Malaysia Registers 25.7 Million Tourists And RM65.44 Billion Tourist Receipts In 2013

photo: PelanconganKini

KUALA LUMPUR, 27 February 2014 – Malaysia’s tourism industry performed above expectations in 2013, with tourist receipts of RM65.44 billion exceeding the initial target of RM65 billion. The 8.1% growth from RM60.56 billion in 2012, represents an expansion of about RM4.89 billion in foreign exchange earnings.

Meanwhile, tourist arrivals also grew by 2.7% to 25.7 million (25,715,460) arrivals compared to 25.0 million (25,032,708) arrivals in 2012 despite a challenging year.

“We are pleased to achieve such a substantial growth in tourist receipts last year. This is in line with the broad objectives of the National Key Economic Areas (NKEA) and Malaysia Tourism Transformation Plan (MTTP) to increase yield per tourist. Last year, the average tourist spending per capita was RM2,544.90 per person compared to RM2,419.10 per person in 2012,” said the Minister of Tourism and Culture Malaysia Dato’ Seri Mohamed Nazri Abdul Aziz.    

He added that tourism was the sixth largest contributor to the economy moving up one spot compared to 2012. It contributed RM51.5 billion to Gross National Income (GNI) in 2013. 

He attributed the growth in tourist arrivals and spending to the Government’s focus on the initiatives under National Key Economic Area (NKEA) Tourism including the promotion of Malaysia as a duty-free and affordable luxury shopping destination, as well as the concerted efforts through the strategic public-private partnership to position and brand Malaysia as the top-of-mind destination for business and leisure.

The ASEAN market remains the largest contributor with 19.1 million arrivals, representing a 74.3% share of the overall tourist arrivals to Malaysia. The medium-haul market was the second largest market with 4.9 million arrivals followed by the long-haul market with 1.7 million arrivals. 

The top ten tourist generating markets from January to December 2013 were Singapore (13,178,774), Indonesia (2,548,021), China (1,791,432), Brunei (1,238,871), Thailand (1,156,452), India (650,989), the Philippines (557,147), Australia (526,342), Japan (513,076) and the United Kingdom (413,472).
 

Markets showing double digit growth in arrivals were mainly from the medium and long-haul countries with Turkish arrivals surging by 28.9% assisted by the seven weekly direct flights from Istanbul to Kuala Lumpur by Malaysia Airlines and Turkish Airlines, as well as the re-opening of Tourism Malaysia Office in Istanbul.

Other markets showing strong growth include China (14.9%) which benefited from the new six weekly direct AirAsia X flights from Shanghai to Kuala Lumpur and another seven weekly direct AirAsia X flights from Hangzhou to Kota Kinabalu. Swedish tourist arrivals saw an increase of 13.1% on the back of strong promotional efforts there, in addition to the thrice weekly flights from Stockholm to Istanbul and Kuala Lumpur by Turkish Airlines beginning April 2013, as well as the seven weekly Emirates flights from Stockholm to Dubai and Kuala Lumpur, which started last September.   

Double digit growth arrivals were also recorded for the following markets: Bangladesh (55.7%), Cambodia (28.6%), Iraq (27%), Egypt (25.3%), Russia (18.8%), Taiwan (18%), Ireland (13%), Vietnam (11.7%), Norway (11.6%), and Spain (10.9%).

Last year, tourist arrivals from the Iranian market registered a significant drop of 38.5% partly due to AirAsia X’s decision to suspend its services to Tehran beginning October 2012.

The ongoing political woes in Thailand throughout 2013 had also affected arrivals from the country, which showed a decline of 8.4%.
-Tourism Malaysia.

AirAsia Aims For Sales Of RM10 Million From Three-day Travel Fair

PETALING JAYA, Feb 28 (Bernama) -- AirAsia Bhd aims to rake in RM10 million in ticket sales from the three-day AirAsia Travel Fair 2014 from today until March 2.

Group Chief Executive Officer Tan Sri Tony Fernandes said he was also optimist over achieving even higher sales than what was targeted. The fair is the first of its kind to be organised by the low cost carrier.

"We are steadfast over maintaining our market share and remain the airline of choice when it comes to travel. This fair is one of the strategies towards providing additional access to our services and products.

"It also provides an opportunity to interact directly with current and prospective customers and get to know their expectations and opinions on our various products and services," he told reporters after launching the fair here, today. Fernandes also expects ticket sales from the fair to contribute positively to the group's earnings for the first quarter ending March 31, 2014.

Customers at the fair get a 20 per cent off seats booked on all flights for the duration of the travel fair for the travel period of March 1 until Sept, 30, 2014.
Fernandes also announced free travel flight insurance of up to RM15 on return flight for all nurses in Malaysia, effective today, and for a month.

Meanwhile, on the progress of the klia2, he said the airline is leaving the matter to the regulator to handle. "Even if the klia2 is delayed (the launch), I think it will not affect our business, as we have our own plans and will keep moving forward," he added.
-bernama.

