Malaysia Promotes Motocycle Holiday Tours At Phuket Bike Week 2015

photo: PelanconganKini

PUTRAJAYA, 10 April 2015: Tourism Malaysia’s promotion of motorcycle holiday tours of Malaysia continues with its participation in Asia’s biggest motorcycle show, Phuket Bike Week 2015 from 11 to 19 April 2015.

With some 10,000 motorcycle enthusiasts from all over the world expected to attend the show, Phuket Bike Week is the perfect platform for Tourism Malaysia to launch the motorcycle tour packages it developed in partnership with Asia Racing Development Sdn Bhd and Sepang International Circuit.

“We’re very happy to take part in Phuket Bike Week this year and introduce the exciting motorcycle holiday tours we’ve developed with Asia Racing Development Sdn Bhd. The show will be the perfect opportunity for us to meet with motorcycle associations, travel agents and media and promote Malaysia as a great place for motorcycle holidays. We not only have well-connected highways, but also scenic countryside, historic places, lots of delicious food and beautiful culture for everyone to enjoy,” said Dato’ Haji Azizan Noordin today at the flag off of the 25-member Malaysian convoy consisting of motorcycle club members, local travel agents and media, who are traveling on high-powered motorcycles to promote Malaysia at Phuket Bike Week.

The motorcycle holiday tour packages, sold from as low as RM1,200, provide options to travel by motorcycle to popular Malaysian destinations such as Kuala Lumpur, Genting Highlands, Melaka, Cameron Highlands and Penang. Each three-day and four-night package covers a distance of between 450 km and 800 km, offering the experience of riding along Malaysia’s well-maintained highways and scenic countryside with stops at many charming tourist spots. The package also includes tickets to watch the Shell Malaysia Motorcycle Grand Prix (MotoGP) 2015 in October.

“The Shell Malaysia Motorcycle Grand Prix (MotoGP) in Malaysia is a top-notch racing event of international standard and is a perfect complement to the motorcycle holiday tours we are promoting. We’re glad to be able to work with Sepang International Circuit to promote motor sports as a must-see tourist attraction in Malaysia,” said Dato’ Haji Azizan.

Fast facts:

In 2014, a total of 6,649 MotoGP packages worth RM9 million were sold compared to 1,000 packages worth RM1.5 million sold in 2013.

MotoGP visitors attracted 130,925 visitors in 2014, an increase of 3.2% compared with 126,917 visitors in 2013.

A total of 20,607 international visitors attended the MotoGP in 2014 with the top six countries being Indonesia (8,564 visitors), Spain (4,201), Australia (2,242), Singapore (1,344), United Kingdom (938) and Thailand (692).
-Tourism Malaysia.

KLIA Wins Best Duty-Free Shopping Destination Award

NEW DELHI, April 9 (Bernama) -- The Malaysian tourism industry received a boost among travellers from the Indian sub-continent when KL International Airport (KLIA) was adjudged the 'Best Duty-Free Shopping Destination' in a readers' poll conducted by Travel + Leisure, India's leading luxury and travel magazine.

Malaysia also shared the 'Best Food Destination' award with Hong Kong, at a glittering presentation ceremony held at a leading hotel in Gurgaon near here.

Dubai won the 'Best City' award and Singapore, the 'Best Airport' and 'Best Airline' awards. The poll was conducted in the magazine and online over a period of five months in 2014.

The awards were received on behalf of Malaysia by Tourism Malaysia director (Mumbai) Manoharan Periasamy.

Manoharan said that last year, another leading magazine, 'Lonely Planet', adjudged Malaysia as the 'Best Family Destination'. "We at Tourism Malaysia are very happy and honoured that our country is getting more recognition among travellers from this part of the world," said Manoharan after the awards ceremony.

For the record, a CNN Travel poll in 2013 also recognised Malaysia as a shopping destination.

Manoharan said travel agencies and others in the travel industry generally viewed Malaysia as a great destination, especially for those keen on fine international cuisine and street food experience.

Last year, Malaysia recorded an 18 per cent growth, to 770,000, in tourist arrivals from India. The visitors spent about USD700 million (about RM2.54 billion).

Manoharan quoted Tourism Malaysia statistics to show that Indians stayed an average of 6.6 days in Malaysia and spent about RM2,900 each. "The first three months of this year showed some good growth and we are targeting 800,000 tourist arrivals from here (India)," he said.
-bernama.

Experience Malaysia May

It’s the beginning of summer in many parts of the world, but Malaysia is blessed with eternal summer all year long, perfect for all sorts of outdoor activities. We are taking advantage of the great weather to showcase beautiful orchids, lilies, and other flowers at the flower festivals in Putrajaya and Penang. 

Meanwhile, learn about our traditional cultures during the celebrations of World Harvest Festival, Sabah Fest and Tadau Kaamatan. Theatre, music and kite-flying are also happening in May. Take advantage of the long Labour Day weekend in the first week of May to savour the sights and sounds of Malaysia. Happy Labour Day!

Director of Communications & Publicity
Tourism Malaysia

ROYAL Floria 2015, PUTRAJAYA

The 8th Royal FLORIA Putrajaya Flower and Garden Festival, 2015 will feature the spring and winter gardens as its new and major attraction with an exhibition of lilies totalling 150 species in specially designed gardens and exhibits.  It was formerly known as Putrajaya Flower and Garden Festival (Floria) before it received the royal status last year, becoming Royal Floria Putrajaya. Come join us and don’t miss out on one of the biggest flower festivals in Malaysia.

