Sabah promotes Kaamatan Festival to boost tourism

 

KUALA LUMPUR: Sabah is stepping up efforts to position the Kaamatan Festival as a major tourism draw, tapping growing demand for authentic cultural experiences. 

The state is using its participation in the Matta Fair at the Malaysian International Trade and Exhibition Centre (MITEC) to drive visitor interest ahead of the month-long harvest festival in May. 

The Sabah Tourism Board (STB) is taking part in the fair with 37 Sabah-based travel agents operating more than 100 booths, offering travel packages to boost forward bookings.

Huguan Siou (paramount leader) of the Kadazan Dusun, Murut and Rungus communities, Tan Sri Joseph Pairin Kitingan, said Kaamatan reflects Sabah's rich cultural heritage and unity among its diverse communities. 

He said the festival serves as a thanksgiving celebration and a platform to strengthen social bonds through shared traditions and communal activities. 

"Sabah is a beautiful place, with many tribes and a rich culture of celebrations. One of the most important is Kaamatan, which is celebrated over a month.

"This is an occasion to give thanks, work together in the spirit of 'mogitatabang', and celebrate as a community. It strengthens friendship and solidarity within society and families," he said after launching the Kaamatan invitation video at the Sabah Pavilion. 

Earlier, Sabah Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister Datuk Jafry Ariffin launched the refreshed Explore Sabah destination brand to strengthen the state's tourism positioning. 

He said Kaamatan remains one of Sabah's strongest cultural assets and a key reason for visitors to plan trips to the state. 

"The presence of the Huguan Siou highlights the cultural significance of this harvest festival for our indigenous communities, while reinforcing its appeal among visitors seeking authentic cultural experiences," he said. 

Jafry added that Kaamatan offers travellers an opportunity to engage more deeply with Sabah's people, traditions and way of life. 

Celebrated annually across Sabah, Kaamatan features a month-long line-up of cultural performances, traditional rituals, local cuisine and the Unduk Ngadau pageant, with highlights on May 30 and 31. 

With strong participation at the three-day Matta Fair, which ends on April 5, Sabah aims to convert interest into confirmed bookings, particularly for the mid-year period anchored by the festival. 

Travel packages also highlight Sabah's attractions, including Kundasang for views of Mount Kinabalu, Semporna for island and diving trips, and wildlife experiences. 

A teaser for the Visit Sabah 2027 campaign was also unveiled at the Sabah Pavilion, offering a preview of the state's long-term tourism plans. 

Also present were Assistant Minister to the Chief Minister and STB chairman Datuk Joniston Bangkuai; Assistant Minister of Tourism, Culture and Environment Dr Andi Mohd Shamsureezal Mohd Sainal; Permanent Secretary Datuk Josie Lai; and STB chief executive officer Julinus Jeffery Jimit.

-nst online.

Malaysia Airlines expands China network, adds Shenzhen & Changsha

 

KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia Airlines Bhd will launch two new destinations in China namely Shenzhen and Changsha as well as resume services to Fukuoka, Japan from Kuala Lumpur between July and September this year. 

Parent company Malaysia Aviation Group (MAG) president and chief executive officer (CEO) Captain Nasaruddin A. Bakar said the new routes will be operated using its Boeing B737-8 aircraft. 

He added that the Fukuoka route will initially be operated using the B737-8 aircraft but the airline may deploy a larger aircraft such as the Airbus A330neo (new engine option) depending on demand and new aircraft delivery schedules. 

"We have ordered, in total, 95 aircraft – 40 A330neo and 55 737-8 and 737-10 and we expect deliveries in the next six to seven years up to 2032-2033 and because of the issues that the global industry is facing, in particular with supply chains, we are seeing a little bit of delay in our delivery." 

"Hence, today, we are planning for Fukuoka using the B737-8. However, if we have the capacity and once we have the aircraft on time, we should be able to swap accordingly. 

"If there is demand, we will change the aircraft," he said at a press conference after announcing the destinations at MATTA Fair 2026.

The inaugural flights to Shenzhen and Changsha will be on July 1 and July 8, respectively while Fukuoka will be on Sept 2. 

The launch of Changsha and Shenzhen brings Malaysia Airlines' network in China to nine destinations. 

