South Koreans will make it hard for Lexi to retain title

Malaysian golfers (from left) Ainil Johani Bakar, Aretha Pan, Michelle Koh, Kelly Tan, Michele Low and Jean Chua giving the thumbs-up sign after the Pro-Am tournament of the Sime Darby LPGA Malaysia at the Kuala Lumpur Golf and Country Club (KLGCC) on Wednesday. — S.S. KANESAN / The Star

KUALA LUMPUR: Surely most of you must have heard of the Wonder Girls – a South Korean pop group who took the world by storm with their hit “Nobody”.

Well, the South Koreans have another set of Wonder Girls in golf too – and they have been on a roll in the LPGA Tour of late.

And, let’s face it, these golfing Wonder Girls are not “Nobody”.

Among the more famous names local golf fans can expect to catch at the Sime Darby LPGA Malaysia, which gets under way at the Kuala Lumpur Golf and Country Club on Thursday, are world No. 7 Ryu So-yeon, Hur Mi-jung, rising star Lee Mi-rim, seven-time LPGA winner Choi Na-yeon and Amy Yang.

After being outshone by their arch-rivals United States in the first seven months, the South Koreans have bounced back strongly – dominating six of the last seven tournaments.

The Sime Darby LPGA Malaysia, which is the second stop on the six-event Asian swing – could very well turn out to be a US versus South Korea again as these two countries take their golfing “rivalry” to Kuala Lumpur.

Both these countries have accounted for 19 of the 25 wins on Tour this season. The Americans had 12 victories – with world No. 1 Stacy Lewis winning three of them – compared to seven by the South Koreans.

The 13-member strong South Korean contingent will surely be eager to wrest the LPGA Malaysia title back from Lexi Thompson, who ended their three-year stranglehold through Kang Ji-min (2010), Na-yeon (2011), Park In-bee (2012).

The Koreans will be without world No. 2 In-bee, who has given this week’s tournament a miss to prepare for her wedding.

But even without In-bee, one of the Koreans could still emerge triumphant this weekend.

After all, they have some champions in their midst. So-yeon won the Canadian Pacific Women’s Open in August, Mi-jung captured the Yokohama Tire LPGA Classic in September while Mi-rim took the Meijer LPGA Classic in August and the Reignwood LPGA Classic last Sunday.

But the player to watch out for has to be 23-year-old Tour rookie Mi-rim, who is fresh from her triumph in Beijing last Sunday.

“It’s always more important to finish on a stronger note than to start the season with victories,” said Mi-rim on the late emergence of the South Korean players.

“It’s because towards the end, everybody (the Korean players) collectively thinks the same – that we have these few events left – so we begin to play a little bit more aggressively.

“And with the Tour now on the Asian Swing ... being closer to home, everybody just feels the urgency to win the tournaments.”

Lewis, seeking her fourth victory of the season, will be among the top contenders this weekend along with world No. 3 Lydia Ko of New Zealand, world No. 4 Suzann Pettersen of Norway and world No. 9 and last year’s runner-up Feng Shanshan of China.

As for Thompson, it remains to be seen if she can hold on to her crown. She has been struggling for form since clinching her first Major at the Kraft Nabisco Championship in April and has only one top-10 finish in the last eight tournaments.

Besides In-bee, other notable absentees are world No. 4 Michelle Wie, who is still recovering from a hand injury, world No. 12 Cristie Kerr, Major winner Brittany Lincicome and former world No. 1 Tseng Yani of Taiwan.

It will be interesting to see how the six “Malaysian Angels” – Michelle Koh, Jean Chua, Kelly Tan, Aretha Pan, Ainil Johani Bakar and Michelle Low – playing under sponsors exemptions, will fare at home.

-thestar online.

Stacy tekad pamer kehebatan sebenar di LPGA Sime Darby

Foto Bernama

KUALA LUMPUR: Pemain golf wanita nombor satu dunia, Stacy Lewis berharap dapat mempamerkan kehebatan sebenarnya pada kejohanan Sime Darby LPGA Malaysia yang bermula, Khamis ini.

Pemain Amerika Syarikat berusia 29 tahun itu merampas semula ranking teratas dunia pada Jun tahun ini selepas dinobatkan juara ShopRite LPGA Classic.

"Saya akan cuba mengulanginya di sini. Ia tidak begitu menjadi beberapa minggu lalu. Saya bekerja keras sepanjang minggu ini," kata Stacy dalam sidang akhbar di venue kejohanan itu, Kuala Lumpur Golf & Country Club di Bukit Kiara, di sini hari ini.