Date: 30 May to 7 June
Venue: Anjung Floria, in Precinct 4, Putrajaya.
Organiser: Putrajaya Corporation
Contact: +603 888 7713
Website: www.floriaputrajaya.com.my or www.facebook.com/putrajayafloria

Melaka International River Festival 2015

Melaka’s diverse culture and ethnic heritage comes alive at the Melaka International River Festival 2015. Watch decorated floats, colourful Melaka trishaws, musicians and other exciting performances take to the streets and rivers of Melaka. Amongst the competitions that will be held during the event are Remote Control Power Boat, Dragon Boat Competition, Sungai Melaka International Marathon, Ratu Kebaya Beauty Pageant and Cultural Performances from the various Ethnic Groups.

Date: 30 May to 14 June
Venue: Dataran Sungai Melaka & Taman Rempah, along the Malacca River
Organiser: Rivers and Coastal Development Corporation Melaka
Contact: +606 281 4323 / +606 281 4322
Website: www.ppspm.gov.my

Penang Anime Matsuri Summer Party 2015

For the first time ever in sunny Penang Island, from the producer of Anime Festival Asia, comes the first ever outdoor Anisong party, the summer party of Anime Matsuri! Happening in the heart of Penang’s heritage area, George Town, expect an exciting 2-day event with power-packed activities such as Akihabara X town, Creators Market, Cosplay Celebrities, Japan Food, Outdoor Anisong concert & party and a good chance to showcase your best yukata (kimono)!

Date: 23 to 24 May
Venue: Esplanade, George Town Penang
Organiser: SOZO
Contact: +604 264 3456
Website: www.pamsummer.asia / www.penangglobaltourism.com

LEGO Friends Musical Performance in Asia

Celebrate the magic of friendship at LEGOLAND Malaysia Resort with the power of music and catch the LEGO Friends LIVE at the newly refurbished and fully air-conditioned LEGO City Stage.  Join Olivia, Emma, Stephanie, Mia and Andrea in their first musical performance in Asia! Bring your kids to dance and sing along as the girls showcase their famed musical talents and perform original LEGO Friends songs.

Date: 14 March to 12 June
Venue: LEGO City Stage, LEGOLAND Malaysia Resort
Organiser: Malaysia Resort, Merlin Entertainments Group
Contact: +607 597 8819
Website: www.legoland.com.my                                   

Sabah Fest 2015

Come and join one of Sabah’s biggest and most vividly decorated cultural parades that incorporate dance, music, fashion, food and more. The Sabah Fest 2015 presents a wonderful blend of cultural and natural heritage that is richly embedded in folklore prelude to the state-wide Harvest Festival celebration. This superbly entertaining cultural extravaganza is where visitors can expect a slice of the most decadently stuffed cultural activities, shows and delicacies. Whether you are an explorer with a taste for culture or just a tourist looking for new experiences, this 2015 Sabah Fest is the perfect destination for you!

Date: 1 to 3 May
Venue: National Department of Culture and Art, Auditorium
Organiser: Sabah Tourism Board (Sri Pelancongan Sabah)
Contact: +6088 211 732 / +6088 248 698
Website: www.sabahtourism.com

Tadau Ka’amatan, Harvest Festival

The Ka’amatan is an age-old ceremony celebrated in order to appease the rice spirits in the northern district of Kota Marudu and it marks the launching of Sabah’s month-long Kaamatan or Harvest Festival celebrations. It acts as a Thanksgiving Day for a bountiful harvest by the locals there with various cultural and traditional sports events such as slingshot competition, arm wrestling, and stilt-walking games. The crowning of the Harvest Queen would mark the close of this prosperous celebration. Visitors are welcome for a taste of this traditional festival as well as to enjoy and participate in the various competitions and activities. It’s a great opportunity for visitors to experience the hospitality and celebrations of the Sabahans.

Date: 30 to 31 May
Venue: Penampang, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah
Organiser: Kadazan Dusun Cultural Association (KDCA)
Contact: +6088 317 696 / +6088 715 924
Website: www.sabah.com 

MUD: Our Story of Kuala Lumpur

This vibrant cultural musical show centres around three Malaysian friends hoping to make their niches in the frontier town of Kuala Lumpur during the 1880’s mining boom.  This charming little play was put together by a string of talented actors, with the hopes of celebrating the people of Kuala Lumpur and all of its charms.  Whether you are a historian interested in the story of how Kuala Lumpur gained its name and how it came to be; or just here to support a Malaysian production, these enthusiastic ensembles of actors will always be ready on stage for your viewership twice a day, 7 days a week!

Running Time: Daily shows at 3pm and 8:30pm
Venue: Panggung Bandaraya, Jalan Raja at Dataran Merdeka
Organiser: MUDKL
Contact: +603 2602 3335
Website: mudkl.com

World Harvest Festival 2015

The World Harvest Festival is an ethnic festival that is one of the highlights of the Gawai Dayak celebration and provides an opportunity for visitors with an appetite for culture to learn the cultures, traditions and aspirations of the Dayak community. The main highlight of the World Harvest Festival is the theme play which had received rave reviews from the media in the past. Visitors can also sample traditional food that will surely tickle your taste buds as well as participate in a series of workshops by local cultural troupes. The popular ethnic beauty pageant lends colour and vibrancy to the event as it is one of the most highly-anticipated portion of the festival. Join us at this culturally-packed event at the 2015 World Harvest Festival.

