Pihak swasta dialukan bangunkan hotel di Perlis, tampung kehadiran pelancong

 

TUANKU Syed Faizuddin Putra Jamalullail berkenan berangkat melancarkan promosi masakan Perlis di D’Hatyai Café & Restaurant, Sriphunadnai 1, Daerah Hat Yai , Songkhla, Thailand baru-baru ini.-UTUSAN

KANGAR: Pihak swasta dialu-alukan membangunkan hotel-hotel baharu di negeri ini memandangkan hotel termasuk inap desa sedia ada masih tidak mencukupi menampung kedatangan pelancong.

Pemangku Raja Perlis, Tuanku Syed Faizuddin Putra Jamalullail bertitah, pembangunan hotel berkenaan dilihat menjadi keperluan berdasarkan perkembangan sektor pelancongan semasa di Perlis ketika ini.

Justeru titah baginda, para pemain industri pelancongan juga perlu mengambil peluang berkenaan bagi memperkasakan lagi sektor tersebut di Perlis.

“Berdasarkan perkembangan sektor pelancongan semasa di negeri Perlis, beta menyambut baik dan amat mengalu-alukan penglibatan sektor swasta untuk tampil bagi membangunkan hotel-hotel baharu di negeri ini.

“Hal demikian kerana memandangkan hotel atau inap desa sedia ada di Perlis masih tidak mencukupi terutamanya pada cuti umum,” titah baginda.

Baginda bertitah demikian selepas berkenan berangkat melancarkan promosi masakan Perlis di D’Hatyai Café & Restaurant, Sriphunadnai 1, Hat Yai , Songkhla, Thailand baru-baru ini.

Keberangkatan tiba baginda bersama-sama Raja Puan Muda Perlis, Tuanku Hajah Lailatul Shahreen Akashah Khalil disambut oleh pemilik restoran berkenaan, Samueli Doloh.

Hadir sama, Konsul Jeneral Malaysia di Songkhla, Muhammad Ridzuan Abu Yazid.

Sebelum ini, Tuanku Syed Faizuddin juga pernah melancarkan inisiatif yang sama bagi mempromosikan nama negeri Perlis melalui makanan di beberapa buah restoran lain di dalam wilayah Songkhla seperti Sami Kitchen, Restoran Halal Kai Tod Decha, Khlong Hae Buffet Seafood dan Restoran Hamid.

Pada kali ini, kurma daging Perlis sekali lagi diperkenalkan sebagai juadah pilihan utama dalam program kolaborasi antara restoran berkenaan dengan Restoran Shamiza Mohd Noor dari kilometer tiga Jalan Guar Nangka Perlis dengan kerjasama Yayasan Tuanku Syed Putra (YTSP) Perlis.

Sementara itu, baginda bertitah, lokasi-lokasi pelancongan baharu yang dirancang untuk dibangunkan oleh pihak swasta diharapkan akan terus menunjukkan kemajuan dan dapat beroperasi dalam masa terdekat.

“Contohnya, Pavillion Padang Besar, Pembangunan Motel, Pusat Makanan Laut dan Rekreasi di Persisir Pantai Bukit Batu Putih, Kompleks Kemudahan Pelancongan Kuala Perlis, Projek Perlis Base Camp Gua Kelam dan sebagainya.

“Jika benar-benar berjaya direalisasikan seperti yang dihasratkan sesungguhnya diharap akan mampu menarik lebih ramai pelancong ke negeri ini kelak,” titah baginda.

-utusan online.

Hari Terbuka Parlimen 2023... Jom Pi Ramai-ramai ( 6 & 7 Mei 2023 )

 

-Parlimen Malaysia.

Norwegian Cruise Line returns to Asia’s waters

 

Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) will return to sailing in Asia after more than three years when the revitalised Norwegian Jewel makes her grand return to Tokyo on October 19, and Singapore on November 11.‌

Its extensive six-month Asia season will offer 16 immersive, port-rich itineraries visiting 11 countries and sailing from nine different departure ports, including Tokyo and Yokohama in Japan; Taipei (Keelung), Taiwan; Bangkok (Laem Chabang), Thailand; Bali (Benoa), Indonesia and Kuala Lumpur (Port Klang), Malaysia.‌

With cruises ranging in length from 10 to 14 days, the season will also feature NCL’s first departures from the Philippines’ Manila, and South Korea’s Seoul (Incheon), as well as six new ports-of-call such as Manila, Boracay, Palawan and Salomague in the Philippines; Bintan Island, Indonesia; and Hualien, Taiwan.

