MASwings operations to transition to AirBorneo in early 2026

 

KUALA LUMPUR: MASwings operations will officially transition to AirBorneo early next year, its parent company Malaysia Aviation Group (MAG) said. 

Effective Jan 1, 2026, AirBorneo will take full legal and operational responsibility for all services formerly managed by MASwings, including flight operations, customer service, and passenger management. 

During the initial transition period, MASwings branding may remain visible as AirBorneo gradually introduces its new corporate identity. 

The transition follows the completion of the ownership transfer under the sale and purchase agreement signed with the Sarawak government on Feb 12, 2025. 

"MAG remains committed to supporting a smooth and seamless transition and acknowledges MASwings' contribution to strengthening regional and rural air connectivity over nearly two decades," it said in a statement. 

MASwings, established on Oct 1, 2007, was East Malaysia's first dedicated commuter airline, serving Sabah, Sarawak and Labuan.

Starting with four Fokker 50 and four Twin Otter aircraft across 22 destinations, the airline upgraded to ATR 72-500 aircraft from 2009 to improve efficiency, reliability and passenger experience. 

Over nearly two decades, MASwings has operated over 430,000 flights, carried more than 19 million passengers and supported over 300 jobs across the aviation value chain. 

MASwings has been instrumental in providing Rural Air Services (RAS), linking remote communities with urban centres, healthcare, education, government services, commerce and tourism, thereby contributing significantly to regional socio-economic development. 

"MAG remains committed to supporting a smooth and seamless transition and acknowledges MASwings' contribution to strengthening regional and rural air connectivity over nearly two decades," it added.

-nst online.

Tourism Malaysia Teams Up With Malaysia Aviation Group On All-Inclusive Packages "Fly Borneo Specials Vol . 1"

 

KOTA KINABALU, 29 September 2023 – Tourism Malaysia, in collaboration with the Malaysia Aviation Group (MAG), is pleased to launch its latest brochure "Fly Borneo Specials Vol.1 – The Adventure Begins Here!”, as part of Tourism Malaysia’s vigorous efforts in promoting intra- and interstate travel in Sabah, Sarawak and Labuan via airline partners through Firefly and MASwings.

More than forty-four thematic holiday packages, from a day trip to a week-long tour, have been created to cater for every interest and age level, including airfare and ground tours. Highlighting Malaysian Borneo destinations, these affordable packages are also compiled in digital and printed brochures for travellers to explore the states’ rugged adventures, colourful cultures and exotic flora and fauna.

The launching ceremony was officiated by Dato’ Dr Ammar Abd. Ghapar, Director General of Tourism Malaysia, and attended by Mr Suresh Singam, Chief Operating Officer of MASwings. Also present were Ms Noredah Othman, CEO of Sabah Tourism Board; Mr Ibrahim Othman, Director of the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture Malaysia (MOTAC) Sabah; Ms Nurhayati Aziz Rashid, Head, Central Region of MAG; Mr Chali Awang, Area Sales Manager of MAG; Mr Mohd Faharuddin Hatmin, Senior Deputy Director of Corporate Communications Division, Tourism Malaysia and Ms Trecey J Tojuka, Deputy Director of Tourism Malaysia Sabah.

Dato’ Dr Ammar said: “The collaboration with MAG signifies the milestone in boosting domestic traffic, particularly in East Malaysia via the airline’s network. Hence, I hope this brochure will help further stimulate tourism in Sabah, Sarawak and Labuan as Firefly and MASwings have joined forces to offer discounted airfares and tour base fares to support the local holiday packages bundle.”

"Furthermore, the domestic tourists to Malaysian Borneo, namely Sabah, recorded a total of 853,100 arrivals from January to June 2023, as compared to 664,533 in the same period of 2022, thus showing an uptick of 22%. This latest statistic undeniably indicates a positive tourism growth for Sabah.”

Meanwhile, Mr Ahmad Luqman Mohd Azmi, Chief Executive Officer of Airlines from Malaysia Aviation Group, said: “MAG takes pride in serving as the airline partner for the Fly Borneo Specials Vol. 1 campaign by Tourism Malaysia. Since Firefly expanded its services intra Sarawak and Sabah, our mission has been to enhance connectivity within these regions. Therefore, this collaboration is important to accelerate the tourism opportunities and reach new market segmentation, especially to local industry players.”

With stunning natural landscapes, as well as rich in history and culture, travellers can grab these all-inclusive packages, starting as low as RM210 per person and visit Malaysian Borneo’s tourist attractions such as the geopark & shipwreck diving in Labuan, the enchanting city of Kuching and Mulu National Park, beautiful islands, mountains and wildlife in Sabah, offered by 30 tour agents.

-Tourism Malaysia.

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.

Malaysia Aviation Group Airlines Invites Travellers to Discover More and Fly Malaysia with Exciting All-In Fare Offerings

 

KLIA, 2 February 2023 – Airline subsidiaries under Malaysia Aviation Group (MAG), Malaysia Airlines, Firefly and MASwings, invite travellers to explore the wonders of Malaysia, with attractive deals to domestic destinations for immediate travel until 31 August 2023.