Date: 1 to 3 May
Venue:  Sarawak Cultural Village, Damai
Organiser: Sarawak Cultural Village Association
Contact: +6082 846 411
Website: www.scv.com.my

Penang International Dragon Boat Festival

The dragon boat was traditionally made in the Pearl River Delta region of China's southern Guangdong Province. It is one of a family of traditional paddled long boats found throughout Asia. Races were then held as part of the annual Duanwu Festival or Duen Ng observance in China. This ancient game is then brought to Penang in the late 90’s and there is now an annual Dragon Boat Race along the coast of the Telok Bahang Beach, in summery Penang. Witness the colourful and culturally designed dragon boats cruising along the Penang coasts. Whether you are an avid water sports lover or just looking to catch a glimpse of the colourful designs of the dragon boats,   we invite you to be a part of this legendary festival and don’t miss out on the opportunity to take captivating pictures of the event.  

Date: 30 to 31 May
Venue: Teluk Bahang Dam, Penang
Organiser: Penang International Dragon Boat Festival Committee
Contact: +604 226 4404
Website: www.penangdragonboat.gov.my

Penang Floral Festival

Flower enthusiasts should make a beeline for the Penang Floral Festival where 800 different types of orchids of various species and hybrids will be on display at Penang Botanic Gardens. Workshops, contests, exhibitions and classes on floral related topics will be held at this event along with the sale of plants and gardening equipment.  A competition for Bonsai, Orchid plants and potted plants will also be held prior to the festival and the winning entries will be placed at the venue as part of the exhibition. What a great excuse to put on your summer dress and sun hat and to come have a walk through our beautiful botanical garden for a date with nature!

Date: 30 May to 7 June
Venue: Penang Botanical Garden Grounds
Organiser: The Friends of the Penang Botanic Gardens Society (FRIENDS)
Contact: +604 226 4404
Website: botanicalgardens.penang.gov.my    

Kuala Lumpur Big Kitchen Festival 2015

The sights and smells of the Kuala Lumpur culinary scene will fill the atmosphere of Merdeka Square on the 29th of May to satiate the hunger of food lovers everywhere. The three-day festival is filled with music performances, a culinary workshop section and fun activities designed especially for food-loving individuals! A wide variety of food trucks and stalls will line Merdeka Square, serving up all kinds of local, fusion and even gourmet selections. Enjoy all kinds of street food, fine dining, food trucks, desserts and even a special Big Kitchen pantry filled with local products and herbs & spices. Visitors will have plenty to sample from as they walk the lanes of the festival. The KL Big Kitchen Festival is truly a foodie’s must-go-to event.

Date: 29 to 31 May
Venue: Merdeka Square, Kuala Lumpur
Organiser: Kuala Lumpur City Hall Tourism Unit
Contact: +603-2698 0332  
Website: www.visitkl.gov.my

Borneo Jazz Festival

With the on-going effort to promote jazz music, the inaugural Borneo Jazz Festival is back for its 10th anniversary in Sarawak.  The two-day exciting festival of Jazz music will be celebrated by the best performers’ line-up promising the festival to be a hit celebratory note by bringing back favourite performers from the past years from different countries to celebrate a decade of Jazz by the sea. The performing bands will cover a wide range of jazz genre from all over the world. From the local scene, “All The Best”, a five-piece ensemble with Miri-born Syafiee Obe Hairunie, who is also the conductor of the Kuching SONS Jazz Orchestra to lead the local challenge. It parades contemporary jazz with a twist of Malaysian flavour with added Latin rhythms. Jazz lovers are guaranteed a night of soul filling, ear licking, head swaying, music.  Come party with us old-school style at the 2015 Borneo Jazz Festival.

Date: 8 to 9 May
Venue: Park City Everly Hotel, Miri
Organiser: Sarawak Tourism Board
Contact: +6082-423 600
Website: www.jazzborneo.com

The National Wau Festival of Kelantan 2015

Join us at one of the biggest kite-flying events in Peninsular Malaysia that celebrates the beauty of Malaysian kites, one of which is wau bulan. Literally translated as “moon-kite”, it is an intricately designed Malaysian kite (normally with floral motifs) traditionally flown by men in the Malaysian state of Kelantan. This year’s Kite Festival brings all the brave, chest banging kite-flying champions out there to compete in The Best Wau Take-Off, Best Wau Flying Competition, Rokkaku Competition, and The National Kite-Flying Performance which is known as one of the best kite flying shows in Asia. Get a taste of Kelantan culture as you participate in the many kite-making workshops, competitions, expos and many more!

Date: 27 to 30 May
Venue: Pantai Genting Tumpat, Kelantan
Organiser: Kelantan Tourist Information Centre
Contact: +609 748 5534/ +609 784 3543
Website: tic.kelantan.gov.my                                                     

All information is correct at time of publication. Visitors are advised to contact the event organiser for the latest updates, or Tourism Malaysia, Tourist Information Centres (TIC), or nearby Tourism Malaysia Offices.

-Tourism Malaysia.

