Langkawi expects 450,000 tourists via 'RoRo' ferry services

 

LANGKAWI: Tourist arrivals to Langkawi via roll-on roll-off (RoRo) passenger and vehicle ferry services are expected to rise to 450,000 this year, marking a six per cent increase. 

The growth is attributed to the rising popularity of RoRo ferries as an alternative mode of transport among travellers, driven by improved onboard facilities and more affordable pricing for trips to the island. 

Langkawi Port Sdn Bhd general manager, Muhd Nasir Abd Aziz, said the company is fully prepared to manage the anticipated increase in passenger and vehicle traffic at Tanjung Lembung Port this year. 

"The increase in tourist arrivals through Langkawi's third entry point is one of our key focus areas, in line with the implementation of the Visit Malaysia 2026 campaign. 

"We are projecting about 450,000 passengers and 160,000 vehicles to be handled by Langkawi Port this year," he said when met today. 

Nasir said records showed that the company handled 422,709 passengers and 152,384 vehicles throughout last year.

"The new passenger target of 450,000 represents a six per cent increase, while the vehicle target of 160,000 units reflects growth of about five per cent. 

"We are confident of achieving these targets, supported by the positive momentum in tourist arrivals, particularly during the ongoing school holiday period," he said. 

He added that the port recorded 32,584 passenger arrivals, averaging about 2,000 a day, as well as 9,813 vehicles, or an average of 560 units daily, between Dec 19 and Dec 31 last year.

-nst online.

New Gateway To Malaysia: Jiangxi Air Inaugurates First International Route From Nanchang

 

KUALA LUMPUR, 25 AUGUST 2025 – Tourism Malaysia proudly welcomes Jiangxi Air, a rising low-cost carrier jointly established by Xiamen Air and the Jiangxi Provincial Government, on the successful launch of its inaugural direct service between Nanchang and Kuala Lumpur. 

Today’s landmark Flight RY6607 touched down at Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA), marking the historic arrival of the first-ever direct flight connecting Nanchang, the capital of Jiangxi Province, with Malaysia’s bustling capital city. This milestone not only enhances air connectivity but also strengthens tourism, trade, and investment linkages between Malaysia and China’s eastern region. 

The inaugural ceremony was officiated by Mr. Chua Choon Hwa, Deputy Secretary General (Tourism) and YBhg. Dato’ Normah Osman, Deputy Secretary General (Policy) of Ministry of Transport. Distinguished guests included Mr. Samuel Lee, Deputy Director General (Promotion II), Tourism Malaysia. Also present were Dato’ Mohd Izani Ghani, Managing Director of Malaysia Airports Holdings Berhad (MAHB) and Mr. Kang Zhiyang, General Manager of Jiangxi Air. 

“This new air link is a testament to the strong and ever-growing tourism ties between Malaysia and China. It not only enhances connectivity but also supports our continuous efforts to position Malaysia as a premier travel destination in the region. We look forward to welcoming more Chinese visitors to experience Malaysia’s rich cultural heritage, natural beauty, and diverse offerings,” said YB Dato Sri Tiong King Sing, Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture Malaysia. 

The Nanchang–Kuala Lumpur service represents a historic milestone as Jiangxi Air’s firstever international scheduled route. Choosing Malaysia as its maiden overseas destination reflects the airline’s strong confidence in Malaysia’s tourism appeal and underscores Malaysia’s role as a strategic gateway to Southeast Asia. 

Jiangxi Air will operate twice-weekly flights between Nanchang Changbei International Airport and KLIA Terminal 1, utilizing its modern Boeing 737-800 aircraft with 175 seats. This convenient service is set to boost business travel, leisure tourism, and peopleto-people exchanges, while creating greater economic opportunities for both nations. 

From January to June 2025, Malaysia welcomed 2.17 million visitors from China, an impressive 35.6% increase compared to the same period in 2024. This remarkable growth highlights the rising demand for Malaysian destinations among Chinese travellers. The newly launched Nanchang–Kuala Lumpur route is expected to further accelerate arrivals, particularly from the Jiangxi region. 

Tourism Malaysia remains committed to strengthening global air connectivity by working closely with international carriers, airport authorities, and tourism industry stakeholders. This collaboration supports Malaysia’s vision to enhance its global tourism presence and solidify its position as a world-class travel hub ahead of Visit Malaysia 2026.

-Tourism Malaysia.

Indonesia, Malaysia push for improved cross-border access

 

Indonesia and Malaysia cooperating on expanding access between Indonesia’s Riau Islands and Malaysia’s Johor state as well as enhancing tourism promotion.

The Indonesian consulate general in Johor and the Johor government are developing an agreement to enhance the connection between Johor and Batam Island, which is part of the Riau Islands. The plan is to have roll-on-roll-out (RoRo) ferry services between Johor and Batam, which will serve travellers, vehicles and goods.

Sigit Widiyanto, Indonesia consul general for Johor Bahru, said: “Both parties see the potential for access between Johor and Indonesia through Batam and Riau Islands to boost tourism traffic. A (scheduled) RoRo operation is a way to go. Travellers from Johor can use their cars to travel in Batam and vice versa – (just as how) Singapore, Malaysia and Thailand travellers (are) visiting each other over land.”

Both parties are also eager to promote cross-border trips to boost tourism, with plans to offer special discounts and rates for accommodation and other facilities to attract interest.

Sigit shared that “technical discussions with the local authority” are underway, so are discussions with industry players on promotions. “We hope that this will materialise this year,” he said.

In line with this commitment, the Association of the Indonesian Tours and Travel Agencies (ASITA) signed an MoU with Dewan Teraju Usahawan & Peniaga Bumiputra Negeri Johor Bumiputera Enterprenurs and Merchant Council of Johor (DTUPB) on the sidelines of ASEAN Tourism Forum 2025 with the intention of boosting traffic between Indonesia and Johor.