Dragonair roars into Penang

photo: www.dragonair.com

Hong Kong-based Dragonair will launch its second route to Malaysia next month with the commencement of 10 weekly Penang flights.

The new Hong Kong-Penang service beginning March 30 will be operated with an Airbus A330-300 aircraft in a two-class configuration. Daily services on the route leave Penang at 07.45 to touch down at 11.35. They leave Hong Kong at 15.10, landing in Penang at 18.50.

Meanwhile flights on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays depart Penang at 12.55 and arrive at 16.45. Return services leave Hong Kong at 08.15 and reach Penang at 11.55.

Dragonair first launched flights to Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia in 1985. In conjunction with the new service, Dragonair has rolled out promotional fares on some of its other routes.

-TTG Asia.

Perfect Debut For Quintero And Team Colombia In Stage One Of LTDL 2014

LANGKAWI, Thursday - Duber Quintero not only made a perfect debut for his team and himself, but also bagged a significant piece of personal history with his first ever win as a professional when he launched a solo attack to win Stage One of Le Tour de Langkawi 2014 in Langkawi today.
 
The 23-year old Team Colombia rider was part of an early breakaway that saw four riders make it to the finish over a minute ahead of the peloton in what was the least expected outcome for the short 101.1km stage around Langkawi Island today.

Quintero was with United Healthcare's Jonathan Clarke, Synergy Baku's Irish champion Matt Brammeier and OCBC Singapore's Goh Choon Huat in the break that went away after just two kilometres Terengganu Cycling Team's Saiful Anuar Abdul Aziz was initially part of the breakaway, but dropped back with about 30km to go.

This eventually saw Quintero take both the yellow jersey for the general classification lead and the blue jersey as the points classification leader, while Brammeier took the red jersey as the mountains classification leader. 

Goh, 24, became the first ever Singaporean to lead a classification in LTdL when he finished fourth to assume the lead in the Asian riders' classification.

Quintero said he had decided to make the solo attempt in the final kilometre of the stage, and that saw Brammeier trailing to finish second, 22 seconds adrift of the young Colombian, while Clarke finished third. The main peloton finished one minute and 37 second behind the leading quartet with Andrea Guardini of Astana beating Anuar Manan of Terengganu Cycling Team in the bunch sprint for fifth spot.

"This is my second year as a professional. I only turned pro last year and this is my first victory as a professional, so this makes this race even more memorable for me already," said Quintero. "I have heard about this race before but this is my first time here and from the moment I arrived I have liked this place. I like the people, they are very friendly and the temperature is exactly like where I come from, so I wouldn't mind coming back here for a holiday.

"My style of riding is usually to go on a lot of attacks, but I have not tasted victory until today. We were quite strong in the breakaway and we could keep up the pace and built a decent gap. With one kilometre to go, I felt that I had enough energy to have a go and I decided to try and I managed to drop the others and go for the win.

"I am usually a rider for the flat stages, but we have come here with a strong team and our target is definitely the overall title. We will see how it goes, maybe I can climb to try and defend the jersey when we get to the mountain."
Brammeier was going strong in the early part of the race, when he swept both categorised climbs to take the mountains jersey but suffered a bit of cramps towards the end of the stage.

"I have always struggled with cramps and today towards the end I was feeling it a little, but I tried my best not to show the others. I'm still glad that I got this jersey and we'll try our best to keep it," said Brammeier.

Goh said he now aims to finish on the podium after claiming his bit of personal history. "I'm happy with my performance today, especially racing with the big boys and to get the jersey. Personally I feel my form is quite good, so I will try to finish on the podium," said Goh.

Stage Two of LTdL 2014 will cover 134.5km from Sungai Petani to Taiping, with another flat stage providing an opportunity for a bunch sprint again.
-www.ltdl.com.my

Top 10 Tourist Arrivals To Malaysia - January~December 2013 (By Nationality)

1. Singapore 13,178,774

2. Indonesia 2,548,021

3. China 1,791,423

4. Brunei 1,238,871

5. Thailand 1,156,452

6. India 650,989

7. Philippines 557,147

8. Australia 526,342

9. Japan 513,076

10. United Kingdom 413,472

Total worldwide arrivals 25,715,460 (+2.7%)

-Tourism Malaysia.

Malaysia Received 25.7 Million Tourists Last Year

photo: PelanconganKini

KUALA LUMPUR , Feb 27 ( Bernama ) - Malaysia received 25.7 million tourists who spent RM65.44 billion last year.

Tourism and Culture Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Nazri Aziz the tourist spending was an improvement form the RM60.56 billion in 2012. "It is an increase of RM4.89 billion or 8.1 percent," he said at the opening ceremony of National Craft Day 2014, here Thursday.

National Craft Day 2014 was launched by the Prime Minister's wife, Datin Seri Rosmah Mansor. Shopping was one of the largest components of tourism, comprising 30.2 percent of total expenditure by tourists last year.

"This impressive achievement is consistent with the objective of the National Key Economic Areas (NKEAs) and Malaysian Tourism Transformation Plan to increase tourist spending."

