Top 10 Tourist Arrivals To Malaysia - January~December 2017 (By Nationality)

1. Singapore 12,441,713

2. Indonesia 2,796,570

3. China 2,281,666

4. Thailand 1,836,522

5. Brunei 1,660,506

6. India 552,739

7. South Korea 484,528

8. Japan 392,777

9. Philippines 370,559

10. United Kingdom 358,818

Total worldwide arrivals 25,948,459 (-3.0%)

-Tourism Malaysia.

Eleven to heaven for Miguel Oliveira at Mugello

06/03/2018 - Mugello Circuit, Italy

A thrilling performance at Mugello on Sunday took Miguel Oliveira to his first victory of the season, as he fought his way through the field and clinched the win on the final lap. His Red Bull KTM Ajo teammate Brad Binder also had a great performance, with his sixth position meaning he has taken four consecutive Top 10 finishes so far in 2018. Oliveira had a masterclass of a start, as he took off from eleventh on the grid but was already up into fifth coming out of the opening corner. By the time the first lap came to an end, he was riding in third. Oliveira would not leave the podium positions from then on, and would battle with first Pasini and Bagnaia, then late on with Baldassarri. Eventually, it was the Portuguese who took the chequered flag first. Binder had one of his typical fightbacks during the race. From the seventh row of the grid, the South African gained five places on Lap 1 for twelfth. It was not until the tenth lap that he entered the Top 10, and with 6 laps to go he jumped to sixth -a position that he held onto. With the 25 points earned today, Miguel Oliveira continues in second in the overall standings and cuts the gap to the series leader to 13 points difference. Brad Binder is eighth with 47 points. In the team standings, the Red Bull KTM Ajo Moto2 outfit are first with a 3 point advantage. Aki Ajo - Team Manager "It’s been incredible. This victory means a lot to us after a difficult weekend and, in general, after a period of two-three races with difficulties. We have never given up, we have never lost hope, and we knew that better times would come around. This is a very important victory and we are very happy about it. Not only has it been an important race because of Miguel [Oliveira] winning; this has been a key day, in terms of results, for the whole team. Brad [Binder] also had a very good race, coming from far back and finishing sixth. On Friday and Saturday morning the team had many problems. Eventually, in the afternoon we managed to find something on the bike that made the riders feel more comfortable and, although the positions in qualifying were not what we had hoped for, that was the most important thing. This morning in the warmup, we tried new things and took another step forward. In the end, we found a good setup for the race. Thanks to the riders and the whole team for the great work that they have done."   Results (Race) 1. Miguel Oliveira (Red Bull KTM Ajo) 39:42.018 2. Lorenzo Baldassarri (Kalex) +0.184 3. Joan Mir (Kalex) +0.334 4. Francesco Bagnaia (Kalex) +0.484 5. Alex Marquez (Kalex) +3.537 6. Brad Binder (Red Bull KTM Ajo) +5.985 Moto2 World Championship Standing 2018 1. Francesco Bagnaia (Kalex) 111 points 2. Miguel Oliveira (Red Bull KTM Ajo) 98 points 3. Lorenzo Baldassarri (Kalex) 84 points 4. Alex Marquez (Kalex) 78 points 5. Joan Mir (Kalex) 64 points 8. Brad Binder (Red Bull KTM Ajo) 47 points

-Red Bull KTM Ajo Motorsport.

Destini Akef Villa tarikan Langkawi

Di Pulau Langkawi, terdapat banyak hotel dan inap desa (homestay) yang menawarkan pelbagai aktiviti pelancongan menarik kepada pengunjung yang ingin menikmati percutian santai dan menyeronokkan.

Destini Akef Villa merupakan salah satu daripadanya yang sentiasa bersedia memenuhi permintaan pelancong yang inginkan kepuasan ketika bercuti.

Walaupun agak baharu bagi kebanyakan pengunjung yang sudah biasa bercuti di pulau itu, namun ramai pengunjung tempatan dan pelancong asing dari negara-negara Asia Barat, China, Rusia dan Finland memilih Destini Akef Villa sebagai lokasi penginapan.