Malaysia Airlines is offering travellers enticing deals starting from RM89 all-in one-way within Peninsular Malaysia via the airline’s Economy Lite fare, which includes a cabin baggage allowance of 7kg, complimentary snacks or meals and beverages, and in-flight entertainment. Those looking to indulge in the full premium travel service experience can opt for the Business Class fare which starts from RM429 all-in one-way and comes with a check-in baggage allowance of 40kg, two cabin baggage allowances of 7kg each, free seat selection, complimentary meals, priority check-in, boarding and baggage, and access to the airline’s top-notch lounges at KL International Airport.

Fares from Kuala Lumpur to Sarawak and Sabah start from RM119 and RM169 all-in one-way on Economy Class and RM799 and RM899 on Business Class respectively. Those looking to travel between Sabah and Sarawak can enjoy fares starting from RM99 on Economy Class or RM429 on Business Class.

To ensure seamless connectivity within the country, sister airlines Firefly and MASwings will also be offering attractive deals for travellers to discover more of Malaysia and plan their travels for the months ahead.

Firefly is offering fares from RM69 to RM159 for immediate travel until 31 August 2023, which will be operated by its ATR72-500 and Boeing 737-800 aircraft. Domestic flights on ATR 72-500 from Subang offers the convenience of city airports, the complimentary baggage allowance of 20kg, in-flight refreshments and many more valuable offerings. 

Meanwhile, domestic flights operated by its Boeing 737-800 will offer unbundled fares from RM69 all-in one-way to destinations including Kota Kinabalu (BKI), Kuching (KCH), Langkawi (LGK) and Johor Bahru (JHB). Passengers travelling on Firefly’s Boeing 737-800 will have the flexibility to customise their flights based on their preferences, including various add-on choices for in-flight meals, baggage allowance, travel protection, and more.

For those eyeing adventures across Borneo, MASwings is offering fares starting from RM136 all-in one-way to destinations including Miri (MYY) to Mulu (MZV), Sandakan (SDK) to Lahad Datu (LDU), and Bintulu (BTU) to Sibu (SBW), serviced by its ATR72-500 aircraft. Travellers can also enjoy fares from RM146 all-in one-way from SDK to TWU, BKI to Labuan (LBU), and MYY to LBU, BTU and Limbang (LMN).

Meanwhile, fares from BKI to LDU, MZV and from MYY to SBW start from RM186, whereas fares from KCH to LMN and MZV start from RM206 all-in one-way. Passengers travelling via MASwings will enjoy the convenience of 20kg of check-in baggage and light refreshments for a comforting journey. Holidaygoers can enjoy the promotion from now until 28 February 2023, for travel between 5 February to 31 August 2023.

As members of the Travel Safe Alliance Malaysia (TSAM), the sister airlines are dedicated to ensuring safe and seamless travel for customers by adopting the highest safety and hygiene standards across all end-to-end touchpoints of the traveller journey so passengers can continue to Fly Confidently.

Whether to plan for the upcoming festivities, school holidays, or take a relaxing solo trip, there is no better time than now to rediscover the country’s travel trove of diverse culture and cuisines. For more information and to book your next getaway, visit the official Malaysia Airlines, Firefly, and MASwings website. 

-Malaysia Airlines.

Get Up to RM100 Travel Vouchers from Malaysia Aviation Group via the ‘Jom Cuti-Cuti Malaysia Campaign’

 

KLIA, 1 July 2022: Malaysia Aviation Group (MAG) ’s airlines - Malaysia Airlines, Firefly, and MASwings are offering special travel vouchers to all Malaysians in supporting the government’s Tourism Recovery Plan 2.0, which aims to boost domestic tourism as the nation progress into the endemic phase in their latest campaign by the Group called ‘Jom Cuti-Cuti Malaysia Campaign’ starting today. Vouchers can be redeemed from 1 July 2022 onwards for immediate travel until 31 December 2022.

Register online at www.malaysiaairlines.com/cuticutimalaysia to use the voucher as an Enrich member to enjoy a RM100 travel voucher that can be used on any domestic destinations operated by Malaysia Airlines and on wide range of airfares tickets that suit their travels needs and preferences.Book Malaysia Airlines' Economy Flex tickets for greater benefit and flexibility, as they include priority check-in, unlimited flexibility with free date changes with fare difference applies, an enhanced refund policy in addition to 7kg and 20kg cabin and checked baggage allowances, complimentary snacks or meals and beverages, and in-flight entertainment. Business Class passengers will enjoy a premium experience with features tailored to their needs and priorities, such as a generous baggage allowance and access to Malaysia Airlines' Domestic Golden Lounge. Moreover, as an Enrich member, you can start earning and redeeming Enrich Points on flights and other Enrich wide range of lifestyle partners, including F&B, hotel stays, spas, premium retail brands and even point conversions with other loyalty programmes, like Grab and Sunway PALS, as well as charitable organisations like Make-A-Wish and Red Crescent.

Meanwhile, Firefly is offering RM50 travel vouchers redeemable to any of its domestic destinations, including the new Boeing 737-800 service between Penang and Kuching, Kota Kinabalu, Johor Bharu and Langkawi. To claim the vouchers, customers must be a Firefly member and log in to www.fireflyz.com through their registered email.

For travel within Sabah, Sarawak and Labuan FT, customers travelling on MASwings can enjoy a RM25 discount on flights serviced by its ATR72-500 aircraft to all its networks except Mukah. Customers of MASwings must enter a unique promotional code provided when they purchase tickets on MASwings Official website.

