Perez will defend title at CIMB Classic

Up for grabs: Deputy Youth and Sports Minister Steven Sim Chee Keong (right) and CIMB Group CEO Tengku Datuk Sri Zafrul Aziz posing with the CIMB Classic trophy at the launch yesterday.

— S. S. Kanesan / The Star

KUALA LUMPUR: There is no increase in the prize money for the 9th CIMB Classic from Oct 11-14 at The Players Club (TPC) in Kuala Lumpur but the competition will be hotter than before.

The total purse for the sole PGA Tour sanctioned tournament in South East Asia remains at US$7mil (RM28 mil).

The good news is that Pat Perez of the United States will return to defend his title after a dominant four-shot victory over compatriot Keegan Bradley last year.

The CIMB Classic will feature 60 professional golfers from the 2017-2018 PGA Tour’s FedExCup final points standings.

Two Malaysian golfers will also have the opportunity to compete against the global stars during the tournament.

One slot has been allocated to the winner of the CIMB National Championships, which will be held from Sept 25-28 at the TPC Kuala Lumpur while the other is reserved for the Malaysian with the highest ranking on the Official World Golf Ranking on Oct 1.

Tengku Zafrul said since the CIMB Classic swung into action eight years ago, it has helped raise the profile of Malaysia to a global audience of over 1 billion homes and 226 countries via live broadcast annually.

“It has also helped the grown of the game in Malaysia by inspiring and providing opportunities for Malaysian professional golfers,” said Tengku Zafrul.

The CIMB Classic has also proven to be a successful launchpad for many of the game’s newest stars.

Justin Thomas won the first PGA Tour tournament at the 2015 CIMB Classic before successfully defending his title in 2016. He has since gone on to win a total of nine PGA Tour tournaments.

Meanwhile, Rhinehart said they were pleased to announce the return of Perez and would unveil other leading names over the coming weeks.

“The closing date for entry is Sept 19,” said Rhinehart.

Since its first staging, the CIMB Classic has attracted top professional golfers such as Tiger Woods, Phil Mickelson, Henrik Stenson, Adam Scott, Sergio Garcia, Bubba Wat­son,Rickie Fowler and Ernie Els.

Tickets for the CIMB Classic will go on sale beginning on Sept 3. For more details on ticketing prices, visit www.cimbclassic.com.

-thestar online.

Guns N' Roses Not In This Lifetime Tour @ Sunway Lagoon, Malaysia ( 14 November 2018 )

GUNS N’ ROSES TO BRING “NOT IN THIS LIFETIME” TOUR TO KUALA, LUMPUR, MALAYSIA THIS NOVEMBER!

Unstoppable rock music icons Guns N' Roses will electrify their Malaysian fans in support for the band’s Not In This Lifetime Tour.  Produced by Galaxy Group in association with LAMC Productions & Rockstar Touring, the exhilarating global phenomenon is letting GNR fans get closer on Wednesday, November 14, 2018 at Surf Beach, Sunway Lagoon.

The Not in This Lifetime Tour has played to sold out stadiums around the world with Rolling Stone dubbing it “a triumphant return of one of the most important bands in rock music history." LA WEEKLY notes it's "everything fans could hope for" while The Washington Times says the show delivers a set of "inspired surprises."

Following the group's 1985 formation, Guns N' Roses injected unbridled, unrivalled, and unstoppable attitude into the rock scene. The spirit went on to captivate the entire world with the release of their 1987 debut Appetite for Destruction–the best-selling U.S. debut ever, moving 30 million copies globally.

In 1991, the seven-time platinum Use Your Illusion I and Use Your Illusion II occupied the top two spots of the Billboard Top 200 upon release.

Over the course of the past decade, Guns N' Roses have performed sold out shows and headlined festivals worldwide following the critically acclaimed release of 2008's RIAA platinum-certified Chinese Democracy. Six studio albums later, Guns N' Roses is one of the most important and influential acts in music history and continue to set the benchmark for live performances connecting with millions of fans across the globe. Guns N' Roses' are Axl Rose (vocals, piano), Duff McKagan (bass), Slash (lead guitar), Dizzy Reed (keyboard), Richard Fortus (rhythm guitar), Frank Ferrer  (drums), and Melissa Reese (keyboard).