Ismail Karim, president of the council, said at the signing ceremony: “To effectively introduce Johor’s tourism stakeholders and packages to the Indonesian market, it is important for us to collaborate with ASITA, which has a network of 7,000 members spanning all 36 Indonesian provinces.

“I hope that this signing is the first step towards a strong Johor-Indonesia partnership, particularly in the vital tourism sector, which will benefit both regions.”

Nunung Rusmiati, president of the national board of ASITA, said both organisations have a “longstanding relationship”, and the agreement will “take collaboration to the next level”.

She added: “While Johor seeks to attract more Indonesian visitors, ASITA is also committed to promoting Indonesia to travellers from Johor and Malaysia. We look forward to mutual benefits from this enhanced partnership.”

Budijanto Ardiansjah, secretary general of the national board of ASITA told TTG Asia that cooperation with Johor’s travel industry has so far been primarily focused on Batam and Riau Islands. However, DTUPB wants to expand coverage across Malaysia, as the country prepares for Visit Malaysia Year 2026.

Budijanto expects to see increasing demand among travellers from Johor to explore beyond Riau Islands, which will result in demand for more direct flights. Currently, only AirAsia operates two daily direct flights between Jakarta and Johor Bahru.

“Although connecting to and from Johor through Singapore is very convenient, more direct flights and RoRo ferry services will open up more options for travellers,” he said.

Budijanto also expects Johor’s travel players to come up with more creative and attractive packages to entice Indonesian travellers.

-TTG Asia.

South-east Asian airlines to gain stopover rights in 2025

 

South-east Asian airline operators can offer stopovers within ASEAN member states starting next year; photo by umitc

Airline operators from South-east Asia will be able to offer stopovers within ASEAN member states starting next year, once all 10 ASEAN countries sign Protocol 5 on Own Stopover Rights between Points within the Territory of Other ASEAN member states.

Malaysia’s transport minister Anthony Loke revealed on November 22 that South-east Asia based airlines are allowed to make stopovers at ASEAN member state airports before heading to another point in the region.

In his explanation to The Star, Loke said: “If an airline flies from Kuala Lumpur to Singapore, that same flight can (then continue) on to Bali, Indonesia. From there, (it) can also proceed to other airports within ASEAN member states.'”

He added that the move would further boost regional air connectivity and benefit airlines. At the same time, it will enhance operational flexibility for carriers, promote tourism, and enhance trade by providing more seamless and convenient air travel options across the region.

To date, all ASEAN member states have signed Protocol 5 except for Myanmar and Indonesia.

The signing of Protocol 5 was held in conjunction with the 30th ASEAN Transport Ministers and 58th Senior Transport Officials Meetings held in Kuala Lumpur from November 18 to 22.

These meetings brought together South-east Asian transport leaders, policymakers, and industry experts to engage in high-level discussions on advancing both regional and global connectivity, as well as fostering economic prosperity.

Loke also shared that the ASEAN-New Zealand Air Services Agreement and its Protocol 1, resulting from the meeting, marked an important step in strengthening aviation relations between South-east Asia and New Zealand.

Under the agreement, the airlines designated by ASEAN member states and New Zealand will have greater opportunities to operate passenger and/or cargo services between and beyond South-east Asia and New Zealand.

The airlines will be able to operate such services with unlimited third and fourth freedom traffic rights, as specified in Protocol 1 of the ASEAN-New Zealand Air Services Agreement, which will lead to increased direct connections and the expansion of air transport services between the respective ASEAN member states and New Zealand.

-TTG Asia.

Penang LRT on track to ease traffic and enhance tourism

 

GEORGE TOWN: The implementation of the Penang Mutiara Route Light Rail Transit (LRT) project is seen as a beneficial alternative transportation option for residents to alleviate traffic congestion and enhance urban mobility by connecting urban and suburban areas.

The LRT line, expected to run from Silicon Island to Komtar and crossing to Penang Sentral in Seberang Perai, is also poised to boost tourism in the state, which is rich with Unesco Biosphere Reserve Sites.

Transportation analyst and expert Abi Sofian Abdul Hamid said that the LRT network connects strategic locations, fulfilling users’ demands with efficient and accessible transportation hubs at each station.

“Therefore, support networks for ‘the last mile’ and related aspects need to be taken into consideration, including shuttle transportation and parking facilities.“If we look at the Prime Minister’s announcement, this project will also involve transit- oriented development concepts where LRT stations will be focal points for residential and job centre development,” he said recently, Bernama reported.

Abi Sofian, who is also the Founder of Thought Partners Group Consulting (TPG), explained that the project could contribute to green mobility by reducing vehicles and carbon emissions.

He said this is in line with the National Energy Transition Roadmap if executed based on thorough research findings and proper implementation.

In theory, he said, with stations located at tourist attractions, it can help tourists move easily from one attraction to another, including Penang Sentral Station, which offers seamless transportation connectivity.

Commenting on the Federal Government’s decision to officially take over the LRT project from the state government, Abi Sofian said it would ensure various project management aspects are better handled, considering the involvement of MRT Corp with its experience in delivering rapid transportation in the Klang Valley.

Meanwhile, Tourism and Transport Business Consultant YS Chan noted that apart from benefiting commuters, industrial tourism will get a boost as Penang is a showcase for the successful manufacturing of high-tech products, not only in Malaysia, but also globally.

“Visitors will no longer have to brave congested traffic as travelling by LRT will be a breeze and they will be impressed to witness a large number of locals enjoying the facility.

However, the entire LRT route must be carefully thought out and the location of stations strategically planned,” he said.The LRT project, estimated to span about 29km with 20 stations and targeted to operate by 2030, will include two interchange stations at Komtar station and Penang Sentral station.

Commencement is expected to be in September or October this year.

-thestar online.

