Pelangi Untukmu - Konsert Ning Baizura

Date: 21 September 2013 (Saturday)

Time: 8.30 pm

Venue: TM Convention Center, Kuala Lumpur

A mega vocal powerhouse, a stellar performer and now a beautiful mother to the most adorable baby boy, Ning Baizura is considered one of the most successful female pop, soul & R&B artiste in the country. Not only by her majestic talent, her vibrant persona and admirable kindness have won over the hearts of many. With over 40,000 fans all over the country, Ning has become a true Malaysian icon.

After much anticipation, Ning will be on stage again for an exclusive 90 minute concert which will be held at TM Convention Center on the 21st of September 2013. The ‘Pelangi Untukmu’ concert mainly focuses on Ning’s recent personal experiences. For one night, Ning will take her audience through the most important stages of her life thus far, which is becoming a mother.

The concert is divided into 3 different segments to reflect on 3 different stages of Ning’s life to represent her flight towards motherhood. For the first part of the concert, Ning will take us on a journey through her experiences of being with child, from the first day of pregnancy to being in labor and giving birth. In the next segment, Ning will bring her son, Ryan Sky Dalton on stage and sing to him to express her love and gratefulness to have been blessed to have him in her life. The concert will end with Ning belting out a string of her popular hits for her fans who have stood by her through many years as a token of appreciation for their endless love and support.

Fans of Ning will be given the opportunity to participate in a live intimate performance by Ning that they will keep in memory for a very long time. This will also be the first concert to carry out a theme of Motherhood and features the relationship between a mother and son. Tickets are priced at RM75 (free seating) and RM50 (free seating) and will be available for public on www.ticketcharge.com.my. 

-www.ticketcharge.com.my

Fly Now to Dubai, Kochi and Darwin

30 July 2013, Subang:  Malaysia Airlines is extending its special deals promotion for the recently announced routes namely Dubai, Kochi and Darwin till 4 August 2013 for travel up to 31 March 2014 from the date of the respective inaugural flight.

Malaysia Airlines Regional Senior Vice President Malaysia, Muzammil Mohamad said, “There are only five days left to grab this very exciting offer by Malaysia Airlines and we urge the public to take opportunity of these very exciting deals. Malaysia Airlines is very much glad to explore the three new and re-instated markets. These destinations have got much to offer in terms of richness in culture, heritage, modernisation and wildlife preservation just to name a few. We strongly believe that our guests will be able to reap maximum benefits and fulfil their travel needs with these additions," he further added.

In conjunction with the re-introduction of service to Dubai, the national carrier is offering super attractive promotional fares that start from only RM1, 999 for an all-inclusive Economy class return travel. Business class starts from as low as RM5, 999 for an all-inclusive return journey. Bookings start from 26 June 2013 till 15 July 2013 for the travel period of 5 August 2013 till 31 March 2014.

Meanwhile for Darwin, fares start from only RM1,399 for an all-inclusive Economy class return travel. Business class starts from as low as RM3,199 for an all-inclusive return journey. Bookings start from 8 to 28 July 2013 for the travel period of 1 November 2013 till 31 May 2014.

With the introduction of service to Kochi, Malaysia Airlines is offering super attractive promotional fares that start from only RM1,099 for an all-inclusive Economy class return travel. Business class starts from as low as RM2,199 for an all-inclusive return journey. Bookings start from 8 to 28 July 2013 for the travel period of 1 September 2013 till 31 May 2014.

Malaysia Airlines flights to Dubai will be operated daily via MH162 and MH163 beginning 5 August 2013 using the Boeing 777-200 aircraft that offers a total capacity of 282 seats in each flight, equivalent to 3,948 seats weekly.

Flight to Kochi will resume daily operations on 1 September 2013 via MH118 and MH119 while five times weekly flight to Darwin will resume on 1 November 2013 via MH 253 and MH 252.

Both routes, Kochi and Darwin will be operating on the new and improved 160-seater B737-800. The B737-800 aircraft with a configuration of 16 business and 144 Economy seats, provides premium travel experience with on-demand in-flight entertainment system at every seat.

Customers can book their travel on Malaysia Airlines through all distribution channels mainly www.malaysiaairlines.com, Malaysia Airlines 24 hours toll free number 1 300 88 3000, MHmobile, Malaysia Airlines ticket offices and appointed agents throughout Malaysia. However, for bookings to Darwin, customers will need to call Malaysia Airlines 24 hours toll free number 1 300 88 3000, or visit Malaysia Airlines ticket offices and appointed agents throughout Malaysia.

-Malaysia Airlines.

YTL beach retreats for Singapore, Malaysia and Brunei

YTL Hotels has rolled our packages for the residents of Singapore, Malaysia and Brunei for stays at its Pangkor Laut Resort, Malaysia and Gaya Island Resort, Borneo.