For more information, please follow Galaxy Group www.facebook.com/GalaxyConcerts/ and @galaxygroup (on Instagram, and Twitter), or visit galaxy.com.my for details.

-AirAsia RedTix.
https://airasiaredtix.com/gunsnroses  

Royal Floria targets one million visitors

Putrajaya Floria Sdn Bhd chief executive officer Haslinda Khalid (extreme right) explaining the concept of the flower arrangement to Khalid (third from right) and the entourage at the Royal Floria Putrajaya media preview.

DESPITE a 30% budget cut, the 10th Royal Floria Putrajaya promises a colourful day out for family and friends.

Federal Territories Minister Khalid Abdul Samad, who was present for a media preview, was pleased with what he saw.

“Taking into account the current economic situation, the ministry spent RM2mil while Putrajaya Corporation spent between RM1mil and RM1.5mil to make this event a success.

“The Royal Floria has built a name for itself. We are building on what was achieved in the previous years. If we don’t continue this legacy, we will lose out,” he said.

“It may not be profitable financially but the benefits in terms of image internationally and the tourism factor is great and cannot be quantified.

“It is a great opportunity for people to come to Putrajaya, to see a city built with organised planning.

“This event also supports local industries that deal with plants and flowers,” he said.

He also said they targeted more than one million visitors as the event coincided with the National Day celebration in Putrajaya.

This year will also see the second edition of Royal Floria International Dialogue, where professionals in the landscaping, flowers, horticulture, floriculture and other related field will exchange knowledge.

International participants include those from China, Germany, Indonesia, Japan, South Korea, the Philippines, Singapore, Taiwan and Vietnam.

Some of the new components this year are Wonder Garden, Miniature Garden, Entrance Statement, Designer Boutique Gardens, Fertigation Garden and Hipster Square.

The Orchid Exhibition returns with about 300 orchids at the International Floral Pavilion.

A passage through the gardens will also be created specially to reignite memories of previous Florias.

Among the prizes up for grabs this year are RM15,000 for Garden Prime Award, RM10,000 for Designer Boutique Garden Award, RM5,000 Gardens of Malaysia and RM5,000 for Royal Floria Putrajaya International Cup.

Royal Floria Putrajaya’s operating hours are from 9am to 10.30pm from Monday to Thursday, and 9am to noon from Friday to Sunday.

From Monday to Thursday, tickets for Malaysians are priced at RM12 for adults and RM6 for children, the disabled and senior citizens.

Tickets for non-Malaysians are RM24 for adults and RM12 for children, the disabled and senior citizens.

From Friday to Sunday, tickets for Malaysians are priced at RM15 for adults and RM8 for children, disabled and senior citizen. Tickets for fnon-Malaysians are RM30 for adults and RM16 for children, disabled and senior citizen.

There is a 20% discount for online purchase.

For details, visit www.floriaputrajaya.com.my

-thestar online.

Netizens in awe of Batu Caves' colourful new look

PETALING JAYA: Social media is abuzz over the newly painted stairs at the Batu Caves temple.

The 272-step stairs leading up to the entrance of the Sri Subramaniar Swamy Temple has been painted with various bright hues of red, blue, yellow, green and orange – giving it a rainbow look.

Across the social media, many were in awe and praised the new look.
Facebook user Melissa Chin wrote, "Never knew the stairs could look so pretty!"
Another Facebook user Raja Manickam wrote, "This latest picture of #BatuCaves gives meaning to the word, #colourful."

The arches and temples in the vicinity have also been repainted.

Batu Caves Sri Mahamariamman Temple trustee Datuk N. Sivakumar told The Star on Monday (Aug 27) that the paint work was carried out three days ago, and the area is opened to public.

"The painting is part of the Batu Caves temple refurbishment which has been carried out since one and a half years ago," he said.

The paint job was carried out in time with the temple's Kumbhabhishekham  (consecration) ritual, which is performed for every temple once in 12 years according to the Hindu rituals. 

Sivakumar added that the overall cost of the refurbishment is about RM5mil, with the funds coming from donations from various donors and devotees.

He also said that consecration ceremony will be carried out this Friday (Aug 31), and all devotees are welcomed to attend beginning 7am onwards.

-thestar online.

Iskandar Puteri Jazz Festival 2018 @ Puteri Harbour, Johor ( 8 September 2018 )

We are very proud to announce the second edition of Iskandar Puteri Jazz Festival, happening 8 September 2018 in Marina Walk, Puteri Harbour.