The national carrier also flies to Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Xiamen, Hong Kong, Taipei and Chengdu Tianfu in China. 

MAG chief commercial officer for airline business Dersenish Aresandiran said ticket sales for the new services start today with Changha and Shenzhen offered at promotional fares during the MATTA Fair 2026 starting from RM1,088, while Fukuoka fares start from RM1,788. 

"This expansion is an important strategic move that strengthen our network and position Malaysia as a key gateway into Asia. 

"It reflects our broader strategy to strengthen Kuala Lumpur's position as a key gateway to Asia and beyond while supporting Malaysia's vision for tourism aspiration under Visit Malaysia Year 2026," he said. 

Malaysia Airlines will also increase flight frequencies from Kuala Lumpur to Brisbane, Manila and Colombo to meet rising demand and support growing tourism and trade links. 

The airline will also operate ad-hoc Kuala Lumpur-London flights on April 18 and 22 to accommodate passengers affected by disruptions involving Middle Eastern carriers. 

Meanwhile, MAG is returning as official airline partner and premier sponsor of MATTA Fair 2026 where the group will showcase its next-generation travel technology at its 46,000 sq ft pavilion.

-nst online.

Putrajaya Destinasi Mesti Lawat @ MATTA Fair, MITEC KL ( 3 ~ 5 April 2026 )

 

MATTA FAIR 2026 kembali lagi!

Jom kunjungi booth “Putrajaya Destinasi Mesti Lawat” di Malaysian International Trade & Exhibition Centre (MITEC), Kuala Lumpur pada 03 hingga 05 April 2026 (Jumaat hingga Ahad).

Temui kami di Booth 1Q29 - 1Q34, Hall 2, Domestic Hall, Level 1 Ground Floor yang akan menawarkan pelbagai pakej menarik!

Rakan-rakan pengusaha dan penggiat industri pelancongan domestik kembali dengan kebersamaan di bawah pasukan promosi Putrajaya Destinasi Mesti Lawat destinasi pelancongan antaranya :-

> Choc Souq Putrajaya

> Cruise Tasik Putrajaya

> Hotel Everly Putrajaya

> Hotel Pulse Grande Putrajaya

> Taman Ekuestrian Putrajaya

> Taman-taman Awam Putrajaya

> Wetland Studios Putrajaya

& Pelbagai cenderahati menarik menanti anda di sini. Masuk adalah percuma!

-Perbadanan Putrajaya.

Finas Sasar Lonjakan Produksi Global Melalui Kolaborasi Finas-Tourism Malaysia

 

Hulu Kelang, 1 April 2026 - Tourism Malaysia dan Perbadanan Kemajuan Filem Nasional Malaysia (FINAS) telah memeterai Memorandum Persefahaman (MoU) yang ditandatangani oleh Encik Mohd Amirul Rizal Abdul Rahim, Ketua Pengarah Tourism Malaysia dan Dato Azmir Saifuddin Mutalib, Ketua Pegawai Eksekutif Perbadanan Kemajuan Filem Nasional Malaysia (FINAS).

Kerjasama ini menandakan pendekatan baharu yang memanfaatkan kandungan filem dan televisyen sebagai medium strategik dalam mempromosikan keunikan budaya, warisan serta destinasi pelancongan Malaysia kepada pasaran global.

Selain itu, FINAS akan menerajui pembangunan kandungan kreatif berimpak tinggi yang mengetengahkan keunikan Malaysia, manakala Tourism Malaysia menyediakan akses kepada aset promosi strategik termasuk bahan visual, kempen nasional dan platform global seperti Kempen Melawat Malaysia 2026 (VM2026).

Kerjasama ini dijangka akan merangsang peningkatan pelaburan dalam produksi antarabangsa, memperkukuh pembangunan projek kandungan bersama, menggalakkan penyertaan yang lebih aktif dalam pasaran kandungan global, serta membuka lebih banyak peluang pekerjaan dalam industri kreatif.

-Tourism Malaysia.

New Direct Qingdao To Penang Route Strengthens Malaysia And China Tourism Connectivity

 

PENANG – Tourism Malaysia welcomes the arrival of the inaugural direct flight connecting Qingdao and Penang, marking another significant step in strengthening Malaysia’s international air connectivity and supporting the nation’s tourism growth in line with the Visit Malaysia 2026 (VM2026). 

