Batik Air-Tourism Malaysia Trade Event In Seoul

 

SEOUL, 26 August 2026 | The Batik Air and Tourism Malaysia Trade Event, held at The Westin Josun Seoul, brought together Tourism Malaysia, Batik Air and key Korean tourism industry stakeholders to strengthen cooperation and create new opportunities to promote Malaysia in the South Korean market.

The event was officiated by YB Dato Sri Tiong King Sing, Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture Malaysia, and attended by YBhg. Datuk Chandran Rama Muthy, Chief Executive Officer of Batik Air, and Mr. Mohd Amirul Rizal Abdul Rahim, Director General of Tourism Malaysia.

Around 60 Korean travel agents, industry partners and media representatives participated in the event, which comprised a tourism seminar followed by the Batik Air Trade Partner Appreciation Night.

The programme provided an important platform for Tourism Malaysia, Batik Air and Korean tourism industry stakeholders to exchange market insights, explore business opportunities and strengthen cooperation in promoting Malaysia. It also showcased Malaysia’s diverse tourism offerings and the Visit Malaysia 2026–2027 campaign, while encouraging the development of more attractive Malaysia travel packages tailored to the Korean market.

The collaboration between Tourism Malaysia and Batik Air extends beyond this event through joint promotional activities, tourism seminars, familiarisation trips and consumer campaigns under the Geran Sepadan Penerbangan Charter (GSPC) Matching Grant, supporting efforts to stimulate travel demand and enhance connectivity to Malaysia.

Highlighting the importance of the Korean market, YB Dato Sri Tiong King Sing said that South Korea remains an important tourism market for Malaysia, and that the partnership with Batik Air plays an important role in strengthening Malaysia’s presence in key source markets, enhancing connectivity and positioning Malaysia as a preferred tourism destination.

Air connectivity remains fundamental to sustaining this growth. As of July 2026, South Korea and Malaysia are connected by approximately 47 weekly direct flights from Incheon and Busan, providing more than 11,000 seats.

Malaysia welcomes greater participation from airlines and charter operators to further expand connectivity from South Korea. Increased air capacity will be instrumental in stimulating travel demand, creating more opportunities for the tourism industry and attracting more Korean visitors to discover Malaysia.

Through stronger cooperation between the public and private sectors, Tourism Malaysia will continue to work closely with airlines and Korean tourism industry partners to turn the momentum of Visit Malaysia 2026–2027 into sustainable tourism growth and further strengthen Malaysia’s position in the South Korean market.

-Tourism Malaysia.

Batik Air, IJN bekerjasama tarik pelancong perubatan ke Malaysia

 

KUALA LUMPUR: Batik Air Malaysia dan Institut Jantung Negara (IJN) menjalinkan kerjasama strategik bersama Tourism Malaysia bagi memperkukuh ekosistem pelancongan perubatan negara, khususnya dalam bidang rawatan kardiovaskular. 

Kerjasama itu menggabungkan rangkaian penerbangan, kepakaran rawatan jantung IJN serta usaha promosi pelancongan kesihatan negara bagi meningkatkan akses kepada perkhidmatan penjagaan jantung, selain memperkukuh kedudukan Malaysia sebagai hab pelancongan perubatan serantau. 

Ketua Pegawai Eksekutif Batik Air, Datuk Chandran Rama Muthy, berkata kerjasama itu mencerminkan komitmen bersama dalam meningkatkan akses kepada penjagaan kesihatan pencegahan serta kesedaran terhadap kepentingan pengesanan awal penyakit.

 Beliau berkata, Malaysia terus memperkukuh kedudukannya sebagai antara destinasi pelancongan kesihatan utama di rantau ini, walaupun Thailand masih menjadi peneraju ASEAN dengan menerima lebih tiga juta pelancong perubatan setiap tahun.

"Malaysia merekodkan kira-kira 1.85 juta pelancong kesihatan pada 2025, menjana hasil sekitar RM3.35 bilion dan melepasi sasaran RM3 bilion yang ditetapkan. 

"Perkembangan ini menunjukkan peningkatan keyakinan terhadap ekosistem penjagaan kesihatan Malaysia serta keupayaan negara menyokong pesakit yang mendapatkan rawatan merentasi sempadan," katanya pada majlis menandatangani Memorandum Persefahaman (MoU) antara Batik Air dan IJN di sini, hari ini. 