Batik Air Commences Flights To Auckland Via Perth

 

Kuala Lumpur, 22 August 2023?- Batik Air continues its expansion to the Australasia region with the launch of its latest route between Kuala Lumpur (KUL) and Auckland (AKL), New Zealand. The new service, which will operate six-times weekly via Perth (PER), Australia, will be commencing on 24 August 2023.

The introduction of this latestrouteto Auckland, the gateway to New Zealand, marks another significant milestone in Batik Air’s ongoing efforts to broaden its footprint both in the Asia Pacific and the global markets. Renowned for its huge tourism potential, the “Land of the Long White Cloud” in the Maori language, presents an array of distinctive escapades, including thrilling outdoor adventures, rich indigenous heritage and a whole host of exciting possibilities.

Group Strategy Director of Batik Air and Lion Group, Datuk Chandran Rama Muthy said that the Kuala Lumpur - Auckland route highlights Batik Air's strong commitment to providing convenient travel options, which extends not only to Malaysians seeking to discover vibrant cities like Auckland but also to New Zealanders, offering them multiple services to explore the beautiful Malaysian destinations such as Penang, Langkawi, Kuching, and Kota Kinabalu.

"We hope that tourists from New Zealand will take advantage of our reasonable rates and dedicated services to explore Malaysia and beyond, by connecting to one of the other intriguing locations we fly to," he said, adding that the industry is experiencing high growth, particularly in the Australia-New Zealand regions.

Additionally, travellers can also benefit from seamless connectivity to numerous captivating destinations beyond the Kuala Lumpur International (KLIA) hub including to the Indian Subcontinent, North Asia, and ASEAN states, through the rapidly growing Batik Air and Lion Air Group network.

Batik Air is currently offering an all-inclusive one-way promotional fare between KUL - AKL at RM1,619 for Economy Class and RM5,319for Business Class. This flight is operated using the brand-new Boeing 737-8 aircraft, which is fitted with 12 Business and 150 Economy Class seats.

Our all-in promotional fares are inclusive of 20kgs free baggage allowance for Economy Class and 40kgs for Business Class. Economy Class passengers may pre-purchase our special meals and any additional baggage requirements at a discounted rate which is available on Batik Air’s official website. Meals and drinks are also available for sales on-board at attractive prices on all Batik Air flights.

To book flights and explore more about Batik Air, visit our official website Batik Air Malaysia (malindoair.com)

-Tourism Malaysia.

New site identified for international airport construction in Perak

 

State Infrastructure, Energy, Water and Public Transport Committee chairman Datuk Seri Ir Mohammad Nizar Jamaluddin the project at Perak Tengah District and Land Office here, today.
- NSTP/MUHAMAD LOKMAN KHAIRI

PARIT: The state government has identified a new site near Felcra Nasaruddin in Bota here for the construction of an international airport in Perak.

State Infrastructure, Energy, Water and Public Transport Committee chairman Datuk Seri Ir Mohammad Nizar Jamaluddin said the new location was located about 40km from the original proposed site of the airport in Seri Iskandar.

Mohammad Nizar said however, the proposal to build an airport on a 1,618.7ha site required a thorough study before implementation.

"Today, a meeting was held with Colebrand International Limited which is an infrastructure engineering company from the United Kingdom regarding the site for the construction of the new airport.

"The company is then taken to the proposed location where they will carry out a study to see the suitability of the site before submitting the results of the study to the state government," he said.

Mohammad Nizar said this in a press conference after attending a briefing and presentation of the project at Perak Tengah District and Land Office here, today.

Also present were Colebrand International Limited director Jim Scott and its managing director, Dr Farid Idrus.

He added that the proposed construction of the airport had also been approved in principle by the federal government.

"This company has already met with the Prime Minister's Office, the Transport Ministry and the Perak Menteri Besar to give an overview of the construction of the airport.

"It means that there are no issues with the Transport Ministry and the Prime Minister's Office. They have indicated to agree with what we propose," he said.

When asked about the status of the land, Mohammad Nizar said that it was partly owned by Felcra Nasaruddin, the State Secretary Corporation and the state government.

"The previous airport site involved a lot of village-owned sites and cemeteries which became a problem for residents.

Meanwhile, Farid said the study, which is expected to take six months, would look at the suitability of the location as to whether it meets the requirements of an international standard airport.

He said the results of the study for the first phase would be presented to the state government for further action.

"If the state government agrees with the proposal submitted, then the second phase that will be implemented involves the development of the project.

"Based on our expectations and experience, the construction is expected to take some 60 months or five years. God willing, within the next five years, Perak will have a new airport," he said.

It was reported on Mac 29 last year that land that was previously identified as a location to build a new international airport in Seri Iskandar had been sold.

Perak DAP chairman Nga Kor Ming said it was learned that the land was sold by an irresponsible party without state permission.

Talks to build a bigger airport in Perak to boost tourism and other industries have been going on for years.

The current Sultan Azlan Shah Airport (LTSAS) in Ipoh cannot be expanded as land is limited.

-nst online.

Pelancongan Perak raih manfaat terbesar pembinaan WCE

 

LYNDON Alfred Felix (kiri) bersama Saarani Mohamad (dua dari kiri) dan Setiausaha Kerajaan Negeri Perak, Datuk Ahmad Suaidi Abdul Rahim (dua dari kanan) pada Majlis PraPelancaran Tahun Melawat Perak 2024 di Kuala Lumpur baru-baru ini. - UTUSAN

IPOH: Industri pelancongan Perak bakal meraih manfaat terbesar kesan pembinaan Lebuhraya Pesisiran Pantai Barat (WCE), terutama apabila siapnya jajaran terakhir di negeri ini dari Beruas ke Persimpangan Taiping Selatan pada hujung tahun ini.

Lebuh raya itu dianggap sebagai gerbang baharu ke negeri itu dengan menggunakan tema ‘Promising Perak’.