Pengurusnya, Norazam Othman, berkata, Destini Akef Villa dibuka pada Disember 2016 dengan permulaan sebanyak 20 buah bilik ditawarkan.

“Hanya pada tahun berikutnya barulah kesemua 40 buah bilik dibuka kepada pengunjung. Harga berbeza mengikut jenis bilik, namun kadar sewa bagi bilik yang menempatkan katil single dan queen adalah sama.

“Harga satu malam bagi bilik Deluxe adalah RM195 (single/queen), Super Deluxe (RM235), Superior (RM175, single/queen) dan Super Superior (RM215).

“Antara kemudahan disediakan adalah kolam renang (untuk dewasa dan kanak-kanak), ruang makan, ruang resepsi yang dilengkapi pendingin hawa, kemudahan mesyuarat dan tempat letak kereta. Sarapan turut disediakan kepada pelanggan,” katanya.

Tambah Norazam, pihaknya turut menyediakan pelbagai program pelancongan sekiranya pelancong ingin masa percutian mereka diisi dengan aktiviti lasak dan santai.

“Kami boleh bawa mereka melakukan aktiviti sukan air seperti ski air, selam skuba, bot pisang, papan luncur, layar-layang (parasailing), mengelilingi pantai atau danau dan jelajah pulau ke pulau. Jika pengunjung ingin merasai pengalaman menaiki helikopter, kami juga boleh aturkan perjalanan anda,” katanya.

Berhampiran dengan Destini Akef Villa terdapat Telaga Walk @Chenang yang boleh dikunjungi mereka yang ingin bersantai sambil menikmati angin malam bersama keluarga.

Di lokasi itu, terdapat banyak pilihan restoran yang boleh disinggahi bagi menikmati makan malam. Kedai menjual pelbagai barangan turut disediakan.

Bagi kanak-kanak, sudah tentu kereta berhias cantik dengan lampu warna-warni yang diubah suai seperti basikal ala-ala beca menjadi tumpuan.

“Aktiviti lain yang diadakan adalah menjemput penceramah agama dan artis di kawasan berdekatan bagi memeriahkan lagi suasana Telaga Walk@Chenang,” katanya.

-utusan online.
http://www.destiniakef.com/

Menjelajah wilayah Kejora

SEBAHAGIAN peserta yang mengikuti program Day Trip Tourism Kejora

di Kota Tinggi, Johor, baru-baru ini.

KOTA TINGGI 31 Mei - Jika ingin menikmati suasana tenang di perkampungan tradi­sional, mungkin lawatan ke Kota Tinggi ada jawapan yang paling ideal.

Ini kerana Lembaga Kemajuan Johor Tenggara (Kejora) dengan beberapa pihak yang berkaitan kini giat mempromosikan sektor pelancongan di sekitar wilayah kendaliannya, khususnya di tiga perkampungan tradisional iaitu Kampung Linting, Johor Lama dan Panchor, dekat sini.

Menerusi program ‘Day Trip Tourism Kejora’ (DTTK) yang menawarkan pakej berkumpulan, para pelancong boleh menikmati keindahan alam semula jadi, melihat kesan peninggalan sejarah dan pembuatan produk kraf ta­ngan serta menyelami kehidupan masyarakat setempat.

Malah, Kejora memperkenalkan pakej DTTK untuk berkongsi ilmu menerusi sektor pelanco­ngan pendidikan (edu-tourism) ba­gi membuka minda peserta mahupun pengunjung mengenai pelbagai produk yang ditawarkan.

Pembantu Tadbir Bahagian Pelancongan Kejora, Muhammad Hafiz Aziz berkata, para pengunjung akan dibawa menjelajah bermula dari Muzium Nelayan Tanjung Balau, Desaru yang satu-satunya muzium menyimpan dan mempamerkan pelbagai khazanah golo­ngan nelayan tradisional seperti sampan, jaring, pancing dan bubu.

“Kompleks muzium ini mempunyai empat galeri tambahan, iaitu Galeri Geologi, Galeri Keselamatan Laut, Galeri Kapal Karam Desaru dan Galeri Pameran Khas.