Guests who purchase the Refresh Residents' Package for either resort will receive a 30 per cent discount off 80-minute a la carte spa treatments that conclude by 12.00, a complimentary room upgrade to the next category,  daily meals for each night of stay and free return speedboat transfers from Sutera Harbour Marina (at Gaya Island Resort) or Marina Island Pangkor (at Pangkor Laut Resort).

The Refreshed Residents' Package begin at RM999 (US$310) per room per night for a minimum stay of two nights at either resort. Booking is open until August 31 for stays until September 2013.

-TTG Asia.

www.ytlhotels.com

AirAsia X ropes Adelaide into flight network

AirAsia's longhaul affiliate, AirAsia X, has added a fifth Australian destination to its flight network with a new Adelaide link.

Beginning October 30, Singapore residents can fly to Adelaide via Kuala Lumpur, through the AirAsia Fly-Thru service.

AirAsia operates 12 daily flights between Singapore and Kuala Lumpur, and AirAsia X will initially ply the Kuala Lumpur-Adelaide route four times weekly after its launch, and increase the service to daily for the peak December to February period. The new route will be operated with a 377-seater Airbus A330-300 aircraft.

Speaking at a special ceremony in Adelaide, AirAsia X CEO, Azran Osman-Rani said: “We are thrilled to announce that AirAsia X is finally jetting into Adelaide, which means now every Adelaidian can fly to South-east Asia and beyond and vice versa.”

“Australia is one of our core markets where AirAsia X will see its wings expand and the Adelaide route has been a priority. Our goal since launching our first Australian service on the Gold Coast in 2007 was to operate in the five major states, and we are proud to have accomplished this within six years,” he added.

To celebrate the launch of the new route, AirAsia X is offering fares from Singapore to Adelaide starting from S$149 (US$117) on economy and from S$489 for premium. Promotional fares are available for booking online until August 4, for the travel period October 30, 2013 to August 5, 2014.

-TTG Asia.

ASEANTA holds meeting in Wakayama, Japan

Japan's Wakayama Prefecture will play host to the second edition of the ASEAN Tourism Association (ASEANTA) Board Members Meeting from today until August 1.

ASEANTA president, Mohd Khalid, will lead the 30-strong delegation from the 10 ASEAN countries for the second ASEANTA meeting for the year, to be held in Shirahama City.

The agenda includes a table-top discussion and networking session with key representatives of more than 30 organisations from the local travel trade in Wakayama, a tour around the city for inspection and the annual fireworks festival.

The association meets four times a year, with the goal of looking at ways to form partnerships and work closely with industry, public sector and other private businesses within and outside of ASEAN, to promote the ASEAN region as a destination of choice for both business and leisure travel.

Said Mohd Khalid: “With the existence of the ASEAN-Japan partnership, ASEANTA has also set its sights on further developing and enhancing tourism-related services between ASEAN and Japan.

“There is tremendous potential, not only in marketing and promoting travel and tourism, but also (for) investments within ASEAN by investors from Japan. Certainly, there is a possibility of exploring joint opportunities in travel and tourism between ASEAN and Japan.”

-TTG Asia.

Tourism Malaysia Sabah Promotes Holiday Packages For Shopaholics

KOTA KINABALU, 26 July 2013: Great news for shopaholics! Tourism Malaysia Sabah is pleased to present its latest brochure “Oh, My Shopping! Kota Kinabalu & Labuan Holiday Packages” to attract avid shoppers to shop and enjoy the scenic tourist destinations in Sabah and Labuan.

This initiative is in conjunction with the 1Malaysia Mega Sale Carnival (1MMSC), which was launched last month by the Minister of Tourism and Culture Malaysia YB Dato’ Seri Mohamed Nazri Abdul Aziz.

Six exciting and attractively priced shopping holiday packages ranging from 2-Day/1-Night to 4-Day/3-Night have been developed with the support of eight tour operators in Kota Kinabalu and Labuan. Besides guided full day shopping tour, all the holiday packages also include accommodation, return airport transfer, meals, and guided tour to various tourist attractions.

For instance, the “3-Day/2-Night Confession of a Shopaholic Tour Package”, also includes a trip to Sapi Island with sea walking activity and it starts at only RM757 per person.

For Labuan, an intriguingly named shopping package - Veni, Vidi, Visa” or “I Came, I Saw, I Charged” - promotes the duty free island with tours to duty free shops and historical sites in Labuan. The package also includes a half day golfing trip to the newly opened Labuan Golf Club.

During the 1MMSC, Tourism Malaysia Sabah is also collaborating with several shopping malls in Kota Kinabalu and Labuan namely Centre Point, Karamunsing Complex, Suria Sabah, 1 Borneo Hypermall and Labuan Financial Park, to hype up the event with advertising and promotional campaign to attract more shoppers.