Nazri said the tourism sector became the sixth largest contributor to the gross national income last year at RM51.5 billion. Factors that contributed to the increased number of tourists include the promotion of Malaysia as a duty free country and a shoppers paradise.

Singapore provided the largest number of tourists with 13.1 million followed by Indonesia (2.5 mln), China (1.7 mln) Brunei (1.2 mln) and Thailand (1.1 mln).
Malaysia hopes to draw 28 million tourists with RM76 billion spending during Visit Malaysia Year 2014.
-bernama.

RM25 Million Sale Expected From National Handicraft Day 2014

photo: http://hkk.kraftangan.gov.my/

KUALA LUMPUR, Feb 27 (Bernama) - The Malaysian Handicraft Development Corporation is targeting sale of RM25 million from National Craft Day 2014.

Tourism and Culture Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Nazri Aziz said this is based on the RM24.2 million sale registered during last year's event. "Of the RM24.2 million sale, forest and textile were the top contributor with RM10.5 million followed by metal (RM1.12 mln), assorted craft (RM1.7 mln)and earthenware (RM400,000)," he said at the opening of National Craft Day 2014, here Thursday.

National Craft Day 2014 from Feb 26-March 10 was launched by the Prime Minister's wife, Datin Seri Rosmah Mansor. Held at Kompleks Kraf Kuala Lumpur, Jalan Conlay, it is participated by 500 craft producers including from India, Ireland, Hong Kong, Hungary, Poland, Saudi Arabia and United Kingdom.

Meanwhile, Rosmah in her speech said batik manufacturers should diversify the designs of their products so that they can infiltrate the international market. "The Malaysian Handicraft Development Corporation should seek advice from innovative designers from within and outside the country to produce batik designs that can compete in the international market."

At the annual event, Rosmah also presented 'Anugerah Tukang Ulung' awards to 10 outstanding craftsmen in the country.
-bernama.

Attractive Malaysia Airlines’ Deals Not to Be Missed

Subang, 26 February 2014: Malaysia Airlines is offering attractive fares and packages in line with the upcoming of the nation’s biggest Travel Fair coming up in March.

The five-day sale that started on this Monday, 24 February 2014, ends on Friday 28 February 2014. Bookings made are for the travel period 28 February until 31 May 2014. Malaysia Airlines Regional Senior Vice President Malaysia, Dato’ Muzammil Mohamad said, “Book these great fares now and travel immediately!”

“Malaysia Airlines is always committed towards providing a great travel deal while offering the MAS brand and hospitality experience to our customers. The five-days travel deal provides an opportunity for travellers to explore some of our best destinations, along with the five-star service travelling experience onboard Malaysia Airlines, at no additional or hidden cost.”

Customers can travel on Economy Class to ASEAN destinations from as low as RM169 all-in return. Meanwhile, the Economy Class to Taipei, Shanghai and Beijing starts from only RM999. All-in return fares to explore South Asia such as Kochi starts from RM809, Mumbai from RM1130 and also Kathmandu starts from only RM1199.

Australia has been a favourite for many travellers. Customers can now fly from Kuala Lumpur to Sydney, Melbourne, Perth and Darwin on Economy Class starting from as low as RM1099 all-inclusive return fare. These fares are inclusive of airport taxes, surcharges, 30 kg check-in baggage allowance and one-piece cabin baggage allowance of up to 7kg. Business Class travels are also available during the sale. 

Malaysia Airlines' tour arm, Golden Holidays, is also offering some attractive packages - four nights Beijing Tour package from RM2071, four nights Darwin with City Tour package from RM2589 and three nights Glimpses of Kathmandu package from RM2369. These packages include Economy Class ticket, airport-hotel transfers, daily breakfast and tours as per itinerary. 

Hurry and grab the deals at all distribution channels mainly www.malaysiaairlines.com, Malaysia Airlines call-centre at 1 300 88 3000, Malaysia Airlines ticket offices and appointed agents. For Golden Holidays packages, customers are welcome to log on to holidays.malaysiaairlines.com or call 603 7863 4000 for more info. 

-Malaysia Airlines.

Putrajaya International Convention Centre aims higher

The management of Putrajaya International Convention Centre, a 25-30 minutes drive from Kuala Lumpur International Airport, is actively seeking more international corporate business and aims to turn the centre into a renowned venue for international congresses, conferences and meetings.

The centre’s CEO, Badlishah Ahmad, said key international target markets are Greater China, regional markets, Europe and the US, and to achieve global reach PICC will join the Malaysia Convention & Exhibition Bureau in its overseas trade show participation.

Badlishah said China is on PICC’s radar due to good air connectivity and friendly bilateral relations between the two governments, which will result in government-led events.

He added: “With Putrajaya being the administrative capital of the nation and PICC’s convenient location, the centre will be a natural choice for meetings, conferences and congresses. “We can comfortably accommodate mega events of up to 8,000 delegates. We are the biggest conference and congress facility in the country and the only facility with a Head of State room for 180 pax.”