Ten acts from around the world will feature in the biggest edition of our city's fledgling jazz festival. This year, the festival has upped the ante on diversity and musical curation to showcase some of the top international acts in classical and experimental jazz. Catch celebrated musicians and pop-up creative and artisanal bazaars when the festival takes place in Iskandar Puteri this September.

This year, the festival has upped the ante on diversity and musical curation to showcase some of the most-respected live performers in classical and experimental jazz. Showcasing a stronger Asian flavour with a focus on regional talent, the second annual Iskandar Puteri Jazz Festival aims to position itself as one of Southeast Asia’s most vibrant jazz concerts.

The latest line-up feature a large variety of musical influences. Iranian duo Kayhan Kalhor & Kiya Tabassian are set to bring an unmistakably middle-eastern influence through instruments such as the traditional Iranian setar. Guitarist Robin Banerjee, famed for his work with Amy Winehouse, will present a collaborative performance featuring several longtime musical companions. On the Nusantara front, beloved Singaporean artist Aisyah Aziz will co-headline the festival alongside acclaimed live acts Barry Likumahuwa and Agis Kania from Indonesia.

There will also be curated markets featuring artisanal edibles and sustainably-produced goods courtesy of social enterprise Johor Green, as well as a collectors bazaar from local collective Johor Pickers. Set in the elegant landscape of Marina Walk, the city’s premier waterfront lifestyle and entertainment complex, the second Iskandar Puteri Jazz Festival promises many dining and recreational options for those in town this September.

Inaugurated last year, the Iskandar Puteri Jazz Festival is rapidly growing into a destination for music enthusiasts due to its emphasis on musical excellence and showmanship. Members of the public get an opportunity to catch renowned jazz performers and live singers from around the world at this annual event. Some of 2017’s major draws include Havana Social Club, Michael Pigneguy & The Awakenings Ensemble, and Sound of Siam among many others.

Catch celebrated musicians and pop-up creative and artisanal bazaars when the festival takes place in Iskandar Puteri this September!

FEATURED ACTS

BOULEVARD STAGE
Kayhan Kalhor & Kiya Tabassian (IR)
Ground Passengers (MY)
Agis Kania (IDN)
Ee Jeng Organ Trio
Kirana Kay & Groove Messengers (MY & IDN)
NJWA (MY)

HARBOUR STAGE
The Frankie Sixes (MY)
Azmi Hairudin & Friends (MY & IDN)
Robin Banerjee & Friends (UK & MY)
Aisyah Aziz (SG)
Barry Likumahuwa (IDN)
Orquesta Yambeque (AU)

BAZAARS
Johor Green Market
Johor Collectors Market

- http://www.iskandarputeri.com

Tourism Minister: Malaysia on track to hit 33.1mil tourist arrivals for 2018

KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia is on track to achieve its target of 33.1mil tourist arrivals for 2018, said Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Datuk Mohamaddin Ketapi (pic).

“We are keeping the target set [by the former Government] earlier at 33.1mil. Based on the numbers so far, we are on track,”  he told reporters after launching Ice Age Alive 2018 at Malaysia Tourism Centre (MaTiC) on Saturday (Aug 25).

The 2018 target was announced by the Ministry last December under the former Barisan Nasional Government.

In his speech earlier, Mohamaddin said from January to April this year, more than 8.47mil international tourists had visited Malaysia, mainly from China, South Korea, Canada and United States.

Mohamaddin also added that his Ministry is in the midst of studying all tourism projects.

“We are studying the projects and we will keep those which are beneficial. With the change of Government, it does not mean that we will cancel all projects initiated by the previous administration,” he said.

Ice Age Alive opens until Dec 31 at MaTiC, Jalan Ampang, Tuesday to Sunday and all public holidays, from 10am to 7pm.

Visitors will discover an exhibit of creatures who roamed the Earth millions of years ago including Tyrannosaurus rex (T-rex), Dodo bird, sabre-toothed cat, woolly mammoth among other exhibits.

-thestar online.
http://www.malaysia.travel

Petronas And Sepang International Circuit Unveils MOTOGP, MOTO2 And MOTO3 Line-up

Following the announcement of PETRONAS stepping in as Title Partner, Sepang International Circuit [SIC] also unveiled its full rider line-up for the 2019 MotoGP season.