With three 11-day Asia cruises, the first departs December 11 and will sail through Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam, Malaysia and Cambodia; while another itinerary departs January 5 and cruises from Singapore to Thailand’s Bangkok, Phuket and Koh Samui via Langkawi and Penang in Malaysia.

‌The third cruise will set sail on February 29, 2024 and will visit Taiwan and Japan destinations, with an overnight stay in Kyoto (Osaka).

‌Ben Angell, NCL vice president and managing director, APAC, said: “We know our guests can’t wait to explore closer to home and as a smaller ship, Norwegian Jewel is the perfect size to explore Asia’s lesser-known ports, while offering all the features we know local cruisers love, from show-stopping musical acts and entertainment to a myriad of dining options that would delight any palette.”

-TTG Asia.

Flash Sales & Activity @ Travel Malaysia Fair 2023 @ Marina Square, Singapore ( 5 ~ 7 May 2023 )

 

Day One Flash Sales!

Here's a quick snippet of some of the Flash Sales happening on top of the Exclusive Deals at the Travel Malaysia Fair. Share these with your friends and loved ones & we'll see you today at Marina Square Level 2 Central Atrium, Singapore!

Here's some of the activities for Travel Malaysia Fair that'll keep everybody entertained for the next 3 days, and of course watch out for the GRAND LUCKY DRAW on Sunday 8pm LIVE at Marina Square Level 2 Central Atrium, Singapore!

-Travel Malaysia Fair fb.

Gawai Dayak Open House & Parade @ Betong, Sarawak ( 9 ~ 11 June 2023 )

 

Tour SUMMARY

Join this 3D2N package tour to the Iban Heartland of Betong and immerse yourself in traditional Iban hospitality during the celebration of Gawai Dayak. This annual festival commemorates the start of a new harvest cycle and is a time of thanksgiving and merrymaking for the Dayak people of Sarawak. Experience the rich culture and heritage traditions on full display during the Betong Grand Gawai Parade. The parade will showcase Iban costumes, dance, music and tribal rituals, highlighting Betong’s diverse cultural expressions. There will also be an opportunity to sample and enjoy a variety of tasty traditional food and drinks. This package also includes historic forts and longhouses, visits to a pepper farm, a riverside picnic and a chance to learn about the unique crafts skillfully made by the women and community artisans – all part of  Sarawak’s rich Iban heritage. Don’t miss this chance to celebrate Gawai and make unforgettable memories with this annual Sarawak Open House campaign!

Highlights

Experience the authentic culture of Sarawak with our Gawai Dayak (Harvest Festival) Open House tour from June 9th-11th.

Experience the traditional Ngabang Gawai (Gawai visiting) at Rumah Anyie ak Rajit, Matop Longhouse, a historic 28 door longhouse built on massive belian (ironwood) pillars located along the Paku River.

Witness the traditional Gawai Parade at the Betong Parade Ground. 

Stay for two nights in a contemporary Iban Longhouse with shared bathroom facilities and enjoy the authentic hospitality like no other. Savour the locally made kuih (cakes) or even join in the kuih making demonstrations and learn the art of community craft.

Enjoy a guided tour that includes visits to a pepper farm and Fort Lily in Betong. 

Our package includes 2 dinners, 1 picnic lunch, and 2 breakfasts. Transfers via a 40-seater coach will provide you comfort and fast track your historical tour given by a knowledgeable English-speaking guide. Please note that alcoholic beverages are not included in the package, nevertheless it can be purchased at the longhouse, including the local rice wine known as tuak.

INCLUDES

2 nights Longhouse Shared accommodation (with shared bathroom), Welcome Tea / Coffee with kuih, 2 Dinners, 1 picnic lunch & 2 Breakfasts, 40-Seaters bus transfer, English Speaking tour guide, visit of Fort Lily, Pepper farm, Demonstration of handicraft & Kuih making.

Excludes

Alcoholic drinks (available for purchase at the longhouses).

FULL Package PRICE

Adult : RM650.00

Child (4-11yrs old) : RM520.00

Child (Below 4) : FOC

Package PRICE (WITHOUT TRANSPORT & GUIDE)

Adult : RM450.00

Child (4-11yrs old) : RM320.00

Child (Below 4) : FOC

HOW TO BOOK?

The 3D2N Package can be booked through selective travel agents on STF Website (this page). Full Longhouse Gawai package incl. transport is RM 650 / person.

For those who wish to drive on their own, the Longhouse Gawai package without (using own) Transport and Guide is available at RM450.