So far, the centre has secured one event from China this year. The International Chinese Film Festival, to be held from May 5 to 8, is expected to attract more than 2,000 delegates from China, said Badlishah.

To capture more business from China, the centre will work closely with event specialists strong in the market. Badlishah added: “We are not just a venue provider, we can also assist with arrangements within Putrajaya for tours, transportation, hotels and entrance fees. We act as a one-stop centre.”

-TTG Asia.

Sabah Tourism Board To Introduce 'Zip Lining' At Sabah Parks

KOTA KINABALU, Feb 26 (Bernama) -- The Sabah Tourism Board (STB) would be introducing 'zip lining' at Sabah Parks in a bid to attract more tourists inclined towards extreme and recreational sports.

Sabah Parks Board of Trustees chairman Datuk Seri Tengku Dr Zainal Adlin Tengku Mahamood said the 200-metre adventure product which was nearing completion, would allow enthusiasts to zip line the stretch of sea between Pulau Gaya and Pulau Sapi.

"We are constantly finding ways to upgrade Sabah Parks through the relevant agencies and planning strategies to enhance safety aspects and cleanliness of the islands," he told a press conference after opening the two-day Pulau Gaya Scientific Seminar 2014 here Wednesday.

Earlier in his speech, he described the seminar as a platform for the various agencies involved in the scientific expedition at Pulau Gaya last year, to share their findings towards a more holistic management of the parks.
-bernama.

Langkawi Listed In 2014 10 Best Islands In Asia By Tripadvisor Travellers' Choice

photo: PelanconganKini

KUALA LUMPUR, Feb 26 (Bernama) -- Langkawi, located in the northwestern part of Peninsular Malaysia, has been listed among the ten best islands in Asia in 2014 Tripadvisor Travellers' choice.

The award, which was published on their website recently, ranked the tropical island tenth best in Asia. Palawan in the Philippines and Koh Samui in Thailand were listed at eighth and ninth best respectively. Topping the chart was Ko Tao in Surat Thani province in Thailand, which was also ranked 2014 tenth best island in the world.

Langkawi, which officially known as the Jewel of Kedah, is part of an archipelago of 104 islands in the Andaman Sea, some 30 km off the mainland coast of northwestern Malaysia.

It claims romantic white-sandy beaches, forested hills, waterfalls and crystal-clear waters. It was given a World Geopark status by UNESCO in 2007. Tourists coming to the island can travel either by sea or air.

The island which is also known mysteriously as 'Legendary island' was named second in 2013 Tripadvisor Travellers' choice of ten best destinations in Malaysia. For the complete list of Tripadvisor Travellers' Choice winners, please visit http://www.tripadvisor.com/TravelersChoice.
-bernama.

Malaysia – Convention & Culture Partner At ITB Berlin To Promote VMY 2014

PUTRAJAYA, 24 FEBRUARY 2014: Tourism Malaysia is embarking on a 12-day Visit Malaysia Year (VMY) 2014 sales mission to the major European cities of Amsterdam, Paris, Milan and Berlin beginning today, 24 February. 

The programme includes the VMY 2014 Travel Mart & Seminar followed by a reception, the VMY 2014 Evening to local tour operators, retail agents, media and invited guests in Amsterdam on 25 February, Paris on 27 February and Milan on 3 March.

In Germany, the Minister of Tourism and Culture, YB Dato’ Seri Mohamed Nazri Abdul Aziz will lead the Malaysia delegation to participate in Europe’s largest and most prominent tourism fair, International Tourismus Borse (ITB) Berlin 2014. This year, Malaysia is the Convention and Culture Partner for ITB Convention, which is part of the ITB Berlin event.

The Malaysian delegation to ITB comprises a total of 120 participants from 59 organisations representing the local travel trade. This year’s delegation will have an extensive representation from state tourism bodies, cultural performers and handicraft demonstrators.

Dato’ Seri Mohamed Nazri will officially declare open the Malaysia Pavilion at ITB Berlin on 5 March. He will also host the VMY 2014 Evening reception in Berlin showcasing the best of Malaysian culture, cuisine and performances to European media, tour operators and guests.

“Our participation in ITB Berlin this year is especially meaningful as it is to promote Visit Malaysia Year 2014. As such, we are proud to be the Convention and Culture Partner for ITB Convention 2014. It is a great honour to be a co-host for this event and we are extremely excited to have this highly visible platform to showcase the diversity of Malaysian culture through our cultural dance troupe, artisans and handicraft demonstrators,” said Dato’ Seri Mohamed Nazri.

“With VMY 2014 offering several attractive and affordable packages throughout the year and an increase in flights to Malaysia, we can expect even more European arrivals to the country,” he added.

To date a total of 418 VMY 2014 packages worth €56 million have been developed and sold by Tourism Malaysia and its partners in Europe. 