“Apabila memasuki kawasan perkampungan tradisional, pengunjung akan dapat menikmati suasana kampung serta ketena­ngan berada di kampung sete­rusnya melihat dan menjejaki sendiri kesan sejarah pemerintahan Kesultanan Melayu Johor suatu ketika dahulu,” katanya kepada Utusan Malaysia, baru-baru ini.

Sambil menikmati suasana kam­pung yang tenang, para pe­ngunjung juga boleh menyaksikan pembuatan pelbagai produk kraf tangan oleh penduduk.

Dalam pada itu, Penolong Pe­ngurus Bahagian Pelancongan Kejora, Sheh Khayul Zahri Sh. Raof berkata, Kejora kini giat mempromosikan produk pelancongan yang terdapat di dalam wilayah­nya menerusi platform media sosial dan aplikasi mudah alih.

Menurutnya, langkah itu seja­jar dengan hasrat kerajaan untuk membangunkan khususnya wilayah Kejora ke arah ekonomi digital.

“Dalam usaha mencapai pres­tasi, penggunaan internet dan pemasaran secara dalam talian berkaitan pelancongan akan men­jadi saluran utama untuk me­masuki pemasaran.

“Biarpun pemasaran digital di­gunakan secara meluas, namun kami masih menyediakan pemasaran secara terbuka kerana masih relevan dalam industri pelancongan,” katanya.

-utusan online.

PATA unveils new executive board

Bottrill (middle in blue tie) is the new chairman of PATA’s executive board

Following its recent annual summit in Gangneung, South Korea, PATA has announced its new executive board, with Chris Bottrill, international director and dean of the Faculty of Fine and Applied Arts at Capilano University in North Vancouver as chair, replacing Sarah Mathews, TripAdvisor’s head of destination marketing Asia-Pacific.

Bottrill joined PATA in 2011 and has participated in a range of roles, including as chair of the Human Capital Development Committee and vice chair of the Sustainability and Social Responsibility Committee since 2014. He has also been a trustee of the PATA Foundation for the past three years.

The new executive board comprises Haji Azizan Noordin, CEO, Langkawi Development Authority; Maria Helena de Senna Fernandes, director, Macao Government Tourism Office; Bill Calderwood, managing director, The Ayre Group Consulting; Jon Nathan Denight, president & CEO, Guam Visitors Bureau; Shahid Hamid, executive director, Dhaka Regency Hotel & Resort; Luzi Matzig, chairman, Asian Trails; Benjamin Liao, chairman, Forte Hotel Group; Deepak Raj Joshi, CEO, Nepal Tourism Board; Mohamed Sallauddin Mat Sah, general manager marketing, Malaysia Airports Holdings; and Gerald Perez, managing director, Leading Edge.

Haji Azizan Noordin was also elected as the new vice chairperson, while Maria Helena de Senna Fernandes was elected secretary/treasurer.

In addition, Peter Semone, president & founder – Destination Human Capital, Ireland and Soon-Hwa Wong, CEO – Asia Tourism Consulting, Singapore have been appointed to the executive board as non-voting members.

Abdulla Ghiyas, president – Maldives Association of Travel Agents and Tour Operators and PATA Face of the Future 2018, also joins the PATA executive board as a non-voting member and observer for a one-year term.

-TTG Asia.

Massive Dubai-like reclamation project planned for Langkawi by Bakun dam's Ting

File photo of Tun Dr. Mahathir Mohamad signing a plaque in 2011, while Tan Sri Ting Pek Khiing of Upline Hotel and Resort (which went into receivership later) looks on, during the opening of Four Points Hotel in Padang Matsirat, Langkawi. - Bernama

LANGKAWI: After keeping a low profile for the last 16 years, developer Ting Pek Khiing has announced a Dubai-like RM30 billion development project to be built on reclaimed land in Langkawi.

The Langkawi New City project will be located on 81ha of reclaimed land off the west side of the island, reports Bernama.

The project, which will be undertaken by his group of companies, will be launched tomorrow (June 1), he told a media briefing on the project here today. He did not name the companies.