The inaugural flight, QW923, departed from Qingdao Jiaodong International Airport and arrived at Penang International Airport at 3.15 p.m. Operated by Qingdao Airlines using an Airbus A320N aircraft, the service offers a seat capacity of 179 passengers. The flight will operate three times weekly on Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday, further enhancing travel convenience between China and Malaysia. 

The introduction of this route is expected to contribute positively to Malaysia’s tourism sector by facilitating greater travel flows from China, which remains one of Malaysia’s most important source markets. This route will support leisure travel, business exchanges, and visits among friends and relatives, while strengthening Malaysia’s position as a preferred short-haul destination for Chinese travellers. 

The flight was warmly welcomed by YB Wong Hon Wai, Penang State Executive Councillor for Tourism and Creative Economy, together with Mr. Lee Thai Hung, Deputy Director General (Promotion II) of Tourism Malaysia, Mr. Abdul Hadi Che Man, Director of Tourism Malaysia North Region, and representatives from Malaysia Airports Holdings Berhad and Qingdao Airlines. 

In a statement, Mr. Mohd Amirul Rizal bin Abdul Rahim, Director General of Tourism Malaysia, said, "The launch of the direct air service between Qingdao and Penang marks an exciting milestone in strengthening Malaysia’s connectivity with China, a key source market for our tourism. By making travel easier and more convenient, this route will increase visitor arrivals and support the continued success of VM2026. Penang’s unique mix of cultural heritage, world-class cuisine, and vibrant urban experiences makes it an irresistible destination, and we are confident that this new connection will further capture the hearts of Chinese travellers."

Penang International Airport has recorded steady growth in China connectivity, with airlines including China Southern Airlines, Xiamen Airlines, Spring Airlines, Juneyao Airlines, and 9 Air operating direct routes to Guangzhou, Shanghai, Xiamen, and Haikou. 

For international visitors, Penang remains one of Malaysia’s most distinctive tourism destinations, renowned for its UNESCO-listed heritage areas, vibrant multicultural environment, and world-famous culinary offerings. The state continues to attract travellers seeking authentic cultural experiences alongside modern urban attractions and diverse lifestyle offerings. 

China continues to play a vital role in Malaysia’s tourism landscape. Malaysia recorded 4.7 million visitor arrivals from China between January and December 2025, representing a 25.1 per cent year-on-year increase, which reflects the strong demand for Malaysia as a travel destination. The expansion of direct air services aligns with the broader strategy of Tourism Malaysia to enhance international connectivity, stimulate tourism growth, and position Malaysia as a leading destination in the region. 

Tourism Malaysia remains committed to working closely with airline partners and industry stakeholders to expand flight networks and support increased visitor arrivals. The organisation welcomes the launch of this direct service and looks forward to continued collaboration in promoting Malaysia’s diverse attractions, rich gastronomy, and renowned hospitality to travellers from China.

-Tourism Malaysia.

Cherating Festival 2026 – Lantern Festival Malaysia @ Cherating, Malaysia ( 3 & 4 April 2026 )

 

Cherating Festival 2026 – Lantern Festival Malaysia

Bayangkan suasana pantai yang indah, langit dipenuhi cahaya lentera, muzik bergema, dan keriangan tanpa henti!

Tarikh: 3 & 4 April 2026 

Lokasi: Cherating, Malaysia

Nikmati pengalaman unik dengan:

> Pelepasan Lentera

> Fire Dance

> Dance Fit

> Water Fight

> Live DJ

Jangan lepaskan peluang untuk menjadi sebahagian daripada festival penuh warna ini. Bawa keluarga, rakan-rakan, dan rasai sendiri magis Cherating di bawah cahaya lentera!

Save the date & spread the word – Cherating menanti anda!

-Tourism Malaysia Wilayah Timur - Pahang.

Malaysia adds three international airlines linking Asia, Africa routes

 

KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia's aviation network has added three new international airlines, with AeroDili and Air Algerie commencing operations at Kuala Lumpur International Airport, and Qingdao Airlines launching services to Penang International Airport. 