Menerusi inisiatif berkenaan, penumpang antarabangsa Batik Air layak menikmati diskaun 15 peratus bagi pakej 'Essential Health Screening' IJN menerusi kempen 'Fly High with a Healthy Heart' dengan hanya mengemukakan pas masuk penerbangan Batik Air semasa pendaftaran di IJN. 

Pakej saringan kesihatan berkenaan ditawarkan pada harga RM765 selepas diskaun dan bertujuan menggalakkan pengesanan awal risiko penyakit jantung serta membantu individu mengambil langkah proaktif dalam menguruskan kesihatan kardiovaskular. 

IJN turut menawarkan diskaun 20 peratus bagi pakej 'Premier Heart Screening' kepada 1,000 penumpang antarabangsa pertama Batik Air. 

Pakej yang ditawarkan pada kadar khas RM1,760 selepas diskaun itu merangkumi penilaian kardiovaskular dan vaskular lanjutan, pengimejan abdomen, pemeriksaan makmal tambahan, analisis komposisi badan, kaunseling pemakanan serta konsultasi bersama pakar kardiologi. 

Dalam usaha menyokong mobiliti pesakit antarabangsa, Batik Air turut menyediakan diskaun tambang penerbangan sebanyak 10 peratus kepada pesakit antarabangsa yang mendapatkan rawatan di IJN dengan mengemukakan surat temu janji rasmi daripada institusi berkenaan. 

Tambah Chandran, pemilihan IJN sebagai rakan strategik dibuat berdasarkan reputasi institusi itu yang bukan sahaja terkenal dalam rawatan jantung, malah mempunyai rangkaian perkhidmatan kesihatan yang lebih luas. 

Dalam pada itu, Batik Air juga menyasarkan pasaran yang lebih mudah dicapai terlebih dahulu contohnya Indonesia sebagai pasaran utama bagi memperkukuh segmen pelancongan perubatan Malaysia menerusi kerjasama strategik IJN dan Tourism Malaysia ini. 

"Batik Air kini terbang ke 21 negara dan 65 destinasi namun Indonesia menjadi pasaran paling mudah untuk dimulakan berikutan kedudukannya yang dekat dengan Malaysia, selain mempunyai populasi sekitar 280 juta penduduk. 

"Selain Indonesia, Batik Air turut melihat potensi pasaran lain seperti Kemboja, Thailand, Bangladesh dan China bagi segmen pelancongan perubatan," katanya. 

Ketua Pegawai Eksekutif Kumpulan IJN, Prof Datuk Seri Dr Mohamed Ezani Md Taib, berkata tanggungjawab IJN bukan hanya tertumpu kepada rawatan penyakit jantung, tetapi turut merangkumi usaha meningkatkan kesedaran terhadap pencegahan, pengesanan awal dan intervensi tepat pada masanya. 

"Melalui kerjasama dengan Batik Air, kami berharap dapat menggalakkan lebih ramai pelancong dan masyarakat mengambil langkah proaktif dalam memahami tahap kesihatan jantung mereka. 

"Kerjasama itu turut menyokong peranan IJN dalam menyediakan rawatan khusus kepada pesakit tempatan dan antarabangsa, terutama mereka yang melakukan perjalanan ke Malaysia bagi mendapatkan rawatan kardiovaskular dan toraks," katanya.

-berita harian online.

Receiving Ceremony For Batik Air’s Inaugural Flight From Sydney To Kuala Lumpur

 

KUALA LUMPUR - Tourism Malaysia together with Batik Air representatives organized a receiving ceremony at KLIA Terminal 1 on 2 July 2026 to celebrate the new direct flight route from Sydney to Kuala Lumpur, marking the significance of this new service in enhancing air connectivity and supporting the ongoing Visit Malaysia 2026 campaign. Passengers were warmly welcomed with special goodie bags and the Visit Malaysia 2026 mascot, creating a memorable experience that reinforced the branding of VM2026.

The ceremony was headed by Datuk Musa bin Yusof, Deputy Director General (Promotion) of Tourism Malaysia, together with Mr. Mohamad Libra Lee Haniff, Director of the America, Europe and Oceania Division of Tourism Malaysia, and Mr. Suresh Vanan, Head of Communications and Promotions, Batik Air. Prior to the Receiving Ceremony, Tourism Malaysia Sydney also participated in a Send-Off Ceremony at Sydney Kingsford Smith Airport on 1 July 2026. The inaugural flight OD120, operated by an Airbus A330 with a seating capacity of 377, recorded a load factor of 88%.