Winds of Melaka @ Bahtera Merdeka

Date: Every Thursday to Sunday
Time: 7.30 pm & 9 pm
Venue: Melaka Alive

Ticket: MyKad holder RM 35 (A) RM 20 (C)
Ticket: Non Mykad holder RM 45 (A) RM 28 (C)
http://www.ticketcharge.com.my/en/current-events/winds-of-melaka-bahtera-merdeka

Melaka Alive
Boasting a new concept in historical rich Melaka, Neuvo Attraction & Destination Sdn Bhd aims to combine elements of theatre and history against a sophisticated technology laden background to transport visitors back into the Golden Ages via Melaka Alive.

With the aim to position Melaka Alive as the lead attraction for cultural tourism in Malaysia, it is hoped that visitors from all over the country and worldwide will aspire to immerse themselves in the experience and come to appreciate the complex diversity and colours of Malaysia through it’s intricate history.

Bringing to life 6 centuries of history, Melaka alive is a ticketed experience among the existing heritage buildings and museums in Melaka. Attractions include special effects theatres and historical shows as well as Malaysian arts and crafts.

Winds of Melaka Show
Set on board a ship inspired stage, this extravaganza tale of Panglima Awang is brought to life in a play combines spectacular visuals, effects, music and live acting to tell the story of Melaka’s rich and diverse history, from the establishment of the city by its founder Parameswara to its fall at the hands of the Portuguese. Amongst other things, the performance highlights the legend of the Mouse Deer and the Dogs, the arrival of Admiral Cheng Ho’s fleet and the coming of de Sequiera and de Albuquerque to the shores of the kingdom.

Colours of Melaka
The attractions are to be framed by a night festival outside serving as a marketplace fashioned after the grounds of the 15th century Sultan’s Palace. The site will function as a central hub with retail, food and beverages served from traditional Malay ox carts with theatrical performances in the background adding to the atmosphere bringing to life moments from history.

-www.ticketcharge.com.my

DRIVE M7 SIC Racing Team Ready To Raise Their Game In Austin

Austin, Texas – Tuesday 7th April

Circuit: Circuit of The Americas
Circuit Length: 5.5 km

Round two sees the Championship travel to the United States of America for its second overseas Grand Prix of the year. After a difficult season opener in Qatar, the DRIVE M7 SIC Racing Team are looking forward to getting back on track this weekend and showing their true potential at the Circuit of The Americas.

Eager for a good result, riders Zulfahmi Khairuddin and Jakub Kornfeil are feeling energised and confident and ready to build on their progress made with the set-up of their KTM Moto3 machines.

Situated in Austin, Texas, COTA, as it is most commonly known, was the first circuit in the United States to be purpose-built for Formula One.
With a counter-clockwise driving direction, the track encompasses twenty varying turns and a unique elevation change of forty one metres.

#63 Zulfahmi Khairuddin“Qatar was a difficult race for the team but from this we learned a lot. One of the most important things for me to focus on now is my riding style. On race day in Qatar we found quite a good setting and I felt a lot more confident, so I think the set-up we have now is good. I hope that this will also work well in Austin and then it is up to me to work very hard. I have to ride the bike 100% before we look at changing anything.

I think the track in Austin will be better than Qatar, because in Qatar we struggled in the fast corners, but in Austin there aren’t as many fast corners, so I believe this will be a better track for the KTM.

Austin is the most difficult circuit on the MotoGP calendar. In total it has twenty turns and a lot of blind corners. It also has many direction changes and a long straight. It’s a very challenging track but when I get on the bike I enjoy the layout a lot.

My aim is to be competitive from Free Practice One and the most important thing is to qualify in a good position, then I can push for a good result.”

#84 Jakub Kornfeil 
“In Qatar we had a very hard weekend but in the end we were able to find the best set up. I think now we are a lot more prepared for this next GP and in Texas we will be working very hard to make sure we are strong from the start.
I’m not too sure how the KTM will perform at The Circuit of The Americas. Last year the KTM’s were quite strong, so I hope that this track will suit us, but this is a new bike, so you never know completely.

To be honest it’s not one of my favourite tracks to ride. The place itself is very special and I like to go there, but to be fast around this circuit is difficult for me. The track is so wide and there are slow sectors and then very fast also. On this track you can find everything, including a very steep hill before the first corner.

My aim for Austin is to try to push very hard from the first practice and then we will see where we are. I will also have my birthday in America, so it would be nice to get a good result as a present!”

Johan Stigefelt – Team Manager
“In Austin we need to start much better than what we did in Qatar. We had some issues that we didn’t expect at the last race but this should hopefully be resolved now. Free Practice One will be very important for us and from there we have to build on and focus on doing well in Qualifying.
It will be interesting to see how the KTM will perform in Austin as well, we have seen that the engine is strong and this will be an important factor on the long back straight.

Austin is a very technical circuit with a lot of first gear corners. In the past Jakub has done well there and Fahmi likes it as well. From this moment on we must show our true potential; we are a well organised and well prepared team with great support from Sepang International Circuit, DRIVE, Tourism and all our other partners. We will not accept a result like Qatar. We must push more as a team and the riders must show their experience and willingness to do well.”

-SIC Racing Team facebook.

PelanconganKini supported Drive M7 SIC Racing Team.

KLIA2 to get more walkalators and first aid kits

Building 16 more walkalators and having first aid kits in every public toilet at KLIA2 are among the measures to be taken by Malaysia Airports Holdings Berhad (MAHB) to cater to senior citizens and the disabled, said Deputy Transport Minister Datuk Abdul Aziz Kaprawi.

The walkalators would be built at the cost of RM38mil while plans to have the kits were ongoing, he told Datuk Noor Ehsanuddin Mohd Harun Narrashid (BN-Kota Tinggi).