Malaysia Airports Holdings Bhd said Timor-Leste's AeroDili began operations on March 28, followed by Algeria's Air Algerie on March 30, while China's Qingdao Airlines started flights to Penang on March 31. 

Qingdao Airlines operates thrice-weekly flights from Qingdao, becoming the ninth Chinese carrier serving Penang International Airport, the airport operator said in a statement. 

AeroDili operates twice-weekly direct flights between Kuala Lumpur and Timor-Leste, while Air Algerie will operate three times weekly. Its inaugural flight was fully booked, indicating strong demand. 

The Air Algerie service opens a new North African corridor with no direct competition, complementing existing African connectivity via Ethiopian Airlines and Air Mauritius. 

Malaysia Airports managing director Datuk Mohd Izani Ghani said the additions form part of the group's efforts to expand its airline network.

"They enhance connectivity and service quality while creating long-term value for passengers, airline partners and the wider economy. 

"Our focus is on building a resilient, demand-driven network that supports tourism, trade and regional mobility, and we are actively pursuing new airline partnerships and routes to expand Malaysia's global reach," he said.

-nst online.

Cruise Tasik Putrajaya Syawal Special Nights

 

This Raya, celebrate under the stars

Create beautiful memories on a Double Deck Night Cruise.

Time: 8:00 PM – 8:45 PM

Day: Wednesday to Sunday

Fare: From as low as RM25

Because the best Raya moments are the ones shared together

-Cruise Tasik Putrajaya.

Tourism Malaysia Welcomes New Direct Flight from Sri Lanka, Enhancing Connectivity To Malaysia

 

SEPANG — Tourism Malaysia today celebrates the launch of new Batik Air direct flight connecting Colombo to Kuala Lumpur, further strengthening air connectivity between Sri Lanka and Malaysia. In line with Visit Malaysia 2026 (VM2026), this new route offers travellers greater choice and convenience by complementing existing flights by Malaysia Airlines, AirAsia, SriLankan Airlines, and FitsAir.

Commencing on 30 March 2026, the service will operate four times weekly with a total seat capacity of 162. The inaugural flight OD298 from Bandaranaike International Airport arrived at Kuala Lumpur International Airport around 08:25 this morning, carrying about 120 passengers in Boeing 737 aircraft.

This new connection positions Kuala Lumpur as a premier gateway, supporting Tourism Malaysia’s efforts to lead travellers toward diverse destinations beyond the capital, showcasing the country’s diverse experiences, including island escapes, cultural heritage, nature, and community-based tourism across various states.

In attendance at the ceremony were officials from Tourism Malaysia, led by Mr. Lee Thai Hung, Deputy Director General (Promotions II) and Puan Nuwal Fadhilah Ku Azmi, Senior Director of International Promotions (Asia/Africa). Also present were representatives of Batik Air; Mr. Suresh Vanan, Head of Communications and Promotions and Ms. Hanna Hussein, Public Relations and Communications Manager, as well as representatives from Malaysia Airports Holdings Berhad (MAHB).

-Tourism Malaysia.

Tourism Malaysia Wins Gold And Silver Awards At The Japan World’s Tourism Film Festival 2026

 

SHIGA, JAPAN – Tourism Malaysia Tokyo is proud to announce its outstanding achievement at the Japan International Tourism Video Festival 2026. The organisation was awarded Gold in the Asian Competition Category and Silver in the Tourism Destination Country Category for its video titled “VM2026 Surreal Experiences.”

This prestigious recognition highlights the strength of Malaysia’s storytelling and visual appeal in promoting its diverse tourism offerings to the Japanese and global markets. Competing against high-quality entries from across the region and beyond, “VM2026 Surreal Experiences” stood out for its compelling narrative, creative execution, and its ability to capture the essence of Malaysia’s unique and immersive travel experiences.

Ms. Syaliza Abd Aziz, Director of Tourism Malaysia Tokyo expressed her gratitude for the recognition, stating: “We are deeply honoured to receive both Gold and Silver awards at this esteemed festival. This achievement reflects Malaysia’s continuous commitment to showcasing our country as a vibrant and culturally rich destination. We hope these recognitions will further inspire Japanese travellers to explore the beauty and diversity of Malaysia.”