Ahad lalu, dia berpeluang menjuarai Reignwood LPGA Classic di Beijing selepas berkongsi kedudukan teratas dengan Caroline Hedwall pada pusingan ketiga, namun nasib tidak menyebelahinya apabila hanya mampu mencatat dua atas par 75 pada pusingan akhir.

"Saya harap dapat melakukan yang terbaik di sini. Saya amat suka bermain di padang ini (East Course KLGCC) dan berharap dapat bermain dengan baik sepanjang minggu ini," kata Stacy.
- BERNAMA/BH.

MAS, Tourism Malaysia Offer Holiday Deals For Indian Travellers

NEW DELHI, Oct 8 (Bernama) -- Malaysia Airlines together with Tourism Malaysia will give away the best deals to Indian travellers visiting Malaysia in conjunction with Visit Malaysia Year 2014.

The campaign, beginning Wednesday until Oct 20, 2014, is for immediate travel until May 31, 2015 on economy class, announced Malaysia Airlines in a statement.

"Being the national carrier, Malaysia Airlines is delighted to offer unbeatable bargains in collaboration with Tourism Malaysia," said Malaysia Airlines Regional Senior Vice-President, South Asia and Middle East, Azahar Hamid.

He said Indian travellers can explore the best of Malaysia with great deals during Visit Malaysia Year 2014. "Buy now and travel at your leisure within a six month travel window," he said.

Holidaymakers can book their journey from Delhi, Mumbai, Hyderabad, Bangalore, Chennai and Kochi to various Malaysian destinations, such as visiting the beautiful resort islands of Langkawi or vibrant cities of Kuala Lumpur or Johor Baharu. Fares are inclusive of airport tax and surcharge, 30 kg check-in baggage allowance with one piece cabin baggage allowance of up to 7 kg, he said.

All inclusive fares from India to Kuala Lumpur starts at Rs13,987 (RM740) Langkawi Rs16,656 (RM882), Penang, Kuala Terengganu and Johor Rs16,342 (RM865) and Kuching and Kota Kinabalu Rs18,860 (RM999).

"With the new tailor made packages available at such attractive prices, this is the right time to experience and discover Malaysia," said Tourism Malaysia Director Manoharan Periasamy.

Customers may refer to the popular destinations and find out more via all Malaysia Airlines' distribution channels, mainly www.malaysiaairlines.com, Malaysia Airlines' call centre at +603 7843 3000, ticketing offices and appointed agents throughout India.
-bernama.

Let's go to Kuala Lumpur International Tattoo 2014

www.motac.gov.my

KUALA LUMPUR, 7 October 2014 - The Kuala Lumpur International Tattoo 2014 parade will be captivating the minds, hearts and souls of its spectators in just 4 days! Are you ready?

The Kuala Lumpur International Tattoo 2014 is one of the major events in conjunction with Visit Malaysia Year 2014 while counting down to the Malaysia Year of Festivals 2015.

Some of the world's most prominent armed forces bands will take centre stage at the heritage site of Stadium Negara Kuala Lumpur to showcase a spectacular display of music, synchronised marching, stealth drills, acrobatics and more. Imagine - 12 countries, 13 bands and almost 3000 participants and volunteers coming together in one location to make this a reality! This is an event not to be missed!

It is jointly organised by the Ministry of Tourism and Culture Malaysia and the Malaysian Armed Forces from 10 to 12 October 2014. The collaboration of the ministries is testament to Malaysia's success in implementing the National Blue Ocean Strategy to pool together the nation's resources to plan and organise events and activities. The result is synergised achievements, economies of scale and value-added benefits through integrated collaboration platforms.

The event will also be telecast live on channel RTM TV2 but nothing beats being there for the live action and adrenaline-activated atmosphere!

Never has there been a show so huge since the last Kuala Lumpur International Tattoo in 2007. The essence of true grit, spirited patriotism and the symbiosis of creative choreography comes to life this weekend as Malaysia and her foreign military counterparts foster a bond of friendship and cooperation through this musical and technical performance.

Perhaps you never knew that the well-cuffed, smartly dressed, disciplined soldier persona that most people imagine could add such amazing creative talents and repertoire to dance, strut and perform incredible stunts. Be prepared then for an evening of entertainment and inspiration from the teams hailing from Malaysia, Brunei, Indonesia, Myanmar, New Zealand, Singapore, South Africa, South Korea, Thailand, Turkey, United Arab Emirates and the United Kingdom.