Batik Air will now operate this new direct flight route daily, providing greater convenience for travelers between Sydney and Kuala Lumpur and expected to further boost tourist arrivals from Australia to Malaysia in support of Visit Malaysia 2026.

-Tourism Malaysia.

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.

Batik Air starts daily Penang–Johor Bahru flights

 

KUALA LUMPUR: Batik Air has launched a daily direct service between Penang and Johor Bahru effective today, in a bid to strengthen connectivity between the northern and southern regions. 

The move follows strong demand during the recent Chinese New Year travel period, when additional flights were temporarily deployed to accommodate a surge in passengers returning home. 

The airline said the encouraging response from customers highlighted the growing need for more direct domestic routes that bypass Kuala Lumpur. 

Penang International Airport recorded 741,183 passenger movements in January, making it one of Malaysia's busiest aviation hubs after Kuala Lumpur International Airport. Johor's Senai International Airport is also gaining traction as a key gateway to the south. 

Batik Air chief executive officer Datuk Chandran Rama Muthy said the new service reflects the airline's commitment to strengthening Malaysia's domestic air network in response to evolving travel patterns. 

"These two cities play important roles in Malaysia's tourism, trade and business landscape, and this service brings them closer together while making travel more seamless for passengers," he said in a statement.

Looking ahead, the airline said enhancing domestic connectivity remains a key priority in supporting the country's Visit Malaysia 2026-driven tourism ambitions, as well as economic growth. 

Chandran said Batik Air will continue exploring opportunities to expand routes that improve accessibility between key regions nationwide, with the Penang-Johor Bahru service marking another step towards a more connected domestic network.

-nst online.

Batik Air And Tourism Malaysia Strengthen Efforts For Visit Malaysia 2026

 

KUALA LUMPUR, 27 January 2026 — Tourism Malaysia and Batik Air have strengthened their strategic relationship with the signing of a Memorandum of Collaboration (MoC), marking a key milestone in aligning efforts to position Malaysia as a preferred global destination for the Visit Malaysia 2026 (VM2026) campaign.

The MoC was witnessed by YB Dato’ Seri Tiong King Sing, Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture, and officiated by Tourism Malaysia Director General, Tuan Mohd Amirul Rizal Abdul Rahim, together with Batik Air Chief Executive Officer, Datuk Chandran Rama Muthy. The partnership underscores a shared commitment to enhance Malaysia’s tourism visibility through improved connectivity, targeted marketing programmes and impactful industry collaboration.

The ceremony was also attended by YBhg. Datuk Manoharan Periasamy, Chairman of Tourism Malaysia, Mr. Lee Thai Hung, Deputy Director General (Promotion II) and senior representatives from both organisations.

Tourism Malaysia emphasised that collaboration with airline partners such as Batik Air remains critical, as air connectivity plays a vital role in improving accessibility, expanding market penetration and sustaining international tourist arrivals in support of VM2026.

-Tourism Malaysia.

Tashkent-Langkawi: New Route Set To Deliver A Strategic Boost To Malaysian Tourism Ahead Of VM2026

 

LANGKAWI, 15 December 2025 – Tourism Malaysia, in collaboration with Batik Air and the Langkawi Development Authority (LADA), is proud to announce the launch of Batik Air’s new direct route connecting Tashkent with the enchanting island of Langkawi. This service marks a significant milestone in enhancing international connectivity, offering more convenient access to one of Malaysia’s most iconic destinations: a mesmerizing archipelago of 99 islands.

The inaugural flight, OD756, operated by Boeing 737 MAX, touched down at Langkawi International Airport at 9:55 AM carrying 152 passengers on board. This arrival signifies the commencement of a new weekly service that will connect Uzbekistan and Malaysia, providing travellers with seamless access to the region’s tropical charm and world-class hospitality.

Visitor arrivals from Uzbekistan to Malaysia have shown encouraging number, with 12,655 visitors recorded between January and August 2025. The introduction of this new direct route is expected to further boost arrivals from this emerging market, bolstering international connectivity while unlocking fresh opportunities for trade, investment, and cultural exchange. By bringing the two nations closer together, this enhanced air link paves the way for premium travel experiences and fosters a vibrant, long-term tourism partnership between Uzbekistan and Malaysia.

-Tourism Malaysia.