The Japan World’s Tourism Film Festival (JWTFF), a member of the InternationalCommittee of Tourism Film Festivals (CIFFT), is a renowned platform that celebrates excellence in tourism video marketing, bringing together destinations, filmmakers, and industry stakeholders from around the world. This year’s JWTFF saw more than 1,334 submissions competing for nomination.

In 2025, Malaysia recorded a total of 416,492 international visitor arrivals from Japan, representing a 13.4 per cent increase compared to 2024. This growth reflects the strong demand for Malaysia as a preferred travel destination and underscores the effectiveness of targeted promotional efforts in the Japanese market.

Tourism Malaysia remains committed to strengthening its promotional efforts in Japan through innovative campaigns, strategic collaborations, and engaging digital content to position Malaysia as a preferred destination for Japanese travellers.

-Tourism Malaysia.

Travel Malaysia Fair 2026 @ Singapore Expo Hall 6A ( 10 ~ 12 April 2026 )

 

Travel Malaysia Fair 2026 Is Here!

Looking for your next getaway? This is your sign to start planning!

Join us at the Travel Malaysia Fair 2026 and discover unbeatable travel deals, exclusive packages, and exciting destinations — all in one place.

What to expect:

 • Special deals on bus tickets & travel packages

 • Exclusive hotel promotions

 • One-stop travel planning for Malaysia & beyond

 • On-site booking perks & FREE gifts

 • Lucky draw prizes — stand a chance to win hotel stays & travel tickets!

Whether you‘re planning a quick escape or a full holiday adventure, we’ve got something for everyone.

Date: 10 – 12 April 2026

Time: 10:30am – 9:00pm

Venue: Singapore Expo, Hall 6A

Don’t miss out — bring your friends & family and explore the best of Malaysia with us!

-Travel Malaysia Fair.

Tourism Malaysia Strengthens Regional Connectivity With New Inaugural Aerodili Service From Dili

 

SEPANG — Tourism Malaysia today welcomed the inaugural AeroDili (8G) flight from Dili, Timor-Leste, which arrived at Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) Terminal 2 at 11.15 am. This historic arrival marks AeroDili’s first direct service connecting Timor-Leste and Malaysia. The flight was received by representatives from Tourism Malaysia, AeroDili, Malaysia Airports Holdings Berhad (MAHB), and ground handler Pos Aviation. 

The introduction of this new route represents an important milestone in strengthening air connectivity between Timor-Leste and Malaysia, while providing new opportunities to enhance tourism and economic exchanges between the two countries. The new service also supports Tourism Malaysia’s efforts to expand connectivity from emerging markets in conjunction with the Kempen Melawat Malaysia 2026 (VM2026). 

The inaugural flight was operated using an Airbus A319-100 aircraft welcoming 93 passengers. The service will operate twice weekly on Tuesday and Saturday, providing convenient travel options for both leisure and business travellers between Dili and Kuala Lumpur. Flights 8G921 and 8G922 are scheduled to arrive in KLIA Terminal 2 at 11.15 am and departing at 12.00 pm. The flight was warmly welcomed by The Honourable Datuk Surendren Sathasiven, Deputy Secretary-General (Management), Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture Malaysia, Mr. Lee Thai Hung, Deputy Director General (Promotion II), Tourism Malaysia, Mrs. Baizuri Baharum, Director of the International Promotion Division (Southeast Asia) and representatives from Malaysia Airports Holdings Berhad (MAHB) and AeroDili Airlines.

 Mr Lourenço de Oliveira, President of Aero Dili, expressed his enthusiasm regarding the airline’s latest international expansion. 

“We are proud to launch this inaugural service connecting Dili and Kuala Lumpur, marking a significant milestone for AeroDili as we expand our international network. Kuala Lumpur is a vital regional hub, and this route will provide enhanced travel opportunities for passengers from Timor-Leste, while strengthening tourism, business, and people-to-people connections between our two nations. We look forward to working closely with Tourism Malaysia and our partners to grow this route and contribute to the momentum leading up to VM2026,” he said. 

The launch of this new service reflects growing confidence in Malaysia as a preferred travel destination and aviation hub in Southeast Asia. Tourism Malaysia continues to work closely with airline partners, airport authorities, and tourism stakeholders to strengthen international connectivity and support the success of the Kempen Melawat Malaysia 2026 (VM2026). This initiative aims to attract an increasing number of global visitors while showcasing Malaysia’s rich culture, nature, and unique travel experiences.