For those who do not wish to join any of the package tour, you can join the open house dinner on Friday as well as the public parade on Saturday FOC. Transportation, Accommodation and Guided Tours are not provided. Please register separately here >> google form link (press here). Limited to 50 slots only.

Dateline (Cut off date) 25th May 2023 (STF do reserve the right to close the registration link without prior notice if slots reached the maximum limit.

LIST of Travel AGENTS

BORNEO ADVENTURE SDN BHD

55 Main Bazaar, 93000 Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia.

Phone: +6082 245 175

info@borneoadventure.com

https://borneoadventure.com

INTER-BORNEO TOURS SDN BHD

Ground Floor, Lot 289 Section 47, Jalan Ban Hock,

93100 Kuching, Sarawak

Phone: +6082 240 075 / +6016 896 9159

info@inter-borneo.com

https://www.inter-borneo.com/

PARADESA BORNEO

No.1, Wayang Street, Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia.

Phone: +6082 238801

info@paradesaborneo.com

https://paradesaborneo.com

COOSERV TRAVEL & TOUR SDN BHD

Lot 26-27, 2nd Floor, Setia Raja Commercial Centre, Jalan Setia Raja, 93350 Kuching, Sarawak.

Phone: +6019-511 5235

Email: cooservtt@gmail.com

ARMANOOR TRAVEL SERVICES SDN BHD

PC10-16C, Chong Lin Park, Jalan Tabuan,  93100 Kuching, Sarawak.

Phone: +6016-853 0818

Email: armanoortravelkch@gmail.com

KUCHING HOLIDAYS & CAR RENTAL SDN BHD

56 Hotel Lobby, Lot 2228 & 2229, Section 64, KTLD, Jalan Tun Jugah, 93350 Kuching, Sarawak.

Phone: +6016-878 7689

Email: kuchingholidays@yahoo.com

Check this website https://sarawak.travel/openhouse/

-Sarawak Tourism Federation.

Festival to promote Sabah's Nabalu as pineapple town

 

State Assistant Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister Datuk Joniston Bangkuai (second from right) has proposed to hold a pineapple and fruits festival at Nabalu. - Pic courtesy of Kiulu assemblyman office.

TUARAN:  A pineapple and fruits festival has been proposed for Nabalu to recognise the town as the primary pineapple-growing region in Sabah.

State Assistant Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister Datuk Joniston Bangkuai has tentatively set the end of the year to hold the festival.

Joniston, who is Kiulu assemblyman, said a festival was an ideal way to promote local growers and highlight rural Sabah as a centre for agrotourism.

"This festival is also essential in enhancing Sabah's tourism promotion efforts. For instance, Kiulu is a rural tourism and fruits hub that places a strong focus on eco-and-agrotourism. 

"Villagers not only run tourism business but plant pineapples and other crops either as a hobby or to diversify their income," he said.

Joniston was speaking at the launch of the Pekan Nabalu Kaamatan Festival, co-organised by Persatuan Alunan Seni Budaya Sabah (PASBS) and Pekan Nabalu Stall Operators Association here.

"In addition to attracting visitors and tourists alike, the pineapple festival will be a great opportunity for local farmers and entrepreneurs to showcase their products, network with other industry players, and increase their market reach," he added.

Joniston also met stall operators, who raised various issues, including the dilapidated condition of their stalls.

Organising chairman Michael Yumpoh expressed strong interest in organising the pineapple festival and said he would hold a meeting to discuss the proposal in detail.

Pekan Nabalu is a popular stopover for travellers on their way to Kundasang or Kota Kinabalu. 

Visitors would normally stop for a restroom break or to purchase souvenirs as well as take photogaphs of Mount Kinabalu.

At the event were Kiulu assistant district officer Justin Ginduk, Kiulu people development leader Golubi Guntarek and Pekan Nabalu Stall Operators Association chairman Jouna Moguntas.

-nst online.

Tourism Malaysia Returns To The Arabian Travel Market For The 29th Year

 

DUBAI, 2 May 2023 – Tourism Malaysia’s efforts to publicize its comprehensive promotional activities continue to the Middle Eastern region. The Honourable Khairul Firdaus Akbar Khan, Deputy Minister of Tourism, Arts & Culture Malaysia, led the Malaysian delegation to participate once again in the Arabian Travel Market (ATM) in Dubai from 1st to 4th May 2023 at Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC).