Abdul Aziz said there were also facilities for heart patients, including 15 defibrillators, on standby.

To Teresa Kok (DAP-Seputeh) who claimed that it took 45 minutes for her elderly parents to get to the departure gate, he said buggies were available round the clock but only with prior notification.

Other infrastructure included 80 aerobridges at 68 departure gates, toilets and elevators for the disabled, and a special lane for senior citizens and the disabled.

KLIA2, said Abdul Aziz, would also be undergoing renovation and relocating some shops to widen the corridors.

Later, Deputy Education Minister P. Kamalanathan told V. Sivakumar (DAP-Batu Gajah) that RM20.54mil had been set aside and channelled via the Poor Students Trust Fund to help 89,670 students.

To allegations of embezzlement from the fund, Kamalanathan said the ministry had never failed to send its accounts for audit.

“If there are any complaints, forward it to me and we will investigate,” he said.

In a written reply to Sivakumar, International Trade and Industry Minister Datuk Seri Mustapa Mohamed said the features of Proton cars were on par with those of other renowned manufacturers, such as BMW, Volvo, Toyota and Honda.

“Proton has a few international recognitions. It features Lotus ride and handling which enhance the vehicles’ performance while ensuring a satisfactory quality,” he said, adding that the latest models were also equipped with aspects like anti-lock braking system, brake assist, traction control, electronic stability control as well as airbags and seatbeats for children.

-thestar online.

Kuching Ready To Host 2015 AIFFA

www.ticketcharge.com.my

KUCHING, April 6 (Bernama) - Kuching is all set for the 2015 Asean International Film Festival and Awards (AIFFA) scheduled here from April 9 to 11.

Sarawak Ministry of Tourism's Permanent Secretary Datuk Ik Pahon said the festival will be a very exciting event since it will bring together 287 movie celebrities from 10 Asean countries and also from Korea and China.

"This year's festival will go beyond Kuching city as it will include the unique movie screenings in the rainforest (a 12-hour film marathon in the acclaimed Sarawak Culture Village (SCV)," he told reporters after chairing an AIFFA meeting, here today.

The director of the festival, Livan Tajang said the festival would showcase celebrities, film screenings and business networking, amidst the presence of major media organizations.

Livan said Hollywood stars Datuk Jackie Chan of Hong Kong and Malaysia's very own Tan Sri Michelle Yeoh would be among celebrities attending the gala night and awards presentation on April 11 at the Borneo Convention Centre Kuching (BCCK).

She said Malaysia will be the biggest delegation with 50 people, led by film maker and actor Datuk Yusof Haslam while Indonesia will be sending a strong delegation of 30, including their popular singer Emelia Contessa.

On the movie marathon, Livan said several competing films from the Asean countries including Indonesia's popular film "Sukarno" will be screened at SCV on April 10.

She said tickets for the movie marathon are now on sale at RM30 each and can be purchased at the AIFFA secretariat situated in the Sarawak Tourism Complex and at SVC.

Meanwhile Tickets for the gala night are priced at RM500 each for the main hall and RM50 each for those watching from the BCCK foyer.

Livan said among the artistes performing at the gala dinner are Malaysian Dayang Norfaizah, Anuar Zain, Faizura, Dewi Liana Seriestha, Indonesian Emilia Contessa, Philippines singer Pialo Pascual, Tata Young and K-Pop group from Korea.

"During the gala night Michelle Yeoh, winner of the award in 2013, will present the Lifetime Achievement Award to an Asean film personality who has broken the international barrier," she said.
-bernama.

Malaysian Easter Games Gets 'QPR' Treat

LONDON, April 5 (Bernama) -- The annual Malaysian Easter Games held since 2011 was a whole different affair this year when it was held at the Queens Park Rangers Academy here, the English Premier League outfit owned by Air Asia Chief Executive Officer Tan Sri Tony Fernandes.

The academy at Heston Sports Ground also houses sporting facilities for Imperial College London and is situated near London Heathrow International Airport boosting five football and two rugby pitches, tennis and netball courts, cricket facilities, tennis courts, bowling green, gyms and a shooting range.

The Games saw participating Malaysian teams from the United Kingdom, France and Germany plus teams from other ASEAN countries such as Laos and Indonesia competing in football, netball, badminton and rugby.

"This is indeed a good platform for students to meet new friends in a competitive environment.

"This year's Easter Games is extra special as we are joined by our brothers from ASEAN. We hope more teams from other ASEAN countries would join us next year," Malaysian High Commissioner to the United Kingdom Dato Ahmad Rasidi Hazizi said during the opening ceremony.

Meanwhile, the head of the organising committee, Meor Muhd Arief Muzaffar Meor Azli said such a platform encouraged sportsmanship and bring the spirit of togetherness among Malaysians overseas.

"We hope to do even better next year by inviting Malaysian students from other European countries and student councils from other ASEAN countries here," said Arief, who is also chairman of Kelab UMNO London.

Ashween Shaun from Animals FC, a finance student from University of Sussex said this year's venue was an excellent choice and would help players to develop their game.

"I am really impressed with the organisation of Easter Games this year especially getting this ground and facilities. As an avid footballer, the field was decent enough to play some quality football," said Ashween, who had a short stint with Harimau Muda B and attended several trials with Birmingham City, Torquay North End, Bristol Rovers and Preston North End when he was 19.