Ting said the project would involve the construction of 30,000 high-end condominium units, commercial centres, berthing facilities for ocean liners and yachts and other facilities.

“Several companies in our group will be involved in the development which is expected to be completed in 10 years’ time, or even earlier,” he said, without disclosing the names of the companies involved.

He told Bernama that the project, which would spur foreign investments in Langkawi, would be the biggest that he ever embarked on since he started his business activities on the island back in 1991.

Ting was reputed to have built a hotel on the island in a record 100 days in preparation for the inaugural Langkawi International Maritime and Aerospace (LIMA) exposition in 1991, a feat which caught the attention of then Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Mahathir Mohamad.

The Sarawak-born businessman said he had spent over 20 years on the development plan, claiming that he had already won recognition from developers from France, Russia and South Korea.

“This project is bound to be the biggest ever development of its kind in the northern part of Peninsular Malaysia,” he said.

He said the project’s environmental impact assessment had been conducted, adding that the plan was designed to preserve the beautiful natural surroundings of the area.

“This development would be akin to that in Dubai. This project would get more people to invest and stay here for a longer period, rather than for just one or two days,” he added.

Ting's company Ekran Bhd was awarded the construction contract for the controversial Bakun Dam in 1994, which was opposed by environmentalists and native rights groups. 

The analyst Anil Netto recalls that Bakun's coffer dam collapsed more than 20 times during construction, and the site was said to be jinxed as it was built on native ancestral grave sites. 

Ekran encountered financial problems during the East Asian financial crisis in 1998. It was unable to complete the Bakun dam job, but was reportedly compensated a massive RM950mil by the government.

Ting's Plaza Rakyat project, undertaken by Wembley Industries Holdings Bhd, next to the Pudu Raya bus terminal, also ran into problems, recalls Anil. 

His companies, Ekran and Wembley, were both eventually delisted and ended up in receivership.

Ting himself was declared a bankrupt by the Kuala Lumpur High Court in 2010.

Now, it looks like Ting is set to rise like a phoenix from the ashes.

-thestar online.

MATTA expects GST removal to boost local tourism

MATTA is of the view that air travel to local destinations, such as Langkawi, will be more affordable with the implementation of the 0 GST effective June 1. — filepic

THE Malaysian Association of Tour and Travel Agents (MATTA) welcomes the Federal Government’s decision to have the Goods and Services Tax (GST) reduced from 6% to 0% effective June 1.

Its president, Datuk Tan Kok Liang, said this indirectly granted a “discount” on the cost of local tour and travel.

“The 0% GST is bound to promote spending by both locals and tourists, especially in terms of shopping as well as food and beverage, thus potentially increasing the price appeal of Malaysia as a travel destination.

“Domestic air tickets between the peninsula and Sabah and Sarawak will be more affordable and will augur well for domestic tourism,” he said.

Meanwhile, on Transport Minister Anthony Loke’s call to improve road safety, bring the MH370 episode to a close and scrap the Land Public Transport Commission, Tan said all three issues were closely related to tourism, as safety and security of tourists were paramount in any destination and equally important to local residents.

“We hope the minister will look into specific areas that could spur the growth or transformation of the air, marine, rail and road transportation sectors.

“MATTA would be happy to offer our proposals and we look forward to such meetings, as antiquated laws need to be modernised and current regulations implemented more effectively,” he stressed.

Tan said MATTA was also calling for the abolishment of the Tourism Tax (TTx), which came into effect on Sept 1, 2017.

The TTx imposes a flat rate of RM10 per room night on foreigners staying in hotels or registered private accommodation.

“We welcome tourists to have an enjoyable holiday experience and spend freely on accommodation, food and beverage, tourist attraction and tour excursion, but collecting tax from tourists would be counterproductive.

“MATTA had objected to and expressed concerns over the TTx from day one, as it would impact the tourism industry, particularly price-sensitive tourists and long-haul travellers who spend extended periods in the country,” he pointed out.

Tan added that Malaysia’s tourism sector was trailing behind its neighbours Thailand, Singapore and the Philippines.