The four-day ATM offers Malaysia an excellent platform to market and promote the latest attractions and destinations for shopping, family fun, eco-adventure, honeymoon, luxury holidays, and safe travel destinations. ATM 2023 also marks the 29th anniversary of Malaysia’s participation in this prestigious event, which is a strong testimony to the country’s support of the event and its commitment to attracting more Middle Eastern tourists to Malaysia.

As in previous years, this prestigious annual event sees the participation of a Malaysian delegation from 76 organizations comprising hotels and resorts, travel agents, tourism products owners, representatives from various state governments, including Langkawi Development Authority (LADA), Penang Global Tourism, Sabah Tourism Board, Sarawak Tourism Board, Tourism Melaka, Tourism Pahang, and Tourism Johor.

The mission aims to reinstate and enhance the commitment to establishing good tourism cooperation, engaging in future collaborations, and cooperation with the travel and tourism industry in the region. Honourable Khairul Firdaus said during the launch, “In line with Visit Malaysia in 2025, Tourism Malaysia will strive to attract more tourists from the Middle East to Malaysia. We are confident that we will achieve our target to put Malaysia as the top destination for Muslim travellers,”.

Throughout the event, the Malaysian delegation is scheduled to meet up with the top management of a few Middle Eastern airlines such as Qatar Airways, Emirates, Etihad Airways, Saudia Airlines, Air Arabia, Oman Air and Salam Air to discuss future collaborations, besides having several interviews with the local media.

On the 2nd and 3rd May 2023, Honourable Khairul Firdaus will also witness the signing of two Memorandum of Collaboration (MOC) between Tourism Malaysia and Saudia Airlines and Tourism Malaysia with Air Arabia. This MOC will benefit the Malaysian economy and strengthen economic ties through the tourism industry between Malaysia, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates. Following that, Honourable Khairul Firdaus will host a ‘Malaysia Nite Gala Dinner’ on 2nd May 2023 to thank the tourism fraternity in Dubai and the local media for their support and assistance in promoting Malaysia.

Since its full reopening of international borders, Malaysia has recorded a total of 10,070,964 (10.07 million) tourist arrivals and RM28.2 billion (AED 23.5 billion) in tourist receipts in 2022, surpassing its initial target of 9.2 million international tourist arrivals. In 2023, Malaysia is targeting to welcome 16.1 million international tourist arrivals (300,000 tourists from the West Asia) and generate RM49.2 billion (AED 41.1 billion) in tourist receipts.

In 2022, Malaysia recorded 88,534 tourist arrivals from the Middle East.

-Tourism Malaysia.

China Southern Airline's resumes flight to Sabah by bringing 194 passengers

 

Celebrating the relaunch of Guangzhou-Kota Kinabalu Route. Liew (eighth right) saying it with a bouquet each for pilots Captain Guo Shufeng and Captain Li Lemeng (centre). Also in the picture are Bangkuai (eighth left), Wang seventh left) and Noredah (third right).

KOTA KINABALU (April 30): One hundred and ninety-four passengers from Guangzhou arrived at the Kota Kinabalu International Airport (KKIA) on Saturday, marking the resumption of China Southern Airlines’ direct flights between Guangzhou and Kota Kinabalu post pandemic.

They took off from the Baiyun International Airport in Guangzhou at 4.10pm and arrived here at 7.10pm on flight CZ8335.

The aircraft, Airbus A321neo, was given a rousing water cannon salute at the airport.

On hand to welcome the Chinese visitors were Minister of Tourism, Culture and Environment Datuk Christina Liew and assistant minister cum Sabah Tourism Board (STB) chairman Datuk Joniston Bangkuai who garlanded them with Sabah’s native bead necklaces. They also received ‘Orangutan’ promotional bags filled with several local products.

Also present was STB Chief Executive Officer Noredah Othman.

Speaking to members of the tour group, Liew said: “Welcome to Sabah. Sabah offers a wide choice of holiday spots and activities. Some of you love the sea and beaches or intend to go snorkelling or diving.

We have Mount Kinabalu, iconic wildlife and a world-class diving paradise at Sipadan on the east coast of Sabah.

“From Tanjung Aru Beach here, you will be able to view one of the most beautiful sunsets in the world.

Some of you may opt for adventure, eco tourism, golf tourism or even wellness tourism. For cultural enthusiasts, you have the opportunity to experience Sabah’s rich cultural heritage.”

General manager of China Southern Airlines (Kuala Lumpur Office) Eric Wang, who accompanied the minister, said with the resumption of Kota Kinabalu’s route, the airlines will be operating three routes in the near future between China and Malaysia with departure from Kuala Lumpur, Kota Kinabalu and Penang to Guangzhou, totalling 31 flights per week.