Group Chief Marketing and Customer Experience of Malaysia Airlines, Lau Yin May said, “As the domestic market recovers, we are confident that this latest collaboration with Tourism Malaysia, as well as the coordinated efforts of airlines under MAG, will revitalise the domestic travel and tourism industry much faster while supporting growth across a value chain of related industries, such as small local businesses.

We have seen strong pent-up demand following the easing of travel restrictions in most countries, with most flights being 75 to 80 percent full, reflecting customer confidence to travel especially with our commitment to #FlyConfidently. With all of these special combined offerings by the airlines through the Jom Cuti-Cuti Malaysia campaign, holidaymakers can enjoy significant savings and hassle-free travel with a wide choice of flights that best suit their travel needs and preferences.

With the upcoming festive season and long weekends, we urge customers to grab the vouchers quickly and enjoy our signature Malaysian Hospitality and well-deserved vacations within Malaysia or reunite with their loved ones."

Customers can continue to travel with peace of mind as the airlines have put in place the highest COVID-19 health and safety protocols that is globally recognised and certified by Bureau Veritas Certification Malaysia via its MHFlySafe program. Malaysia Airlines is a member of Travel Safe Alliance of Malaysia (TSAM) and has been awarded a 7-star rating from AirlineRatings for its COVID-19 safeguards.

Head on to Malaysia Airlines Official website , Firefly Official website, and MASwings Official website for more information on the campaign and book for your next vacations within Malaysia today! Download the Malaysia Airlines' App to get the latest promotions conveniently at your fingertips, anytime and anywhere!

-Malaysia Airlines.

Malaysia Airlines | Book Direct With Us For The Best Fares

Firefly | Book now & experience beyond convenience today (fireflyz.com.my)

MASwings | Welcome

Tawaran Menarik Penebusan E-Baucar Untuk Tiket Penerbangan Di Bawah Pelan Pemulihan Pelancongan 2022

 

BANGI, 1 JULAI 2022 – Kementerian Pelancongan, Seni dan Budaya (MOTAC) melalui Tourism Malaysia hari ini melancarkan Pelan Pemulihan Pelancongan 2022 bagi Kluster Pengangkutan Udara dalam usaha menyemarakkan pelancongan domestik seiring peralihan ke fasa endemik.

Pelan Pemulihan Pelancongan 2022 yang merupakan kesinambungan daripada Pakej Rangsangan Ekonomi (PRE 1.0), adalah salah satu inisiatif di bawah Pelan Pemulihan Industri Pelancongan yang melibatkan penyaluran insentif kepada rakyat Malaysia dalam bentuk diskaun, baucar dan rebat.

Di bawah Kluster Pengangkutan Udara, dianggarkan seramai 45,879 rakyat Malaysia berpeluang menebus tawaran e-baucar bernilai antara RM25 sehingga RM100 menerusi pembelian tiket penerbangan secara dalam talian melibatkan lima syarikat penerbangan bermula 1 Julai sehingga 31 Disember 2022.

Lima syarikat penerbangan tersebut ialah Malaysia Airlines, AirAsia, Batik Air (Malindo Air), Firefly dan MASwings. Pembelian tiket boleh dibuat sama ada menerusi aplikasi atau laman sesawang syarikat-syarikat penerbangan.

Menteri Pelancongan, Seni dan Budaya, YB Dato' Sri Hajah Nancy Shukri berkata, pelancaran inisiatif ini bertujuan menarik minat orang ramai khususnya Keluarga Malaysia untuk terus membuat tempahan tiket pengangkutan udara pada harga diskaun istimewa.

“Kerjasama strategik yang dijalinkan oleh Tourism Malaysia bersama syarikat-syarikat penerbangan ini disasarkan untuk merangsang kembali pemulihan industri pelancongan sekali gus membantu kepada pemulihan ekonomi negara secara keseluruhan,” katanya.

Malaysia Airlines (MAS) akan mempromosikan tawaran e-baucar bernilai RM100 untuk 10,000 pengguna manakala Firefly dan Batik Air masing-masing menawarkan penebusan sebanyak RM50 kepada 4,000 penumpang. Seramai 4,000 pengguna MASwings pula boleh menebus e-baucar bernilai RM25. Tawaran bagi tiket penerbangan melibatkan MAS, Firefly, Batik Air dan MASwings ini adalah terhad untuk satu kali penebusan sahaja.

Bagaimanapun, rakyat Malaysia boleh melakukan penebusan maksimum sehingga tiga kali bagi tawaran e-baucar bernilai RM50 melibatkan penerbangan sehala atau dua hala AirAsia yang disasarkan untuk 23,879 penumpang.

Penebusan e-baucar yang ditawarkan oleh semua syarikat penerbangan tersebut adalah terhad kepada sektor penerbangan domestik sahaja.

-Tourism Malaysia.

Matta Sabah targets RM20mil sales for July travel fair

 

Matta Sabah chairman Lawrence Chin (third from right), organising chairman Alicia Gomes (third from left), MASwings commercial support manager Aznah Marsha Omar (fourth from left) and Malaysia Airlines Berhad commercial sales for Sabah and Labuan, Mahzan Mat Salleh (second from right) in collaboration to further boost and revive the international and domestic travel industry.
-NSTP/PAUL MU

KOTA KINABALU: The travel industry is hoping to generate sales of between RM15 million and RM20 million at the upcoming Malaysia Association of Tour and Travel Agents (Matta) Fair Sabah, which is making a return after a two-year absence due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

It will be held on July 9 to 10 at the ITCC shopping mall in Penampang.