In the premier class, the team will be represented by two young motivated riders, Franco Morbidelli and Fabio Quartararo. Both riders will contest on board Yamaha YZR-M1s following an agreement between Sepang International Circuit and Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd.

After winning the Superstock 600 Championship in 2013, Morbidelli made his official debut in the World Championship in 2014. Just three years later the Italian rider became the 2017 Moto2 World Champion, after a dominant season that saw him achieve an outstanding twelve podiums. Taking the step up to MotoGP this year, Morbidelli is already a regular top-15 contender in his rookie year.

19-year old Quartararo makes the step up to the premier class following an impressive background to date. After winning the FIM CEV Moto3 Championship in both 2013 and 2014, the Frenchman went on to make his debut in the World Championship at just 15-years old. By only his second race, the youngster had already taken his first podium with a second-place finish in Austin, which he followed up with another second-place finish in Assen. Quartararo has continued to show impressive pace after his move up to the intermediate class in 2017 and with two podiums already under his belt this season, he will be an exciting young rookie to watch out for in MotoGP.

Along with the addition of the newly formed MotoGP Team, PETRONAS and Sepang International Circuit are delighted to announce the signing of Khairul Idham Pawi in Moto2 and John McPhee in Moto3.

Khairul Idham Pawi, a household name in the Malaysian and Asian racing scene, moved up to the World Championship in 2016, where he made his Moto3 debut. 

In only his second race of the year, the Malaysian claimed victory in Argentina, taking the win in spectacular style. He went on to take his second win of the season at the German Grand Prix. Pawi’s achievements saw him break the record for the youngest non-European rider to win a motorcycle Grand Prix race.

Having made the step up to Moto2 in 2017, Pawi took points on two occasions during his rookie year, with an 8th and 14th place finish. For 2018 the 19-year-old has continued to be a point scoring contender within the intermediate class.

Born and raised in Scotland in the United Kingdom, John McPhee is a 24-year-old rider with six years’ experience in the Moto3 class. As a former 125cc World Championship competitor, McPhee officially made his Moto3 debut in 2013, following eight wild card races in 2012 with a best finish of 15th in Brno, and has been a full-time rider in this class ever since. McPhee accomplished his first podium in 2015, claiming an impressive second place at Indianapolis. The Scottish rider has since added another five podiums – including a win in Brno in 2016 – and four pole positions to his achievements.

Joining McPhee will be current Moto3 team rider Ayumu Sasaki. 2019 will mark the 17-year-old‘s third consecutive Moto3 campaign after re-signing with the team.

- http://www.sicracingteam.com

Mt Kinabalu steps into Lonely Planet's book on world's most epic hikes

PETALING JAYA: Mount Kinabalu, Malaysia's highest peak in the land below the wind, has been listed as one of the world's 50 most incredible hikes in Lonely Planet's new guidebook on hiking trails around the world.

In the newly-published Epic Hikes of the World, around 200 Lonely Planet writers collaborated to uncover 50 incredible hiking routes in 30 countries.

A sneak peek of the book by British-based website MailOnline revealed that Mount Kinabalu in Sabah was highlighted as one of the planet's most thrilling walking routes.

Scaling Mount Kinabalu, the highest mountain in Southeast Asia, incorporates "tangled jungle, granite ridges and barren plateaux, traversing Borneo's highest and holiest mountain is a task that requires nerves – and legs – of steel", it said.

In Africa and the Middle East, Lonely Planet recommends Cape Town's Three Peaks in South Africa, Kilimanjaro in Tanzania, and the Camp to Camp in Zambia's South Luangwa National Park.

Some of the best European hiking trails named were Wordsworth's Backyard: Dove Cottage and around Rydal and Grasmere in the UK, the Alpine Pass Route in Switzerland and the Camino de Santiago in Spain.

Closer to Asia, the Sydney's Seven Bridges Walk in Australia and the Routeburn Track in New Zealand were listed as the top hikes in Oceania.

Towering at 4,095m tall or 13,435 feet above sea level, Mount Kinabalu is the highest mountain between the Himalayas and New Guinea.

It is Malaysia's first Unesco World Heritage Site and home to an estimated 5,000 to 6,000 plant species, 326 bird species, and over 100 mammal species.