The ITB Berlin 2013 attracted participation of 100,000 tourism exhibitors drawing in crowds of over 300,000 buyers and visitors. Malaysia has been actively participating in the ITB Berlin over the last 40 years since 1974. 
-Tourism Malaysia.

Nazri Calls On Local Companies To Sponsor International Events, Penetrate Global Market

photo: MOTAC facebook

SEPANG, Feb 25 (Bernama) -- Local companies are encouraged to be bold in sponsoring international events that can boost their image and competitiveness, while at the same time, introducing more Malaysian brands in the global arena.

Tourism and Culture Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Nazri Abdul Aziz said Bumiputera companies in particular should also look into the move as it was one of the best opportunities to market their products and generate more income.

"The government wants to see more wholly-owned local companies to prove their capabilities to compete at the international level, while at the same time helping the government in ensuring success for the Visit Malaysia Year (VMY) 2014," he said when launching the Drive M7 Aspar Team here Tuesday.

The launch also saw a Bumiputera company, Drive M7 Sdn Bhd, became the main sponsor for the Spain-based team, which will promote Malaysia's name at 19 MotoGP circuits worldwide for the next three years.

Also present were team president, Jorge Martinez, Drive M7 executive chairman Datuk Ahmad Kemin and Sepang International Circuit (SIC) chief executive officer Datuk Razlan Razali.

The Drive M7 Aspar Team features the combination of 2006 MotoGP champion Nicky Hayden from the United States and 2009 250cc champion Hiroshi Aoyama from Japan, using the new Honda RCV1000R, for this year's race. However, the amount of investment made by the company to sponsor the team was not disclosed.

Meanwhile, Razlan said the organising of the motoring events in the country could help enliven the VMY because based on the study made by the SIC in 2011, the organising of Formula One (F1) championship had brought in RM210 million, mostly from foreign tourists came to watch the race and spent approximately RM7,000 each within their three- to five-day stay in the country.
"For the 2012 MotoGP event, it was estimated that over 100,000 foreign tourists came and spent RM6,000 each," he added.
-bernama.

Upgraded services at MATTA Fair

Travel options: (From left) Tourism Malaysia domestic marketing division director Datuk Musa Yusof, Cheah and KTMB senior marketing manager Noordin Kimi sharing notes after a joint press conference announcing the fair.

KUALA LUMPUR: Visitors can expect a more comfortable experience browsing through travel packages at the Malaysian Association of Tour & Travel Agents (MATTA) Fair this March.

MATTA Fair March 2014 chairman Judy Cheah said exhibitors would be occupying almost 24,000 sq metres of space, adding that 1,058 booths had been snapped up. “This year, we have a smaller number of halls and fewer floors. A smaller size will create ambience and wider walkways for visitors,” she said at a press conference with MATTA Fair partners Tourism Malaysia and KTM Berhad here yesterday.

The highly popular fair saw its largest exhibition in its 23-year history with 1,269 booths available last year.

With the theme “It’s About Quality, Not Quantity”, Cheah said MATTA was being selective over the exhibitors. “These (exhibitors) are people who have better products. The packages won’t compromise on quality,” she said.

To further enhance visitor experience, Cheah said MATTA was currently training marshals to be placed throughout the fair as an added convenience. “Visitors can approach the marshals if they have questions or need directions,” she said.

Cheah also advised travellers to properly look through potential packages. “If you do not understand the package or their contents, find the booth of the national tourism organisation of the country you wish to visit and double check. “Get educated. Take advantage of the national tourism organisations,” she said.

MATTA Fair will be held at Halls 1, 2 and 3, Hall 1M and Linkway of the Putra World Trade Centre from March 14 to 16. Entrance fee is RM4 and tickets can also be pre-purchased at www.mattafair.org.my.

-thestar online.

'Model Village' Kampung Bukit Wan To Boost Tourism In Terengganu

KUALA TERENGGANU, Feb 25 (Bernama) -- Kampung Bukit Wan near Batu Rakit here has been selected as a model village and a preferred tourist destination.

Through the Visit My Village Programme (VMK 2014) organised by the Ministry of Tourism and Culture Terengganu Office, tourists will be exposed to the experience of holidaying in a village.

Its director, Mohd Sabri Zakaria said for the successful implementation of the VMK, they would work together with the Ministry of Rural and Regional Development to identify other villages in the area that meet tourism requirements to become additional VMK destinations in Terengganu.

"Kampung Bukit Wan was chosen because it still retains the concept of the traditional Malay heritage village and it has also won the Excellent Village Award for the year 2012 as well as several cleanliness awards at district and state levels.

"Strong commitment from the villagers in participating in all the village activities including in the gotong-royong to clean up the village, creating beautiful landscapes and programmes organised by the state government to make Kampung Bukit Wan a model village is also a reason for it being selected in VMK 2014," he told reporters following the launch of the VMK 2014 by Batu Rakit assemblyman Bazlan Abdul Rahman.
-bernama.