This year, the 1MMSC is running from 29 June to 1 September. In its 13th year of organisation, the 1MMSC has become a much anticipated event for both locals and discerning shoppers from around the region. It has succeeded in placing Malaysia on the world map as a top value-for-money international shopping destination, as well as a duty free haven. The government’s efforts in promoting shopping in Malaysia are reflected in the yearly increase of tourist arrivals and shopping revenue.

The Ministry of Domestic Trade, Cooperatives and Consumerism is also organising the 1Malaysia Unified Sale (1MUS) this year, to be held simultaneously with the 1MMSC. With two sale events to look forward to, tourists and shoppers can expect their holiday and shopping experience in Malaysia to be doubly exciting and rewarding.

Those who are interested to join any of the holiday packages can get in touch with one of the eight tour agents for further details. Tourism Malaysia Sabah will also be promoting the tour packages through websites, online social media, email blast and distribution of brochures at Tourism Malaysia state and overseas offices.

All the holiday packages in the brochure are valid from now until 1 September 2013. 

So, what are you waiting for? Grab this opportunity to shop till you drop in Sabah or Labuan and enjoy various exclusive offers, promotions and great discounts.
-Tourism Malaysia Sabah.

Resorts World Genting And Twentieth Century Fox Consumer Products Announce Plans For First TWENTIETH CENTURY FOX THEME PARK

Kuala Lumpur, 26th July 2013 – Resorts World Genting, the world’s largest destination resort operator, announces today a licensing partnership with Twentieth Century Fox Consumer Products to develop the first international Twentieth Century Fox theme park. Opening in 2016, the new theme park at Resorts World Genting will fully immerse visitors in an entertainment experience featuring some of FOX’s most recognized and powerful film brands including ICE AGE, RIO, ALIEN, and NIGHT AT THE MUSEUM.

Dato Lee Choong Yan, President and Chief Operating Officer of Genting Malaysia Berhad and Jeffrey Godsick, President of Twentieth Century Fox Consumer Products participated in a signing event solidifying the partnership between Genting Malaysia Berhad and Twentieth Century Fox Consumer Products. The alliance was witnessed by Tan Sri Lim Kok Thay, Chairman and Chief Executive of Genting Malaysia Berhad.

“For the first time, audiences will soon be transported into the worlds of their favorite Twentieth Century Fox properties,” said Godsick. “Brought to life by our partner Resorts World Genting, this theme park marks the launch of our global location based entertainment strategy.”

“Twentieth Century Fox is one of the world’s largest producers and distributors of entertainment content in the world,” said Tan Sri Lim. The FOX brand is popular throughout the world because the studio has earned a reputation for quality, creativity and longevity. We’re honored to partner with Twentieth Century Fox to realize the vision of a world class integrated resort.”

The Twentieth Century Fox theme park at Resorts World Genting will feature rides and attractions based on a wide array of FOX properties including action, adventure, animation, family and sci-fi genres.

Highlights from the park will include:

• More than 25 acres of land, featuring more than 25 rides and attractions from media based rides, thrill rides, dark rides, to children’s rides, and water rides
• Rides and attractions based on Twentieth Century Fox blockbuster titles like ICE AGE, RIO, LIFE OF PI, ALIEN, PREDATOR, and
  NIGHT AT THE MUSEUM (additional film build outs to be announced)
• The Dream Parade, featuring a one-of-a-kind, animatronics parade based on all characters and titles represented at the theme park
• Retail merchandise and themed food and beverage outlets

Resort World Genting is investing more than RM400 million to develop the Twentieth Century Fox theme park. New jobs will be created, including cast members who will be trained to operate the rides and attractions, while representing the characters and stories from various FOX properties. The ultimate focus and goal: delivering a world-class customer experience.

The Genting Theme Park was opened in 1978 as Genting Amusement and Recreation Park. Today after 35 years, the outdoor theme park receives millions of visitors annually from Malaysia and all over the world. With the Twentieth Century Fox theme park targeting families and adults alike, the Resort anticipates a strong growth in visitors from both Malaysia and international arrivals, in addition from neighboring countries.

The Genting Outdoor Theme Park will be closed beginning September 1st 2013 to facilitate the construction of the Twentieth Century Fox theme park. The projected soft opening is scheduled to take place in 2016 and will herald a new milestone of exceptional achievement for Resorts World Genting.
-rwgenting.

Tenang menginap di Putra Putri

Bilik tidur di salah sebuah rumah teres.

Bagi pengunjung yang ingin bermalam atau tinggal dalam tempoh singkat di sesebuah kawasan, ia mungkin tidak menjadi masalah kerana tempat penginapan sudah tersedia di mana sahaja di seluruh negara.

Cuma, bagi sesetengah orang, tempat penginapan yang dicari sudah tentu perlu menepati cita rasa atau kriteria pilihan termasuk harga, kemudahan yang disediakan dan persekitarannya.