The summit to Low's Peak is popular amongst travellers worldwide, with many seasoned hikers making the trip to Sabah specifically to accomplish the arduous trek.

-thestar online.
http://sabahtourism.com/

Rhythms Of Kinabalu @ Kompleks JKKN Sabah ( 22 & 23 September 2018 )

Rhythms of Kinabalu (ROK) kembali lagi...Program yang dinanti-nantikan ini dianjurkan oleh Kementerian Pelancongan, Seni dan Budaya dan dikelolakan oleh Jabatan Kebudayaan dan Kesenian Negara (JKKN) Sabah akan diadakan pada 22 & 23 September 2018 bertempat di Kompleks JKKN Sabah.

Pelbagai aktiviti dan persembahan Seni Budaya yang akan diadakan pada tahun ini antaranya:

1. PENCUNGKILAN BAKAT
a. Pertandingan Muzik Tradisional
b. Pertandingan Battle Of The Bands
c. Pertandingan Nyanyian Lagu-Lagu Sabah
d. Pertandingan Masakan Tradisi
e. Pertandingan Mewarna
f. Pertandingan Fesyen Kanak-Kanak

2.KARNIVAL KERJAYA
3.PAMERAN, DEMONSTRASI & JUALAN
4.SUKAN RAKYAT
5.KEMPEN DERMAH DARAH
6.JOM BELAJAR
7.FOOD TRUCK

Untuk keterangan lanjut mengenai aktiviti-aktiviti yang akan diadakan sila berhubung terus di talian 088-237051 / 088-237052

-JKKN Sabah.

Floria Diraja rangsang ekonomi

SULTAN SHARAFUDDIN IDRIS SHAH bersama Tengku Permaisuri Norashikin berkenan melawat pameran selepas merasmikan Festival Bunga dan Taman Diraja Putrajaya (Floria Diraja Putrajaya) 2018 di Putrajaya, semalam. Turut mengiringi Wan Azizah Wan Ismail dan Khalid Abdul Samad (tiga dari kanan). – BERNAMA

PUTRAJAYA 25 Ogos - Floria Diraja Putrajaya 2018 yang bermula hari ini hingga 2 September depan akan terus memainkan peranannya dalam merangsang ekonomi dan menjana peluang perniagaan bagi pengusaha perladangan bunga serta hortikultur tempatan.

Penganjuran festival yang di­rasmikan oleh Sultan Selangor, Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah itu juga mencerminkan komitmen kerajaan dalam meletakkan Pusat Pentadbiran Kerajaan Persekutuan sebagai salah satu destinasi dalam peta festival bunga-bu­ngaan sedunia.

Bertemakan 10 Kegemilangan Floria, festival yang berlangsung di Anjung Floria, di sini itu selaras dengan hasrat kerajaan dalam menjadikannya setara dengan Festival Tulip Belanda yang diadakan di Keukenhof, Belanda setiap tahun.

Timbalan Perdana Menteri, Datuk Seri Dr. Wan Azizah Wan Ismail berkata, penganjuran Floria Diraja bukan sahaja sebagai produk pelancongan bagi Putrajaya dan Malaysia tetapi juga menjadi satu penanda aras bagi industri landskap serta hortikultur negara.

Beliau berkata, kerajaan me­ngalu-alukan penganjuran acara seumpama itu yang dilihat dapat memberi manfaat kepada rakyat tanpa mengira usia dan memberi peluang kepada semua untuk menikmati keindahan tanah air.

“Saya berharap Floria Diraja Putrajaya akan dijadikan acara tahunan lebih-lebih lagi dengan jalinan kerjasama badan korporat dan pertubuhan bukan kerajaan seperti mana yang dilaksanakan pada kali ini untuk memberi nilai tambah kepada acara ini,” katanya ketika berucap dalam majlis perasmian festival berkenaan.

Turut berangkat mengiringi Sultan Selangor ialah Tengku Permaisuri Selangor, Tengku Permaisuri Norashikin. Hadir sama Menteri Wilayah, Khalid Abdul Samad.

Floria Diraja Putrajaya 2018 mengetengahkan beberapa komponen baharu yang dapat menarik pengunjung antaranya, Wonder Garden iaitu taman-taman yang dipamerkan khas untuk memperingati setiap penganjuran Floria sejak 2007.