When : Friday, 10 October to Sunday, 12 October 2014Where : Stadium Merdeka, Kuala Lumpur (40,000 capacity)
Time : 6 pm to 11 pm daily

Programme : Early evening - Bagpipes presentation, Royal Malaysian Air
Force gymnastics show, orchestra and local artistes
performances, Army Red Warrior stunts and Royal Malaysian
Navy stealth drills.
8.30 pm onwards - tattoo parade by armed forces bands from
12 countries
Others : Craft bazaar is held outside Stadium Merdeka.
How to go : Due to lack of parking space and possible road blockage,
visitors are encouraged to commute via public transportation.
The bus station, LRT and monorail stations are nearby, while taxi services are easily accessible.
Entry : Admission is free

-Tourism Malaysia.

Cooperation Needed From Private Sector To Spur Health Tourism - Dr Subramaniam

KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 7 (Bernama) -- Major players from the private sector, especially hospital managers, need to beef up efforts to ensure health tourism can be efficiently-driven, says Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr S. Subramaniam.

He said the health tourism industry was identified as one of the vital elements to support Malaysia's economic growth but the private sector's lack of involvement was regrettable since that sector was the one which would gain more benefits.

"Basically, when the government decided to get involved in the field of health tourism, it was seen as a component of the Economic Transformation Plan (ETP), as an important economy stimulant.

"But we could only act as the facilitator, and the industry should be driven by the private sector," he said while delivering a speech during the CEO Summit 2014, organised by the Malaysia Healthcare Travel Council (MHTC) here Tuesday.

The event was also attended by Minister in the Prime Minister's Department Datuk Seri Abdul Wahid Omar, Heath Director-General Datuk Dr Noor Hisham Abdullah and senior officers from both the government and private sectors.

Dr Subramaniam said Malaysia had every necessary element to spur the private sector, and to the extent of becoming leader in the region, including good health scheme, professional doctors and good hospitals.

However, he said, there was evidence that while private hospital managers were willing to get involved, they did not get the required cooperation from the respective doctors.

"There's clear evidence in the dialogue (CEO Summit 2014), some of the hospital managers said they wanted to be involved...(but) the individual doctors have been reluctant. "Probably, the doctors already have enough local patients keeping them busy and do not see the value of treating foreigners.

"The desire must come from them, then only we (government) can support," he said, adding that the government had already planned to relook MHTC's structure to allow a greater role from the private sector.

During the speech, Dr Subramaniam also acknowledged that between 2010 and 2013, Malaysia had recorded a double digit in terms of the number of healthcare travellers and revenue generated.

He said, in 2010 alone, data had shown that the number of healthcare travellers recorded was 393,000 people, and the figure rose to 770,000 in 2013, indicating an impressive growth of 96 per cent over three years.

"The top 10 countries for healthcare travellers last year were Indonesia, India, Japan, China, Libya, the United Kingdom, Australia, USA, Bangladesh and the Philippines. "In terms of revenue generated, we had garnered RM379 million in 2010, and this subsequently, rose by an encouraging 82 per cent within three years, with a RM690 million revenue.

"This is testament to the growing reputation of Malaysia's excellent standards in healthcare quality in this region," he said.
-bernama.

Ministry Of Tourism & Culture And Tourism Malaysia Launches ‘Penang Museum Trail’

PENANG, 30 SEPTEMBER 2014 – The Ministry of Tourism & Culture and Tourism Malaysia Penang has partnered with the Penang Tourist Guide Association (PTGA) and the Attraction of Tourism Product Penang (ATAP), to launch the ‘Penang Museum Trail’, a do-it-yourself tour of Penang’s many museums. The event was officiated by the Deputy Secretary General of the Ministry of Tourism & Culture himself, En. Rashidi Hasbullah at Fort Cornwallis early this morning.

The trail will guide tourists to 20 thematic museums around the state of Penang, guided by a free detailed map, and a special pass that can be bought to provide discounts on entry fees. It aims to educate tourists on Penang’s multitude of museums, as well as encourage tourists to include them as part of their itinerary. 

The special museum pass will be on sale for RM10, providing a 30% discount on entry fees for up to four people per pass. It is transferable with no expiry date. 

