Tiong urges Malaysians to adopt friendly attitude towards tourists during VM2026

 

KUALA LUMPUR: Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing has urged tourism stakeholders, civil servants and the public to adopt a more welcoming attitude towards visitors to the country. 

Tiong made the call following complaints of unfriendly treatment towards local and foreign tourists during the first month of Visit Malaysia 2026 (VM2026). 

He said he had conducted on the ground checks and found that some tourists were dissatisfied with what they perceived as a lack of hospitality. 

He urged heads of departments and ministry secretaries general to work together to address the issue, noting allegations that certain officers had acted in a high handed manner towards tourists. 

"We ask all Malaysians to help safeguard the country's image. Do not let our image suffer to the point visitors think Malaysia is an unfriendly country. 

"We must be friendly, not only towards tourists but also among ourselves," he told reporters after opening the Tourism, Arts and Culture Ministry's Mesra Malaysia Campaign at KL Sentral today.

Tiong said there had been instances where tourists were spoken to rudely by members of the public and even civil servants when seeking directions or assistance at markets and train stations. 

He also cited cases involving bus drivers who allegedly scolded tourists asking about destinations, telling them not to use the service if they did not understand. 

"So where are the tourists supposed to go? Walk? This is the root of the problem," he said. 

Tiong stressed that all parties in the tourism ecosystem, including government officers, must play their part. 

He said discussions would also be held with shopping mall management nationwide after the Chinese New Year holidays to address complaints involving retail outlets. 

"There have been complaints from tourists who said that when they entered a shop intending to make a purchase, they were treated as though they owed the seller money for 10 years," he said. 

On the campaign, Tiong said the Mesra Malaysia Campaign emphasises genuine service practices among frontline workers in the transport, hospitality, aviation and tourism sectors. 

"Malaysia's strength lies not only in its cultural diversity, rich food heritage, arts and traditions, as well as natural beauty and accessibility. What is most significant is the attitude of Malaysians, courteous, warm and always ready to help," he said. 

The VM2026 campaign was launched by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim on Jan 6, targeting 47 million tourist arrivals as part of efforts to position Malaysia as a world class destination while fostering inclusive growth across all states.

-nst online.

Malaysia Airlines Earns Global Recognition as APEX Four Star Major Airline; Ranked Among World’s Top 10 Airlines by Condé Nast Traveller

 

Malaysia Airlines proudly celebrates a series of prestigious accolades, reflecting its unwavering commitment to excellence and dedication to enhancing every passenger’s journey. The national carrier has once again been named an APEX Four Star Major Airline in the 2026 Official Airline Ratings, recognising its consistent excellence in safety, service, and operational performance. 

In addition, Malaysia Airlines has been ranked 9th Best Airline in the World in the Condé Nast Traveller UK Readers’ Choice Awards 2025, reflecting the trust and appreciation of travellers worldwide. The Readers’ Choice Awards are an annual survey by Condé Nast Traveller, where readers vote for their favourite travel experiences, hotels, resorts, destinations, cities, airlines, and more. The awards are determined entirely by reader votes and audited by an independent agency, underscoring the authenticity of the recognition. 

Datuk Captain Izham Ismail, Group Managing Director of Malaysia Aviation Group (MAG), said, “We are deeply honoured to receive these global recognitions, which reflect the unwavering dedication of our people in delivering exceptional experiences with our Malaysian Hospitality. Being ranked among the top 10 airlines by Condé Nast Traveller readers and maintaining our APEX Four Star Major Airline status reinforces the trust that travellers place in us. We remain committed to raising the bar and strengthening our position among the world’s best airlines.” 

The airline further showcased its leadership in aviation and brand experience by receiving two prestigious awards at the Asian Experience Awards 2025 in Singapore: Malaysia Brand Experience of the Year (Airline category) and Malaysia Brand Experience of the Year (Aviation category) for the project “Elevating Brand Experience Through Commercial Strategic Elevation Transformation.” 

This recognition marks a historic milestone, as it is the first time an airline has been awarded for a holistic commercial elevation strategy that seamlessly integrates data-driven decision-making, innovative marketing, and performance-driven sales execution under one unified vision. Through this transformation, Malaysia Airlines has redefined how it markets, sells, and engages, launching a series of breakthrough sales and marketing campaigns that have driven record-breaking results across global markets. 