The games was co-sponsored by several Malaysian restaurants and travel agencies in London, and supported by the FitMalaysia programme under Ministry of Youth and Sports, Tourism Malaysia and Sabah state government.

Also present was Laos Ambassador to United Kingdom Sayakane Sisouvong.
-bernama.

Tour and travel agencies unable to do business over the last three days

KUALA LUMPUR: The tour and travel industry is upset with the implementation of the GST because they say they are getting contradictory comments from the Customs Departments and some issues they had raised are still pending until now.

Malaysian Association of Tour and Travel Agents (MATTA) president Hamzah Rahmat said the travel industry was unique and complex with different components and many parties involved.

“Don’t get me wrong. We are in favour of the GST but right now we are getting contradictory comments from the airlines, from our suppliers so everyone is at a loss. The Customs Department tells the airlines one thing and the travel industry something else,” he said, adding that his phone was ringing non-stop as travel agencies seek answers and clarity but there are none to give.

He said this was badly affecting the travel industry with most agencies unable to do business over the last three days because they were busy looking into the GST problems.

He said amid the confusion, one foreign airline had started charging the 6% GST for international flights which are not liable for GST.

Only domestic flights are liable for the GST but it is levied on the airport tax charged for the passenger.

He said the Customs Department should implement the GST sectorally so that they can properly understand the issues and complexities of each industry adding that MATTA’a last engagement with the Customs Department was two weeks ago where they received some answers.

“But they couldn’t answer all our questions because they have to study the whole things all over again because it is not straightforward when it comes to the documentation aspect, so none of the software is 100% GST compliant for the industry because of the updates.

“The Government should have given us leeway of three months. If the Customs doesn’t listen to the industry, they’ll get ‘rubbish reporting’ at the end of the day,” he said.

Japan Airlines accounts supervisor Adrian Cho had gone several times to the GST headquarters for answers on some peculiarities.

He said the airlines needed to collect GST for the airport tax on behalf of Malaysia Airports Bhd “but we are collecting it on behalf of somebody and it is not our revenue. Do we have to report it?”

“The airline industry is quite unique and there are a lot of grey areas including pre-paid tickets bought before April,” he said.

“We are selling tickets everyday. What if we’re not charging the customer correctly? Will we be fined?” he asked, saying Customs should have implemented the GST sector by sector so that problems could be sorted out promptly.

-thestar online.

World Harvest Festival 2015 (WHF 2015) @ Sarawak Cultural Village ( 1 - 3 May 2015 )

World Harvest Festival is one of the highlights of Sarawak's GAWAI (harvest) DAYAK celebrations.

This year's World Harvest Festival will be in Sarawak Cultural Village, Sarawak's iconic living museum, on 1-3 May 2015. It promises to be a fun-filled festival with cultural shows, dance workshops, Sarawak crafts, Iron Man competition, Sarawak Ethnic Kitchen cooking competition and Miss Cultural Harvest Festival. WHF 2015 will also light up the village and bring alive local folklores with its theme play, KUMANG, an Iban maiden.

What awaits you is a cultural extravaganza like no other. Come and experience it!

Get your tickets from:

1. Online at www.AirAsiaRedtix.com

-AirAsia RedTix.

1Malaysia GP Sale 2015 - Last 2 days

-Tourism Malaysia.

Four Hours 15 Minutes To Get To KL From Padang Besar - KTMB Chairman

ALOR SETAR, April 2 (Bernama) -- People in Kedah and Perlis have every reason to be happy because come September, it will only take them four hours 15 minutes to reach Kuala Lumpur using the electric train service (ETS).

Keretapi Tanah Melayu Berhad (KTM Berhad) chairman Datuk Nawawi Ahmad in confirming the matter to Bernama said the ETS will make use of the Padang Besar-Kuala Lumpur electrified double track.

Although the ETS will officially begin in September, Nawawi, who is also Langkawi Member of Parliament, said he hoped it would be operational a month earlier, in August.

"We are in the midst of conducting various trials on the Padang Besar-Kuala Lumpur route, a journey which is expected to take four hours and 15 minutes.

""There will be five stops along the Padang Besar-Kuala Lumpur route," he told Bernama but did not mention the five stations involved.

The high speed passenger train from Padang Besar is expected to stop at Arau, Alor Setar, Bukit Mertajam and end at KL Sentral station.

Currently the diesel locomotive trains used to ply the Padang Besar-Kuala Lumpur route are much slower and the journey takes about 12 hours or more.

According Nawawi, KTMB would perform "Fault Free Testing" for a month in June along the route.

He said the electric train that would be used by KTMB on the Padang Besar-Kuala Lumpur electrified double track would be capable of transporting passengers at a speed of 160 km per hour.

According to the KTMB chairman, the Padang Besar-Kuala Lumpur ETS to be operational in September would at the initial stage, utilise four of the 10 sets purchased.

KTMB, he said, was expected to receive five sets of the train this year, while the rest would arrive next year.

The company bought 10 sets of the train from CSR Zhuzhou Electric Locomotive Co (CSR Zhuzhou ZELC), a manufacturer in China.

"With four electric train sets, we are likely to run service four times a day, in the morning, afternoon, evening and night for the Padang Besar-Kuala Lumpur route," he said.

However KTMB was still studying on the ETS schedule apart from taking into account supply and demand factors of travellers using the service, he said.