-Tourism Malaysia.

Night Zoo Johor draws record 7,330 visitors on opening night

 

JOHOR BARU:  Night Zoo Johor saw a massive turnout on its opening night yesterday, with 7,330 visitors experiencing the state's newest attraction.

State Housing and Local Government Committee chairman Datuk Mohd Jafni Md Shukor said the figures surpassed initial expectations of 5,000 visitors. 

The night zoo features 35 additional species comprising 100 animals. 

"In the first three hours alone, we recorded over 3,000 visitors. We are maintaining the most affordable ticket prices in Malaysia. Currently, we have 93 species and a total of 507 animals at Zoo Johor," he said when met at the launch here last night. 

Night Zoo Johor operates from Friday to Sunday, 8pm to 11pm, with the last entry at 10pm. 

Tickets are priced at RM10 for adults and RM5 for children over five and senior citizens aged 60 and above. For foreign tourists, the price is RM30. Entry is free for children under five and persons with disabilities.

Commenting on the facility's development, Mohd Jafni said the state government spent RM9 million on the first phase of upgrades and RM7 million on the second phase, bolstered by a RM1.4 million federal contribution for a new reptile house. 

"For the second phase, we also upgraded walkways to be more friendly for those with disabilities. 

"We will proceed with the third phase, which focuses on constructing an animal clinic, additional quarantine areas, and upgrading offices and staff quarters. An allocation of RM2 million has been approved for this phase," he said. 

Visitor Muhammad Shah Fikri Sukarto, 24, a lorry driver from Kota Tinggi, said he travelled with his family to be among the first to experience the attraction. 

"I came specifically for the night zoo, and the vibe is unique. My family no longer needs to travel to Melaka or other states to experience a zoo at night," he said. 

Another visitor, Sylvia Thian Many Sia, 48, from Taman Desa Jaya, praised the zoo's cleanliness and aesthetics following its 2024 reopening. 

"It has been a long time since I visited Zoo Johor. Seeing the animals at night is exciting because I realised many are actually more active then. I will definitely come back," she said.

-nst online.

Lenggong Geopark set to make history with Unesco status

 

KUALA LUMPUR: Lenggong Geopark in Perak is set to make history as one of 12 new Unesco Global Geoparks (UGGp) to be recognised this year. 

Lenggong member of parliament Datuk Seri Dr Shamsul Anuar Nasarah said the recognition was conveyed through the International Geoscience and Geoparks Programme (IGGP), with the official announcement by Unesco's Executive Board scheduled for April 23. 

The Unesco Global Geoparks certificate presentation ceremony will be held on April 27 at Unesco headquarters in Paris. 

Shamsul Anuar, who is also the Deputy Home Minister, said the achievement was a proud milestone and marked an important step in elevating Lenggong's brand to the international stage. 

He said the success was the result of collaboration among various parties, including the Perak government, the Lenggong Geopark Management Body, federal agencies and the local community. 

"This achievement will certainly strengthen our efforts towards the conservation of natural heritage as well as the sustainable management of areas with international value.

"The recognition we are set to receive also proves that Lenggong possesses highly valuable treasures of international standing that are important and must be preserved," he said in a Facebook post. 

Lenggong was previously gazetted as a National Geopark on Dec 16, 2021, making it the second geopark in Perak.

-nst online.

Malaysia targets intra-Asia travel as Middle East tensions reshape demand

 

Amid escalating tensions in the Middle East, Malaysia is positioning itself to capture a surge in intra-regional travel, with industry leaders seeing an opportunity to draw visitors from within Asia. 

At the policy level, the Tourism, Arts and Culture Ministry is recalibrating its strategy for Visit Malaysia 2026 to focus more on markets less affected by Middle East airspace disruptions, such as Asia and South-east Asia, while alternative transit options that bypass the Middle East are also being explored, said the ministry’s deputy secretary-general, Chua Choon Hwa. 

He added that the ministry is reviewing its approach to attracting European travellers who typically transit through the Middle East. Efforts are underway to identify alternative routing options, including the use of selected airlines that allow travellers to bypass Middle Eastern transit points. 