Malaysia Airlines also received the Big Bang Award at the YouTube Works Awards Malaysia 2025 for its campaign “Malaysia Airlines: Epicurean Journey to Chiang Mai,” which celebrated creativity, innovation, and engagement in digital storytelling in the form of an original travel documentary.  The series vividly captured that a journey is more than a destination—it is the local flavours that linger, the markets that bustle, the traditions that inspire, and the people who welcome you with open hearts. 

Further underscoring the MAG’s creative excellence, MAB Engineering Services proudly brought home the Marketing Campaign of the Year Award 2025 at the Aviation Week Network MRO Asia-Pacific Awards for its “Second TakeOff” campaign. “Second TakeOff” celebrates MAB Engineering’s powerful brand revival, showcasing its transformation journey and renewed commitment to excellence in aviation engineering. This recognition highlights the campaign’s strategic storytelling and innovative approach in positioning the company as a trusted and forward-looking MRO partner in the global aviation industry. 

The Group’s commitment to creativity and innovation was also recognised at the Malaysia Business Events Awards (MBEA) 2025, where its MAG Arena during MATTA April 2025 won the Booth Design Excellence, Double Deck category for its outstanding booth design. 

Through these awards and initiatives, MAG continues to strengthen its reputation as a leading aviation group, combining innovation, excellence, and the delivery of exceptional customer experiences and sustainable, profitable growth.

-Malaysia Airlines.

Malaysia Airlines Showcases Elevated Journeys with “Time for Comfort in the Skies” Campaign

 

Continuing its globally recognised “Time For” campaign, Malaysia Airlines is proud to introduce Time for Comfort in the Skies, inviting travellers to rediscover the joy of premium flying at 30,000 feet. Designed to highlight the airline’s hallmark Malaysian Hospitality, the campaign brings together comfort, exclusivity, and value across both Business and Economy Class. 

The campaign runs from 7 – 22 October 2025 with exclusive Business Class all-in fares starting from RM699 for domestic routes and RM1,149 for international routes for immediate travel till 31 August 2026. Members of the airline’s Enrich loyalty programme will enjoy priority access on the 7th and 8th October with an additional 5% discount as well as special redemption discount. Non-members are encouraged to sign up for free to unlock more exclusive perks. Available for a wide selection of destinations across Malaysia Airlines’ global network, these special fares give travellers more reasons to take to the skies — whether it’s a leisure escape to London or Brisbane, a cultural journey to Dhaka or Hong Kong, or a quick domestic retreat to Kota Kinabalu, Kuching, Miri, Tawau, or Penang. 

Business Class: Elevated Comfort 

As part of this journey, Business Class passengers can enjoy comfort and premium amenities across Malaysia Airlines’ fleet, including aboard its latest A330neo aircraft. Beyond the skies, guests benefit from priority services, access to the Golden Lounge and partner lounges worldwide. Onboard, thoughtful touches from the MH Signature Drink on arrival to gourmet dining with Chef-on-Call elevate the premium experience.  Passengers can also stay connected wth  complimentary unlimited Wi-Fi via MHconnect, available on selected aircraft for all guests, regardless of cabin class or loyalty tier. 

Economy Class: Comfort with Value 

Economy Class travellers can look forward to the warmth of Malaysian Hospitality in every detail of their journey. Guests have the option to pre-book meals for a more seamless and personalised experience, while those who choose to order onboard can indulge in the airline’s celebrated Best of Asia menu, which brings authentic regional flavours to the skies. From hearty favourites to lighter choices for little explorers, every dish is thoughtfully prepared to make dining part of the journey itself. Onboard, travellers can stay entertained with a wide selection of movies, shows, and games, while enjoying the convenience of complimentary unlimited Wi-Fi via MHconnect. 

A Stress-Free Journey for Families 

Travelling with little ones can often be daunting, but Malaysia Airlines is set on making it a seamless experience through its MH Junior Explorer programme, created to keep little travellers happy and parents at ease. Young flyers receive curated Kids’ Activity Packs, filled with engaging items that turn the flight into an adventure from the moment they board. Mealtimes become a highlight too, with fun and nutritious Junior Explorer meals crafted to delight young taste buds. Parents are encouraged to pre-order these meals to ensure their children don’t miss out. Onboard entertainment also caters to kids, with a wide selection of age-appropriate shows, movies, and games to keep them engaged from take-off to landing. 