Menyedari itu, Putra Putri Lodge yang terletak di Taman Putra Putri, Repoh, Kangar menyediakan tempat penginapan yang cukup ideal kerana menggabungkan dua elemen, kemudahan seperti hotel dan persekitaran sebagaimana berada di kampung atau taman perumahan.

Ini diakui oleh pengurusnya, Mohd. Yusri Mohd. Yusoff bahawa Putra Putri Lodge bukan sahaja menawarkan tempat penginapan menarik, malah harganya cukup setimpal. Menurutnya, Putra Putri Lodge menawarkan sembilan unit rumah teres dua tingkat, lapan unit rumah berkembar (semi-detached) dan 10 buah banglo. "Sewa semalam mengikut kategori rumah bagi setiap unit adalah RM170 untuk teres, RM350 rumah berkembar dan RM450 banglo.

"Kesemuanya cukup selesa. Contohnya, teres dua bilik berhawa dingin dan kipas siling terletak di tingkat atas. Manakala ruang tamu, bilik air dan ruang makan di tingkat bawah, lengkap dengan televisyen, mini bar dan pemanas air," katanya kepada S2. Mohd. Yusri menjelaskan, rumah berkembar pula mempunyai kemudahan sama, iaitu tiga bilik dan dua bilik air termasuk di bilik utama.

"Istimewanya, kami (Putra Putri Logde) mengekalkan identiti tanah air sendiri dengan menamakan kelapan-lapan unit rumah berkembar mengikut negeri iaitu Selangor Lodge, Negeri Sembilan Lodge, Perak Lodge, Kedah Lodge, Johor Lodge, Pahang Lodge, Kelantan Lodge dan Terengganu Lodge. "Bagi banglo pula, ia dilengkapi dengan kemudahan sama, cuma lebih besar kerana mempunyai empat bilik dan tiga bilik air," ujarnya.

Mohd. Yusri juga berkata, daripada 10 buah banglo, hanya sebuah disewakan secara harian kepada orang ramai kerana selebihnya telah disewa secara bulanan. "Bagi banglo, kami turut menawarkan sewa bulanan dengan kadar daripada RM800 hingga RM1,000. "Kesemua unit yang ditawarkan dilengkapi dengan siaran Astro dan kemudahan WiFi percuma," katanya.

Jelasnya lagi, kafe juga disediakan untuk penghuni dan orang ramai menjamu selera dengan kelengkapan surau untuk solat. Selain itu, kata Mohd. Yusri, Putra Putri Lodge menawarkan penyewaan dewan untuk penganjuran acara dengan bayaran berpatutan. "Kadar sewa dewan adalah RM250 sehari dengan peralatan siar raya atau sistem PA atau separuh harga untuk sewa setengah hari," katanya.

Putra Putri Lodge turut menyediakan perkhidmatan katering kepada sesiapa sahaja yang mahu mengadakan jamuan atau kenduri di dewan berkenaan.

Ditanya mengenai keistimewaannya berbanding hotel atau tempat penginapan lain, Mohd. Yusri memberitahu, Putra Putri Lodge lebih memahami situasi pelanggan khususnya jika terdapat lebihan pelanggan. "Jika agak ramai atau terdapat sedikit tambahan penghuni yang menyewa tempat kami, beritahu sahaja, kami benarkan. "Malah, kami boleh sediakan tilam, bantal atau selimut tambahan tetapi akan dikenakan sedikit caj," katanya.

Di samping itu, kata beliau, kedudukannya cukup strategik kerana berdekatan dengan bandar utama iaitu cuma satu kilometer ke Kangar dan tujuh kilometer ke Bandar Diraja Arau serta tidak berapa jauh ke Padang Besar, hanya 30 kilometer. "Setakat ini, sambutan cukup menggalakkan daripada orang perseorangan, pihak sekolah, agensi kerajaan dan swasta, malah pada musim cuti, kesemua unit penuh ditempah.

"Bagi yang inginkan ketenangan, Putra Putri Lodge cukup sesuai kerana kami mengekalkan landskap asal dengan hanya mengubah sedikit struktur bangunan lama berusia 35 tahun," kata Mohd. Yusri.
-utusan online.

Resort World Sdn Bhd

Background
Resorts World Sdn Bhd, a private company limited by shares (Co. number 58019-U), was incorporated on 7 May 1980 under the Companies Act 1965. Upon conversion into a public company in 1989, its name was changed to Resorts World Bhd (1989 - 2009), and subsequently Genting Malaysia Berhad (“Genting Malaysia”).

In 1989, Genting Berhad and Genting Malaysia underwent a restructuring exercise, which resulted in Genting Malaysia acquiring from Genting Berhad its entire gaming, hotel and resort-related operations, inclusive of goodwill and other relevant assets. GENM’s shares have been traded on the Main Market of Bursa Malaysia since its listing on 22 December 1989.