Its organising chairman Alicia Gomes said many people are eagerly waiting to travel now following the reopening of international borders and relaxation of the standard operating procedures (SOPs) for travelers.

Among the popular destinations include China, Australia, Turkey and Dubai as well as pilgrimage tours, she told the media during a press conference at the Matta Sabah Chapter office, here today.

Also present were MASwings commercial support manager Aznah Marsha Omar and Malaysia Airlines Bhd commercial sales for Sabah and Labuan head, Mahzan Mat Salleh.

"Prior to Covid-19, sales generated from the fair had always been around RM25 million. We expect it to be around RM15 to RM20 million this time around," said Gomes.

Matta Sabah chairman Lawrence Chin said visitors will have the opportunity to buy from a wide variety of value-for-money domestic and international holiday packages from over 80 participating companies.

The Malaysia Aviation Group (MAG) will be the official airlines for the fair and they will be giving away 24 tickets for the buyers' contest.

Lucky winners will stand a chance to win tickets to Kuala Lumpur, Langkawi and Denpasar, courtesy of Malaysia Airlines Bhd while Firefly is sponsoring a flight to Penang.

Chin believes with the collaboration and support from MAG together with Firefly and MASwings, it will be a crowd-puller to further boost and revive the international and domestic tourism industry.

He said visitors planning to visit the fair must comply with the SOP by wearing face masks at all times in the mall.

Admission is free. The fair will be held from 9am to 7pm over the two days.

-nst online.

Malaysia Airlines Offers Up to 45% Off on Airfares at MATTA Fair 2022

 

Kuala Lumpur, 5 April 2022: Malaysia Airlines and its sister companies, Firefly and MASwings, will be participating in the annual Malaysian Association of Tour and Travel Agents (MATTA) Fair happening from 9 to 10 April 2022 at the World Trade Centre (WTC), Kuala Lumpur. Guests attending the two-day fair can enjoy great discounts on airfares, exciting activities, and an opportunity to win one of the 21 return tickets up for grabs in its Buyer Contest when visiting the Malaysia Airlines booth.

With Malaysia’s borders finally reopened, Malaysia Airlines will be offering up to 45% off airfares to all domestic and selected international destinations within its network, for immediate travel up to 30 November 2022. Firefly will also be offering enticing discounts of up to 50% off airfares when holiday seekers book via its mobile application/web from 7 to 10 April 2022, for travel beginning 14 April to 29 October 2022.

Whether to enjoy sandy beaches, flora and fauna, or just to unwind, there is a suitable holiday destination for everyone. Malaysia Airlines offers a wide range of fare categories via its Economy and Business Class with dedicated attributes to suit all travel needs, priorities and preferences. The airline’s Economy Lite fare comes with a cabin baggage allowance of 7kg, complimentary snacks or meals and beverages, and inflight entertainment, whereas its Business Basic fare comes with check-in baggage allowance of 40kg, two cabin baggage allowances of 7kg each, free seat selection, complimentary meals, priority check-in, boarding and baggage, and access to its top-notch lounges.

Meanwhile, Firefly offers its guests the convenience of city airports onboard its ATR72-500, with greater flight frequency, reliable on-time performance, complimentary baggage allowance of 20kg, fast check-in and boarding process, and complimentary in-flights refreshments among others.

Beginning 11 April 2022, the airline will resume its jet operations from Penang with the Boeing 737-800, offering customers enhanced connectivity, greater flexibility, and value.

Customers who purchase Malaysia Airlines, Firefly, and MASwings’ flight tickets from participating agents will also take home limited-edition merchandise from the airlines as well as Enrich. Holidaygoers can also stand a chance to win a Business Class upgrade from Malaysia Airlines with every purchase of an Economy Class ticket.

To further ignite the holiday spirit, the airlines will be giving away a total of 21 return tickets for the Buyers Contest exclusively for shoppers at MATTA Fair 2022:

Malaysia Airlines

1x Business Class ticket to London

1x Business Class ticket to Sydney

1x Business Class ticket to Bali

1x Economy Class ticket to Seoul

1x Economy Class ticket to Melbourne

1x Economy Class ticket to Perth

1x Economy Class ticket to Singapore

1x Economy Class ticket to Kota Kinabalu

1x Economy Class ticket to Langkawi

1x Economy Class ticket to Penang

Firefly

6x tickets to any domestic destinations

MASWings

5x tickets to any MASwings’ destinations

On top of this, shoppers can also purchase an array of local goods, limited-edition collections and merchandise from participating merchants under Journify, the one-stop travel and lifestyle digital platform by Malaysia Aviation Group (MAG), at its dedicated booth. Customers can also earn double Enrich Points for every purchase, additional discounts, and free gifts during the fair period. Simply scan the QR code displayed at the booth, pay for the items, and pick-up at the Journify booth for a seamless shopping experience.

As members of the Travel Safe Alliance Malaysia (TSAM), the sister airlines are dedicated to ensuring safe and seamless travel for customers by adopting the highest safety and hygiene standards across all end-to-end touchpoints of the traveller journey so passengers can continue to Fly Confidently.

-Malaysia Airlines.

Firefly beri pilihan pelanggan menjelang musim perayaan

 

KOTA KINABALU: Laluan baharu Firefly iaitu Pulau Pinang-Kota Kinabalu akan memberi peluang kepada pelanggan memilih lebih daripada satu syarikat penerbangan menjelang musim perayaan.