Although tourist arrivals to South-East Asian countries had recorded positive growth in 2017 – with a 7.8% increase for Thailand, Singapore (6.2%) and the Philippines (11%) – Malaysia saw a 3% drop with 25.95 million tourists in 2017 compared to 26.76 million in 2016.

“Putting up more barriers may deter tourists from choosing Malaysia as a preferred holiday destination.

“Without the TTx, foreigners would be delighted to come to our country, stay longer and spend more freely,” he added.

-thestar online.

Popular travel fair to be held in Selangor

Syed Abdul Rahman (centre) with sponsors and strategic partners of 

the MATTA Fair Selangor Carnival 2018 in Serdang.

THE Malaysian Association of Tour and Travel Agents (MATTA) Selangor will introduce its inaugural MATTA Fair Selangor Carnival 2018 this July.

The upcoming consumers travel fair will be held at Malaysian Agro Exposition Park Serdang (MAEPS).

This will be the first time the travel fair is being held in Selangor, following other successful ones in Kuala Lumpur.

More than 40 authorised travel agencies, state tourism organisations and other tourism companies will be setting up booths at the three-day travel fair from July 27.

“We will promote various tourism attractions in Selangor and other states in Malaysia,” he said in a press conference at MAEPS in Serdang.

He said the first edition of the fair would feature 150 booths at MAEPS Hall D2 with 8,000sq m exhibition space.

“So far, 70% of the booths have been taken up,” he said, adding that they received encouraging enquiries on the fair.

In addition, he said, several airlines such as Malaysia Airlines, Firefly, Air France, Turkish Airlines and Thai Airways have been roped in to offer interesting travel packages to various destinations.

There will also be discounted offers on hotels to encourage travellers to plan their year-end holidays.

Syed Abdul Rahman added that the travel fair would include a food festival as well as travel and lifestyle activities in a carnival-like atmosphere.

“There will be 50 food trucks offering dishes from Kedah, Melaka and Johor, making it one of the interesting activities at the carnival,” he said, adding that the fair was expected to attract up to 70,000 visitors.

There will also be the Buyers Contest, where winners stand to win flight tickets, free hotel stays and holiday packages abroad.

Tourism Selangor promotion and industry development manager Khuzaimah Jamaluddin said they would support the fair by bringing in several tourism products from the state.

“For the domestic market, there are many interesting places in Selangor that can attract tourists such as the Sky Mirror in Kuala Selangor. There are only two Sky Mirrors in the world; one in Bolivia and the other in Malaysia,” she said.

Khuzaimah said they would also promote Sekinchan, popular for fishing activities, homestays and cycling in padi fields.

“We will also present handicrafts, customs, cultural performances and interactive activities of the Mah Meri indigenous people from Pulau Carey in Kuala Langat,” she said.

Tourism Malaysia (central region) director Mohd Akbal Setia said they would highlight unique tourism packages to attract the domestic and foreign tourists.

“In 2016, 66 million domestic tourists contributed RM48bil income for the country. We are hoping to attract 36 million foreigners to visit the country in 2020, which is estimated to contribute RM168bil to the country,” he said.

There will be trams to ferry visitors from their parking areas and shuttle services at ERL Putrajaya and Komuter station in Serdang for visitors to get to the fair.

The MATTA fair will be open from 10am to 10pm. Admission is free.

For details, visit the MATTA Fair official Facebook account Matta Selangor and official Instagram @matta_selangor

-thestar online.

Opera Cina @ MaTiC Kuala Lumpur ( 20 & 21 Julai 2018 )

PST2018 Siri III membawakan “Opera Cina” – menampilkan kumpulan Persatuan Peminat Opera & Muzikal Cina Totalmas Kuala Lumpur. Kumpulan yang diasaskan pada tahun 2000 oleh pasangan Encik Frankie Tan dan Puan Brendda Ooi ini dianggotai seramai 20 orang ahli. Pementasan Opera Cina diarahkan oleh Puan Brendda Ooi bertemakan cinta, kasih sayang, pengkhianatan, kepahlawanan, pemberontakan dan perebutankuasa; digabungkan dalam 3 Hikayat Legenda iaitu ‘Hikayat Puteri Chang Ping’, ‘Kisah Cinta Cheong Shang Dim’ dan Fung Go – Kisah Yang Belum Berakhir’. Apakah kesudahan kisah ketiga-tiga hikayat legenda ini?