Malaysia
Genting Malaysia has been principally involved in the leisure and hospitality business covering theme parks, gaming, hotels, seaside resorts and entertainment for over 45 years. Its loyalty card programme (“Genting Rewards Card” formerly “Genting WorldCard”) in Malaysia has to-date garnered a following of over 3.5 million members. Resorts World Genting, a premier integrated family leisure and entertainment resort sited at the peak of Genting Highlands, has consistently recorded over 20 million visitations annually in the last two years and is a major tourist destination of choice in Malaysia.Resorts World Genting offers 6 hotels, 200 dining and retail outlets, mega shows, business convention facilities, 40 fun rides and endless entertainment. The hotels at Resorts World Genting are Genting Grand, Maxims, Theme Park Hotel, Resort Hotel, Awana Hotel and First World Hotel – one of the world’s largest hotels. Genting Malaysia also owns two beautiful seaside properties, namely Resorts World Kijal in Terengganu and Resorts World Langkawi in Langkawi. Collectively, our properties¹ in Malaysia offer over 9,000 rooms.

International
In the United States, Resorts World Casino New York City (“RWNYC”) marked its debut in October 2011, featuring approximately 5,000 electronic gaming machines - over 4,100 slot machines and 900 state-of-the-art electronic table games (ETGs). RWNYC achieved several milestones - its daily revenue per machine was consistently above that of the statewide and industry averages. In addition, the resort continues to gain visibility and patronage in the competitive northeast US gaming market with more than 10 million visitations in 2012. Apart from its gaming facilities, RWNYC also offers premier dining and entertainment facilities, which include 18 dining outlets and 4 VIP/private lounges.

The Group owns a contiguous 30-acre prime freehold waterfront site overlooking Biscayne Bay in downtown Miami, Florida, USA. The site includes the Omni Center and the Miami Herald building, which consists of retail space, office space and a 527-room Hilton Hotel. Comprehensive planning for the mixed use development of Resorts World Miami is in progress, and will feature hotel, dining, entertainment, retail and commercial facilities.

Acquired by Genting Malaysia in October 2010, Genting UK is one of the leading casino operators in the United Kingdom and a leading innovator in the provision of high quality, customer focused gaming. Genting UK operates 6 casinos in London namely Crockfords, Maxims Casino Club, The Colony Club, The Palm Beach, London Mint and Genting Casino Chinatown (formerly Fox Poker Club); and an additional 35 regional casinos in the UK provinces under Genting Club and Genting Casino brands. These casinos offer memorable experiences with various slots and table games in addition to restaurants, bars and other entertainments.

In June 2011, the Group was awarded a large casino licence to develop a leisure and entertainment complex at the National Exhibition Centre (“NEC”) in Birmingham, England. The ground-breaking ceremony on 4 February 2013 officially commenced the development of Resorts World Birmingham and is scheduled to open in mid-2015. Resorts World Birmingham will bring unique new offerings to the NEC featuring a casino, hotel, a spa, conference and banqueting centre, a multi screen cinema, a wide range of food and beverage outlets and an outlet centre.

The Group launched its latest addition to the Resorts World brand, Resorts World Bimini in the Bahamas on 1 July 2013. The project is a partnership with RAV Bahamas Ltd, the resort owner. Resorts World Bimini, a 750-acre beachfront resort property on North Bimini Island, contains a casino, villas, other accommodations, shopping and dining options such as restaurants and bars, resort amenities and the largest marina in the Bahamas. The Group also concurrently launched its brand new Bimini SuperFast, a 32,000-ton cruise ship that will sail between Miami and Bimini twice daily.

Others 
Genting Malaysia has an equity investment of 18.4% in Genting Hong Kong Ltd, which has core businesses in both land and sea-based businesses as such Star Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Lines² and Resorts World Manila³.

Accolades
Resorts World Genting was voted the World's Leading Casino Resort (2005, 2007 to 2010) and Asia's Leading Casino Resort from 2005 to 2010 by World Travel Awards. Resorts World Genting also won various culinary awards at the recent Malaysia International Gourmet Festival 2012 and Hospitality Asia Platinum Awards (HAPA) 2011 - 2013 Regional Series.

 Notes:
1. Following a rebranding exercise, the hotels had been renamed as follows:
   i) Maxims Genting as Genting Grand
   ii) Highlands Hotel as Maxims
   iii) Awana Genting Highlands Golf and Country Resort as Awana Hotel
   iv) Awana Kijal Golf, Beach & Spa Resort as Resorts World Kijal
   v) Awana Porto Malai as Resorts World Langkawi

2. Genting Hong Kong currently holds a 43.4% stake in NCL Holding

3. A joint partnership with Alliance Global Group under Travellers International

Genting Malaysia's registered office:
24th Floor, Wisma Genting, Jalan Sultan Ismail, 50250 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

-http://www.gentingmalaysia.com/

World's biggest vending machine

Jack Brockbank handing the Guinness World Records certificate for the world’s largest capsule vending machine to Koh Huey Min (right) and appointed surveyor Wong Chee Sing. Pic by Salhani Ibrahim

GUINNESS RECORD: The machine which is 9.83m high and weighs about 3,500kg took more than six months to make

KUALA LUMPUR: The vending machine which ejects a capsule containing  a toy when  a token is inserted has been immortalised at Berjaya Times Square. The mall recently unveiled an oversized vending machine at its 10th anniversary celebrations.