The map will provide tourists with a detailed guide to the various museums in Penang, such as the Penang Peranakan Museum, the Batik Painting Museum, the My Natural Crystal Museum, (currently the Largest Natural Crystal Museum in the country), the Toy Museum, and many others. Tourists can also look forward to upcoming museums such as the Colonial Penang Museum, the Teddy Bear Museum, and the Train Museum. 

This DIY trail is part of the government’s initiative to highlight Penang as an exciting tourist destination, and increase tourist arrivals in conjunction with Visit Malaysia Year, as well as the Malaysia Year of Festivals and Visit Penang Year campaigns which begin in 2015. 

From January to June 2014, arrivals to Penang through the two entry points, namely the Penang International Airport and the Penang Port, were 572,084 and 53,432 tourists respectively. It signified that Penang remains a top tourist destination not only in Malaysia but also in South East Asia. 
-Tourism Malaysia.

KL International Tattoo 2014 @ Stadium Merdeka Kuala Lumpur ( 10, 11 & 12 October 2014 )

October 10, 2014 - Public Performances 

October 11, 2014 - Opening Ceremony & Public Performances
October 12, 2014 - Public Performances

Location: Stadium Merdeka, Kuala Lumpur

Program Background

Kuala Lumpur International Tattoo 2014 is a major event in conjunction with the VMY 2014, enabling local and foreign tourists as well as Malaysians to see a special show featuring patriotism, spirit and agility with spectacular elements. This program has been held before in 2007.

Concept

This program consists of variety of safety forces and national defences’ team as well as international teams in one arena to highlight the greatness and uniqueness of the Tattoo by offering attractive shows with the mixture of local cultures.

Purpose of organization

• As an effort to place Malaysia in an international arena and to provide opportunities for tourists and Malaysians to gather to celebrate the Visit Malaysia Year 2014 .

• Featuring a number of creative performances of artistic, military, police, acrobatics, self-defense of the local uniformed on the Blue Ocean Strategy track.

• Bringing the uniform personnel and the defense of Malaysia closer to the people as well as providing opportunity to witness the international team in a more relaxed approach.

• Highlighting the diversity of Malaysia’s ethnic group arts and culture through the performances.

International Participants

• Brunei Darussalam
• India
• New Zealand
• Singapore
• Thailand
• Myanmar
• Indonesia
• United Kingdom
• Turkey
• South Korea
• South Africa

Local Participants

• Pasukan Wira Merah Kor Polis Tentera Di Raja
• Pancaragam Angkatan Tentera Malaysia
• Pancaragam Polis Di Raja Malaysia
• Pancaragam Tentera Laut Di Raja Malaysia
• Pancaragam Tentera Udara Di Raja Malaysia
• Kumpulan Kesenian pelbagai kaum di Malaysia

Program

• Performances of the police and military: 
- War Dances
- Bag Pipes
- Brass Band
- Marching
- Military Demo
- Artilary Performances
- Acrobatic
• Fireworks Show
• Laser, Light and Music shows
• Arts and Culture performances
• Exhibitions

-www.vmy2014.com

Malaysian Invasion Mixed Martial Arts (MIMMA) Season 2 ( 25 October 2014 )

It’s time for the peak of the biggest Amateur Tournament in Asia to rumble the grounds of Kuala Lumpur ! Tune Talk presents Malaysian Invasion Mixed Martial Arts Fighting Championship (“MIMMA FC”) is back again to crown the ultimate MIMMA fighters for 2014.  

Catch the explosive action at Stadium Negara on 25 October 2014 as the Champions from MIMMA Season 1 will battle to keep their belt against the contenders of different weight classes from MIMMA Season 2. Expect appearance of the Malaysian MMA Superstars from the likes of Peter Davis, Gianni Subba, Saiful Merican and the rest of the Tune Talk Warriors supporting the fighters.

WHO WILL BE THE CHAMPION? Get your tickets now to witness the adrenaline-pumping action and support your favourite fighters battling their honor and pride in the MIMMA cage for the Championship Belt!

Get your tickets from:

1. Online at www.AirAsiaRedtix.com
2. Victoria Music outlets:	Sg Wang(TEL: 03 - 2148 7208)
	Amcorp (TEL: 03 - 7956 0592)
	Tropicana (TEL: 03 - 7722 2955)
3. Rock Corner outlets:	The Gardens, Mid Valley (TEL: 03 - 2201 4893)
	KLCC (TEL: 03 - 2181 5560)
	Subang Parade (TEL: 03 - 5613 1139)
	The Curve (TEL: 03 - 7733 1139)
4. Artist Gallery, Penang:	Queensbay Mall
	Gurney Plaza
5. KL Live @ Life Centre	TEL: 03 - 2162 2570
6. Tune Store	Low Yat Plaza

-AirAsiaRedTix.

