
partners and industry stakeholders to expand flight networks and support
increased visitor arrivals. The organisation welcomes the launch of this direct
service and looks forward to continued collaboration in promoting Malaysia’s
diverse attractions, rich gastronomy, and renowned hospitality to travellers
from China.
-Tourism Malaysia.
Cherating Festival 2026 – Lantern Festival Malaysia
Bayangkan suasana pantai yang indah, langit dipenuhi cahaya lentera,
muzik bergema, dan keriangan tanpa henti!
Tarikh: 3 & 4 April 2026
Lokasi: Cherating, Malaysia
Nikmati pengalaman unik dengan:
> Pelepasan Lentera
> Fire Dance
> Dance Fit
> Water Fight
> Live DJ
Jangan lepaskan peluang untuk menjadi sebahagian daripada festival
penuh warna ini. Bawa keluarga, rakan-rakan, dan rasai sendiri magis Cherating
di bawah cahaya lentera!
Save the date & spread the word – Cherating menanti anda!
-Tourism Malaysia Wilayah Timur - Pahang.
KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia's aviation network has added three new international airlines, with AeroDili and Air Algerie commencing operations at Kuala Lumpur International Airport, and Qingdao Airlines launching services to Penang International Airport.
Malaysia Airports Holdings Bhd said Timor-Leste's AeroDili began operations on March 28, followed by Algeria's Air Algerie on March 30, while China's Qingdao Airlines started flights to Penang on March 31.
Qingdao Airlines operates thrice-weekly flights from Qingdao, becoming the ninth Chinese carrier serving Penang International Airport, the airport operator said in a statement.
AeroDili operates twice-weekly direct flights between Kuala Lumpur and Timor-Leste, while Air Algerie will operate three times weekly. Its inaugural flight was fully booked, indicating strong demand.
The Air Algerie service opens a new North African corridor with no direct competition, complementing existing African connectivity via Ethiopian Airlines and Air Mauritius.
Malaysia Airports managing director Datuk Mohd Izani Ghani said the
additions form part of the group's efforts to expand its airline network.
"They enhance connectivity and service quality while creating long-term value for passengers, airline partners and the wider economy.
"Our focus is on building a resilient, demand-driven network
that supports tourism, trade and regional mobility, and we are actively
pursuing new airline partnerships and routes to expand Malaysia's global
reach," he said.
-nst online.