Visit Malaysia Year 2014 Takes To The Skies With Firefly

KOTA BHARU, KELANTAN, 24 FEB 2014: Tourism Malaysia and Firefly have partnered to promote Visit Malaysia Year (VMY) 2014 to the region with a new livery advertising campaign launched by Minister of Tourism and Culture of Malaysia YB Dato’ Seri Mohamed Nazri Tan Sri Abdul Aziz today in Kota Bharu.

The Minister of Tourism and Culture said, “We are pleased to work together with Firefly on the campaign which is expected to provide great visibility of VMY 2014 and promote Malaysia to the domestic and ASEAN market.” The year-long advertising campaign involves the showcase of VMY logo together with the “Celebrating 1Malaysia Truly Asia” theme on the body of 12 Firefly ATR 72-600 aircrafts. 

Meanwhile, the interior of the aircrafts have been painted with visuals of Malaysia’s tourist attractions such as food and culture, beaches and ecotourism destinations.

The VMY logo is also featured on the front and back panels of the aircrafts’ interior, while the Tourism Malaysia Calendar of Events brochure are inserted in the pocket of seats for passengers’ reading pleasure.

Firefly flies as many as 126,000 passengers a month and the advertising campaign is expected to reach as many as 1.5 million passengers a year throughout Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand and Indonesia.

Firefly CEO Ignatius Ong said, “We are pleased to be part of another milestone in the tourism industry, specifically with regards to Visit Malaysia Year 2014. Firefly serves a specialised market, meeting local and international tourists’ travel needs in terms of connectivity and affordable transportation. With the launch of Visit Malaysia Year 2014 aircraft livery on our turboprops, we trust that it will certainly help fulfil the government’s agenda to stimulate growth in tourist visits through tourism”.

The VMY 2014 advertising campaign with Firefly is one of the government’s efforts to promote Malaysia as a tourist destination in line with the Malaysia Tourism Transformation Plan which targets 36 million tourist arrivals and RM168 billion receipts by year 2020.
-Tourism Malaysia.

Kementerian Pelancongan taja jersi Kelantan

photo: TRWFC's facebook

KUALA LUMPUR 23 Feb. - Kementerian Pelancongan dan Kebudayaan akan menaja pasukan bola sepak Kelantan, The Red Warriors (TRW) sebanyak RM1 juta sepanjang tahun ini.

Menterinya, Datuk Seri Mohamed Nazri Abdul Aziz berkata, melalui penajaan itu, TRW akan membawa jenama 'Visit Malaysia' pada jersi pasukan dalam setiap perlawanan Piala Konfederasi Bola Sepak Asia (AFC Cup) yang dihadapi musim ini.

Menurut beliau, langkah itu menjadikan TRW sebagai salah satu ejen mempromosi Malaysia di luar negara sepannjang Tahun Melawat Malaysia 2014 (TMM2014).
-utusan online.

Mysterious Festival @ MIECC Mines Resort City ( 26 April 2014 ) - Update

For more details visit our website at: www.mysterious.my and our Facebook page at: www.facebook.com/mysteriousfest.

Or

For more details visit TicketCharge at: www.ticketcharge.com.my and Hotline Number +603 9222 8811

-www.ticketcharge.com.my

Malaysia, A Top Destination For Uzbeks

KUALA LUMPUR, Feb 23 (Bernama) -- More tourists from Uzbekistan have placed Malaysia as one of their favourite destinations due to the tourist-friendly facilities available and unique cuisine, said Islamic Tourism Centre (ITC) director-general Zulkifly Md Said.

He said that Uzbeks also find Malaysia a Muslim-friendly destination, which practiced moderation, and this has provided a big advantage to Malaysia as a majority of the people in Uzbekistan are Muslims.

"They feel safe, secure and they can freely enjoy their stay and travel throughout the country," Zulkifly told Bernama at the one-day Uzbekistan tourism road show held here, recently.

The road show, organised by the Uzbekistan embassy here, was aimed at creating awareness among Malaysians about Uzbekistan and participated by travel agents from Uzbekistan who offered flights and accommodation packages, while at the same time seeking cooperation from local travel agents.

Speaking during the road show, Zulkifly said that ITC, an agency under the Ministry of Tourism and Culture, welcomed any effort to work hand-in-hand with the Uzbek government in promoting tourism between the two countries.

Meanwhile, Uzbekistan's Ambassador to Malaysia, Shukor Sabitov, said that the strong ties between the two countries was reflected by the increasing number of Uzbeks visiting Malaysia and Malaysians visiting Uzbekistan, pointing out that more than 2,000 Malaysians visited Uzbekistan last year, while about 11,000 Uzbeks visited Malaysia.

"This shows that despite the travel industry in our country being rather young, it has now become one of the most rapidly growing businesses, supported by the good bilateral relations and the 22 years of diplomatic relations with Malaysia," he told Bernama.

He said that the road show was a good platform to introduce Uzbekistan as a potential tourism destination as it is home to more than 4,000 historical-architectural monument and sites, with many having been included in the UNESCO World Heritage list and under the protection of the world community.