With these thoughtful touches, Malaysia Airlines transforms every journey into an elevated experience for families, leisure seekers, and premium explorers. More than just travelling from point A to B, each flight becomes a shared journey of discovery, comfort, and joy in the skies. 

Bonus Side Trip Expands to Eight Destinations – Discover Kuching! 

Malaysia Airlines invites global travellers to discover Kuching, Sarawak, the latest destination in its Bonus Side Trip (BST) programme. In partnership with the Sarawak Tourism Board, the addition of Kuching opens the gateway to Borneo’s lush rainforests, diverse wildlife and vibrant living culture – offering long-haul passengers the chance to enrich their journey with an authentic side trip. As the world looks ahead to Visit Malaysia 2026 (VM2026), Malaysia Airlines encourages guests to make every trip more rewarding by adding a Bonus Side Trip and uncovering Malaysia’s hidden gems along the way.  

Travellers can book their flights via the official Malaysia Airlines website at  www.malaysiaairlines.com or the mobile app or through authorised travel agents worldwide.

-Malaysia Airlines.

Malaysia Airlines Showcases Signature Hospitality in “Time for Malaysia Airlines” Campaign

 

In a special iteration of its renowned “Time For” campaign – the signature global marketing initiative inviting travellers worldwide to embrace the joy of discovery and make 2025 a year of memorable journeys – Malaysia Airlines today unveiled “Time for Malaysia Airlines.”

This new campaign specifically commemorates Malaysia’s 68th National Day, encouraging travellers to rediscover the thoughtful touches and full-service experience that define every journey with the national carrier. 

The campaign runs from 7 to 26 August 2025, with an exclusive Enrich priority booking window from 5 to 6 August, for immediate travel between 5 August 2025 and 31 May 2026. Travellers can enjoy all-in return fares starting from RM219 for Economy Class and RM699 for Business Class, covering a wide network of destinations including Kota Kinabalu, Kuching, Penang and Tawau, as well as international cities such as Chiang Mai, Brisbane, Osaka, London and Paris. 

More than just a fare promotion, the campaign celebrates the airline’s signature Malaysian Hospitality, offering a journey that blends comfort, care and culinary excellence. Business Suite and Business Class guests are welcomed onboard with the MH Signature Drink, a refreshing fusion of guava, pineapple and sour plum, followed by gourmet meals through the Chef-on-Call service and the airline’s beloved grilled satay skewers, served warm with rich peanut sauce. 

Economy Class passengers enjoy a seamless and value-packed experience with complimentary checked baggage starting from 20kg, while Business Class travellers receive up to 50kg. The airline also brings back its Best of Asia menu for a limited time, featuring the popular Nasi Hujan Panas set dish on selected flights until 31 August 2025 in celebration of the National Day season. 

On the ground, Enrich Platinum members flying from KLIA Terminal 1 can savour a heritage-inspired menu at the Platinum Lounge, with highlights such as Rendang Ayam Daun Kunyit, Hong Kong-style Steamed Grouper Fillet, Asam Pedas Berempah Ikan Merah and Nasi Bukhari with Rendang Rusuk, served on a rotating All-Day Dining menu until 27 August 2025. 

Families travelling with children can take advantage of the MH Junior Explorer programme, offering special kids’ meals, activity kits and priority check-in and boarding. Those seeking added comfort may opt for MHupgrade, which allows guests to bid for an upgrade to a higher cabin class. 

Enrich members enjoy 5 percent off fares, while new members can register for free and begin earning Enrich Points immediately. Bookings made directly via the Malaysia Airlines website or mobile app also unlock added perks including exclusive fares, child discounts, flexible booking options and seamless point earning and redemption. 

Whether it is a short getaway or a long-haul escape, now is the perfect time to rediscover the service, comfort and warmth that come with flying Malaysia Airlines. For more information and to book, visit offical website  or the mobile app now.

-Malaysia Airlines.