Menteri Besar, Datuk Seri Saarani Mohamad berkata, penyiapan Seksyen 11 WCE dari Beruas ke Taiping Selatan menjelang akhir tahun ini, adalah tepat pada masa untuk membantu Tahun Melawat Perak 2024.

“Lebuh raya ini bakal menyajikan perjalanan yang menarik sepanjang pesisiran pantai barat kepada bakal lapan juta pelancong tempatan dan 350,000 pelawat antarabangsa ke destinasi pelancongan utama sepanjang jajaran pantai barat negeri Perak, bermula dari Hutan Melintang ke Teluk Intan, Sitiawan ke Beruas, Trong dan penghujungnya, Taiping Selatan,” katanya pada Majlis PraPelancaran Tahun Melawat Perak 2024 di Kuala Lumpur baru-baru ini

WCE adalah projek lebuh raya sepanjang 233 kilometer dari Banting, Selangor hingga ke Taiping Selatan (Changkat Jering), Perak.

Sementara itu, Ketua Pegawai Eksekutif WCE, Lyndon Alfred Felix pula meluahkan rasa teruja apabila tarikan yang ada di sepanjang laluan lebuh raya itu kini boleh diterokai dengan masa lebih singkat selain merancakkan sosioekonomi komuniti kawasan terlibat.

Beliau juga mengumumkan penyiapan penghujung lebuh raya itu di Selangor, termasuk Seksyen 1 (Banting – SKVE), Seksyen 2 (SKVE – SAE) serta Seksyen 6 (Kapar – Assam Jawa) menjelang akhir tahun ini.

“Perhubungan lebuh raya yang lancar ini akan menawarkan pengalaman baharu bagi pelancong dan pengguna lebuh raya dari selatan tanah air serta pusat bandar seperti Shah Alam dan Klang untuk terus ke negeri Perak.

“Kami bangga menjadi jaringan penghubung bagi sebahagian besar daripada lapan juta pelancong Malaysia yang dijangka melawat negeri Perak pada tahun depan,” katanya.

-utusan online.

Majlis Sambutan Penerbangan Semula Air Asia X dari Macau ke Kota Kinabalu

 

16 Julai 2023 - YBhg. Dato’ Dr Ammar Abd. Ghapar, Ketua Pengarah Tourism Malaysia, menghadiri Majlis Sambutan Penerbangan Semula Air Asia X dari Macau ke Kota Kinabalu di Lapangan Terbang Antarabangsa KK, Sabah.

Penerbangan ini dijadualkan 4 kali seminggu, dengan jumlah 744 tempat duduk seminggu dari Lapangan Terbang Antarabangsa Macau. Majlis sambutan ini turut dihadiri Puan Mary Malangking, Timbalan Setiausaha Tetap, Kementerian Pelancongan, Kebudayaan & Alam Sekitar, Sabah (KEPTAS) yang mewakili Menteri Pelancongan, Kebudayaan & Alam Sekitar Sabah.

Majlis ini dihadiri bersama rakan strategik Tourism Malaysia, Sabah Tourism Board. YBhg. Dato’ Dr. Ketua Pengarah dalam rangka lawatan rasmi ke Sabah bagi Program Sail Passage to Malaysia & Sabah Park dari 15-17 Julai 2023.

 Seramai 177 pelancong Macau turut disambut dan diraikan dalam majlis ini.

-Tourism Malaysia.

Syarikat penerbangan Sarawak rancang mulakan destinasi antarabangsa di negara jiran – Menteri Pelancongan Sarawak

 

ABDUL Karim (tengah) berpuas hati dengan sambutan acara Festival Muzik Hutan Hujan Sedunia (RWMF) di Kampung Budaya Sarawak, Santubong yang berjaya memukau para pengunjung.

KUCHING: Syarikat penerbangan yang akan ditubuhkan kerajaan Sarawak merancang memulakan penerbangan antarabangsanya ke negara jiran seperti Indonesia, Brunei Darussalam dan Singapura, sebelum melebarkan ke destinasi yang lebih jauh.

Perkara tersebut didedahkan Menteri Pelancongan, Industri Kreatif dan Seni Persembahan Sarawak Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah dan meyakinkan kerajaan Sarawak kini giat berusaha ke arah merealisasikan hasrat berkenaan.

“Apabila ia berkembang, ia akan menjadi lebih besar, dan suatu hari nanti ia akan pergi lebih jauh ke negara lain seperti negara Eropah, Australia, Jepun dan Korea.

“Bagaimamanpun bagi permulaan kita akan mulakan penerbangan di Malaysia (Kuala Lumpur, Sarawak dan Sabah), Indonesia, Brunei Darussalam dan Singapura,” katanya dalam sidang media di sini semalam.

Beliau berkata demikian dalam sidang media selepas melakukan tinjauan ke acara Festival Muzik Hutan Hujan Sedunia (RWMF) di Kampung Budaya Sarawak, Santubong semalam.

Dalam pada itu Abdul Karim tidak menafikan terdapat kawal selia dalm pengurusan penerbangan di Malaysia yang mana tidak memberikan kelebihan yang positif kepada Sarawak.

“Ia mempunyai satu syarat dasar perlindungan yang memastikan semua penerbangan mesti membuat perhentian di Kuala Lumpur.

“Mereka tidak boleh membawa penumpang terus ke Kuching. Mereka menerima penerbangan luar tetapi perlu berhenti di Kuala Lumpur sebelum meneruskan penerbangan ke Kuching atau mana-mana kawasan lain di Sarawak,” dedah Abdul Karim.

Namun kata beliau kerajaan Sarawak telah mengadakan perbincangan dengan anak-anak syarikat penerbangan Indonesia, iaitu Garuda Indonesia untuk meneliti pembukaan laluan penerbangan baharu membabitkan Jakarta dengan negeri ini.

Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah berkata, melalui perbincangan itu, Sarawak berharap untuk memperluaskan lagi aspek ketersambungan negeri Sarawak dan negara Indonesia.

Sementara itu, menyentuh berkenaan sambutan acara RWMF 2023, Abdul Karim berkata ia berjaya menarik kehadiran kira-kira 20,000 pengunjung dari dalam dan luar negara melibatkan lebih 195 buah negara pada tahun ini.

Dedahnya kesemua tiket yang dijual atas talian juga telah habis dijual dan menunjukkan sambutan amat memberangsangkan daripada peminat acara tersebut.

-utusan online.

Sarawak takes ownership of MASwings

 

Sarawak aims to take over MASwings in order to set up its own boutique airline and improve air connectivity

Sarawak has agreed in principle to take over MASwings, a subsidiary of Malaysia Airlines, as a means of setting up its own boutique airline and improving air connectivity with Sarawak.

The takeover was proposed by the federal government, stated Sarawak premier Abang Johari Openg, who added that negotiations are currently ongoing.

Sarawak plans to use local state-owned charter operator Hornbill Skyways (Kuching) to operate the new airline’s fleet of turboprop aircraft to connect Sarawak with Kuala Lumpur, Singapore, Hong Kong, Bangkok and several airports in Indonesia.

Earlier in April, Malaysia’s prime minister Anwar Ibrahim had agreed to the Sarawak state government’s request to form a boutique airline to fly to destinations beyond Borneo.

However, deputy transport minister Hasbi Habibollah revealed in Parliament on June 12 that Sarawak’s application in early April was incomplete and that the Ministry of Transport, through the Malaysian Aviation Commission ,will examine and consider the proposal after a completed application is submitted to the federal government for consideration.

Marketing In Asia reported that a decision on the possible rebranding of MASwings after the takeover remains uncertain – more details will be provided once the takeover procedure concludes.

-TTG Asia.

Sarawak buka destinasi pelancongan dari Jakarta ke Kuching

 

LAPANGAN Terbang Antarabangsa Kuching (LTAK)

KUCHING: Sarawak akan memulakan penerbangan sulungnya bagi destinasi Kuching-Jakarta-Kuching mulai 15 Jun ini, kata Timbalan Menteri Pengangkutan Sarawak Datuk Dr Jerip Susil.

Jelasnya usaha itu bagi membuka peluang kepada pemain industri pelancongan dalam meningkatkan promosi destinasi ke serata dunia.

“Sejak kelonggaran perintah kawalan pergerakan (PKP), Kementerian Pengangkutan Sarawak (MOTS) telah giat menjalinkan usaha kerjasama dengan kementerian pengangkutan malaysia serta berapa syarikat penerbangan bagi usaha mempromosi destinasi pelancongan dan penerbangan ke Sarawak.

“Justeru itu, dengan usaha kerjasama itu, kita telah berjaya menambah jumlah penerbangan dari Sarawak ke negara seperti Brunei Darussalam dan Singapura,” dedahnya dalam ucapannya di Persidangan Dewan Undangan Negeri (DUN) Sarawak, di sini hari ini.

Tambahnya lagi, MOTS juga kini giat berusaha dalam membawa penerbangan bagi destinasi ke China dan usaha meningkatkan lebih banyak kekerapan penerbangan dari Sarawak ke destinasi yang sedia ada.

“Dengan penambahan jumlah penerbangan dari syarikat yang telah beroperasi, ia secara langsung akan menjalinkan persaingan sihat di antara syarikat penerbangan yang lain.

“Pada masa yang sama MOTS juga giat menambah jumlah kekerapan penerbangan terutamanya pada musim perayaan dan cuti persekolahan,” katanya.

Untuk rekod, Sarawak mempunyai 447 jumlah penerbangan domestik dan 41 antarabangsa yang dioperasikan oleh syarikat penerbangan seperti AirAsia, Malaysia Airlines, MYAirlines, FireFly, Maswing dan Scoot.

-utusan online.

China Southern Airline's resumes flight to Sabah by bringing 194 passengers

 

Celebrating the relaunch of Guangzhou-Kota Kinabalu Route. Liew (eighth right) saying it with a bouquet each for pilots Captain Guo Shufeng and Captain Li Lemeng (centre). Also in the picture are Bangkuai (eighth left), Wang seventh left) and Noredah (third right).

KOTA KINABALU (April 30): One hundred and ninety-four passengers from Guangzhou arrived at the Kota Kinabalu International Airport (KKIA) on Saturday, marking the resumption of China Southern Airlines’ direct flights between Guangzhou and Kota Kinabalu post pandemic.

They took off from the Baiyun International Airport in Guangzhou at 4.10pm and arrived here at 7.10pm on flight CZ8335.

The aircraft, Airbus A321neo, was given a rousing water cannon salute at the airport.

On hand to welcome the Chinese visitors were Minister of Tourism, Culture and Environment Datuk Christina Liew and assistant minister cum Sabah Tourism Board (STB) chairman Datuk Joniston Bangkuai who garlanded them with Sabah’s native bead necklaces. They also received ‘Orangutan’ promotional bags filled with several local products.

Also present was STB Chief Executive Officer Noredah Othman.

Speaking to members of the tour group, Liew said: “Welcome to Sabah. Sabah offers a wide choice of holiday spots and activities. Some of you love the sea and beaches or intend to go snorkelling or diving.

We have Mount Kinabalu, iconic wildlife and a world-class diving paradise at Sipadan on the east coast of Sabah.

“From Tanjung Aru Beach here, you will be able to view one of the most beautiful sunsets in the world.

Some of you may opt for adventure, eco tourism, golf tourism or even wellness tourism. For cultural enthusiasts, you have the opportunity to experience Sabah’s rich cultural heritage.”