According to Wang, previously, China Southern Airlines, affected by the pandemic, only operated flights between Kuala Lumpur and Guangzhou once a week.

“Following recovery from the pandemic, flights between China and Malaysia have gradually resumed, and China Southern Airlines’ Kuala Lumpur-Guangzhou route will also resume operations to three flights per day starting 15th May 2023.

“Last but not least, the resumption of direct flights between Guangzhou and Kota Kinabalu will give an additional lift to business development, tourism growth and cultural exchanges between China and Malaysia,” he said.

On future plans, Wang said China Southern Airlines will carry out deeper and cross-border cooperation with the key businesses and tourism stakeholders in the two countries in seeking the common good to achieve a win-win result.

“Our aim is to further strengthen our services to provide a more comfortable and convenient travel experience for all the passengers travelling between China and Malaysia,” he added.

-The Borneo Post.

Hari Terbuka Parlimen Malaysia ( 6 & 7 Mei 2023 )

 

Jom kita memeriahkan Hari Terbuka Parlimen !!!

Anda boleh meletakkan kenderaan di kawasan parkir awam di Taman Botani & Tugu Negara atau digalakkan menaiki pengangkutan awam yg disediakan. Rapid KL Sentral ke Parlimen @ Rapid LRT Masjid Jamek ke Parlimen.

Pengunjung perlu mematuhi Etika dan Kod Pakaian Parlimen Malaysia namun pemakaian batik amat disarankan.

Ayuh! Eksplorasi Parlimen, jumpa anda nanti !

-Parlimen Malaysia.

Sabah Tawar Pakej Pelancongan ‘Bola In The City’ Buat Penyokong

 

Sabah FC hari ini telah memperkenalkan pakej pelancongan baharu iaitu Bola In The City – A Trip Of Excitement dengan kerjasama Tourism Malaysia dan lapan agensi pelancongan di Sabah.

Majlis pelancaran pakej “Bola In The City With Sabah FC – A Trip of Excitement!” ini telah berlangsung di Hilton Kota Kinabalu hari ini dan telah disempurnakan oleh YB Khairul Firdaus Akbar Khan, Timbalan Menteri Pelancongan, Seni dan Budaya Malaysia.

Turut hadir sama ialah Encik Iskandar Mirza Mohd Yusof, Pengarah Kanan Bahagian Domestik & Acara [Menanggung Tugas Timbalan Ketua Pengarah (Perancangan)] Tourism Malaysia; Puan Noredah Othman, Ketua Pegawai Eksekutif Sabah Tourism Board; Encik Ahmad Marzuki Nasir, Ketua Pegawai Eksekutif Sabah FC; Encik Ibrahim Othman, Pengarah Kementerian Pelancongan, Seni dan Budaya (MOTAC) Sabah dan Puan Trecey J. Tojuka, Timbalan Pengarah Tourism Malaysia Sabah.

Pakej ini ditawarkan pada tanda harga RM 330 untuk seorang dan setiap pembeli berpeluang untuk bertemu dan berinteraksi dengan para pemain Sabah FC.

Membawa elemen sukan dan pelancongan, pakej ini turut memberi peluang untuk menyaksikan sesi latihan pasukan utama Sabah di bawah kendalian Datuk Ong Kim Swee. Pada hari perlawanan pula, mereka berpeluang untuk menonton perlawanan Liga Super bersama barisan pemain legenda bola sepak Sabah seperti Hassan Sani, Matlan Marjan, Burhan Ajui, Jelius Ating dan ramai lagi.

Pakej baharu ini merupakan kesinambungan kepada pakej sukan pelancongan “Bola In The City” edisi pertama yang pernah dilancarkan pada Oktober 2022 dan ia telah menerima sambutan yang amat menggalakkan khususnya daripada peminat bola sepak.

Pembeli bakal merasai pengalaman bermakna di Sabah apabila diberi peluang melawat beberapa destinasi atau aktiviti pelancongan di Sabah seperti Pula Manukan, Rumah Terbalik, Tamparuli, Monsopiad Heritage Village, Penampang; Tagal Tinopikon Walk, Penampang; bagi menikmati makanan laut di Restoran Terapung Kg. Nelayan atau beberapa restoran makanan tradisi di Kota Kinabalu atau aktiviti urutan kaki.

Senarai agensi pelancongan yang terlibat ialah:

i) Dynamic Tours Travel & Incentive Sdn. Bhd.