Malaysia Aviation Group Acquires 20 Additional A330neo Aircraft to Support Long-Term Fleet and Network Strategy

 

Malaysia Aviation Group (MAG), the parent company of national carrier Malaysia Airlines, has exercised its purchase rights for 20 additional A330neo aircraft through a direct order with Airbus – reaffirming its commitment to a long-term strategy for fleet renewal and network development. With this latest acquisition, Malaysia Airlines is set to become one of the largest A330neo operators in the Asia-Pacific region – strengthening its position as a leading premium airline in one of the world’s fastest-growing travel markets. 

This new order builds on MAG’s initial commitment in 2022 for 20 A330neo aircraft – comprising 10 directly purchased and 10 leased from Avolon – bringing the Group’s total A330neo commitment to 40 aircraft to date. Deliveries from this additional batch are scheduled between 2029 and 2031. 

The A330neo remains a cornerstone of MAG’s fleet modernisation programme, enabling the Group to serve high-growth markets more efficiently while enhancing the overall travel experience. The aircraft features the latest cabin design, including an all-suite Business Class with sliding privacy doors, full-flat beds, and direct aisle access. Across all cabin classes, passengers will enjoy refreshed interiors, next-generation seating, and the latest in-flight entertainment system – delivering a consistently premium journey in line with Malaysia Airlines’ service standards. 

The expanded widebody fleet will enhance connectivity and drive network development across key markets in ASEAN, China, India, and Australasia – strengthening Malaysia Airlines’ position as a leading premium carrier in the Asia-Pacific region. 

Datuk Captain Izham Ismail, Group Managing Director of MAG, said, “The A330neo continues to deliver the right balance of operational efficiency, range, and cabin comfort to support our network and growth strategy. With its enhanced fuel efficiency and flexibility across both regional and long-haul routes, the aircraft is a strong fit for our evolving market needs. It also allows us to offer a product that aligns with our premium positioning – streamlined, modern, and designed around passenger comfort and expectations. This additional order reinforces our long-term vision of building a future-ready fleet that supports sustainable growth, delivers consistent value to our passengers, and strengthens our competitiveness in key markets.” 

Benoît de Saint-Exupéry, EVP Sales of the Commercial Aircraft at Airbus, said, “We are proud to further strengthen our relationship with Malaysia Aviation Group as it expands its A330neo fleet. This repeat order is a strong endorsement of the A330neo’s exceptional performance, fuel efficiency and passenger comfort, as well as a testament to the aircraft’s popularity among the world’s premium airlines.” 

To date, MAG has taken delivery of four (4) A330neo aircraft, currently operating on selected services to Auckland, Melbourne, and Bali. Six (6) more are scheduled for delivery by the end of the year, with the remaining aircraft from the original order set to arrive progressively through to 2028.

-Malaysia Airlines.

Malaysia Airlines Launches Global Campaign 'Time for Premium Escapades'

 

Malaysia Airlines today launched  its latest global campaign, Time for Premium Escapades, inviting travellers to elevate their journey with exclusive Business Class fares. The campaign runs from 4 to 19 June 2025for travel period from 4 June 2025 until 31 May 2026  and offers access  to a wide range of destinations across Asia, Australia, Europe, and beyond. Travellers departing from Malaysia, Singapore, and across ASEAN can enjoy all-in return fares starting from RM699 in Business Class for domestic routes, and from RM1,149 for international destinations. 

Enrich, the travel and lifestyle loyalty programme of Malaysia Airlines, is offering members early access to the campaign via an exclusive Priority Sale on 4 and 5 June, with an additional 5% savings.  Travellers who are not yet members can sign up for Enrich to access these exclusive deals during the Priority Sale Designed for those seeking a comfortable, seamless journey from take-off to touchdown, the campaign offers an exclusive fares across its extensive domestic and international network. 

Dersenish Aresandiran, Chief Commercial Officer of Airlines, Malaysia Aviation Group said, “At Malaysia Airlines, we are proud to offer a Business Class experience that reflects our continuous commitment to providing our passengers with comfort, innovation and the signature warmth of Malaysian Hospitality. From private terminal transfers and Chef-on-Call gourmet dining to lie-flat seats and full connectivity onboard, every detail has been carefully crafted to ensure a seamless and indulgent journey for our passengers. The introduction of our A330neo aircraft —featuring our all-new Elevation seats and individual suites with privacy doors —underscores our commitment to setting new standards in premium travel. Through the ‘Time for Premium Escapades’ campaign, we invite travellers to rediscover the joy of flying, where every moment is designed to feel exceptional.” 