5.5 Million Tourists Targetted To Visit Kedah In 2016

ALOR SETAR, Oct 3 (Bernama) -- The Kedah state government is targeting to receive more than 5.5 million tourists from within and outside the country in conjunction with the Visit Kedah Year in 2016.

Kedah Tourism, Religion, Chinese, Indian, Siamese Community Affairs and Human Resources Committee chairman Datuk Mohd Rawi Abdul Hamid said Kedah received more than 3.5 million tourists last year.

"I hope in one year, throughout 2015 we will be able to make the necessary preparations to highlight Kedah as an international tourist destination, not only focusing on Langkawi but also other tourism products available on the mainland.

"We will beautify and improve our tourist attractions such as the port of Kuala Kedah and other tourist spots at Sungai Anak Bukit and Sungai Kedah," he told reporters here today.

He said the state government would also spruce up remains of the ancient civilization in Sungai Batu which is a potential historical tourist destination.

He said a meeting would be convened with the domestic tourism secretariat to discuss further details on programmes to be held throughout 2016 and the budget required.

"I am confident that with the support of the state and federal government, Visit Kedah Year 2016 will transform Kedah into a colourful and attractive destination for visitors from near and far," he said.
-bernama.

Golf Competition To Be Part Of ASIA MUSIC FESTIVAL 2014

http://asiamusicfestival.net/

MIRI - Sarawak Tourism Board, the organiser of Asia Music Festival (AMF)
together with Eastwood Valley Golf & Country Club will host the golf competition in conjunction of Asia Music Festival this coming Saturday, 4th
October.

The golf competition has become better known as one of the most anticipated event by the local and expatriate community in Miri. Therefore, the organiser of the music festival is hoping the golf competition will become an added value and will blend well with the music at the same time to promote Miri as a tourist destination.

The AMF Golf Competition will open to 100 to 120 golf players to participate in competition this Saturday and the response from Mirian golfers are very well received so far. The game format will cover the strokeplay over 18 holes of the golf course and tee-off time is expected to be at 12:30pm (Shotgun start). Game registration will begin at 11:00am at the Eastwood Golf & Country Club, Miri.

Sarawak Tourism Board together with Eastwood Valley Golf are still calling for more interested golfers to participate on the game this Saturday as some attractive prizes and goodies pack from STB are waiting. The winner of this golf competition will be announcing during the Asia Music Festival night show at the Eastwood Valley.

There are also golfing packages available and it is inclusive of green fees, 1 complimentary ticket to Asia Music Festival as well as food voucher with purchase from the AMF Food Mart Village during the music festival.

The 2nd edition of Asia Music Festival will be held this Friday, 3rd October and Saturday, 4th October at the Eastwood Valley Golf & Country Club. The inaugural event last year was a success with over 3000 people attending the 2 days event. The event organiser, STB has set the event target to become yet another iconic music festival for Sarawak after the success of Rainforest World Music Festival (RWMF) held in Kuching.

There are Malaysian and International bands lineup confirmed to participate at the music festival namely from Taiwan, India, Indonesia, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand and Malaysia. The event will also feature DJ gig this year with DJ Roundhead from Kuala Lumpur who will perform on both nights of the event.

The music festival will start at 5:00pm daily with tattoo exhibition as well as Asian food and village mart taking place at the event venue. Stage performance will begin at 7:30pm until midnight, followed by the DJ set until 2:00am.

Festival tickets now offers at pre-sale price, only RM25 for adults and RM10 for children/student (aged 3-18) at www.asiamusicfestival.net .
Tickets also on sale at Visitors Information Centre in Kuching (+6 082-423600), Miri (+6 085-434180) and Sibu (+6 084-340980). Door-sale tickets are priced at RM30 for adults and RM15 for children/students.
-Sarawak Tourism Board.

Malindo Air Aims To Make Ipoh Catalyst For Growth Of New Flights

IPOH, Oct 3 (Bernama) -- Hybrid airline, Malindo Air, aims to make Ipoh as catalyst for the growth of its new domestic and regional flights.

Chief executive officer, Chandran Rama Muthy, said Ipoh represented a potential market for growth. "The first flight from Subang to Ipoh today was nearly full and this indicated that Ipoh offered potential for growth," he said.