Ketua Pegawai Eksekutif Firefly, Philip See berkata, dengan penerbangan menepati masa 94 peratus yang direkodkan oleh syarikat penerbangan di bawah Malaysia Aviation Group (MAG) itu, mereka yakin mampu memberi saingan di pasaran.

“Kini, pelanggan mempunyai lebih banyak pilihan untuk menaiki penerbangan dari Pulau Pinang ke Sabah, begitu juga sebaliknya.

“Laluan baharu ini akan bermula pada 11 April dengan sekali penerbangan sehari dan kekerapan penerbangan ditambah kepada dua kali sehari bermula 25 April sempena musim perayaan Aidilfitri.

“Menjelang musim perayaan, harga tiket penerbangan akan meningkat susulan permintaan yang tinggi daripada pelanggan jadi, kita nasihatkan pelanggan supaya menempah tiket penerbangan lebih awal,” katanya ketika sidang akhbar semalam.

Menurut beliau, operasi penerbangan laluan baharu Firefly itu dimulakan lebih awal kerana tidak mahu mengambil risiko pengoperasian semasa waktu kemuncak.

Philip berkata, syarikat penerbangan berkenaan menggunakan pesawat Boeing 737-800 yang mampu memuatkan 189 penumpang pada satu-satu masa.

Mengulas lanjut katanya, Sabah adalah destinasi pelancongan menarik bagi pelancong domestik yang berada di Pulau Pinang dan pembukaan laluan itu pasti memudahkan penduduk di kedua-dua negeri ini untuk melancong.

Walau bagaimanapun katanya, cabaran mereka adalah untuk memperluaskan pasaran menerusi jaringan kerjasama dengan Malaysia Airlines (MAS) bagi mewujudkan pelbagai hentian bagi memudahkan penumpang ke Langkawi mahupun Kuala Lumpur.

Begitu juga di Sabah, syarikat itu akan bekerjasama dengan MASWings untuk menghubungkan penumpang dari Kota Kinabalu ke destinasi lain seperti Sandakan dan Tawau.

Dalam pada itu, Philip berkata, Firefly turut merancang memperluaskan pasaran ke laluan antarabangsa pada tahun hadapan.

“Sebelum ini, MAS pernah beroperasi di beberapa negara seperti Tokyo, Taipei dan juga Korea Selatan.

“Kami menyasarkan untuk mengambil alih laluan antarabangsa ini mungkin pada tahun hadapan bagi membolehkan penumpang menaiki penerbangan terus dari Kota Kinabalu,” katanya.

-utusan online.

Sarawak Elevates Tourism Sector in Partnership with Malaysia Aviation Group

 

KLIA, 19 January 2022: Sarawak is set to become a destination of choice for both domestic and international travellers, as Sarawak Tourism Board (STB) and Malaysia Aviation Group (MAG) embark on a year-long partnership to promote Sarawak as a tourist destination in 2022.

The collaboration was formalised today via the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) by Puan Sharzede Datu Haji Salleh Askor, Chief Executive Officer of Sarawak Tourism Board and Ms Lau Yin May, Group Chief Marketing and Customer Experience Officer of Malaysia Airlines Berhad.

The signing ceremony was witnessed by YB Dato Sri Haji Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry & Performing Arts Sarawak and Minister of Youth, Sport & Entrepreneur Development Sarawak, YB Dennis Ngau, Chairman of Sarawak Tourism Board and Captain Izham Ismail, Group Chief Executive Officer, Malaysia Aviation Group.

As part of the MoU, STB and MAG will work hand-in-hand to market and promote events between STB, Malaysia Airlines Berhad, Firefly, MASwings and MHholidays. Both organisations will also work together on inter-organisational partnerships for Sarawak tourism activities, Corporate Social Responsibility activities, and other collaborative opportunities.

Speaking at the event, YB Dato Sri Haji Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry & Performing Arts Sarawak and Minister of Youth, Sport & Entrepreneur Development Sarawak said, “Connectivity and accessibility are important elements to enhance travel experience and position Sarawak as a leading destination for eco-tourism in the ASEAN Region.”

“In addition, Sarawak State Disaster Management Committee has just announced recently that Sarawak have approved more domestic flight frequencies into Sarawak from 307 flights to 562 flights per week with effect from 14th Jan 2022. We look forward to seeing more direct routes from West Malaysia and to more parts of Sarawak soon,” he added.

Puan Sharzede Datu Haji Salleh Askor, Chief Executive Officer of Sarawak Tourism Board said “As a sign of our commitment to revitalise and re-energize Sarawak’s local tourism industry, we are pleased to be signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Malaysia Aviation Group this morning. Malaysia Airlines will not only be Sia Sitok Sarawak Plus’ official airline, but also having MAB, Firefly, MASwings and MHholidays on board as our strategic partners on future marketing campaigns in promoting Sarawak’s tourism activities and cultural events.”

“Most importantly, through this collaboration between STB and MAG, there will be an increase of connectivity into Sarawak, with more direct flights from Penang, Johor and Kuala Lumpur to look forward to,” she added.