Travellers flying Business Class can expect a seamless experience from the moment they arrive at the airport—including fast-track services, access to Malaysia Airlines’ Golden Lounge and even private transfers at Kuala Lumpur International Airport Terminal 1 (KLIA T1) in partnership with Mercedes Benz. Comfort meets sophistication as guests can unwind in lie-flat seats, personalised service and complimentary Wi-Fi  – available onboard select aircraft for all guests regardless of cabin class or loyalty tier, ensuring guests stay effortlessly connected throughout their journey. 

The journey is further elevated with a range of thoughtful enhancements designed to delight every type of traveller. Passengers can savour the airline’s Best of Asia menu — a regional culinary showcase, now refreshed with new chef-curated dishes inspired by destinations across the network. Guests can also pre-select their preferred meals via Chef-on-Call for added personalisation. For added comfort on longer journeys, Business Class passengers can also enjoy premium touches such as pyjamas, while families are welcomed with child-friendly meals and activity packs for a more inclusive inflight experience on selected flights. Elegantly served and thoughtfully designed, the inflight offering reflects Malaysia Airlines’ commitment to comfort, care and the warmth of the Malaysian Hospitality. 

This campaign also features affordable and rewarding journey in Economy Class, with great value across the network where travellers can enjoy all-in return fares starting from RM119 to domestic destinations and from RM469 for international destinations. Economy Class’ travellers can expect the same warm service and thoughtful touches across regional and long-haul routes. 

All fares are available for booking via malaysiaairlines.com, the MHmobile app, and authorised travel agents worldwide. 

Whether flying for business or leisure, short-haul or long-haul, the Time for Premium Escapades campaign invites travellers to rediscover the joy of flying with Malaysia Airlines — where every journey is elevated, and every moment delivered with care.

-Malaysia Airlines.

Malaysia Airlines Elevates Luxury Travel with Time for Premium Leisure Campaign; With an Irresistible Offer on Business Class

 

As a continuation of its globally recognised ‘Time for’ campaign, Malaysia Airlines is proud to unveil ‘Time for Premium Leisure’, a campaign that redefines Business Class travel by showcasing its unparalleled comfort, personalised service, and world-class amenities. From spacious seating and bespoke in-flight experiences to exclusive access to award-winning lounges and gourmet dining, travellers can indulge in a seamless and luxurious journey. Running until 20 February 2025, this exclusive Business Class campaign offers up to 20% off fares across its domestic and international network. 

In addition, members of the airline’s award-winning Enrich programme can also enjoy an additional 5% off fares, while non-members are encouraged to sign up for free to unlock this exclusive benefit. Whether it’s a dream escape to the Maldives, a romantic getaway to Paris, or a coastal retreat in Da Nang, now is the perfect time to experience premium travel at exceptional value. 

Dersenish Aresandiran, Chief Commercial Officer of Airlines from Malaysia Aviation Group, said, “At Malaysia Airlines, we continuously elevate the premium travel experience, ensuring that every journey is defined by comfort, exclusivity, and our signature Malaysian Hospitality. This commitment is exemplified in the introduction of our next-generation A330neo, setting a new benchmark in business class travel. Designed for discerning travellers who seek more than just a seat, our Business Class offers spacious suites with privacy doors, direct aisle access, and our state-of-the-art elevation seat, designed for ultimate relaxation. Whether traveling for business or leisure, our goal is to ensure that every moment onboard is an indulgence in premium comfort.” 

As part of this journey, Business Class passengers can enjoy an elevated end-to-end travel experience from the moment they arrive at the airport, including personalised Meet and Greet assistance, access to the Golden Lounge and partner lounges worldwide, and private terminal transfers at KLIA Terminal 1, powered by Mercedes-Benz. Onboard, enjoy gourmet dining selections, including the option to pre-order Chef-on-Call signature dishes, along with premium amenities for ultimate relaxation. Complimentary unlimited Wi-Fi via MHconnect is also available to ensure seamless connectivity throughout the journey. 