Selain itu, Miniature Garden pula membawa elemen unik perkampungan mini lengkap selain The Wonder of Bonsai and Suiseki yang mempamerkan gubahan pokok bonsai.

Turut menjadi perhatian adalah Taman Diraja Perak yang memberi peluang kepada pe­ngunjung menyaksikan sendiri replika Istana Kenangan Kuala Kangsar dan arca Labu Sayung di tengah kolam yang dikelilingi bunga warna-warni diinspirasikan daripada taman diraja, selain replika Menara Jam Kuala Kangsar.

Floria Diraja Putrajaya 2018 dibuka kepada orang ramai dari pukul 9 pagi hingga 10.30 malam (Isnin hingga Khamis) dan 9 pagi hingga 12 tengah malam (Jumaat hingga Ahad).

Tiket dewasa bagi warganegara Malaysia (Isnin-Khamis) ialah RM12 dan (Jumaat hingga Ahad) ialah RM15.

Bagi kanak-kanak, orang ku­rang upaya dan warga emas (warga Malaysia) tiket berharga RM6 (Isnin-Khamis) dan (Jumaat-Ahad) RM8. Diskaun 20 peratus pula ditawarkan untuk pembe­lian secara dalam talian.

Orang ramai boleh mendapatkan maklumat lanjut dengan melayari laman web www.floriaputrajaya.com.my.

-utusan online.

Three Tourism Malaysia offices under review for closure

As part of a rationalisation exercise, the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture Malaysia (MOTAC) is considering the closure of Tourism Malaysia offices in Osaka (Japan), Auckland (New Zealand) and Almaty (Kazakhstan).

The closures are seen as a way of reducing operating costs, which range between RM67 million (US$16.3 million) to RM70 million annually for each of the three offices under review, said deputy minister, Muhammad Bakhtiar Wan Chi.

There are currently two Tourism Malaysia offices in Japan, one in Osaka and the other in Tokyo. Should Tourism Malaysia decide to close the Osaka office, its promotions in Japan will be taken over by the Tokyo office. Similarly, its office in Sydney will manage promotions for both Australia and New Zealand.

Raaj Navaratnaa, general manager at New Asia Holiday Tours & Travel, opined: “The MOTAC should not emphasise on cost-cutting measures but instead look at the value that these tourism offices can bring. It is no point closing the Osaka office and making Tokyo office look after the Japanese market if it does not include getting additional staff and having proper marketing plans in place to tap the Japanese market.

“I think the reason Tourism Malaysia offices are not doing well is because they failed to tap the potential of these markets. We have to re-engineer packages to meet the needs of each market.”

Commenting on the closure of the Almaty office, Asutra Convex managing director, Azizi Borhan, remarked that Central Asia is a market with great potential for growth, despite it is also a seasonal market. He said: “Tourism Malaysia should develop a long-term strategy on how to further develop this market.”

In the first four months of 2018, arrivals from Japan saw a small decline of 0.8 per cent to 131,241 tourists while New Zealand saw a growth of 4.8 per cent to 16,747. Inbound arrivals from Kazakhstan remains small at 5,642, although this represents a significant 44.7 per cent growth from the preceding year.

-TTG Asia.

Kota Bharu berpotensi jadi Tapak Warisan Dunia UNESCO

KOTA BHARU, 20 Ogos (Bernama) -- Beberapa lokasi di Kota Bharu berpotensi menjadi tempat warisan kebangsaan dan Tapak Warisan Dunia Pertubuhan Pendidikan, Sains dan Kebudayaan Persatuan Bangsa Bersatu (UNESCO).

Timbalan Menteri Pelancongan, Seni dan Budaya (MOTAC) Muhammad Bakhtiar Wan Chik berkata antara tempat yang dikenal pasti adalah Masjid Muhammadi, Istana Jahar dan Tambatan Diraja di sini.

Beliau berkata perkara itu dibincangkan ketika mengadakan pertemuan dengan Tengku Temenggong Kelantan Tan Sri Tengku Muhammad Rizam Tengku Aziz di Istana Kota Lama di sini, hari ini.

"Kawasan berkenaan berpotensi untuk menjadi Tapak Warisan Dunia UNESCO walaupun ia melibatkan masa yang panjang.

"Kajian mungkin boleh dilakukan oleh Universiti Malaysia Kelantan (UMK) yang mempunyai fakulti khusus dalam penyelidikan tentang bahan sejarah, seni dan warisan yang ada di bandar ini," katanya.