General manager of China Southern Airlines (Kuala Lumpur Office) Eric Wang, who accompanied the minister, said with the resumption of Kota Kinabalu’s route, the airlines will be operating three routes in the near future between China and Malaysia with departure from Kuala Lumpur, Kota Kinabalu and Penang to Guangzhou, totalling 31 flights per week.

According to Wang, previously, China Southern Airlines, affected by the pandemic, only operated flights between Kuala Lumpur and Guangzhou once a week.

“Following recovery from the pandemic, flights between China and Malaysia have gradually resumed, and China Southern Airlines’ Kuala Lumpur-Guangzhou route will also resume operations to three flights per day starting 15th May 2023.

“Last but not least, the resumption of direct flights between Guangzhou and Kota Kinabalu will give an additional lift to business development, tourism growth and cultural exchanges between China and Malaysia,” he said.

On future plans, Wang said China Southern Airlines will carry out deeper and cross-border cooperation with the key businesses and tourism stakeholders in the two countries in seeking the common good to achieve a win-win result.

“Our aim is to further strengthen our services to provide a more comfortable and convenient travel experience for all the passengers travelling between China and Malaysia,” he added.

-The Borneo Post.

Sabah to anchor on North Borneo connection

 

KOTA KINABALU: Mention North Borneo and many would shift their attention to the top of a map of the island where Sabah sits.

A recent move to rebrand the state's tagline - Feel Sabah, North Borneo - has delivered much optimism to the tour industry that is gradually picking up action after the global Covid-19 crisis.

North Borneo brings in a bigger picture at play in the regional front as the island shares borders among three countries - Malaysia, Indonesia and Brunei.

With Indonesia planning to relocate its capital to Nusantara, East Kalimantan from Jakarta next year, Borneo is bound to be thrust into the limelight.

Veteran tour operator Tham Yau Kong said the move to rebrand Sabah was timely and deserves all the focus, especially as everyone strives to recover from the two year pandemic.

"Internationally, people are more familiar with Borneo. So it is only right to promote and market Sabah with the tagline North Borneo," said the tour operator who also believes that every player in the industry needs to play a part in this.

Tour bus driver Steven Rampangajouw said most foreign guests he served related to the Borneo connection.

"Of course once they are here they know about Sabah but many got to know the state via Borneo first, especially westerners, those from Australia, New Zealand, Korea, Japan and India.

"Tour companies have long used the Borneo tagline to push their businesses and it's good now that the government too is doing the same thing," Steven said.

The Sabah Tourism Board launched the 'Feel Sabah, North Borneo" during the ITB Berlin 2023 (Internationale Tourismus-Borse Berlin) recently.

Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister Datuk Christina Liew who launched it said it was apt to adopt the promotional theme for sentimental and historical reasons.

"The name 'North Borneo' (now Sabah) sounds exotic and evokes nostalgic feelings of yearning for this destination. It is also of historical significance as the state was then known as 'North Borneo' prior to gaining our Independence in 1963.

"People in many parts of the world (reportedly) haven't heard about Sabah, despite decades of promoting this Land Below The Wind to the outside world, let alone know about our diverse natural attractions and iconic wildlife.

"However, we are aware that at the mention of Borneo or North Borneo, it rings a bell. Europeans in particular associate Sabah with Borneo. Hence, we are determined to rebrand this tourist destination with 'Feel Sabah, North Borneo' to create a new identity in the travel marketplace," said Liew who led a delegation to the event on March 7.

The delegation comprised Assistant Minister and STB Chairman Datuk Joniston Bangkuai, the Ministry's Permanent Secretary Datuk Mohd Yusrie Abdullah, STB chief executive officer Noredah Othman as well as ministry and STB officials.

With the recent resumption of international direct flights, cruise tourism and optimism about mounting regular or chartered flights from new destinations, Liew said Sabah targeted 2.2 million arrivals for 2023 and will work towards attaining 2.5 million arrivals.

Sabah's top feeder markets in the past (based on 2019 data) represented a good mix of visitors from Taiwan, China, Brunei, Singapore and South Korea.

For Europe the top inbound tourism markets are from Germany, France, Netherlands and Italy.

Joniston said Sabah's diverse tourism experiences continue to entice vacationers from Western and European countries.

During the travel trade show, the Sabah Tourism team met with 33 travel agencies from countries including Germany, Netherlands, Switzerland, Denmark, Czech Republic, United States, United Kingdom, Sweden, and Australia.

Joniston said most of the agents he met with assured that Sabah was still a promising holiday destination and the new tagline would help Sabah stand out as a unique and appealing attraction.

"They like how the new tagline highlights the experiential aspect of visiting Sabah. I believe that having people live the experience of traveling while they are at their destination is an effective call to action," said Joniston.

He said Sabah's diverse tourism offerings had remained a pulling force, especially for Western and European tourists who appreciate adventure and exploring off the usual track.

"Sabah is the ideal getaway for them since it has everything they enjoy—sea, sun, wildlife, and nature. These are the kinds of tourists we want to keep pursuing."

-nst online.

Sabah expands aviation connections through Route Asia event

 

Sabah Tourism Board chief executive officer Noredah Othman meetings with airlines representatives. -Pic courtesy of Sabah Tourism Board

KOTA KINABALU: Sabah is expanding its connections with the aviation sector and with other tourism-related agencies with the Sabah Tourism Board's participation in the Route Asia 2023 event in Chiang Mai, Thailand.

The event begins today until Feb 16 and would enable the team to gather information on industry trends, competitor analysis, and customer preferences to help define future tourism development strategies in Sabah.

Route Asia presents Sabah with the chance to promote its attractions, tourism offerings, and infrastructure to a diverse audience of aviation and travel industry experts.

The board chief executive officer Noredah Othman said increasing air connectivity was one of Sabah's top priorities and a key enabler for the growth of the state's tourism industry.

She added that more than 90 per cent of visitor arrivals were by air.