üi) Borneo Excursions (AHSB Rentacar Sdn Bhd)

iii) Inno Travel & Tour Services Sdn. Bhd.

iv) Kinabalu Heritage Tours & Car Rental Sdn. Bhd.

V) Borneo Trails Tours & Travel Sdn. Bhd.

vi) Nadi Borneo Tours Sdn. Bhd.

vi) Sensational Holidays (Borneo) Sdn. Bhd.

vil) Discovery Tours (Sabah) Sdn. Bhd.

Kerjasama strategik Sabah FC dan Tourism Malaysia Sabah ini merupakan satu langkah positif dalam merancakkan lagi industri bola sepak tempatan.

Kepada yang berminat, pakej ini boleh dibeli melalui 8 agensi pelancongan yang terlibat. Layari laman web Tourism Malaysia Sabah atau terus ke platform media sosial Tourism Sabah dan agensi-agensi pelancongan yang terlibat.

-makanbola.com

Travelport data reveals latest China travel trends

 

Travelport’s data shows the resurgence of outbound travel from mainland China

Travelport has released its latest data highlighting the resurgence of outbound travel from mainland China, which shows that demand continues to rise leading up to China’s Labour Day (May 1), one of the most popular times for tourists from mainland China to travel.

When it was announced on December 27 that travellers arriving to China no longer needed to undergo quarantine, outbound flight bookings from mainland China on that very day increased by 247% when compared to the same day the previous month.

According to research conducted by the UNWTO and the China Tourism Academy, approximately 150 million Chinese tourists travelled internationally in 2019, spending US$277 billion on global tourism. With quarantine restrictions now lifted, 1Q2023 saw outbound bookings from mainland China increase by 331% compared to last year.

However, mainland China is still only at 21% of its 2019 outbound booking levels. According to OAG, international airline capacity is at 37% of its April 2019 availability.

According to a recent McKinsey survey, pent-up demand for outbound travel from mainland China is massive, with 40% of survey respondents wanting to travel and prioritising international destinations for their next trip.

Travelport’s data shows the top five destinations that travellers from mainland China have booked trips for in 2023 include Hong Kong, Macau, Thailand, the US, and South Korea.

One major difference in 2023 travel is that tourists from mainland China are taking shorter trips. The number of trips ranging from two to four days is increasing, which explains why closer destinations, such as Hong Kong and Macau, claim the top two spots.

Additionally, 71% of flight options available from mainland China are bound for destinations in Asia-Pacific.

Meanwhile, Labour Day in China is celebrated as an annual public holiday on May 1, with the holiday expanded to include a three-day break in recent years. This makes April 24 through May 7 (the week of Labour Day and the week prior) the most ideal dates for travellers to get away.

This year’s holiday period has reached a three-year high when compared to last year alone, with outbound travel bookings increasing by 470%. In addition, unlike the rest of the year, these dates see a noticeable spike in trips longer than 10 days. This could explain why the top destinations for these travel dates include longhaul destinations such as the UK, Canada and the US.

-TTG Asia.

Aktiviti tarik pukat disenaraikan dalam kalendar pelancongan Terengganu

 

SEBAHAGIAN daripada pengunjung yang memeriahkan Program Tarik Pukat Raya 2023 di Pantai Kekabu, Marang, Terengganu. - UTUSAN/PUQTRA HAIRRY ROSLI

MARANG: Aktiviti tarik pukat yang menjadi tradisi nelayan di kawasan pantai di negeri ini akan dijadikan program tahunan kerajaan negeri apabila bakal disenaraikan dalam kalendar pelancongan Terengganu mulai tahun depan.

Menteri Besar, Datuk Seri Dr. Ahmad Samsuri Mokhtar berkata, keunikan amalan tradisi itu mampu menarik kedatangan pelancong selain mempertahankan aktiviti berkenaan untuk dikenali generasi muda.

“Aktiviti tarik pukat ini sudah biasa bagi komuniti dan nelayan pantai. Bukan sekadar kebersamaan dan merapatkan ukhuwah masyarakat semata-mata tetapi rutin tradisi ini sebenarnya mempunyai keunikan tersendiri sebagai produk pelancongan.

“Kerajaan negeri akan jadikan acara rasmi tahunan, dimasukkan dalam kalendar tahunan mulai tahun depan. Selain Pantai Pulau Kekabu, Marang ini kita akan kenal pasti beberapa lokasi lain yang sesuai bagi dianjurkan program tarik pukat.