Beliau berkata demikian selepas mengadakan mesyuarat bersama Pengerusi Jawatankuasa Perpaduan Masyarakat, Kebudayaan, Warisan dan Pelancongan Kelantan Datuk Md Anizam Abdul Rahman serta pemain industri pelancongan di Kelantan di sini.

Dalam perkembangan sama, Muhammad Bakhtiar berkata Kelantan juga berpotensi untuk menjadi hub pelancongan antarabangsa dan domestik di pantai timur kerana kedudukannya yang strategik bersempadan dengan Thailand yang boleh menarik lebih ramai pelancong asing ke negara ini.

"Selain itu, ramai pelancong yang menjadikan Kelantan sebagai tempat persinggahan sebelum mereka bergerak ke Pulau Perhentian, Terengganu," katanya.

-bernama.

Borneo Fashion Week back with a bang next month

State tourism minister Datuk Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah (seated centre), Borneo Fashion Week organiser Stephanie Alcantara (seated left) and other guests with some of the designers who will be taking part in the event. - ZULAZHAR SHEBLEE / The Star

KUCHING: The Borneo Fashion Week will be back for a second time next month with a bigger line-up of designers.

BFW organiser Stephanie Alcantara said 28 local and international designers will take part in the event, an increase from 18 last year.

“We’re back again this year with a bigger and better BFW. With our tagline ‘Bringing Borneo to the World’, we are excited to introduce the world to many talented designers from this part of the world,” she told a press conference to announce the Sept 7-9 event.

Borneo-based designers participating in BFW include Indu Borneo, WYNKA, Latip’s Collections, De’ Mlya, Yacutha Borneo, Kumang & Co, Keldreena Bremas, Rozie Khan Couture, Fatin Xivera and Bidwin Molumdim.

Alcantara said BFW aimed to promote Borneo’s fashion industry and heritage through the creative talent of emerging and established designers.

“Our vision in creating BFW is clear - to source designers who use traditional ornaments to create sustainable ready-to-wear lines.

“We found that the talent pool and creative material in Borneo are inspiring. BFW’s long-term goal is to support local designers and fashion talents and catapult them onto the global platform,” she said.

Tourism, Arts, Culture, Youth and Sports Minister Datuk Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah said Sarawak’s diverse cultures and green environment made a perfect backdrop for BFW.

“We look forward to hosting a bigger and better event this year with more designers and visitors to Sarawak.

“Our ministry pledges to support and assist in ensuring a successful event this year and to establish BFW as an annual event that will continue to promote Sarawak in the coming years,” he said.

This year’s event will introduce six awards - Emerging Borneo Designer of the Year, Designer of the Year, Designer in the Spotlight, Most Promising Designer, Male Model of the Year and Female Model of the Year.

It will also introduce the Limkokwing fashion design scholarship worth over RM100,000.

In addition, BFW is teaming up with Red Velvet Event and Design in a corporate social responsibility campaign for the public to donate old clothing in exchange for fashion or make-up vouchers.

-thestar online.

Thai Airasia launches 3 times weekly Bangkok-Kota Kinabalu flights

KOTA KINABALU, Aug 16 (Bernama) -- Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Mohamaddin Ketapi says the new Bangkok-Kota Kinabalu (KK) AirAsia route will add to the country’s tourist arrivals especially to Sabah.

The minister said Malaysia was the second most visited ASEAN country after Thailand, with 35.3 million tourist arrivals in 2017, including 1.84 million from Thailand.

“We hope the thrice weekly AirAsia flights from Bangkok to Kota Kinabalu will contribute more tourist arrivals to our country,” he told reporters upon arrival from Bangkok onboard the inaugural Bangkok-KK AirAsia flight  here today.

Present at Kota Kinabalu International Airport were Deputy Chief Minister and State Minister of Tourism, Culture and Environment Christina Liew and AirAsia Malaysia Chief Executive Officer Riad Asmat.

Mohammaddin hoped there would be more collaboration between government agencies and the private sector not only within the context of ASEAN but also beyond this region. 

“I would like to take this opportunity to recognise the efforts and appreciate the contributions of AirAsia to connect Malaysia globally,” he added.
-bernama.