"This event will enable us to have key conversations with senior decision-makers from the region's airlines to rebuild robust international air connectivity into Sabah.

"We want to boost tourism growth by fostering new business relationships while strengthening old ones.

"The Route Asia allows us to gain exclusive insight into the aviation sector in the new post-pandemic era," she said in a statement.

Currently, Sabah's international entry points are via Singapore, Bandar Seri Begawan (Brunei Darussalam), Taipei, Hong Kong, Narita (Japan), Incheon (South Korea), Busan (South Korea), Manila (Philippines), and Bangkok (Thailand).

Seventy-two flights per week are run by AirAsia, Scoot,Royal Brunei, Malaysia Airlines, Jeju Air, Jin Air, Air Busan, and Cebu Pacific.

Sabah's advantageous location in the BIMP-EAGA region, combined with the coming of Nusantara, makes it imperative that the state take steps to ensure it is well prepared to meet demands, including the possibility of new markets entering.

"While Sabah Tourism is working towards encouraging flight growth, we are also tripling our efforts to make Sabah a more visible destination.

"This year alone, we have carried out promotional efforts in Europe and the Scandinavian regions.

"As a business, we understand the value of targeting tourists from all over the world, including these areas.

"We intend to develop permanent ties with travel agents so they may inform their customers about Sabah and the available direct flights if they travel to any destination that already has an established link with Sabah."

In addition to international flights, Sabah is also well connected by domestic flights from Kuala Lumpur, Johor, Kota Bharu, Labuan, Penang, and Sarawak on Malaysia Airlines, MASWings, Air Asia, Batik Air, MyAirlines, and Firefly.

Sabah recorded 1,511,163 visitors and RM2.73 billion in tourism receipts between January and November 2022.

There were 1,300,729 domestic arrivals and 210,434 overseas arrivals.

-nst online.

Inflasi tidak jejas kehadiran pelancong ke Langkawi

 

PEMAIN industri pelancongan Langkawi mengadakan sesi perjumpaan dengan agensi pelancongan Johor dan Singapura di Hotel Amari, Johor Bahru.

JOHOR BAHRU: Kejatuhan nilai mata wang dan kenaikan harga barangan asas di negara ini diyakini tidak akan menjejaskan sektor pelancongan pulau Langkawi yang kembali rancak selepas negara memasuki fasa peralihan endemik Covid-19.

Ketua Pegawai Eksekutif Lembaga Pembangunan Langkawi (Lada), Nasaruddin Abdul Muttalib berkata, ini kerana sektor pelancongan pulau tersebut menawarkan pelbagai pakej termasuk mampu milik, contohnya serendah RM500 bagi sebuah keluarga kecil menikmati percutian dua hari satu malam di sana.

“Inflasi dan kejatuhan nilai mata wang ketika ini tidak menjejaskan langsung pelan domestik ke Langkawi sebaliknya turut beri galakan kepada pelancong antarabangsa termasuk dari Singapura untuk bercuti di Langkawi.

“Hal ini dapat dilihat apabila jumlah penerbangan terus ke Langkawi dari Johor Bahru ditambah daripada empat menjadi tujuh penerbangan seminggu manakala dari Singapura terdapat lapan penerbangan terus seminggu.

“Pelancong dari Singapura misalnya, tidak mempunyai masalah untuk membayar harga perkhidmatan premium untuk mendapatkan pakej pelancongan terbaik meliputi pelbagai aspek termasuk penginapan hotel bertaraf lima bintang,” katanya selepas menghadiri Program Tourism Networking Bersama Pemain Industri Pelancongan Langkawi di Hotel Amari, di sini.

Nasaruddin berkata, Langkawi berada pada landasan tepat untuk merekodkan jumlah kehadiran seramai 2.5 juta pelancong domestik dan antarabangsa pada tahun ini.

“Sejak Januari hingga Julai, Langkawi merekodkan kehadiran seramai 1.4 juta pelancong dan kita sasarkan menjelang Disember ini, seramai 2.5 juta pelancong akan hadir dengan 85 peratus daripada pasaran domestik.

“Cabaran yang kita hadapi ketika ini adalah untuk meningkatkan kehadiran pelancong antarabangsa dan salah satu cara adalah dengan menggiatkan promosi bagi pasaran Singapura dengan golongan sasar bukan hanya melibatkan rakyat republik berkenaan, malah pelancong yang datang ke republik itu,” ujarnya.

Pada tahun 2019, Langkawi merekodkan kehadiran 3.9 juta pelancong, sebelum jumlah itu turun pada tahun 2020 dan 2021 dengan rekod kehadiran seramai 1.8 juta dan 1 juta akibat pandemik Covid-19.

Sementara itu, Pengurus Pemasaran Tourism Malaysia di Singapura, Fiona Estrop memberitahu, Langkawi mampu menjadi salah satu tarikan pelancongan utama bagi rakyat republik berkenaan sekiranya syarikat penerbangan komersial melibatkan diri dalam laluan terus antara kedua-dua destinasi.

“Pada waktu ini, penerbangan terus antara Singapura dan Langkawi hanya melibatkan syarikat penerbangan tambang murah dan itu menjadi antara faktor mengapa Langkawi tidak menjadi destinasi pilihan utama,” katanya.

-utusan online.

Langkawi ferry fares raised for domestic and foreign tourists

 

ALOR STAR: Langkawi passenger ferry fares will be increased between RM3 and RM3.50 for domestic tourists effective Aug 5, said Konsortium Ferry Line Ventures Sdn Bhd, which operates the services from Kuala Kedah and Kuala Perlis to the tourism hotspot.

It said the fares for Langkawi residents, disabled persons and senior citizens were unchanged.

The consortium's Human Resources and Operations manager, Captain Dr Baharin Baharom, said the last time fares were raised was 15 years ago.

"The price of industrial diesel has recorded a steady rise, from RM0.83 per litre in 2007 when the fares were last reviewed, to RM4.17 per litre currently. This made the fare hike inevitable.