“Program Tarik Pukat Raya 2023 hari ini dianjurkan untuk memeriahkan sambutan Aidilfitri apatah lagi dengan kehadiran perantau yang pulang ke kampung halaman,” katanya selepas Program Tarik Pukat Raya 2023 di Pantai Pulau Kebabu, di sini hari ini.

Seramai 300 pengunjung memeriahkan acara tersebut.

Sementara itu, seorang penduduk, Hassan Awang, 65, berkata, aktiviti tarik pukat menjadi tradisi komuniti di kawasan pantai berkenaan sejak lebih 30 tahun lalu dan biasanya bermula selepas berakhir musim tengkujuh.

“Rutin tradisi ini rancak bermula April hingga Oktober setiap tahun sewaktu ‘musim teduh’ iaitu selepas tamat musim tengkujuh, ketika ini keadaan ombak tenang dan reda. Tempoh ini juga, ikan gemar berada berhampiran pantai.

“Aktiviti ini jadi medan masyarakat erat silaturahim. Hasil tangkapan pula akan dibahagi terlebih dahulu, selebihnya barulah dijual. Pukat digunakan pula sepanjang kira-kira 500 meter serta memerlukan lebih ramai kru,” jelasnya.

-utusan online.

China celebrities arrive in Sabah to shoot reality TV show

 

State Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister Datuk Christina Liew (right) garlanding Raymond Lam upon arrival at KKIA. - NSTP/ courtesy of State’s Tourism Ministry

KOTA KINABALU: A group of seven celebrities from Zhejiang TV China — including a Malaysian-born singer-actor — have arrived in town for the shooting of a reality show called "Star Chasers".

The celebrities are singer-turned actor Raymond Lam, actors Wu Chi-Lung, Ding Zhou Jie, Chen Li-Nung, Cai Wen Jing, and Zhou Jie Qiong, as well as Ah Niu, who hails from Malaysia.

The group was greeted by a large group of ecstatic fans upon arrival at Kota Kinabalu International Airport (KKIA) on Sunday at 6pm.

State Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister Datuk Christina Liew and the Sabah Tourism Board (STB) staff were also on hand to garland them with native bead necklaces.

The celebrities began location shooting at Masakan Sedap Restaurant in Hilltop, Luyang, on the same evening.

They then had a short stay at Shangri-La Tanjung Aru before departing for Manukan Island for the next shoot.

The tour continued with a visit to Shangri-La Rasa Ria in Tuaran.

During the sojourn, the celebrities explored Mari Mari Cultural Village, Cabana Retreat Resort, and 101 Firefly Eco Park before returning home tomorrow.

Liew said the team's nine-day trip to Malaysia, including Sabah, was coordinated by the Tourism, Arts and Culture Ministry.

"As (Sabah's) Tourism Minister, I welcome the team of celebrities to Sabah.

"I am happy that they have selected Sabah as one of the three Malaysian states (after Melaka and Pahang) for their show.

"They are aware that Kota Kinabalu is one of the best spots in the world for viewing a beautiful sunset."

Liew said she was optimistic that their upcoming reality show in China would make Sabah known to a wider audience there, and encourage more Chinese nationals to choose the state for their holiday destination.

"While Sabah is better known to the people in first-tier cities in China, there is a need to promote the state to (other) cities."

-nst online.

Travel Malaysia Fair 2023 @ Central Atrium, Marina Square, Singapore ( 5 ~ 7 May 2023 )

 

Travel Malaysia Fair is Back!

And with our esteemed Partners, Sponsors, and Exhibitors, grab exclusive travel deals that are only available at this fair.

Head on down to Singapore Marina Square Level 2, Central Atrium on the 5th to 7th of May 2023 and take part in the Grand Lucky Draw and stand a chance to win Hotel stays, Express Coach tickets, Spa vouchers and more! See you there! -Travel Malaysia Fair fb.

Selamat Hari Raya AidilFitri daripada Pelancongan Kini

 

-PelanconganKini.

Swissotel to rise in Genting Highlands

 

Accor will debut the Swissôtel Hotels & Resorts brand in Malaysia for the first time come 3Q2028, with the property marked for King’s Park up on Malaysia’s Genting Highlands.

King’s Park, a development by Highlands ParkCity, in partnership with Crowne Estate Malaysia and Yuk Tung Group, will span 60.7 hectares and pack in a wide variety of retail shops, restaurants, convention centres, tourist attractions, entertainment outlets, hotels and amenities.