Sabitov also noted that in 2013, Uzbekistan's inbound tourism grew by 16 per cent and more than two million international tourists visited the country.

Meanwhile, newly appointed general manager of Sheraton Imperial Kuala Lumpur, Stephan Sieberg, said that Malaysia's diverse tourist attractions such as the beaches, islands and vibrant cities, was a plus factor for the country.

"It is a good thing that Malaysia has a lot of diversity within the country, ranging from the beaches, islands and vibrant cities," he said, when asked to comment on the Visit Malaysia Year (VMY) 2014 campaign. "There is a great variety in this VMY. I am fully convinced that the VMY campaign will drive a lot of attention," he said at an afternoon tea session with reporters recently.

He said that one other plus point for Malaysia was its "healthy growth" over the last few years, pointing out that the economic growth projection of between 5.0 to 5.5 per cent this year showed that Malaysia has a "healthy economy."

However, he also feels that in order to attract more tourists to Malaysia during the campaign, there should be common efforts in order to create demand and expectation. He said that all the cities in Malaysia and not only Kuala Lumpur should participated is such efforts to ensure the success of the campaign.

To create awareness on what Malaysia can offer to tourists, a good amount of homework and research should also be done on "what you want to present to the world," he said.
-bernama.

Johor launches 19th World Kite Festival

JOHOR BARU: Johor Ruler Sultan Ibrahim Ibni Almarhum Sultan Iskandar officially launched the 19th World Kite Festival in Pasit Gudang here on Saturday.

The annual kiting event saw more than 1,000 local and international participants from 40 countries this year.

The event, themed Wind Garden, was not affected by the heat as kite enthusiasts showcased colourful and eye-catching traditional and modern kites that are unique to their respective culture. The five-day event kicked off on Feb 19 and ends on Sunday.

-thestra online.

Malaysia Confident Of Achieving 28 Million Tourist Arrivals In 2014 - Mohamed Nazri

PADANG RENGAS, Feb 22 (Bernama) -- Malaysia is confident of achieving the target of getting 28 million tourists this year with various programmes being made in conjunction with Visit Malaysia Year 2014, Tourism and Culture Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Nazri Abdul Aziz said.

Last year, he said, there was an increase of 700,000 tourist arrivals in the country, adding that this was despite the country having its general election and for a certain period, shrouded in haze.

"I have yet to receive the actual figure in tourist arrivals, but there is an increase,' he told reporters after opening the Kampung Chuar bridge here, Saturday.

Mohamed Nazri said he was informed by hotel owners that 90 per cent of their hotel rooms had been booked. Hence, he called on all quarters, including the state governments to extend the necessary cooperation to ensure success of Visit Malaysia Year.
-bernama.

Freeport A'Famosa Outlet Village Eyes 3 Million Visitors By End-2015

www.freeportretail.com

Melaka, Feb 21 (Bernama) -- Freeport A'Famosa Outlet Village, scheduled to be opened in April next year, has targeted three million visitors by end-2015, driven by its strategic location.

The joint-venture project, with an investment cost of RM190 million, between A'Famosa Resort and Freeport Retail, a London-based developer of outlet centres in Europe, foresee the targeted numbers of visitors is achievable as its location is closer to the city centre as compared to other premium outlet in Malaysia. Freeport Retail Commercial Director Chris Milliken said the projected figure is also based on the visitors who came to visit Melaka last year.

Melaka received a total of 14.3 million visitors last year and the state government is aiming for 15 million visitors this year mainly from China, European countries and Middle Eastern countries.

He said, the outlet is a three-phase project that consist of 82 fashion boutiques in the first phase, second phase consist of 35 stores while the third phase comprise of about hundred stores. "We will commence the project today and the opening will take place in April next year. The first two phases will be open to public at the same time next year," he told a media conference after the A'Famosa Resort and Freeport Retail ground-breaking ceremony Friday.

Milliken also said the outlet sees a hundred per cent lease in the first phase due to the positive response from the international brands however only 10 per cent of the stores are local.

Commenting on the goods and services tax that would be implemented next year, Milliken said it would not give so much impact as European countries impose a higher sales tax to its citizen. "Like in the United Kingdom, the sales tax is 20 per cent and I do not see so much impact as the toll fees and fuel here is cheaper compared to the European countries," he added.

Meanwhile, Melaka State Exco of Higher Education, Science and Technology, Green Technology and Innovation Datuk Wira Md Yunos Husin said the new outlet will create more than 600 job opportunities in the state. "The opening of the new premium outlet will boost the state's economy and tourism as well as gives opportunities to the youth in Melaka in terms of jobs," he added.
-bernama.

Kite Festival Targets 500,000 Tourists

www.kitefestpasirgudang.com

JOHOR BAHARU, Feb 20 (Bernama) -- The five-day,19th Pasir Gudang World Kite Festival which began on Wednesday, is targeting 500,000 visitors.

According to state tourism, domestic trade and consumerism committee chairman Datuk Tee Siew Kiong, the figure was arrived at, based on the 300,000 visitors to the festival last year.