He said this at a ceremony to welcome the flight by Perak Menteri Besar, Datuk Seri Dr Zambry Abdul Kadir, at Sultan Azlan Shah Airport here today. Also present was state chairman of Tourism, Arts and Culture Comittee, Datuk Nolee Ashilin Mohamed Radzi.

Chandran said Malindo Air would launch its Johor Baharu-Ipoh and Ipoh-Medan (Indonesia) flights on Oct 17, 2014. "The airline will also study the possibility of Ipoh-Langkawi and Ipoh-Krabi (Thailand) flights," he said. He said the airline hoped to launch its Ipoh-Singapore flights using a Boeing.

Chandran said he agreed with Zambry's view that Malindo Air offered flights from Ipoh to Indochina and China considering that Ipoh has received encouraging requests from tourists.

Earlier, Zambry said Malindo Air's flights would help develop the state's tourism sector. "Many companies have indicated their intentions to offer air services to Ipoh," he said.

He said the federal government has agreed in principle to the state's plan to upgrade Gerik's airport with an allocation of RM15 million. "However, we are studying whether the allocation would meet the objective or to have a new area in Hulu Perak for an airport to accommodate small aircraft," he said.

Zambry said Hulu Perak district has quality tourism offerings like the Royal Belum and Unesco world heritage site in Lembah Lenggong.
-bernama.

ONE Fighting Championship @ Stadium Putra Kuala Lumpur ( 17 October 2014 )

The mixed martial arts (MMA) phenomenon that has gripped the peninsula Malaysia is set to climax in 2014 as Tune Talk presents the return of Asia’s largest MMA event, ONE Fighting Championship, to Kuala Lumpur. Get ready to witness the biggest names in Malaysian MMA in action again as they enter the famed ONE FC cage to battle for the honor and pride of the nation against international champions from around the world. Malaysian superstars and Tune Talk warriors Peter Davis, Gianni Subba, Saiful Merican and Nik Harris are set to lead the blockbuster Fight Card; and be prepared for guest appearances by Malaysia’s 1st female MMA fighter Ann Osman, Malaysian Invasion Mixed Martial Arts (MIMMA) champions and a host of Malaysian celebrities.

ONE Fighting Championship’s multi-city world tour has brought it to iconic cities around the world including Singapore, Dubai, Taipei, Manila, Jakarta and more! It’s a spectacle that thousands have experienced live and now it is Malaysia’s turn to witness the event that the entire world is talking about. Get ready to experience why the adrenaline-pumping sport of mixed martial arts is undoubtedly the fastest growing sport in the world today!

Hashtag #ONEFightNight and follow @ONEFCMMA on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram for the latest updates.

Get your tickets from: 

1. Online at www.AirAsiaRedtix.com
2. Rock Corner outlets:	The Gardens, Mid Valley (TEL: 03 - 2201 4893)
	KLCC (TEL: 03 - 2181 5560)
	Subang Parade (TEL: 03 - 5613 1139)
	The Curve (TEL: 03 - 7733 1139)
3. Victoria Music outlets:	Sg Wang(TEL: 03 - 2148 7208)
	Amcorp (TEL: 03 - 7956 0592)
	Tropicana (TEL: 03 - 7722 2955)
4. Penang outlets:	Artist Gallery, Gurney Plaza
	Artist Gallery, Queensbay Mall
5. KL Life Centre	TEL: 03 - 2162 2570
6. Tune Store	Low Yat Plaza

-AirAsiaRedTix.

Global Air Travel Demand Picks Up In August

KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 2 (Bernama) -- Global air travel passenger traffic for August showed a pick-up in demand, with total revenue passenger kilometres 5.9 per cent higher over the same period last year, said the International Air Transport Association (IATA).

IATA said load factor was high at 83.9 per cent, which was 0.3 percentage point rise over August 2013.

Its director-general/chief executive officer, Tony Tyler, said August was a good month right across the industry with all regions reported an expansion in demand for air travel. "We should, however, keep an eye on potential downside risks.

"European travel, for example, continues to show robust growth with its 6.1 per cent year-to-date expansion in demand, reflecting a solid step up from the 3.8 per cent growth recorded in 2013. "However, it remains a question how long the robust trend in passenger travel can continue in light of the continent's increasingly worrying economic outlook," Tyler said.

IATA said Asia-Pacific airlines saw their traffic increased 5.8 per cent in August over the same month last year while capacity rose seven per cent and load factor declined 0.9 percentage point to 81 per cent.