Penerbangan Sulung Batik Air Singapura Ipoh Disambut Meriah

 

8 Disember 2025, Lapangan Terbang Sultan Azlan Shah, Ipoh:

Tourism Perak bersama YB Loh Sze Yee, Pengerusi Jawatankuasa Pelancongan, Industri, Pelaburan dan Pembangunan Koridor Negeri Perak menyambut ketibaan penerbangan sulung Batik Air dari Singapura ke Ipoh. Ketibaan penumpang diraikan dengan persembahan kebudayaan oleh Jabatan Kebudayaan dan Kesenian Negara (JKKN) serta kehadiran maskot pelancongan negeri, Kopiro, yang memeriahkan suasana.

Sebagai tanda sokongan dan hospitaliti negeri Perak, setiap penumpang dan tetamu menerima Perak Welcome Goodie Pack yang mengandungi cenderamata dan bahan informasi pelancongan. Laluan penerbangan terus ini dijangka memberi rangsangan baharu kepada sektor pelancongan negeri menjelang Tahun Melawat Malaysia 2026, membuka akses lebih mudah kepada pelancong dari Singapura dan rantau sekitarnya.

-Tourism Perak.

Welcoming Batik Air Inaugural Flight from Seoul (Incheon) to Kota Kinabalu International Airport (KKIA)

 

SABAH,13 September 2025 - Batik Air officially launched its new direct service from Seoul (Incheon) to Kota Kinabalu on 12 September 2025, with the inaugural flight arriving at KKIA.

The arrival was warmly welcomed by Ms. Tay Shu Lan, Deputy Chief Executive Officer of Sabah Tourism Board (STB), Mr. Lee Thai Hung, Deputy Director General (Promotion II) of Tourism Malaysia, Mr Suresh Vanan, Batik Air’s Head of Communications and Promotion and Ms. Haryanty Abu Bakar, Director of Tourism Malaysia Sabah together with representatives from the airport authorities.

The new service will operate three times weekly using a 175-seater Boeing 737-800 aircraft.

South Korea remains one of Sabah’s largest and fastest-growing source markets, recording 192,059 arrivals in 2024 and more than 103,000 arrivals from January to July 2025. This new route is expected to further boost arrivals and support the Visit Malaysia 2026 (VM2026) campaign.

-Tourism Malaysia.

Tourism Malaysia Welcomes Inaugural Flight From Dili, Timor-Leste To Kuala Lumpur

 

6 June 2025- Tourism Malaysia proudly welcomed the inaugural Batik Air flight from Dili, Timor-Leste to Kuala Lumpur, marking a historic moment in strengthening regional air connectivity and tourism cooperation.

Held at KLIA Terminal 1, the reception featured a warm Malaysian welcome for the 95 passengers on board, including cultural greetings and specially prepared gift packs to commemorate the first-ever direct commercial flight between the two nations. The reception was led by Puan Salinda Sany, Director of the International Promotion Division (ASEAN), Tourism Malaysia, together with representatives from Batik Air and Malaysia Airports Holdings Berhad (MAHB).

Operating twice weekly with a Boeing 737 aircraft, this new route is a strategic addition to Batik Air’s growing network and supports efforts to boost visitor arrivals as part of the upcoming Visit Malaysia 2026 campaign.

-Tourism Malaysia.

Tourism Malaysia Boosts ASEAN Tourism With Batik Air’s New Bangkok-Johor Bahru Route

JOHOR BAHRU, 1 December 2024 – Tourism Malaysia is proud to celebrate the inaugural Batik Air flight connecting Don Mueang International Airport (DMK) in Bangkok, Thailand, to Senai International Airport in Johor Bahru, Malaysia. This milestone marks a significant step in strengthening tourism and fostering bilateral ties between the two nations.

As part of the celebration, Tourism Malaysia, in collaboration with Batik Air, will host a 3-day, 2-night familiarisation trip for Thai tour agents. This trip will showcase Malaysia’s rich cultural heritage, vibrant cities, and stunning natural landscapes, offering participants a firsthand experience of the country's renowned hospitality and unique attractions. 

The initiative seeks to strengthen tourism ties and foster greater collaboration between Thailand and Malaysia.

Tourism Malaysia has consistently shown support for new flight routes and airline expansions, recognising their importance in increasing tourist arrivals and supporting economic growth. The addition of this new route underscores Tourism Malaysia’s commitment to connecting Malaysia with key ASEAN markets.

The inaugural flight takes place on Sunday, 1 December 2024. The new route, OD531, operates seven flights per week, departing Bangkok at 01:45 p.m. and arriving in Johor Bahru at 05:15 p.m. This route, served by a Boeing 737-800 (B738), offers travellers convenient access between northern Thailand and southern Malaysia.