Group Chief Executive Officer of Malaysia Aviation Group, Captain Izham Ismail said, “Over the past year, Malaysia Airlines, Firefly and MASwings have worked on improving connectivity to and within Sarawak, with the commencement of direct flights from Penang to Kuching, and increased frequencies between Miri-Sibu-Bintulu that will provide greater mobility to the state and further reinvigorate domestic tourism in Sarawak. We look forward to welcoming our customers to fly “Sia Sitok” with us and experience our enhanced products and services with a range of flexibility and choices, seamless connectivity and contactless end-to-end journey while keeping to our utmost priority and commitment to safety. Together, the three airlines under MAG offer strong value propositions to the state of Sarawak – with better services, convenience and reliability.”

In conjunction with the event, STB also launched its Sia Sitok Sarawak Plus interstate travel campaign, to give travellers the opportunity to visit Sarawak through its main tourism gateways, namely Kuching, Sibu and Miri, with Malaysia Airlines as the official airline.

Customers can enjoy attractive hotel and flight packages via MHholidays, the airline’s tour operating arm and choose from the list of participating hotels, including New World Suites in Bintulu, The Waterfront Hotel in Kuching, Grand Palace Hotel in Miri, RH Hotel in Sibu, for their well-deserved staycation.

MHholidays packages come with a baggage allowance of 40kg, complimentary onboard meals, and free seat selection and earn Enrich points. This promotion is bookable at www.holidays.malaysiaairlines.com. To top it off, customers can book exclusive tour package on Journify from as low as RM95.

Through the Sia Sitok Sarawak Plus interstate travel campaign, travellers will have access to 57 exhilarating packages to Sarawak.

The booking period for the Sia Sitok Sarawak Plus interstate travel campaign starts from 19 January 2022 until 28 February 2022, with the travelling period from 19 January until 30 April 2022.

“Sarawak is blessed with exciting wonders from culture, adventure, nature, food and festivals (or CANFF) which are unique to our state. We hope to attract local travellers to experience the hospitality of Sarawak through the Sia Sitok Sarawak Plus campaign and become our ambassadors to then share their experience with friends and family,” Puan Sharzede concluded.

Visit malaysiaairlines.com or download Malaysia Airlines’ App to get the latest information and make sure you never miss out exciting Sia Sitok Sarawak Plus promotions and exclusives today!

-Malaysia Airlines.

Malaysia Aviation Group Soars at the HR Excellence Awards 2020

 

KLIA, 22 January 2021: Malaysia Aviation Group started the year with resounding success after winning three top awards at the HR Excellence Awards 2020 virtual event, recently. Its main airline, Malaysia Airlines bagged two Gold awards for HR Leader of the Year and Excellence in Workplace Culture; and landed a Silver award for Excellence in Digital Transformation.

 

Group Chief Human Capital Officer of Malaysia Airlines Berhad, Dato' Mohd Khalis Abdul Rahim noted that, “This is a significant achievement for the Group, as it demonstrates the critical role, commitment, and collective efforts of the MAG Human Capital division. We are a strategic business partner that drives operational efficiency, creates high-performance work culture, and most importantly, enhances the overall employee experience Group-wide.”

 

“Many more digitally-led initiatives are under way for this year as we continue to develop our talent pipeline and drive our employees to embrace lean and agile methodology to support the long-term business sustainability of the Group,” added Dato’ Mohd Khalis, who was also recognised as the HR Leader of the Year at the HR Excellence Awards 2020.

 

MAG employees are empowered to make a difference by Internalising Malaysian Hospitality as the core of MAG culture and live up to the values and spirit through their actions in driving high performance organisation enabled by digital technology and customer centric mindset.

 

In light of the COVID-19 pandemic, MAG was able to accelerate its digital transformation overnight and rally the workforce of 12,000 to adapt to a new way of working. The organisation of various learning and sharing conferences and webinars, digitising manual processes, and facilitating a digital learning and development environment has seen MAG employees embrace the digital era and keep pace with the changing world.

 

MAG continues to build on its position in the industry and strengthen its digital workforce capabilities to ensure that it is ready for the future. The journey ahead will be challenging, yet the spirit of Malaysian Hospitality will continue to soar with its leaders and employees’ indomitable courage and resilience.

-Malaysia Airlines.

Tourism Malaysia Rallies Suopport From Sabah Tourism Industry Players And MASWings For VISIT MALAYSIA 2020 Campaign

KOTA KINABALU, SABAH, 19 SEPTEMBER 2019: Tourism Malaysia has introduced a special edition booklet entitled “Best of Sabah Holiday Packages 2019/2020” in support of the Visit Malaysia 2020 campaign and to promote Sabah’s beautiful and exciting attractions to both local and international tourists.

The initiative is the result of partnerships with Sabah Tourism Board, MATTA Sabah Chapter, Sabah Tourism Association, Sabah Homestay Association and local airlines in Sabah.

The publication was launched by Chief Minister of Sabah, YAB Datuk Seri Panglima Haji Mohd. Shafie bin Haji Apdal at the Kota Kinabalu International Airport today. Also present was the Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture, YB Datuk Mohamaddin bin Ketapi. The event was also witnessed by key tourism industry players from all over Malaysia. 

Featuring 135 holiday packages offered by 76 travel agencies, tourism product operators, homestay operators and local airlines in Sabah, the booklet provides new holiday ideas in Sabah and explores the state’s lesser known tourist attractions. The packages on offer shines the limelight not only on destinations, but also highlights Sabah’s rugged adventures, colourful culture and exotic cuisines.