Inspired to bring the past to the present, BTS had decided that the best way to do so was to help shoppers recall their youth with a huge vending machine. The idea came from the management team. The machine which is 9.83m high and weighs about 3,500kg was crafted over six months.

Guinness World Records official adjudicator Jack Brockbank verified that it was the world's largest vending machine. Brockbank presented the Guinness World Records certificate for the world's largest capsule vending machine to Berjaya Times Square executive director Koh Huey Min.

"We are happy to see the look on shoppers' face and their expressions when they see the machine. "They really like the concept as they can relate it to their past," said Koh, adding that the machine cost about RM200,000.

The first 150 shoppers can try their luck with the machine until Sept 28. There are two daily redemption sessions -- at noon for the first 80 shoppers and 5pm for the first 70 shoppers. Customers have to make purchases worth a minimum of RM50 in a single receipt to redeem a token at the information counter.

There are 125,000 capsules in the machine with rewards worth more than RM500,000. The prizes include 42" LED TV, iPad minis, Polaroid cameras, digital cameras, spa packages and tickets to Berjaya Times Square Theme Park. After Sept 28, the machine will be on display for one year.

-nst online.

Genting investing RM400m to build 20th Century Fox theme park

KUALA LUMPUR: The Genting Group is investing RM400mil to build a 20th Century Fox theme park, featuring 25 movie-based rides and attractions, that will open in 2016.

Genting Malaysia Berhad chairman Tan Sri Lim Kok Thay said the partnership with 20th Century Fox would make Resorts World Genting one of the world’s top holiday destinations.

He said the investment on the theme park was part of a RM3bil Resort World Genting refurbishment programme, which includes the construction of an additional 1,300 hotel rooms adjoining the First World Hotel.

Jeffrey Godsick, consumer products president of 20th Century Fox, said: “This theme park marks the launch of our global location based entertainment strategy.”

Genting will close its present outdoor theme park on Sept 1 this year for the construction of the new theme park. Last year, Resorts World Genting received about 20.5 million visitors, and the number is expected to rise in 2016 when the new theme park – with rides and attractions based on movies like Ice Age, Life of Pie, Alien, Predator and Night At The Museum – is opened.

Genting expects minimal impact on its business from the temporary closure.

The memorandum of agreement was signed today between Godsick and Datuk Lee Chong Yan, chief operating officer of Genting Malaysia.

-thestar online.

World Tourism Conference heads to Malacca this October

The Ministry of Tourism and Culture Malaysia, United Nations World Tourism Organization and Malacca state government will organise the World Tourism Conference (WTC) at Hotel Equatorial Melaka from October 21 to 23.

Themed Global Tourism: Game Changers and Pace Setters, WTC is expected to bring together world leaders in tourism, high-level policymakers, specialists and experts from public and private sectors to share experiences, propose valuable ideas and provide guidance for tourism development.

Over the three-day conference, 10 specific and topical subjects under the umbrella of Beyond Mass Tourism, Innovative Marketing and Directions for Tourism Product will be presented by authoritative individuals such as Travel Google US’ Rob Torres, VisitBritain’s Christopher Rodrigues, Korea Tourism Organization’s Lee Charm, China National Tourism Administration’s Du Jiang, Air Asia X’s Azran Osman-Rani, Tourism Australia’s Andrew McEvoy.

Some 1,000 delegates are expected to attend WTC, according to Zarina Md Yusuf from the Ministry of Tourism and Culture Malaysia’s Strategic Planning and International Affairs Division.

-TTG Asia.

http://www.wtc2013malaysia.com/

Hong Kong love for Malaysia spikes with durian tours

Tourism Malaysia has found a way to the hearts of Hong Kong travellers through durian tour packages.

The 4D3N Deluxe Durian Tour Package jointly offered by Tourism Malaysia and EGL Tours Hong Kong has sold up to 800 packages, recording sales revenue of RM1.3 million (US$406,758) for 15 group departures to Penang scheduled in June and July.

The third year Tourism Malaysia has partnered EGL Tours to offer such tours, the package includes durian sampling and buffets, along with a tour of Penang’s popular heritage sites. Durian tours were first introduced in Hong Kong in 2011, when 340 of such packages were sold. In 2012, 700 packages were sold.

Baizuri Baharum, director, Malaysia Tourism Promotion Board (Hong Kong Office), said: “We've been promoting Malaysia through durian packages for the past three years, knowing how much (Hong Kong travellers) love good durians.