YBhg. Datuk Manoharan Periasamy, Director-General of Tourism Malaysia said: “We are delighted to collaborate with Batik Air on this new route and to host the familiarisation trip for tour agents from Thailand. This initiative aligns with our goals of advancing ASEAN cooperation and regional tourism while emphasising Malaysia’s dedication as it assumes the ASEAN Chairmanship in 2025.

He added, “Strengthening connectivity between key cities in ASEAN and second-tier destinations like Johor Bahru is vital to fostering greater regional integration and showcasing Malaysia’s diverse tourism offerings.”

The increased seating capacity on the DMK-JHB route provides opportunities for travel agencies to create innovative packages for the Thai market, encouraging more travellers to discover Johor Bahru. This effort will diversify Malaysia’s tourism landscape, cater to a broader range of traveller preferences, and further solidify Johor Bahru as a gateway to unique Malaysian experiences.

By supporting the inaugural flight and organising the familiarisation trip, Tourism Malaysia reaffirms its commitment to enhancing tourism exchange, fostering cultural understanding, and strengthening economic cooperation between both countries. This initiative also underscores Malaysia's role within the ASEAN region and aligns with the vision of Visit Malaysia 2026, which aims to attract 35.6 million foreign tourists and generate RM147.1 billion in receipts.

For more information and to learn more about the familiarisation trip and other tourism initiatives, please visit the Tourism Malaysia website or contact our press office.

-Tourism Malaysia.

AITEX 2024: Premier Global Platform For Islamic Tourism And Trade Opens Soon

 

AITEX 2024: A Convergence of Global Trade and Islamic Tourism

The Asia Islamic Tourism & Trade Expo (AITEX) 2024 is set to open its doors from August 23 to 25, 2024, at the Sunway Resort Hotel, Bandar Sunway, Selangor. The event will serve as a key gathering for industry leaders, trade buyers, and public consumers, highlighting the immense potential within the Islamic tourism and trade sectors.

Exclusive Networking Opportunities for Trade Buyers 

Trade buyers at AITEX 2024 will have the unique opportunity to connect with exhibitors from a diverse range of countries, including Malaysia, Zambia, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, China, and many more. This platform is designed to facilitate the discovery of new products, services, and partnerships that can drive growth and innovation in the global Islamic tourism and trade industries. 

Attractions and Activities for Public Consumers 

Public attendees will find an array of exciting activities and offerings throughout the three-day event. From exclusive tour packages on sale to the Prophet Muhammad Artifacts Exhibition, which offers a rare glimpse into sacred Islamic history, there is something for everyone. 

Additionally, visitors can immerse themselves in the Virtual Reality Journey of Prophet Muhammad, a cutting-edge experience that brings to life the significant events of the Prophet’s journey. Shoppers who spend a minimum of RM 500 will also stand a chance to win return flight tickets to stunning destinations such as the Maldives, Vietnam, and more, courtesy of Batik Air Malaysia, the official airline partner of AITEX 2024. 

Partners and Collaborations 

AITEX  2024 is organized in collaboration with esteemed organizations such as the World Islamic Tourism Council, the Global   Islamic   Tourism   Organisation, and   the   ASEAN Federation of Umrah & Hajj, with support from the Malaysia Convention & Exhibition Bureau (MyCEB). Our official partners include Batik Air Malaysia as the airline partner, Sunway Resort Hotel as the hotel partner, TV Alhijrah as the TV partner, and TTW as the official media partner.

Insightful Conferences and Summits 

AITEX 2024 will also host several key conferences, including the Islamic Tourism Conference on August 23 and 24, where industry experts will discuss hot topics shaping the future of Islamic tourism. This year's theme is "EMBRACING DIVERSITY: THE PROMISE AND POTENTIAL OF ISLAMIC TOURISM. The event

will culminate on August 25 with the Ministers & CEOs Summit and Tourism Investment Asia, bringing together leaders from Cambodia, the Philippines, Zambia, Egypt, Indonesia, and Uzbekistan to explore investment opportunities and discuss the future of Islamic tourism. 

WITA  2024:  Celebrating  Excellence  in  Islamic  Tourism  and Trade 

A major highlight of the event will be the World Islamic Tourism and Trade Awards (WITA 2024), set to take place during a gala dinner on Monday, August 26, at the Ballroom, Sunway Resort Hotel. The awards ceremony will honor 30 exceptional individuals and organizations from the tourism industry and government sectors for their contributions to Islamic tourism and trade. Guests will be entertained by a popular Malaysian artist and the Combo Orchestra, ensuring an unforgettable evening. 