With the nation gearing up to welcome 30 million international tourists and RM100 billion in tourist receipts, the booklet is timely in promoting the Visit Malaysia 2020 campaign.

The campaign received a further boost of support from MASwings airlines which has agreed to partner with Tourism Malaysia to promote Visit Malaysia 2020 together. The event today saw the officiating ceremony of the Visit Malaysia 2020 logo being displayed on the MASwings aircraft.

The “Best of Sabah Holiday Packages 2019/2020” is available on the Tourism Malaysia website for download. Visit www.malaysia.travel for more info or follow Tourism Malaysia Sabah on Facebook to get updates on promotional activities in Sabah.

-Tourism Malaysia.

Sabah’s Sandakan a harder sell without MASwings service

Inbound operators say that Sandakan (pictured) is a harder sell now

with the cessation of MASwings flights

The local travel trade is calling for the reinstatement of MASwings’ Kota Kinabalu-Sandakan flights in Sabah, saying Sandakan was an easier sell when the service was operated by the Malaysia Airlines (MAS) subsidiary which offered better flight timings and interlining conveniences.

MASwings had stopped operating Kota Kinabalu-Sandakan effective January 1, although this route is also operated by AirAsia on a four-times weekly basis and twice daily by MAS via Tawau.

President of the Malaysian Association of Tour and Travel Agents (MATTA), KL Tan, shared: “Inbound agents are facing difficulties promoting Sandakan day excursion tour packages because AirAsia’s flight AK6499, from Sandakan to Kota Kinabalu, departing on 1805 hours, does not operate on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays.”

Tan pointed out that this is AirAsia’s latest flight departing from Sandakan to the Sabah state capital, and should this flight be full, tourists will have to take an earlier flight that departs at 14.45 (AK6495), which means they will have to miss half a day’s tour in Sandakan.

He continued: “Furthermore, tourists connecting back to Kuala Lumpur for their overseas connections will not be able to check their luggage all the way through as MAS and AirAsia do not share the same code and passenger privileges in the event of flight retiming.”

Diethelm Travel Malaysia’s managing director, Manfred Kurz, agreed, saying that Sandakan has become less attractive as a day trip destination since MASwings stopped serving the Kota Kinabalu-Sandakan route.

He shared: “We used to promote Sepilok Orang Utan Rehabilitation Centre and a city tour of Sandakan as part of a package. But with the current flight schedules we removed the city tour portion which makes it very expensive to travel all the way to Sandakan, just to see the orangutan.

“For our business, Sandakan is the second most important hub in Sabah after Kota Kinabalu as it is also the gateway to see wildlife in Kinabatangan.

“Reintroducing MASwings, with the same flight timings as previously, will be the perfect solution as it allows a full day tour in Sandakan and tourists with connecting flights on MAS and its partners will be able to check their baggage all the way through.”

The Kota Kinabalu-Sandakan route is among six routes in Sabah and Sarawak that MASwings cancelledeffective January 1, 2019 to make way for commercial airlines as based on the new Public Service Obligations 2019 Agreement, enforced after the Malaysian Aviation Commission had conducted a study on rural air services in Sabah and Sarawak.

The study found that the six routes, operated by MASwings as well as commercial airlines such as MAS and AirAsia, had a high load factor of up to 86 per cent, which made it profitable for commercial airlines to continue flying these routes.

A decision was then made for MASwings to cease operations on these routes which the government will no longer subsidise. The routes are: Kota Kinabalu-Sandakan; Kota Kinabalu-Tawau; Kota Kinabalu-Miri; Kuching-Miri; Kuching-Kota Kinabalu and Kuching-Sibu.

-TTG Asia.

Mulu National Park needs more flights

The limited number of flights to Mulu National Park was the top complaint received from foreign tourists who wished to visit the World Heritage Site in Mulu National Park, here. (File pix)

MIRI: The limited number of flights to Mulu National Park was the top complaint received from foreign tourists who wished to visit the World Heritage Site in Mulu National Park, here.

Sarawak Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Datuk Lee Kim Shin said the lack of flights to the heritage site made it difficult for tourists to visit the park.

Kim said tourists wishing to travel to Mulu would prefer to use air transportation instead of a long and exhausting land route.

"We have received many complaints from tourists about limited flights to Mulu disrupting their travel plans.

"There are tourists who like to use land routes, including boats and four-wheel drive vehicles (4WD), but ultimately the first choice is still travelling by air," he said.

He said this when commenting on the request of foreign tourists for increased flight services to Mulu National Park, here, this morning.

Kim Shin said the present two daily flights from Miri Airport To Mulu National Park were not sufficient to accommodate the increasing number of tourists who wanted to visit the park.

According to Kim. this was necessary because the number of tourists visiting the tourist area increased almost every year.

"If the number of flights is full on that day, travelers are forced to wait the next day to make a reservation.

"Hence, this should be taken seriously by MASWings to increase the number of flights," he said.

Kim Shin said Mulu National Park was one of the major tourist destinations of Sarawak, and an important asset to attract foreign tourists to the Land of the Hornbills.

-nst online.
https://sarawaktourism.com/

MASwings offering discounted flights within Sabah and Sarawak for CNY

KOTA KINABALU: MASwings is adding to the Chinese New Year cheer by offering promotions from as low as RM158 for one-way tickets on all its regional flights within Sabah and Sarawak.