Nigel Wong, president of the Malaysia Association of Tour and Travel Agents, said the association is stepping up efforts to promote Malaysia across key source markets including South-east Asia, China and India. Initiatives include expanded sales missions, participation in trade shows and industry events, as well as direct engagement with overseas counterparts. 

Early shifts in travel patterns are already emerging, as the war in the Middle East has prompted travellers to reconsider itineraries involving the region, opting instead for destinations perceived as safer. 

Arokia Das Anthony, executive director of The Essence of Asia Tours & Travel, said that two Indian groups originally planning holidays in Dubai this month have redirected their trips to Malaysia. 

He added that six more leisure groups from India are confirmed to visit Malaysia between April and June, all of whom had initially intended to travel to the UAE. 

He said: “Malaysia is attractive because of its value for money proposition, easy availability of Indian food and strong direct air connectivity, making it an easy switch for Indian travellers. 

“We are running promotions with our Indian counterparts. While this means working with thinner margins, we are banking on higher volumes to drive overall returns.”

-TTG Asia.

Tourism Malaysia Enhances Arrival Experience With Hari Raya Aidilfitri Celebrations For Visit Malaysia 2026

 

SEPANG — In conjunction with the Visit Malaysia 2026 (VM2026) campaign, Tourism Malaysia today welcomed both domestic and international visitors with a vibrant Hari Raya Aidilfitri celebrations across nine airports nationwide. The main celebration was held at Kuala Lumpur International Airport Terminal 1, alongside simultaneous welcoming ceremonies at eight other airports across Selangor, Penang, Johor, Kedah, Perak, Sabah, and Sarawak. 

The welcoming ceremony was officiated by YBrs. Mr. Chua Choon Hwa, Deputy Secretary General (Tourism) of MOTAC at KLIA Terminal 1. Also present were YBrs. Mr. Mohd Amirul Rizal Abdul Rahim, Director General of Tourism Malaysia and YBrs. Mr. Lee Thai Hung, Deputy Director General (Promotion II) of Tourism Malaysia. 

Following the Chinese New Year celebrations last February, this series of cultural festivities continues to showcase the richness and harmony of Malaysia’s multicultural society. Visitors were warmly welcomed with festive souvenirs at the Arrival Hall and invited to savour traditional Hari Raya Aidilfitri delicacies, reflecting the nation’s signature hospitality and vibrant cultural heritage that define the Malaysia Truly Asia experience. 

The atmosphere was further enlivened by Aidilfitri-themed Malay cultural performances while the VM2026 mascots, Wira and Manja, made special appearances to delight visitors. Highlights of this event included a traditional kacau dodol demonstration, also known as the stirring of a sweet toffee-like delicacy, alongside a buka lemang gimmick, one of Malaysia’s cherished traditional dishes. 

This programme was successfully delivered through strategic collaboration with various stakeholders including ministries and agencies under MOTAC, airlines, corporate sponsors and tourism industry associations. Participating partners included Malaysia Airport Sdn. Bhd, Batik Air, QSR Brands (M) Holdings Bhd, Spritzer Berhad, Mitsui Outlet Park KLIA Sepang, LaKanVo Premium, Adabi Consumer Industries Sdn. Bhd., BOH Plantations Sdn Bhd, Fraser & Neave Holdings Bhd, Watson Personal Care Stores Sdn. Bhd., Gamuda Berhad, Grab Holdings Limited, Oriental Kopi Holdings Berhad, Photobook Worldwide, Vanzo Holdings Berhad, Fiscor Food Sdn. Bhd., My Blockchain Infrastructure Sdn. Bhd., Zus Coffee, TBH Wellness Sdn. Bhd., Kek Lapis Warisan Sdn. Bhd, Kraftangan Malaysia dan Borneo Empurau Farm & Resort. 

Their participation reflects strong collective support in promoting Malaysia’s tourism industry and enhancing the overall visitor experience in line with the Visit Malaysia 2026 (VM2026) campaign. 

Malaysia’s main entry point, KLIA is expected to receive a significant surge of visitors amidst the celebration of Hari Raya Aidilfitri this morning. With approximately 28 flights carrying an estimated 5,000 passengers across regions including Singapore, Jakarta, Manila, Beijing, Chengdu, Shanghai, Perth, Dubai, Brunei and Istanbul, the projected arrival statistics align with the momentum of the actively promoted Visit Malaysia 2026 (VM2026) campaign. 