Jom sama-sama kita saksikan!

Sila dapatkan tiket-tiket berharga RM50 (VIP) dan RM20 (Biasa/50% diskaun diberikan kepada warga emas, pelajar dan OKU) dengan menghubungi:-

HOTLINE: +6012-338 5033 / +6012-518 6452

PST2018 Series III brings "Chinese Opera’ will feature the TOTALMAS Association of Chinese Opera and Musical Fans troupe. PST2018 Series III brings "Chinese Opera’ will feature the TOTALMAS Association of Chinese Opera and Musical Fans troupe. The group, which was founded in 2000 by Mr Frankie Tan and Mrs. Brendda Ooi, comprises of 20 members. The Chinese Opera is directed by Mrs. Brendda Ooi, featuring the themes of love, affection, betrayal, heroism, rebellion and usurpation through three legendary stories; 'The Story of Princess Chang Ping', 'Cheong Shang Dim Love Story' and 'The Endless Story of Fung Go'. Let's find out what these stories are all about...

Tickets are priced at RM50 (Premier & Limited seat) and RM20 (Normal/50% discount is given to senior citizens, students and disabled), and can be purchased through:-

HOTLINE: +6012-338 5033 / +6012-518 6452

-JKKN Wilayah Persekutuan facebook.

Warna-warni Aidilfitri 2018 @ Kompleks Kraf Kuala Lumpur ( 1 ~ 10 Jun 2018 )

Kraftangan Malaysia akan menganjurkan Warna-Warni Aidilfitri 2018 (WWA 2018) bermula pada 1 hingga 10 Jun 2018, dari jam 9.00 pagi hingga 6.00 petang pada hari Isnin hingga Khamis manakala Jumaat hingga Ahad bermula jam 9.00 pagi hingga 9.00 malam bertempat di Kompleks Kraf Kuala Lumpur, Jalan Conlay Kuala Lumpur. 

Warna-Warni Aidilfitri kali ini akan menghimpunkan usahawan kraf dan usahawan perkhidmatan Aidilfitri dari seluruh Malaysia dengan mengetengahkan produk-produk bagi persiapan menyambut hari raya Aidilfitri.

Pelbagai aktiviti menarik seperti Pameran Produk Kraf Aidilfitri, Demonstrasi dan Interaktif Kraf termasuk Demonstrasi Masakan dan Kuih Raya juga Jualan Kraf & Perkhidmatan Aidilfitri menanti kunjungan anda. Semua dijemput.

-Kraftangan Malaysia.

Daughtry Live In Kuala Lumpur 2018 @ KL Live, Life Centre ( 13 July 2018 )

Multi-­platinum rocker, American Idol runner up, Chris Daugthry, is back to rock in Malaysia on Friday 13th July 2018, 8.30pm at KL Live, Life Center.

Daughtry will bring arena-style rock to Kuala Lumpur, performing some of their popular hits including "Home", "It's Not Over", "Feels Like Tonight", and their newest single, "Backbone".

As the frontman for the band bearing his name, Daughtry has become one of the most visible and consistent rock & roll torchbearers of the 21st Century. 

Since rising to prominence on the fifth season of American Idol, he has released four albums, all of which reached the Billboard Top Ten and have a combined sales over 8 million copies in the U.S.

One thing that has kept the fire burning for Daughtry has been the need to constantly challenge himself creatively. He has collaborated with artists from Timbaland to Vince Gill to Carlos Santana and took on the role of Judas Iscariot in the 2016 live television performance of The Passion, and even fulfilled a lifelong dream by drawing the cover of a Batman comic which was rated as one of the top 25 covers of the year by BatmanNews.com.