Bookings for MASwings' Chinese New Year Specials is open from now till Feb 28, for travel between Feb 4 and March 31, 2018, the company said in a statement Friday (Feb 2).

The promotion also offers passengers travelling between Tawau and Tarakan fares from as low as RM200 all-in one-way.

The company noted that there is high demand for flights during the festive period, and to avoid any disappointment, book their flights early as seats are sell fast.

All MASwings tickets on these flights are inclusive of 20kg check-in baggage allowance and light refreshment, the company said.

MASwings Chinese New Year Specials fares are inclusive of airport taxes, goods and services tax (GST), carrier imposed fee (CIF) and subject to MASwings' terms and conditions.

The offers were also available through MASwings or Malaysia Airlines website, ticket offices, and appointed travel agents or via 24 hours Call Centre at toll-free number 1300 88 3000.

For more information on destinations, fares and flight schedules are available on MASwings' website www.maswings.com.my.

-thestar online.

MASwings turns 10 with lucky draw promo

www.maswings.com.my

KOTA KINABALU: Lucky passengers on MASwings stand to win 100 tickets to any destination as part of its 10th year anniversary celebrations.

MASwings head of commercial Shauqi Ahmad said the tickets would be given away during lucky draws on flights until Nov 30.

“Ten years is a very young age for an airline, but we owe it to the people of Sabah, Sarawak and Labuan who have put us where we are today and making us the people’s airline.

“We have grown so close together with the states of Sabah and Sarawak, creating opportunities for others to discover the beauty of Borneo and connecting families to loved ones,” he said.

MASwings 10th Year Anniversary Promotion is specially put together to offer customers the opportunity to travel and explore the exotic destinations with MASwings, whether for a leisurely and hassle-free holiday or for business purposes.

Shauqi said MASwings, which turns 10 today, is also offering promotional RM122 all-in one-way fares on all its flights within and across Sabah and Sarawak for travel between Oct 3 and Nov 30.

The promotion also offers passengers travelling from Tarakan in Indonesia to Tawau a one-way fare of RM167. The offers are also available through MASwings/Malaysia Air­lines website, ticket offices, and their appointed travel agents or via a 24-hour call centre at toll-free number 1300 88 3000.

More information on destinations, fares and flight schedules are available on MASwings website www.maswings.com.my.

-thestar online.

MASwings offering fares as low as RM111 for its ‘Cuti Cuti Raya Specials’

KOTA KINABALU: MASwings is offering fares as low as RM111 via its "Cuti Cuti Raya Specials" for destinations within Sabah and Sarawak with lucky draws for tickets for the Sarawak rainforest music festival.

Tickets are available for flights on the airlines' ATR service routes from Sunday to June 30 for travel between Jun 7 and July 31.

MASwings said the special promotions were for local communities, especially those celebrating the Hari Raya Aidilfitri, to take the opportunity to plan their travels.

The promotion offers travellers from Kota Kinabalu to Labuan with fares from as low as RM111 all-in one-way, and from RM121 to Lahad Datu, Miri, Sandakan, Tawau and Mulu.

The all-inclusive offer also starts at RM141 to Bintulu and Sibu; RM161 to Kuching from Kota Kinabalu.

For those travelling from Kuching, fares are as low as RM111 to Sibu and RM121 to Bintulu.

“One way fares from Kuching to popular destinations such as Miri and Mulu are also being offered from as low as RM141 and to Kota Kinabalu from RM161,” the company said.

Passengers from Miri can travel on an all-inclusive one-way fares to Labuan, Limbang, Mulu and Bintulu for RM111 and to Sibu for RM121.

Offers for other destinations such as from Sandakan to Tawau and from Bintulu to Sibu are also available from as low as RM111.

MASwings international flight from Tawau to Tarakan, Indonesia is offered at RM167 all-in-one-way and for return flight, from IDR651,000.

The company said that on selected ATR flights in June, passengers have a chance to win complimentary tickets for the July 14-16 Rainforest World Music Festival sponsored by Sarawak Tourism Board.

More information on destinations, fares and flight schedules are available on MASwings’ website www.maswings.com.my.

-thestar online.

MASwings offers huge discounts for Sabah, Sarawak travel

KOTA KINABALU: MASwings is offering 95% discounts to all Sabah and Sarawak sectors with one-way prices as low as RM62 in conjunction with its ninth anniversary celebrations.  

Dubbed “MASwings RM62 JUST4U Promotion”, it offers an all inclusive one-way fares for all MASwings' domestic routes from now until Oct 31, 2016, with a travel period starting from Oct 3 until Nov 30, 2016.  

In a statement Sunday, the airline said it was encouraging people to visit Sabah and Sarawak as part of the celebrations.  

The statement said that those booking on the special fares would continue to enjoy all the services offered onboard, including refreshments and up-to 20KG check-in baggage allowance on economy.  

“This is also part of the airline's effort to give back and appreciate the people who have supported MASwings towards its successes throughout the years, which bring the community airline to where it is today," the statement said.  

MASwings' RM62 JUST4U promotion are inclusive of airport taxes, Goods and Services Tax (GST) and Carrier Imposed Fee (CIF)  subject to its terms and conditions, the company said.  

The offers are available through MASwings/Malaysia Airlines website, ticket offices, and appointed travel agents or via the 24 hour call centre at toll-free number 1300 88 3000.   

More information on destinations, fares and flight schedules are available on MASwings' website. 

-thestar online.