To make the journey even more rewarding, passengers transiting through KLIA Terminal 1 can enjoy a Bonus Side Trip, unlocking the chance to explore one of seven exciting Malaysian destinations at no extra cost. From the stunning beaches of Langkawi to the cultural heritage of Penang, the lush rainforests of Kuantan, or the vibrant cityscape of Johor Bahru, this offer allows travellers to immerse themselves in Malaysia’s breathtaking landscapes and world-renowned cuisine—all within one trip. 

For more details and to explore Malaysia Airlines’ Time for Premium Leisure experience, visit the official Malaysia Airlines website at www.malaysiaairlines.com or mobile app to get the latest information and promotions conveniently at your fingertips anytime and anywhere.

-Malaysia Airlines.

New MAB Academy and Flight Simulator Building to Strengthen Position as Premier Aviation and Hospitality Hub in the Region

 

KLIA, 26 April 2024 — Malaysia Aviation Group (MAG) takes a significant step forward today with the official launch of its new MAB Academy campus and the groundbreaking of its Flight Simulator Building at the South Support Zone, Sepang. This landmark event underscores MAG’s unwavering commitment to advancing aviation excellence and shaping the future of the industry through its training arm, MAB Academy.

The ceremony was marked by the groundbreaking ceremony of the MAB Academy’s state of-the-art flight simulator building, officiated by the Prime Minister of Malaysia, Dato’ Seri Anwar Ibrahim. Also in attendance were Minister of Transport, Tuan Loke Siew Fook; Group Chairman of MAG, Tan Sri Wan Zulkiflee Wan Ariffin; Group Managing Director of MAG, Datuk Captain Izham Ismail, alongside official government dignitaries, board members and the senior management of MAG.

Tan Sri Wan Zulkiflee Wan Ariffin, expressed the company’s dedication, commenting, “As an aviation group, we recognise the pivotal role skilled talents play in shaping a sustainable future for the industry. Through strategic investments in state-of-the-art facilities and comprehensive training programmes, we are dedicated to building a robust talent pipeline that serves not only our immediate needs but also contributes to the nation’s overall growth in the aviation industry. By fostering a culture of continuous learning and development, we ensure our agility in meeting the evolving demands of the aviation landscape.

We will continue to focus on initiatives that enhance customer experience and MAG’s robust growth, with the clear ambition of becoming among the top ten global airlines by 2030. This journey involves ongoing enhancements to every aspect of our product and service offering to ensure unparalleled excellence for the global communities we serve."

The new MAB Academy is situated at Malaysia Airlines’ former headquarters having relocated from its previous landmark in Kelana Jaya. Spanning 194,000 square feet, the campus prioritises a holistic educational model by integrating collaborative spaces with comprehensive training programmes. Notable new features include a Heritage walkway that brings audiences on MAG’s historic journey; an i-Learn Hub; comprehensive cabin mock-ups for in-flight services training, including a cabin fire trainer that is designed to replicate real in-flight fire emergencies complete with seating, overhead compartments and lavatories – all aimed at enhancing the scope and quality of training.

The new Flight Simulator Building promises to enhance the academy’s training capabilities significantly. Scheduled for completion in mid-2025, this facility underscores MAB Academy's commitment to providing cutting-edge training resources. This new, world-class simulation centre will feature six simulator bays, which will be equipped with advanced aircraft simulators operated by MAG airlines, including the brand-new A330neo simulator, as well as simulators for the Boeing 737-800 NG and ATR 72-500. The Flight Simulator Building will also be equipped with comprehensive facilities including a pool for safety and emergency training, as well as other service training facilities. These facilities, along with complete hospitality services, are expected to enhance the MAB Academy's status as a centre of excellence for aviation and hospitality in the region.

As an Approved Training Organisation (ATO) certified by the Civil Aviation Authority of Malaysia (CAAM), MAB Academy offers nearly 200 training courses. These range from mandatory flight training to aviation services training and programs on digital innovation, catering to a diverse clientele that includes top Malaysian corporations, international airlines, and students from prestigious global universities.

-Malaysia Airlines.