The Padang Besar-Kuala Lumpur ETS schedule and ticket prices would be determined later, he added.
-bernama.

Tourism Malaysia Pahang Helps Promote Domestic Tourism In Penang

KUANTAN, April 1 (Bernama) -- To reduce the outflow of money and increase domestic tourists, Tourism Malaysia Pahang is helping to promote tourism products in Penang.
Its director, Mohd Faharuddin Hatmin said an increasing volume of tourists would help generate economic growth, especially in hotel industries, theme parks, restaurants and shopping centres.

"Domestic tourism gives us a chance to help our economic growth. That's why, we help promote Penang during Malaysia Year of Festivals (MyFest) 2015 and Visit Penang Year this year to East Coast tourists," he said.

He was met by reporters after the Media Myfest 2015 FAM Trip to Penang with Pahang media members recently, with the cooperation of community airline, FlyFirefly Sdn Berhad (Firefly).

Meanwhile, Tourism Malaysia Penang director Harun Pilus said domestic tourism could foster the spirit of patriotism and strengthen solidarity among locals.

Firefly chief executive officer Ignatius Ong said to date, Firefly provided thrice weekly flights with fares as low as RM79, between the two states.

He said the direct flight from Pahang to Penang took only 30 minutes.
-bernama.

Demi Lovato: Demi World Tour In Kuala Lumpur 2015 ( 4 May 2015 )

AC Music Entertainment proudly presents "DEMI LOVATO: DEMI WORLD TOUR LIVE IN KUALA LUMPUR 2015" on 4th May 2015, 7 PM at KL Live. Since her first appearance in Malaysia in 2013, Demi Lovato, a multi-talented, and platinum-selling record artiste, is finally returning to Malaysia with her fourth headlining concert tour, "DEMI LOVATO: DEMI WORLD TOUR LIVE IN KUALA LUMPUR 2015". Malaysia will be the second stop in Asia for Demi's world tour after Singapore. With numerous mega hits such as, "Let It Go", "Skyscraper", "Heart Attack", "Give Your Heart A Break", "Neon Lights", and her current single, "Nightingale" under her belt, Demi will be putting up an exciting performance line-up for her first full-scale concert in Malaysia. Join Demi for a night of stellar performance at her "DEMI LOVATO: DEMI WORLD TOUR LIVE IN KUALA LUMPUR 2015" this May 4th. For ticketing enquiries, please email us at acme.malaysia@gmail.com. For more information, please proceed to http://www.ACMusicEntertainment.com or http://www.facebook.com/ACME.my

About Demi Lovato
Demi Lovato is a singer, songwriter, and television star with a fan base that includes over 27 million die-hard Twitter followers, 11.9 million followers on Instagram and 38 million fans on Facebook. She is a platinum-selling recording artist whose latest album, Demi, hit #1 on iTunes in over 50 countries around the world. The lead single, "Heart Attack," earned Platinum status just ten weeks after its launch. Lovato recently wrapped the North American and European leg of her WORLD TOUR in November and is heading to Australia, New Zealand and Asia this year. DEMI WORLD TOUR followed her first headlining and sold-out, NEON LIGHTS TOUR, named after her platinum single and Top 5 radio hit off her album, Demi. In addition to her musical accomplishments, this past year, her book, "Staying Strong: 365 Days a Year," became a New York Times best-seller and she created "Staying Strong: A Journal" to coincide, while simultaneously launching her very own skin-care line, Devonne By Demi and hair extension line, Secret Color. Lovato was also named the first ever global ambassador for NYC New York Color Cosmetics and is the face of SKECHERS Global campaign.

Philanthropy
As an outspoken advocate for young people everywhere, Lovato has become a role model by talking openly about her personal experiences and speaking out against bullying among other issues. She was the spokeswoman for the anti-bullying organization, PACER, and was cited for her dedication as a mentor to teens and young adults with mental-health problems at a National Children's Mental Health Awareness Day hosted by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration in Washington. Then she partnered with CAST Recovery to create "The Lovato Treatment Scholarship Program", which aims to sponsor the people struggling with mental health and/or addiction issues in order to help them seek the right treatment .She also serves as an official Ambassador for the youth empowerment event, We Day and the organization Free The Children. Demi travelled to Kenya for her 21st birthday to participate in a Me to We Trip by Free the Children, she spent time getting to know the local students and working alongside local community members to help build a new Free The Children school.

Filmography
2002 - 2004: Barney & Friends as Angela
2007: As the Bell Rings as Charlotte
2008: Princess Protection Program as Rosalinda/Rosie
2008: Camp Rock as Mitchie Torres 2009: Sonny with a Chance as Sonny Munroe 2010: Camp Rock 2: The Final Jam as Mitchie Torres
2012: The X Factor (US) as Judge
2016: Charming as Voice

Discography
2008: Don't Forget
2009: Here We Go Again
2011: Unbroken
2013: Demi

Concert Tours
2008: Demi Live! Warm Up Tour
2009 - 2010: Demi Lovato: Live in Concert
2011: An Evening with Demi Lovato
2011 - 2013: A Special Night with Demi Lovato
2014: The Neon Lights Tour
2014 - 2015: Demi World Tour

-www.ticketpro.com.my

Malaysia Tourism Awards 2014/2015 Now Open For Nominations

KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA, 31 March 2015 – The Ministry of Tourism and Culture and Tourism Malaysia are pleased to announce the call for nominations for the Malaysia Tourism Awards 2014/2015.