Daughtry will be performing in Singapore, Malaysia and Thailand on their Asian tour. Malaysia ticket sales will begin on the 21st May 2018 from 10am onwards. 

Early birds are entitled to a special rate of RM 258 only, limited quantity and on first come first serve basis only.

-ticketcharge.com.my
http://premier.ticketcharge.com.my/shows/show.aspx?sh=DAUGHTRY18

PGC Durian Fest Golf Tournament 2018 @ Penang Golf Course ( 24 June 2018 )

-Penang Golf Club facebook.

Branding Malaysia As A Wedding & Honeymoon Destination

http://ebrochures.malaysia.travel/

PUTRAJAYA, 23 MAY 2018: The recent global attention on the Royal Wedding of the Year between Prince Harry and Meghan Markle goes to show just how big the wedding and honeymoon business is.

Big weddings are not just for the British royals, though, and Malaysia is keenly aware of the great potential the industry can bring to its tourism business especially from markets such as India where it is estimated that more than 10 million weddings are organised each year.

Tapping into this market, which is said to be a recession-proof industry, estimated to be around $40-50 billion in size, is one of Tourism Malaysia’s strategy to boost its tourism revenue. Recently, Tourism Malaysia invited six of India’s top wedding planners from Mumbai, Chennai and Delhi to see what Malaysia could offer as a wedding destination for their clients. Also invited were a wedding magazine journalist and a wedding photographer.

Their trip here included hotel and site inspections in Langkawi, Kuala Lumpur and Ipoh to see the variety of accommodation options, facilities and services offered as well as nearby tourist attractions. The group also learned about customs regulations and were introduced to Malaysian wedding planners, florists and caterers. They also had the opportunity to speak with several government agencies namely the Langkawi Development Authority (LADA), Customs Department, Malaysian Immigrations Department and Malaysia Airports Holdings Berhad (MAHB), as well as Malaysia Airlines and AirAsia.

They also met with the Tourism Malaysia Director General, Datuk Seri Mirza Mohammad Taiyab and shared viewpoints on Malaysia’s potential as a wedding and honeymoon destination.

Further initiatives by Tourism Malaysia to continue such efforts of promoting the country as a wedding and honeymoon destination include the publication of promotional materials for the India market, B2B roadshows with Air Asia in Indore, Ahmedabad, Jaipur, Ludhiana, Lucknow, Delhi, Raipur and Amritsar, as well as additional familiarization trips.

-Tourism Malaysia.
http://www.malaysia.travel  

Mencari kedamaian di Pulau Mersing

BOT turut disediakan kepada pengunjung untuk melihat dari dekat

beberapa gugusan pulau-pulau di Mersing.

MERSING 24 Mei - Sebaik sahaja menyaksikan keindahan pantai yang dihampari oleh butiran pasir-pasir putih halus, pasti menjelmakan perasaan damai dan tenang kepada pengunjung.

Disulami dengan deruan angin dan hempasan ombak, suasana di pantai gugusan kepulauan Mer­sing amat memikat pengunjung yang inginkan percutian mendamaikan bersama-sama keluarga dan kenalan.

Malah, dunia alam marinnya yang kaya dengan pelbagai spe­sies menjadikan percutian ke desti­nasi kepulauan ini tidak pernah mengecewakan.

Kejernihan air lautnya yang membiaskan warna firus membolehkan pengunjung melihat ikan-ikan kecil berenang di sekeli­ling terumbu karang di dasar laut.

Hembusan segar angin Laut China Selatan yang terbentang luas di hadapan mata pula meredakan kehangatan tropika gugusan pulau tersebut yang turut mendapat jolokan ‘Maldives Malaysia’ kerana keindahannya.

Lebih membanggakan, gugusan kepulauan Mersing yang merangkumi enam pulau, iaitu Rawa, Tinggi, Aur, Sibu, Pemang­gil dan Besar turut diletak di bawah Taman Laut Sultan Iskandar (TLSI) serta dianggap sebagai 'permata laut' negeri ini.

Setiap pulau berkenaan mempunyai daya tarikan dan keunikan tersendiri dan kunjungan ke situ pasti memberi pengalaman percutian berbeza.