Event Details 

AITEX 2024 will be held from August 23 to 25, 2024, from 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM daily, with free entrance for all visitors. Don’t miss this chance to be part of a groundbreaking event that promises to shape the future of Islamic tourism and trade.

-AITEX 2024.

Batik Air Tourism Malaysia Roadshow at Srinagar

 

11 July 2024, Meerz Hotel Srinagar - The event was a tremendous success, attended by about 50 enthusiastic travel agents.

Product owners from Malaysia, including Wyndham Ion Majestic, Lexis Hotels & Resorts, and Resort World Genting, showcased their incredible offerings.

-Tourism Malaysia.

Batik Air offers special deals to boost domestic tourism

 

Batik Air Malaysia facebook

KUALA LUMPUR: Batik Air has offered special deals to enhance the accessibility and convenience of domestic travel for its customers. The airline today unveiled a fares guaranteed promotion for all domestic routes until May 31.

Batik Air chief executive officer Datuk Chandran Rama Muthy said this is a testament to the strong demand for tourism across Malaysia. "We are thrilled to fly our guests to their preferred destinations with guaranteed fixed fares," he said in a statement.

Based on the figures by the Department of Statistic Malaysia in March this year, domestic tourism grew 16.1 per cent with a total of 54.3 million visitors in the fourth quarter of 2023, compared to the same quarter of 2022.

Therefore, Batik Air said the initiative is part of its effort to encourage travellers to explore domestic destinations, ultimately driving tourism growth within the country.

It said alongside the promotion, Batik Air's newly-introduced "Zero Check-In Baggage" option offers passengers who opt for the Economy "Super Saver" fare the choice to buy only what they need to travel at a lowest baggage rate during the initial booking process.

Chandran said travellers are now increasingly favouring sustainable options, choosing accommodations and activities that reduce their carbon footprint.

The trend is expected to grow as travellers prioritise eco-friendly destinations and experiences. "We notice a surge in sustainable and wellness tourism this year. Thus, we are preparing to meet these evolving preferences, emphasising flexibility and agility," he added.

-nst online.

Batik Air Launches New Route From Batam To Kuala Lumpur, Boosting Malaysia-Indonesia Tourism

 

SEPANG, 17 February 2024 – Malaysia ushered in the inaugural direct flight of Batik Air from Batam to Kuala Lumpur today, marking another significant milestone in strengthening the robust links between Malaysia and Indonesia by offering convenient travel options for business, leisure and medical tourism.

Dato’ Dr Ammar Abd. Ghapar, Director General of Tourism Malaysia, alongside representatives from Batik Air and Malaysia Airport Holdings Berhad (MAHB), greeted passengers arriving on Flight OD357 at Kuala Lumpur International Airport Terminal 1.

Operating three times weekly with Boeing 737 aircraft, this new route underscores Batik Air’s commitment to expand its network growth in Southeast Asia while catering to the increased demand for intra-regional travel.

Dato’ Dr Ammar stated: “Given our geographical proximity, shared cultural heritage and strong connectivity, Indonesia holds a special place as a key source market for Malaysia. We are confident that this connection will further bolster tourist arrivals as we are gearing up for Visit Malaysia 2026 and contribute to the economic prosperity of both nations.”

"The launch of direct flights from Batam to Kuala Lumpur represents a strategic move for Batik Air as we continue to expand our presence in key markets,” said Chief Executive Officer of Batik Air Datuk Chandran Rama Muthy adding that this new route will enable passengers from Batam to connect to Batik Air’s ever-growing flight network to 53 destinations across 22 countries through KLIA.

The ASEAN market has predominantly been the primary contributor to Malaysia’s tourism sector, with Indonesia ranking second in the top ten tourist-generating markets, contributing significantly to the 2.8 million arrivals between January and November 2023. Malaysia’s diverse offerings, including renowned medical tourism services and vibrant shopping destinations, continue to attract Indonesian travellers.

In 2024, Malaysia aims to welcome 27.3 million tourists, generating RM102.7 billion in revenue. The forthcoming Visit Malaysia Year 2026 has set an ambitious target of 35.6 million foreign tourist arrivals with target receipt of RM147.1billion.

-Tourism Malaysia.