Swissôtel Genting Highlands will boast elegant rooms, all-day dining options, executive lounges, bars, as well as contemporary conference facilities, and a grand ballroom. The 300-key property will also come complete with a heated swimming pool, sundeck, fitness centre, spa, scenic jogging tracks and a kids’ club.

Guests at the 30-story building can enjoy unblocked views of the stunning mountains and the Genting Highlands summit, located just a 15-minute drive away.

Speaking at the signing ceremony on April 19, Sean Chen, COO, Crowne Estate Malaysia, said: “It is a huge step forward for Highlands ParkCity and Crowne Estate Malaysia in their goal to make King’s Park an eco-friendly tourist and destination hub for people all over the world.”

Garth Simmons, CEO, Accor for South & South-east Asia, Japan, South Korea and India, said: “The signing of Swissôtel Genting Highlands in one of the most popular destinations in the country for locals and tourists alike, further strengthens Accor’s leading position in Malaysia’s hospitality industry.”

-TTG Asia.

Sabah natural beauty, wildlife fascinates UK travel YouTuber

 

British travel YouTuber Karl Watson (standing, 6th left) with his followers and STB officers who hosted the dinner. - Pic courtesy of STB.

KOTA KINABALU: Karl Watson, a British travel YouTuber has embarked on an 11-day tour to explore the nature and wildlife of Sabah.

He was joined by 15 followers, among them from the United States, the United Kingdom, Germany, the Czech Republic, Australia and Malta.

Watson has been creating travel documentaries for 10 years with over 227,000 subscribers on his YouTube channel.

He partnered with a travel company to organise comprehensive bespoke group excursions worldwide.

The partnership initiative allows Watson to pick his favourite destination, customise the itinerary to be more sustainable, and sell it on his website and YouTube.

"We organised the first customised group tour to Morocco since it is closer to Europe, less expensive, and exotic.

"When it came to choosing a second destination for a bespoke group tour, I knew I wanted some place very different from the cities, marketplaces, and culture of Morocco.

"I've been considering a trip to Borneo because I like nature.

"So, I did my research, and said to myself and decided to go on a full nature wildlife adventure," he explained.

"I came for the wildlife but was won over by the people.

"This trip is a perfect introduction to Borneo, and I would like to come back to explore Sabah deeper, especially the national parks and the off-the-beaten paths," he said.

He also admired the rich cultural heritage and the friendly multi-ethnic population of Sabah.

During the journey from April 3 to 14, the group scaled Mount Kinabalu, went on a river cruise down the Kinabatangan River, and explored Sandakan to learn about conservation efforts at the Orang Utan Rehabilitation Centre as well as Selingan Turtle Island, among others.

Captivated by Sabah's beauty and wildlife, Watson expresses his desire to return to explore the national parks and off-the-beaten paths in the future.

The Sabah Tourism Board (STB) hosted a Ramadan dinner for the group where they were able to try local delicacies and were delighted by the traditional dance performance.

-nst online.

Indian outbound travel demand surges for summer

 

India outbound travel demand for Hong Kong has returned strongly; Hong Kong Observation Wheel pictured

This summer travel season is heating up for many Indian travel consultants, who have reported robust bookings both for shorthaul and longhaul destinations this year compared to the last year.

For this peak summer season, Rajeev Kale, president & country head, holidays, MICE, Visa-Thomas Cook (India), noted that longhaul travel demand has quadrupled while shorthaul destinations have tripled over 2022.

“Europe continues to top our demand pipeline with a surge of over 300 per cent for the upcoming summer holidays, followed by South-east Asia’s Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand and Indonesia. Vietnam and Cambodia are also witnessing brisk business. Other destinations like the Maldives, Mauritius, Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Ras Al-Khaimah are also (in demand),” Kale added.

Meanwhile, Varun Gupta, partner of Travelz Factorry, remarked: “The outbound travel demand this year is surpassing the previous year’s growth. Destinations like Vietnam, Turkey and Azerbaijan are recording strong (interest). On the other hand, the demand for Hong Kong has returned strongly. Popular destinations like Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand and Dubai are already recording demand comparable to the pre-pandemic numbers.”

Agents say demand is fuelled by various traveller segments.

Daniel D’Souza, president & country head – holidays, SOTC Travel, sees demand streaming in from multigenerational families, Gen Zs, millennials, DINKs and solo travellers.

He said: “Despite increased airfares and room rates, and we are witnessing high demand emerging from not only India’s metros, but also mini metros, tier-two and tier-three cities.”

-TTG Asia.