The prestigious Malaysia Tourism Awards, which recognises and honours local and international tourism industry players for outstanding and innovative products and services, is held once every two years; this will be the 19th edition of the esteemed awards.

Members of the Malaysia travel trade fraternity are invited to submit their nominations for fourteen award categories, as listed below:

• Best Local Tour Operator
• Best Foreign Tour Operator
• Best Tourism Article
• Best Tourism Publication
• Best Hotel Services
• Best Tourist Attraction
• Best Tour Package
• Best Tourist Guide
• Innovative Shopping Centre
• Best Homestay
• Best Spa
• Innovative Restaurant
• Best Travel Documentary on Malaysia
• Best Online Promotion of Malaysia

The Malaysia Tourism Awards 2014/2015 introduces several changes to better reflect the landscape of the global tourism industry today. It now has 14 categories and 50 subcategories for nominations.

Two new categories have been introduced, namely: 

a. Best Travel Documentary on Malaysia
– This award recognises the best travel documentary on Malaysia produced in
   either electronic or online channels.

b. Best Online Promotion of Malaysia 

– This award is for the best online tourism promotion on Malaysia.

In addition, the Best Foreign Tour Operator category has been expanded from 10 to 18 subcategories, while the Best Tourism Publication category is no longer restricted to tourism magazines. Now, it also considers the contributions made by other local and international publications, such as coffee table books and guidebooks that have given good coverage on Malaysia.

Nomination forms can be downloaded at www.motac.gov.my orwww.tourismmalaysia.gov.my. Completed forms and any enquiries are to be submitted to:

The Judging Committee
Malaysia Tourism Awards 2014/2015 Secretariat
Malaysia Tourism Promotion Board
2nd Floor, No.2, Tower 1
Jalan P5/6, Precint 5
62200 Putrajaya, Malaysia
Email: apm2015@tourism.gov.my

Members of the international tourism trade are also invited to send in their nominations for the relevant categories. They are asked to contact the nearest Tourism Malaysia overseas office for submission details.

(See www.tourismmalaysia.gov.my for a list of TM overseas offices)

Closing date is 30 June 2015.

MALAYSIA TOURISM AWARDSFirst introduced in 1987 by the Ministry of Culture, Arts and Tourism, it was originally called the "Malaysia Tourism Gold Awards" but was renamed "Malaysia Tourism Awards" in 1993 to better reflect the distinction of the awards and the corporate image of Tourism Malaysia.

This prestigious awards is a tribute to those who have excelled and supported the development of tourism in Malaysia. It also acts as an incentive for participants to strive for the highest level of professionalism and quality in both products and services.

The Malaysia Tourism Awards is the highest accolade for individuals and organizations, whose outstanding contributions play a significant role in the success of Malaysia's tourism industry. It has expanded from a tourist-and-travel centric recognition programme into one that encompasses all service industries and where local patronage is equally relevant. It also honours industry players who break new boundaries to take risks in creating distinctive products and services that offer unique and memorable experiences of Malaysia.

-Tourism Malaysia.

http://corporate.tourism.gov.my/downloads/MTAFORM2015.pdf

Tourism Refund Scheme Counters At 8 Main Airports, Begins Tomorrow

KUALA LUMPUR, March 31 (Bernama) -- Tourists who shopped in Malaysia during their stay will be able to claim the amount spent on Goods and Services Tax (GST) over items bought through the Tourism Refund Scheme (TRS) counters at eight main airports, beginning tomorrow.

Customs Department Deputy Director-General Datuk Abdul Rahman Othman said the opening of the counters would enable tourists to redeem for amount spent not less than RM300 at 700 registered TRS retailers nationwide before returning home to their country.

"The counters will be made available at the Senai, Kota Kinabalu, Kuching and Penang international airports, Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA), KLIA2, Sultan Ahmad Shah Airport, Kuantan Pahang and Sultan Abdul Aziz Shah Airport in Subang," he said at a press conference after the launch of Malaysia GST TRS here today.

Also present were IRIS Global Blue TRS Malaysia Sdn Bhd (IGB) director Datuk Hamdan Mohd Hassan, Global Blue South Asia Commercial head, Nigel Dasler and customs senior assistant director (Customs II) Sakenah Begum Md Nazir.

Abdul Rahman reminded tourists to obtain the tax-free form upon payment, before claiming the refund.

"When leaving Malaysia, they should take the purchased items, receipts and passport to the customs desk to get the tax free form validated.

"Then, take the validated tax free form, passport and credit card to the counter for redemption," he said.

Meanwhile, Sakenah Begum said only foreign tourists were allowed to claim tax refunds while Malaysian citizens, as well as permanent residents were not eligible for refund.

"Diplomats are also allowed a refund on condition they have finished their service in Malaysia," she added.

She said those who had not been working in Malaysia for at least three months before leaving the country were excluded from entitlement to a refund.

"The refund cannot be given to those who travelled by land or sea," she said.

Meanwhile, Dasler said IGB was given a 'three-plus-two-year' concession by the government to develop the software for the TRS counters at selected airports.

He said the customs department gave approval to operate the counters.

"It is not a contract where the government gives us a certain amount of money but we were given a 'three-plus-two-year' concession."

He said out of the six per cent of the GST refund claimed by a tourist, IGB would get 15 per cent of the refund value.
-bernama.
http://gst.customs.gov.my/en/cp/Pages/cp_trst.aspx