The association said the Chinese economy had been stabilising, supported by the government's fiscal stimulus and regional trade activity, which encouraged business travel and rebounded fully.

On the Ebola crisis, Tyler said, the airline industry was taking its guidance from the World Health Organisation (WHO) and public health authorities to keep flying safe for passengers and crew.

"Travellers should be reassured. WHO has clearly said that the risk of Ebola transmission on board an aircraft is low. Moreover, WHO is not advising any restrictions on travel," he said.
-bernama.

Inaugural Charter Flight Chengdu-Penang

Penang, 1 October 2014: A total of 150 Chinese tourists from Chengdu, China arrived in Penang Bayan Lepas International Airport on a charter flight at the wee hours in the morning, to begin their 7 days 5 nights’ tour in Penang and Langkawi. They will indulge in Malaysia best’s experience by visiting places of interest as well as savour’s their taste bud with Malaysian local delicacies. 

The Chengdu-Penang charter flights service, is a result from Malaysia participation in the 9th Conference on ASEAN-China People to People Friendship in Chengdu last month.  This initiative is in line with the Government’s aim to enhance medium-haul connectivity, which is among the Entry Point Projects (EPP) identified under the Tourism National Key Economic Area expected to rev up Malaysia’s tourism industry.

Tourism Malaysia supported this programme by providing support in terms of promotions in China. The charter flight operations, is jointly organised by YC Travel & Tour Sdn. Bhd., Chengdu Autumn Private Limited and China Eastern Airlines. This charter flight will operate six weekly flights with an expected capacity of 154 passengers per flight. This consortium plans to bring 39 charter flights with total capacity of 6,000 passengers from 1 October till 31 March 2015.

The Deputy Director General of Tourism Malaysia (Promotion) Y.bhg, Dato’ Haji Azizan Noordin was present during the welcome reception held at the airport to receive the first batch of arrival. Among other attendees that were presence during this reception are the Director of International Promotion, North and East Asia Division of Tourism Malaysia, En. Nor Aznan Sulaiman, State Director of Tourism Malaysia Penang, En. Harun Pilus and Group Managing Director of YC Travel & Tours Group Mr. Choong Hin Heong.

In 2013, China outbound tourists numbered 98 million, with projections it will breach the 100 million mark this year. By 2020, it is estimated that there will be over 200 million Chinese outbound travellers. China is among Malaysia’s top tourist markets, contributing 1.8 million arrivals to the country last year with total receipts of 5.5 million. 
-Tourism Malaysia.

Zulfahmi must start better in every race to improve world standing

Malaysia’s Moto3 rider, Zulfahmi Khairuddin,must improve his performance at the start of the every race if he hopes to secure better results and in the process improve his overall standings in the Moto3 World Championship.

Zulfahmi, who rides for the Ongetta-Airasia Team, concluded this after the Aragon Grand Prix where he recovered from a poor start to finish just in the points. “I did not start well in the race. I did not have the confidence with my bike early in the race and on the wet track,” said the 23-year-old Zulfahmi. “But towards the end, I discovered my rhythm and managed to pass many riders.”

After a difficult race in treacherous conditions, which resulted in several crashes, Zulfahmi managed to cross the line in 15th position. It was the seventh time this season he finished in the points. He is currently in 20th position with a total of 17 points.

Another Malaysian rider competing in Moto3 in Aragon was AmirulHafiqAzmi from Team SIC-Ajo. The rider managed to overcome the severe conditions to complete the race in 19th position. It was a good finish considering the conditions and the fact that he started in 28th place on the grid.

Among the casualties in Sunday’s race were MotoGP championship leader Marc Marquez, Dani Pedrosa and Valentino Rossi. Marquez and Pedrosa remounted to finish 13th and 14th respectively while Rossi had to undergo a scan after being knocked unconscious by the heavy crash. 

Although he was in the points, Zulfahmi was far from happy. “I feel 15thwas not very good but I hope to improve in the next race (in Japan on Oct 12) especially at the start of the race where I am a weaker compared to the other riders,” explained Zulfahmi, whose best performances this season were fifth positions in France and Italy.

Zulfahmi went on to say that his bike was in good condition and thanked his team and everyone involved in with the team for their support. 

The Malaysian riders have two more races in Japan and Australia to prepare for the Shell Advance Malaysian Motorcycle Grand Prix from Oct 24-26. Zulfahmiand Amirulwill be among six Malaysian riders, including two wild cards, who will be in action in Sepang. 