Organising Malaysian festive celebrations at airports is among Tourism Malaysia's ongoing strategies under the VM2026 campaign to provide a meaningful arrival experience, strengthen destination branding and promote Malaysia as a culturally rich and safe destination year-round. This initiative at international gateways plays a crucial role in leaving a positive impression on visitors and encouraging repeat visits. 

Tourism Malaysia continues to strengthen the country's global tourism profile while celebrating Malaysia's cultural diversity in line with the objectives of Visit Malaysia 2026 (VM2026) and supporting the long-term sustainable development of the tourism sector.

-Tourism Malaysia.

Hari Raya travel drives 33 per cent rise in Singapore outbound trips: Trip.com

 

Shanghai, Bangkok and Kuala Lumpur, pictured, are among the top destinations for Singapore travellers during the Hari Raya travel period

During the Hari Raya Puasa holiday period, with bookings rising by 33 per cent year-on-year, according to Trip.com data. 

The figures cover travel between March 20 and 29, 2026, compared with March 28 to April 6, 2025. Short- and medium-haul destinations in Asia-Pacific remained the preferred choice, with Shanghai, Bangkok and Kuala Lumpur ranking as the most popular cities.

Shanghai emerged as the top destination this year, while Manila moved up to fourth place from seventh in 2025. Other destinations in the top 10 include Tokyo, Taipei, Seoul, Bali, Hong Kong and Penang. 

Medium-haul flights accounted for 70 per cent of bookings, followed by shorthaul flights at 24 per cent and longhaul travel at six per cent. 

Younger travellers were a key driver of demand, with Gen Z and millennials accounting for a large share of outbound bookings. 

Inbound travel to Singapore also increased by 12 per cent during the same period. China, Malaysia and Thailand remained the largest source markets, while Germany, the US and Turkey recorded the fastest growth. 

Visitors were drawn to attractions such as Universal Studios Singapore, Jewel Changi Airport, Singapore Zoo and Night Safari, reflecting demand for a mix of entertainment and nature-based experiences. 

Edmund Ong, general manager, Trip.com Singapore noted: “As Singaporeans take time to celebrate Hari Raya Puasa, many are also seizing the opportunity to travel abroad. The desire to venture abroad during the key festive seasons also reflects Singaporeans’ desire to create memorable shared moments through travel.”

-TTG Asia.

75,000 flood Langkawi for Aidilfitri holidays

 

LANGKAWI: Some 75,000 visitors have flooded the island over the last five days, driven by a surge of holidaymakers and residents returning for Aidilfitri. 

Of the total arrivals since Monday, 18,000 arrived via passenger ferries from Kuala Perlis and Kuala Kedah, while approximately 7,000 used roll-on/roll-off (RoRo) services. 

Air travel remained a primary choice, with an estimated 50,000 passengers recorded arriving via domestic and international flights during the same period. 

Ferry Line Ventures Sdn Bhd (Ferry Line) operations manager Lieutenant Commander (Rtd) Norhafiz Abdul Wahid said 11,230 passengers entered Langkawi through the Kuala Perlis route. 

"For the Kuala Kedah-Langkawi route, 6,960 local and foreign passengers were recorded across seven trips, including two additional services. 

"We believe this increase is driven by Langkawi natives returning for the festivities and tourists taking the opportunity to holiday on the island", he said.

Langkawi Port Sdn Bhd general manager Muhd Nasir Abd Aziz said the Tanjung Lembung Pier (DTL) recorded about 7,000 passenger arrivals in the same timeframe. 

He said ferry operators increased trip frequency to eight times daily, up from the usual four, to meet the festive demand. 

"This ensures the smooth movement of passengers and vehicles between Langkawi and Kuala Perlis", he said in a statement. 

Checks on flight schedules showed Langkawi International Airport (LTAL) receiving an average of 20 incoming flights daily from Kuala Lumpur, Penang, Johor Baru, Singapore, and Bengaluru, India. 

An airport staff member, who wished to be known only as Man, said employees were briefed to handle an average of 5,000 passengers per day throughout the peak period.

-nst online.