Inisiatif istimewa penerbangan, rel, bas tambahan sempena Tahun Baru Cina

 

ANTHONY Loke mengumumkan inisiatif penerbangan, perkhidmatan rel serta bas tambahan sempena sambutan Tahun Baru Cina di Putrajaya. - FOTO/FAISOL MUSTAFA

PUTRAJAYA: Kementerian Pengangkutan (MOT) mengumumkan inisiatif penerbangan, perkhidmatan rel serta bas tambahan sempena sambutan Tahun Baru Cina pada awal bulan depan.

Menterinya, Anthony Loke berkata, ia membabitkan penerbangan tambahan dari Kuala Lumpur ke Sabah dan Sarawak oleh Batik Air dan penambahan trip tren elektrik (ETS) Keretapi Tanah Melayu Bhd (KTMB) dari Kuala Lumpur ke Ipoh dan Padang Besar.

Beliau berkata, pihaknya turut meluluskan pembukaan permohonan Lesen Perubahan Sementara (LPS) untuk bas tambahan sepanjang musim perayaan itu.

“Bagi penerbangan tambahan, Batik Air bersetuju menambah lapan penerbangan tambahan dari Kuala Lumpur ke Sibu bagi perjalanan pada 6 dan 7 Februari depan yang mana tiket dijual serta-merta bermula hari ini.

“Bagi menyokong mesej Malaysia Madani, Batik Air bersetuju menawarkan tambang ekonomi harga tetap pada RM399 untuk laluan sehala Kuala Lumpur ke Sibu.

“Saya juga dimaklumkan, Batik Air akan memulakan perkhidmatan berjadual ke Sibu dan Tawau berbanding dari Kuala Lumpur ke Kuching dan Kota Kinabalu sebelum ini,” katanya dalam sidang akhbar di sini, hari ini.

Katanya, inisiatif ini adalah sebagai tambahan kepada tambang tetap oleh AirAsia yang diumumkan minggu lalu dan juga tambahan 20 penerbangan oleh Malaysia Airlines dari Semenanjung Malaysia ke Sabah dan Sarawak sempena musim perayaan ini.

Dalam pada itu, Loke berkata, KTMB juga akan menambah empat perkhidmatan ETS perjalanan dari laluan KL Sentral – Ipoh – KL Sentral pada 7 hingga 13 Februari ini selain dua ETS tambahan bagi laluan KL Sentral – Padang Besar – KL Sentral pada 7 Februari sehingga 10 Mac ini.

“Dua daripada empat perkhidmatan tambahan KL Sentral – Ipoh – KL Sentral adalah tren ekspres yang hanya akan mengambil masa dua jam sehala berbanding masa perjalanan biasa iaitu dua jam 40 minit.

“Tren ekspres ini hanya akan berhenti di tiga stesen sahaja, iaitu KL Sentral, Kuala Lumpur dan Ipoh. Keseluruhan tiket tambahan yang ditawarkan sepanjang Tahun Baru Cina dan Cuti Sekolah adalah sebanyak 29,526.

“Bagi 32 perkhidmatan ETS sedia ada, jumlah tiket yang ditawarkan adalah sebanyak 10,180 sehari,” katanya.

Katanya, tiket-tiket tren tambahan tersebut akan mula dijual kepada orang ramai pada Isnin ini bermula pukul 12 tengah hari.

Sementara itu, katanya, permohonan bagi LPS akan mula dibuka pada 15 Januari hingga 2 Februari ini bagi permohonan bas tambahan sempena musim perayaan Tahun Baru Cina.

“Tempoh sah laku LPS ini adalah pada 7 Februari sehingga 18 Februari 2024. Langkah ini pada tahun lepas berjaya menambah sejumlah 296 bas dan dijangka bilangan ini akan lebih tinggi bagi tahun ini,” katanya.

Katanya, Agensi Pengangkutan Awam Darat (APAD) juga mengeluarkan surat peringatan kepada semua pengendali terminal bas untuk menambah kakitangan dan kaunter tiket bagi mengurus penambahan penumpang sempena musim perayaan nanti.

-utusan online.

Tourism Malaysia Participates In The Batik Air Roadshow To Woo Vietnamese Travellers

 

HANOI, 7 December 2023 – Tourism Malaysia Vietnam recently participated in the Batik Air Roadshow in Hanoi and Danang by meeting with reputable industry travel trade partners to actively attract Vietnamese tourists to Malaysia.