Besides Zulfahmi and Amirul, the other Malaysian riders are HafizhSyahrin Abdullah (Team PetronasRaceline Malaysia), Azlan Shah Kamaruzaman (Idemitsu Honda Team Asia) and the two wild card entries,HafizaRofa (Team SIC-Ajo) and RamdanRosli (Petronas AHM Malaysia).
-www.sepangcircuit.com

Best Western to manage hotel, convention centre in Kota Kinabalu

Best Western International has inked a management contract with Sabanilam Enterprise for a new upscale hotel and convention centre in Malaysia, expected to open in 2016.

The brand new Best Western Plus hotel and conference facility is part of the ITCC Penampang complex – a 10.5ha mixed-use development that is taking shape in Kota Kinabalu, the capital of Malaysia’s Sabah state.

The new hotel will include 330 guestrooms, ranging from 27m² to 49m², all including modern amenities such as flatscreen TVs and complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi. Other facilities for both business and leisure travellers will include restaurants, a swimming pool, fitness centre, business centre and meeting rooms.

Best Western will also manage the new convention centre connected to the hotel. It will feature a large ballroom capable of housing 170 tables for local and regional conferences, corporate events, product launches and weddings. 

Both the hotel and convention centre will be directly connected to ITCC’s four-storey retail podium and Grade A office tower and residence.

“ITCC Penampang will be a significant addition to Kota Kinabalu’s landscape and economy, and I am delighted that Best Western International has the opportunity to be part of this exciting project,” commented Glenn de Souza, Best Western International’s vice president of international operations for Asia & the Middle East.

“Malaysia is one of Best Western International’s key growth markets. We see strong potential across the country, and with the onset of the ASEAN Economic Community in 2015, Kota Kinabalu is expected to become an increasingly significant regional centre for trade and tourism,” he added.

In the coming years, the hotel group expects to open at least 10 new hotels across the country, adding almost 2,000 guestrooms and suites.

-TTG Asia.

Corporate Travel Bazaar Penang Attracts Business Tourists In The Northern Region

 PENANG, 1 October 2014 – Tourism Malaysia is targeting RM2.5 million in sales revenue of domestic packages at its sixth edition of Corporate Travel Bazaar (CTB) which will be held at Eastin Hotel in Penang on 16 October 2014.

The CTB is organised to promote MICE packages to the domestic corporate market. Among the packages offered to visitors include travel incentive packages, corporate family day programmes, team building programmes, business tourism packages, and many others. 

“Due to the positive response of previous editions, Tourism Malaysia has decided to organise this programme twice a year and Penang would be our second venue this year following a fruitful fifth edition held in Johor Bahru last August,” said Deputy Director General of Tourism Malaysia Dato’ Haji Azizan Noordin. He added that the fourth edition of the CTB in 2013 managed to attract as many as 73 sellers and 380 buyers with a total sale value of RM2,280,788.

Dato’ Haji Azizan hoped that the CTB would help create awareness on the flourishing business tourism in Malaysia among the corporate and public sectors in the northern region. “We would like to attract the local business community to host their corporate events such as meetings, seminars, conventions, retreats, and incentive trips within Malaysia,” he added.

He said that the CTB programme was in line with Tourism Malaysia’s mission to emphasise the importance of the MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conventions and Exhibitions) sector, as well as stimulate the growth of domestic tourism among the local business community. 

“The MICE packages developed by the participants offer complete venue facilities, excellent quality of service, as well as strategic locations which are close to various tourist attractions,” he said, adding that he hoped the CTB would increase domestic travels among the various government agencies as well as corporations in Malaysia.

The one-day programme will involve business-to-business (B2B) dealings between sellers and buyers from the corporate sectors in the northern region.

The targeted participants of this programme are the industry players from all over the country, such as travel agencies, hotel and resort owners, transportation providers and tour operators. 

Tourism Malaysia is aiming for the participation of 70 tourism operators and 500 buyers for the coming CTB in Penang.

Previous Corporate Travel Bazaar programmes were held at Puteri Pacific Hotel, Johor Bahru in Johor in August 2014, Eastin Hotel, Pulau Pinang in 2013, Grand Bluewave Hotel, Shah Alam in 2012, Empire Hotel, Subang in 2011, and Hilton Hotel, Petaling Jaya in 2009. 

-Tourism Malaysia.