"The consortium was also not spared from the new minimum wage enforced by the government.

"Following that, the minimum monthly pay for greasers was revised from RM1,500 to RM1,800 and from RM1,200 to RM1,500 for crew members," he said in a statement today.

Single-trip fares for adults and children travelling between Kuala Perlis and Langkawi have been increased from RM18 to RM21, and from RM13 to RM16, respectively.

However, Langkawi residents still pay RM15 for adults and RM10 for children.

The fares for disabled persons and senior citizens aged 60 and above also remain unchanged at RM10 and RM13, respectively.

Foreign passengers would see the biggest fare jump of RM9 for adults and RM6.50 for children.

Foreign adults will now be charged RM27 while children will be charged RM19.50.

For the Kuala Kedah-Langkawi route, fares for adults and children will be increased by RM3.50 to RM26.50 and RM20.50 respectively.

Langkawi folk will still pay RM20 for adults and RM14 for children.

Disabled persons and senior citizens aged 60 and above will still pay RM14 and RM17.

Foreign adults will now pay RM34.50, a jump of RM11.50, while fares for foreign children will increase from RM17 to RM25.50, a jump of RM8.50.

-nst online.

Sabah wants to penetrate Middle East tourism market

 

Sabah Tourism Board along with five Sabah travel agents and some from Peninsular Malaysia took part in the 2022 Arabian Travel Market in Dubai. - NSTP/ courtesy of Sabah Tourism Board

DUBAI: The Sabah Tourism Board along with five local travel agents are promoting Sabah as a preferred destination in an effort to penetrate the Middle Eastern market.

The tourism key players have met with potential buyers during a business to business (B2B) session yesterday to showcase Sabah as one of Malaysia's hidden gems at the 2022 Arabian Travel Market at a hotel here.

The engagement session was organised by the Solidarity Association For Travel and Tours Agency Malaysia (SAFTTA).

Sabah Tourism Board chief executive officer Noredah Othman said the Middle East is Sabah's emerging market, hence the B2B session is timely and necessary now that travel activities are returning to normal.

"Sabah can be an eye-opening destination for our Middle Eastern visitors, from its friendly people and rich culture to its breathtaking nature, wildlife, and cuisine. We have a wide variety of unique experiences for tourists to choose from.

"We, at Sabah Tourism Board, have consistently maintained our commitment and aggressiveness in promoting tourism activities and products to the foreign market, especially during the pandemic.

"We anticipate an influx of Middle Eastern tourists to Malaysia and to the state. We hope that this will boost our tourism industry even more. All stakeholders must work together to achieve this," she said.

The five local travel agents participating in the SAFTTA B2B session were Fun Holiday Tours and Travel, Borneo Wakid Adventures, i-world Travel and Tours, Exotic Asian Explorer (Borneo) and AiTravel.

According to Fun Holiday's managing director Connie Chong, Middle Eastern travelers visiting Malaysia are not necessarily looking to shop so much, and many of them are drawn to the country's climate, culture, and food.

"The SAFTTA B2B aims to promote Malaysia tourism products and provide more destination information to all trade partners and tourism industry players. As agents, we need to be aggressive in promoting our state's uniqueness to them such as the Danum Valley, Kundasang highland, islands, the local cultures, and many more.

"Flight connectivity is not a major problem for Sabah. So, we will continue to play our role in promoting Sabah as a new travel destination," said Chong, who helped to organise the engagement session.

Kuala Lumpur, Singapore and Brunei are currently the easiest gateways to Sabah from Dubai and Abu Dhabi.

The Kuala Lumpur - Kota Kinabalu and Singapore - Kota Kinabalu routes are well connected by air, with several airlines now operating between the cities.

The Arabian Travel Market is among the leading platforms for the tourism and travel industries, allowing professionals to showcase their brand and discover new market prospects.

-nst online.

https://www.sabahtourism.com/?locale=en

Desaru Coast Ferry Terminal opens

 

Desaru Coast Ferry Terminal, the final component of the phase one development of Desaru Coast Destination Resorts in Malaysia is now completed.

It is equipped with a Customs, Immigration and Quarantine (CIQ) complex and maritime facilities, as well as the latest bidirectional immigration automated e-gate. The new generation e-gate offers a double swing door and enhanced security features, making immigration screening more efficient and effective at peak travel times.

The ferry terminal is able to process 300 passengers at any given time, and it intends to serve two round trips from Singapore on Thursdays to Sundays, and one round trip on Monday to Wednesday based on market demand.

Earlier in March, Desaru Coast Destination Resorts appointed Desaru Link Ferry Services to operate passenger ferry services connecting Singapore’s Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal with Desaru Coast Ferry Terminal.

Speaking at its officiating ceremony on March 31, Amran Hafiz Affifudin, chairman of Desaru Development Holdings One, said: “As a long-term developer, entrusted to play a central role in the tourism landscape of Johor, it has been our commitment and responsibility to bring value to the community and state. While we developed the ferry terminal as a connectivity and catalytic component for Desaru Coast to realise its full potential as an international destination, it is our hope that it will foster wider benefits for the state of Johor. In establishing this international gateway as the 16th entry point into Malaysia, we hope to spur and multiply the socio-economic development for the state and subsequently the country.”

With the completion of the Desaru Coast Ferry Terminal, the destination is ready to execute its strategic and commercial plans in its next phase of business growth.

Roslina Arbak, managing director and CEO of Desaru Development Holdings One, said the ferry terminal is a “game-changer”, enabling the destination to “unlock new market and business opportunities”.

She expects the improved connectivity to boost Desaru’s ability to capture business events and attract “like-minded investors who wish to leverage the infrastructure and facilities we have put in place to further enhance destination offerings and ensure the success of all players at Desaru Coast”.

-TTG Asia.