"We are confident of meeting the target of 500,000 local and foreign tourists to the biggest annual event, which is organised by the Pasir Gudang Municipal Council.

"This is because we are now promoting the 2014 Visit Malaysia Year and this is the best opportunity for tourists to come here," he said at a media conference after a survey at the festival in Johor Baharu, Thursday.

Tee expects 10 per cent of the tourists to comprise foreigners while the rest would be domestic tourists.

-bernama.

Malaysia’s Tourism Highlights – APRIL 2014

PUTRAJAYA, 20 April 2014 – April is a delightful month for music enthusiasts and water sport lovers as there will be a string of exciting events throughout the month ranging from drum performance and music festival to deep sea fishing and kayak challenge. Here are some highlights of the month:

KUANTAN MUSIC FESTIVAL 2014

A new musical event is making its debut in the East Coast of Malaysia! Claimed to be the mini version of the Rainforest World Music Festival in Sarawak, the Kuantan Music Festival 2014 promises two magical evenings in an idyllic beachfront garden set amongst palms and lawns facing the South China Sea!

Renowned Malaysian and international musicians namely Akasha (Malaysia), Rio Sidik Quartet (Indonesia), The Art of Fusion (Germany) and T-Bone Ska (Thailand) will be bringing a mix of acoustic, blues, jazz, fusion and world music to the stage.

Organiser: Ministry of Tourism and Culture Malaysia

Date: 4 - 5 April 2014

Venue: Holiday Villa Beach Resort & Spa, Cherating, Pahang

Contact: +6 019 – 9329777, Crocodile Rock Productions Sdn Bhd

Website: www.kuantanmusicfestival.com

Email: kuantanmusicfestival@hotmail.com  

Beat the world! – CHAPTER III ROYAL BELUM WORLD DRUMS FESTIVAL 2014

In conjunction with the birthday of the Sultan of Perak Darul Ridzuan, the Royal Belum World Drums Festival 2014 (RBWDF 2014) promises a great impact and satisfaction by showcasing the multi-cultural facet of Malaysia using a combination of traditional and modern musical instruments.

Highlights of the event include the state and national-level drums competitions, Experience Zone (to experience the drum-making process), Drum Workshop (to get a taste of drum-playing with Drum Circle), and Social Media Zone (to share experiences on social media networks throughout the RBWDF 2014). 

Feel the vibrant and thrilling beat of international drummers and percussionists from as far as Brazil, Egypt, Jamaica and Korea!

Organiser: Ministry of Tourism and Culture Malaysia

Date: 5 - 19 April 2014

Venue: Dataran Ipoh, Ipoh, Perak.

Contact: 1300 88 5050

Website: www.facebook.com/royalbelumworlddrumsfestival 

MALAY ARCHIPELAGO DRUMS FESTIVAL 2014

In conjunction with the Melaka World Heritage City Anniversary Celebration, the Malay Archipelago Drums Festival 2014 will display the beauty of drum rhythm dances characterised by the unique Malay Archipelago cultural tradition.

This event sees participation by hundreds of drummers and percussionists, dancers, and cultural activist from various countries including Thailand, the Philippines, Cambodia and Madagascar. It is an event initially held to encourage young Malaysians to engage with their heritage.

Organiser: Melaka Historical City Council

Date: 9 – 16 April 2014

Venue: Dataran MBMB, Melaka

Contact: +6 06 281 6569

Website: http://www.mbmb.gov.my/ 

Transport to the lost world of heart-thumping tunes!

Penang World Music Festival (PWMF) 2014 is calling out to all music lovers with authentic musical experience – a fusion of traditional and contemporary music performing by an array of renowned local and international musicians.

The two-day affair will start from 2pm with various art and music workshops before the main event kicks off at 6pm. There will also be a festival bazaar on-site, offering a wide selection of food and beverages, souvenir items, handicrafts and the performers’ CDs for festival-goers.

Organiser: Penang State Tourism Development and Culture Office

Date: 12 - 13 April 2014

Venue: Quarry Park, Penang Botanic Gardens, Pulau Pinang

Contact: +6 016 4110000

Email: info@visitpenang.gov.my 

Website: www.penangworldmusic.gov.my 

MALAYSIA WATER FESTIVAL LABUAN - LABUAN INTERNATIONAL SEA CHALLENGE 2014

Enjoy a great splashing time at the largest event in the federal territory of Labuan – the Labuan Water Festival 2014 marks its 18th year with a host of fun-filled exciting activities.

Go adventurous, ride the waves, defy odds and be a champion at the Labuan International Deep Sea Fishing Tournament, Cross Channel Swimming Challenge, Kayak Sprint Challenge, Labuan Round Island Kayak Challenge and Coastal Fishing Competition!

Organiser: Ministry of Tourism Labuan

Date: 25 – 27 April 2014

Venue: Labuan International Sea Sport Complex, Labuan

Contact: +6 087 422 622

Website: http://www.motourlabuan.com/ 

-Tourism Malaysia.