“This year’s durian tour promotion is extra special as it is also an opportunity to create awareness about the Visit Malaysia Year 2014 campaign. It’s a memorable way to remind the locals of Malaysia whenever they taste or smell the durian.”

-TTG Asia.

The roads that lead to the Terengganu of old

Kemasik Beach where it’s blue seas for miles around. - Photo from Tourism Malaysia

The deep seas off Terengganu may be rich in oil and gas reserves, making the east coast state among the region’s leaders in the oil, gas and petrochemical industry, but some argue that its real treasures are all found on the mainland.

With a documented history reaching as far back as the 2nd Century, Terengganu certainly has accumulated a wealth of heritage influenced by the Langkasuka and Srivijaya kingdoms it was part of, and the Majapahit, Khmer and Chinese empires it traded with. Despite modern developments, the old Terengganu still remains – and the best way to explore it? Via Federal Route 3 – approaching a hundred years old, but still one of Malaysia’s most scenic highways.

Having served for economic and political purposes in the past, it must be said that Route 3 today is best suited for more leisurely pursuits. The relatively flat and straight two-lane single carriageway road provides an easy, scenic drive.

Travelling northwards, the South China Sea with its glittering blue waves in the midday sun would be your constant companion – and distraction – on the east. Some sections of the highway run alongside lush pockets of mangrove forests along the coastal estuaries.

There’s no escaping the countryside charm of Terengganu, even as the bigger towns try to shed its pastoral image with concrete buildings and foreign franchise retailers. Fishing villages just on the outskirts of towns speak of the population’s time-honoured source of income; fishermen bring their boats ashore on public beaches; chickens and cows roam about freely along main thoroughfares; while many of the wooden homes here are still built on stilts in a compound of coconut trees.

Even the stretch of road from Kerteh to Paka – where Malaysia’s oil and gas refinery activities are based – makes for excellent night driving. As the sun sets, the huge complex of pipes, steel tanks, smoke stacks and gas flutes lights up spectacularly like a space station about to launch a rocket ship.

Chukai

A great way to get to know Terengganu is through its food and what better place to start than in Chukai (in the district of Kemaman), among the first towns you encounter along the Terengganu section of Route 3 northwards. Kim Wah (also known as Kin To Wah) Restaurant is a spartan corner establishment on Jalan Masjid with an even simpler menu, selling nothing else but chicken rice. It opens daily from 11am to 2.30pm, but its plates of roast chicken over rice with a side of soy sauce and chilli dip often run out by 1pm.

One of the enduring legacies of the Chinese community in Malaysia is the kopitiam. Usually established in smaller towns, but increasingly franchised in urban centres, these old-style cafés are famous for their Asian coffee (usually thicker and more bitter than its European version) and charcoal-toasted bread generously slathered with butter and kaya, a coconut cream-based jam. Kemaman’s very own – Hai Peng Kopitiam on Jalan Sulaimani – has been enjoying a good reputation since the 1930s. Besides the toast, their other speciality is the typical Terengganu dish nasi dagang – beautifully steamed rice with a serving of rich tuna curry wrapped in banana leaf parcels.

In the evenings, join the locals at Pantai Geliga beach for traditional east coast tea-time treats of satar (fish cakes wrapped in banana leaves, skewered in threes, and grilled over red-hot charcoal), keropok lekor (fish crackers) andsotong celup tepung (deep fried squid). Down it all with fresh coconut juice, served straight from the husk!

  

Making keropok lekor. - Photo from Tourism Malaysia

Kuala Dungun

About an hour’s drive north of Chukai is Kuala Dungun, a town that once enjoyed the wealth of its iron ore mining activities. Nothing much of its glorious past remains except for the nondescript concrete pillar in the sea that some say was part of the railway line that transported iron from Bukit Besi to Kuala Dungun. About 30 km inland, in Bukit Besi, are a few more of these legacies – the stockpile buildings, tunnels and chimneys used during the tin-mining days – left by the Japanese who first discovered the riches within the area.

Seemingly bereft of any tourist attractions, Kuala Dungun is an unlikely stop for those passing through Terengganu if not for Tanjong Jara Resort. Despite its modest kampung location, the resort, part of the luxury YTL property chain, has gained a worldwide reputation for its unique architecture and welcome.

Taking a cue from its east coast residents, Tanjong Jara Resort has adopted the spirit of gentle and humble Malay service and hospitality. Its “Unmistakably Malay” tagline is reflected throughout the resort – the Malay palace-like architecture, the local menu which features the region’s unique cuisine, and the age-old Malay treatments at its award-winning spa.

The district of Dungun, especially the beaches at Rantau Abang, used to be the calling place of giant leatherback turtles who return yearly to the beaches here to lay their eggs. In the 1970s, as many as 1,000 leatherback landings were reported but these nesting giants are a rare sight these days due to modern developments and human interference; however it is still possible to view green turtle landings in other parts of Dungun. Tanjong Jara Resort has a turtle watching programme exclusively for guests at Kerteh.