With the support of Batik Air, this is an opportunity for Tourism Malaysia to showcase the nation's identity while promoting enticing programmes and exclusive promotions for Vietnamese tourists planning to visit Malaysia in providing outstanding travel experiences that meet the expectations of travellers.

During the event, some of the iconic tourist attractions in Malaysia were highlighted, such as the amusement theme park GL Play by Gamuda Lands, A’Famosa Resort Melaka, Sunway Lagoon and Sunway Lost World of Tambun, including ibis Kuala Lumpur City Centre and Grand Ion Delemen Hotel in Genting Highlands.

The event was attended by Mr Suresh Vanan, Head of Marketing Communications & Promotions of Batik Air; Mr Nguyn Ðc Khánh, General Director of Tay Ho Trading Travel Company, as well as the representative from Batik Air's General Sales Agent in Vietnam.

This year, Tourism Malaysia look forward to welcoming more than 300,000 Vietnamese travellers to Malaysia. As of September 2023, Malaysia recorded 272,852 Vietnamese arrivals, thus reflecting a pent-up demand in the post-pandemic as Vietnam is one of the top generating tourist markets for Malaysia’s tourism industry.

Furthermore, this year marks the 50th anniversary of diplomatic ties between Malaysia and Vietnam, and the strengthened relations also manifested in the number of tourists, which has seen a significant increase in recent years. With Batik Air, there will be more travel options for tourists to choose a flight to Malaysia that suits their travel needs.

Madam Nor Hayati Zainuddin, Director of Tourism Malaysia in Vietnam, expressed hope that travel agents and tour operators participating in this roadshow would actively support the promotion of tour packages to customers in Vietnam and promote Malaysia as a safe, affordable and preferred destination for vacations.

Batik Air currently operates direct flights from Hanoi (HAN), Danang (DAD) and Ho Chi Minh City (SGN) to Kuala Lumpur (KUL). Promotional fare for one-way Economy Class between Ho Chi Minh City and Kuala Lumpur starts from USD69.00 (no Business Class). The fare is all-inclusive of free baggage allowance – 20 kg for Economy Class travellers. The brand-new narrow-body Boeing 737-8 aircraft will be deployed on this route.

Malaysia is targeting to woo 16.1 million international tourist arrivals with a contribution of RM49.2 billion in tourism receipts in 2023. There are currently 150 direct flights weekly from Vietnam to Malaysia, and Tourism Malaysia is expecting exponential growth from the Vietnam market, including the Southeast Asia region.

-Tourism Malaysia.

Batik Air Launches New Direct Flights From Dubai To Kuala Lumpur

 

SEPANG, 23 November 2023 – Unlocking a world of opportunities for business and leisure travellers between the Middle East and Malaysia, Batik Air is proud to unveil the launch of its exciting new route between Dubai and Kuala Lumpur commencing on 11 November 2023.

These direct flights signify Batik Air’s commitment to extending its global network and fostering easier access between the two vibrant destinations, marking a significant achievement in expanding the connectivity to the Middle East region following the successful launch of its Jeddah, Saudi Arabia route on 15 August 2023.

Dato’ Dr. Ammar Abd. Ghapar, Director General of Tourism Malaysia, said: “In promoting Malaysia as a preferred travel destination, the new route will increase seating capacity and boost the inbound traffic into Malaysia with more choices to discover exciting destinations and amazing attractions as we are gearing up for Visit Malaysia Year 2026."

"On top of that, Batik Air’s passengers can expect the best experiences throughout their flying journey to Malaysia. This will further boost the growth of traffic flow via Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA), opening up Malaysia more broadly to travellers from other international destinations and thus accelerating Malaysia’s tourism recovery.”

Meanwhile, Group Strategy Director of Batik Air and Lion Group, Datuk Chandran Rama Muthy, said: "We are excited to provide our passengers with a seamless and enjoyable travel experience, all while unlocking new opportunities. The new Dubai-Kuala Lumpur route expands Batik Air's reach, seamlessly connecting ASEAN and Asia-Pacific markets with the Middle East."

Flight OD714 departs from Dubai (DXB) every Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday at 4:05 a.m., arriving in Kuala Lumpur (KUL) at 3:35 p.m. (local time). The return flight, OD713, operates on Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Sunday, departing at 11:05 p.m. (local time) and arriving in DXB at 2:25 a.m. The flight is operated using the brand-new Boeing 737-8 aircraft, boasting 12 Business Class and 150 Economy Class seats.

-Tourism Malaysia.