Kenny G World Tour 2018 in Malaysia @ Resort World Genting ( 11 November 2018 )

Kenny G performed to full-house audiences at Genting back in 2012 and 2015, gaining huge popularity and interest among locals with his great showmanship and world-class live performance. After the release of his 15th album “Brazilian Nights” in 2015, the musician embarked on tours and live performances mainly in America. With his return to Malaysia after three years, fans may anticipate to witness the artist playing his signature saxophone at a whole new level of excellence.

In the course of over three decades, Kenny G has become a household name in the instrumental music scene, with album selling over 75 million copies worldwide. He has been nominated for 16 Grammys and won once for Best Instrumental Composition in 1994 for “Forever in Love.” Kenny G has also collaborated with big names such as Aretha Franklin, Whitney Houston and Celine Dion.

-TicketCharge.
http://premier.ticketcharge.com.my/shows/show.aspx?sh=KENNYG18

Terengganu declares two state parks at Setiu and Kenyir

Setiu Wetlands. -filepic

PETALING JAYA: Terengganu took a major step in protecting the state's natural heritage by gazetting two new state parks in the Kenyir and Setiu areas.

Mentri Besar Dr Ahmad Samsuri Mokhtar said the move will help protect vital catchment areas and ensure a sustainable supply of water for electricity and drinking.

The areas to become state parks involve 10,386 hectares at Lawit-Cenana in Kenyir and 432 hectares at the Setiu Wetlands (another 1,088 hectares will be gazetted in phase two).

"These state parks are also identified as an important refuge for flora and fauna with several threatened species," said Dr Ahmad.

Dr Ahmad said these parks lie in areas designated as an Important Bird Area (IBA) by Birdlife International.

"Scientists have recorded more than 291 bird species within its perimeters," he said in a press statement on Wednesday (Aug 15).

"In fact, an incredible nine out of the 10 species of hornbills that exist in Malaysia can be found in the Lawit-Cenana State Park alone."

Dr Ahmad Samsuri added that the move constitutes "significant progress on Terengganu's commitments regarding the protection of the state's natural heritage".

The parks will be managed by a management council, he said, which will include members from respective federal and state government agencies.

"This council will be responsible to control and manage the state parks and also to ensure that all stakeholders in this eco-tourism industry will be looked after, especially the local residents," he said.

-TTG Asia.

ITB Asia adds a dedicated pavilion for Muslim travel market

Panel discussion at last year’s Halal in Travel – Asia Summit

ITB Asia will this year launch its first dedicated Muslim Travel Hub and Pavilion to host panel discussions and travel suppliers, in addition to bringing back the Halal in Travel Asia Summit for the third time.

By 2020, it is expected that there will be 156 million Muslim travellers, up nearly 30 per cent from 2016, the show organiser shared in a statement, citing figures from CrescentRating. By 2026, the total spend by Muslim travellers is projected to more than double to US$300 billion.

The show organiser notes that key players in the travel and tourism space are demanding insights and best practice in marketing destinations, and how to better connect with Muslim travellers.

The third Halal in Travel Asia Summit will take place on October 17, focusing on the main theme of Innovation & Technology in the Muslim Travel Space. The conference will kick off with the official release of the Mastercard-Halal Trip Digital Muslim Travel Report 2018, revealing insights into the Muslim travel market and behaviours when it comes to trip planning research and engagement in the digital space.

Keynote speeches, panel discussions and presentations will touch on topics including how to invest in Halal travel and developing the Halal travel market in the service and destination sectors.

In addition, for the three full days of the show (October 17-19), the new Muslim Travel Hub will host discussions and showcases with topics such as attracting Muslim travellers to destinations throughout the year, further developing the growing Muslim travel market, and creating Muslim-friendly travel packages.

Destination-focused showcases at the Muslim Travel Hub will include ‘Targeting US$126 billion Muslim tourism market with cultural changes’ from Indonesia, ‘Making Muslims feel at home’ from Japan, and ‘Travelling in style’ from Turkey.

Located in the same area, the Muslim Travel Pavilion will be dedicated to exhibitors that offer Muslim travel products and services. The Pavilion will also host talks on winning over Muslim visitors, happy trails with travel apps and addressing Muslim traveller anxieties.

ITB Asia’s key partner, Have Halal Will Travel, will host a conference at at the Muslim Travel Pavilion on October 17, 14.00-15.00.

-TTG Asia.