 

The beach near a village in Dungun. - Photo from Tourism Malaysia

The oil-refinery town of Terengganu may be an unlikely port of call for these nesting turtles, but the midnight trips arranged with the local fisheries department are highly recommended. Complement the experience beforehand with a trip to the Turtle Information Centre in Rantau Abang just 15 km north of Tanjong Jara Resort to learn about the miraculous journey made by these gentle marine creatures to nest and the subsequent fight for survival by their young hatchlings.

Kuala Terengganu

After the tranquil panoramas earlier, the bustle of capital city Kuala Terengganu takes a while to get used to. Pasar Payang is the central market where all manner of trade is conducted. It’s the place to get your fish and chicken, fruits and veggies, dried fish crackers, some fashionable wear, souvenirs, even your gold jewellery. It would almost be a sin to leave town without at least purchasing the signature east coast fabric, the batik, here. Or indulge in the Terengganu brocade – a textile of royal origins made using fine gold and silk threads.

The famous Pasar Payang is a must-go in Kuala Terengganu. - Photo from Tourism Malaysia

Spend a quick afternoon on the Terengganu River Cruise, from the Islamic Civilisation Park jetty, to learn about the history and development of the area. Then, hop over to Pulau Duyong to walk within the walls of an old fortress. Built in the 1920s, Kota Lama Duyong is a traditional Terengganu house with Greek Corinthian elements in its columns and Islamic influences in the decorative woodcarvings.

Penarik

Continue northwards from Kuala Terengganu and you will soon reach Penarik in the district of Setiu. This serene fishing village has a unique geographical landscape – a narrow isthmus of casuarinas and coconut groves flanked by the Setiu River on the west and the South China Sea on the east. It is the setting of Terrapuri Heritage Village, part conservation project, part boutique guest house, and on-going 20-year labour of love by local entrepreneur, Alex Lee, to preserve the authentic traditions of the Malay Terengganu house.

Here, guests are accommodated in hundred-year old dwellings, each one personally sourced by Lee from various parts of Terengganu, dismantled, carefully restored and assembled again on this piece of beach-front land in Kampung Mangkuk.

One of the beautiful traditional villas at Terrapuri Heritage Village, Kampung Mangkuk, Penarik. - Photo from Tourism Malaysia

Rich in history and displaying the refined carpentry and design skills of highly-respected master craftsmen, each of these 29 houses may be the last legacies of a fast-diminishing Terengganu culture and heritage. The hospitality by locals employed from nearby villages is genuine and unpretentious – at the end of your stay, you’ll be bidding goodbye to friends and family instead of service staff.

Beaches

With a coastline that runs for 244 km, Terengganu’s beaches are some of the best and prove to be a great distraction to those driving along Route 3. There’s no point resisting its allure; turn off from the main road anywhere and cherish the serendipitous discoveries not marked in any tourist map.

Teluk Bidara in Dungun is a bay near Tanjong Jara Resort where one can explore the cave and lighthouse on Tanjung Api Hill at low tide. Kuala Abang and Kemasik beaches have some interesting sea-side rock formations on which to perch and enjoy the miles of blue, while Penarik tears you in two with the river wetlands on one side and gorgeous beach on the other, and the shade of casuarinas and coconut palms in between the two.

The long Terengganu coastline may be inviting but beware of the strong under-currents in certain places. Instead, pull a chair beach-side and munch on keropok lekor as you take in the views of the nearby islands, listen to the waves breaking on the shore and fantasise of owning a beach-front property here.

Note:

The state of Terengganu observes Sunday to Thursday as working days while Friday and Saturday are public holidays. Banks, government offices and most businesses in Terengganu operate from Sunday to Thursday.

Also, it’s worth checking out the weather before going. Terengganu experiences heavier rainfall and flooding in certain areas during the monsoon season when the north-east winds blow between November and January. Although the perception is that it rains every day during this period, there are perfectly sunny days, too, in between wet spells. Still, trips to the islands are not advised during this period due to uncertain sea conditions. On the bright side, the monsoon season is considered low season, and travellers get better deals on hotels.

Driving tips:

Kuala Lumpur to Kuala Terengganu (approx. 455 km): Take the Karak Highway, then the East Coast Expressway, and exit at Jabor toll. Continue towards Kuala Terengganu on Federal Route 3 via Chukai town in Kemaman.

Singapore/Johor Bahru to Kuala Terengganu (approx. 562 km): Take Federal Route 3 to Kota Tinggi, Mersing, Kuala Rompin, Pekan, Kuantan and Kuala Terengganu.

Penang to Kuala Terengganu (approx. 460 km): Take Federal Route 4 via Grik to Jertih, then turn into Federal Route 3 to Kuala Terengganu.
– Tourism Malaysia/nst online.