Justeru, tidak hairan pengunjung mahu menyelami dan merasai pengalaman berkunjung ke gugusan pulau berkenaan yang amat kaya dengan khazanah flora dan faunanya.

Misalnya, Pulau Rawa amat digemari pelancong asing khususnya dari Eropah kerana nilai ‘eksklusif' pulau berkenaan yang mengawal jumlah tetamunya bagi memberikan kepuasan maksimum kepada pengunjungnya.

Bagi pengunjung yang mencari percutian bajet, Pulau Besar, Pulau Tinggi dan Pulau Sibu adalah destinasi sesuai menerusi rangkaian penginapan yang menawarkan harga berpatutan dan mengikut keperluan pe­langgan.

Menariknya di ketiga-tiga pulau ini, pe­ngunjung juga boleh menikmati suasana kampung dengan berjalan kaki atau berbasikal sambil menyaksikan perusahaan sokongan pelancongan yang diusahakan penduduk asal pulau berkenaan.

Jangan terkejut apabila melihat ratusan keluang bergantu­ngan di atas pokok-pokok sekitar Pulau Besar yang ‘jinak’ dan tidak membahayakan.

Justeru, bagi yang inginkan percutian menyeronokkan untuk keluarga dan kenalan, gugusan kepulauan Mersing menjanjikan pengalaman baharu dan mene­nangkan.

-utusan online.
http://tourism.johor.my/

Hotel investment sentiment on the upswing with Mahathir in PM seat

Kuala Lumpur (pictured) is one of two locations drawing strong

investor interest from the hospitality sector

Investor confidence in the Malaysian hospitality sector has surged following the appointment of Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad, who has made clear that he would foster a business-friendly administration, and welcome foreign direct investments from all over the world.

Business outlook has climbed with Mahathir’s assurance for a pro-business environment in Malaysia, as well as the setting up of a special taskforce to probe into the 1Malaysia Development Bhd (1MDB) scandal and retrieve assets from the misappropriation of funds under former leader Najib Razak, Zerin Properties CEO and founder, Previndran Singhe, told TTG Asia yesterday on the sidelines of the Hospitality Malaysia Conference in Kuala Lumpur.

He commented: “We are getting enquiries from foreign investors in Asia-Pacific looking for greenfield and brownfield investment opportunities to build hotel properties of 150 keys upwards.”

According to Previndran, Kuala Lumpur and Kota Kinabalu are two key destinations drawing strong investor interest; the former because it is the capital, while the latter is favoured for its good infrastructure and air connectivity to North Asia, alongside its diversity of natural attractions.

Naresh Mohan, CEO of Grand ION Delemen Hotel in Genting Highlands, said during the ‘Unveiling the Investment Road Ahead for Malaysia’ forum session that foreign hotel investors are also attracted to Malaysia due to robust growth projections in the tourism industry, driven by a new crop of attractions such as the 20th Century Fox World Theme Park in Genting Highlands.

“Once the theme park opens, demand for rooms in Genting will outstrip the supply,” he remarked. Currently, there are more than 10,000 rooms at Resorts World Genting.

But to keep foreign investor momentum high, the new government has to look into “improving air connectivity especially to tourist destinations”, Previndran urged.

“Langkawi, for instance, has the highest average room rates in Malaysia but there are not enough business class seats on domestic flights to Langkawi. 

Langkawi also attracts tourists from Russia during the year end, but there are no direct, scheduled flights from Russia to Langkawi and Malaysia,” he continued.

Malaysian Association of Hotel Owners executive director Shaharuddin Saaid, said the new government should focus on attracting more high-end hotel brands. He said: “We need to focus on increasing tourist receipts by attracting high-income tourists rather than tourist numbers.”

-TTG Asia.

Hopes high as Malaysian trade awaits details on zero-rated GST

While the GST removal is good news, stakeholders in Malaysia are seeking

details on the new SST in order to price their tours

With the Harapan Coalition now in power, Malaysia’s travel trade is looking forward to the promised reduction of the Goods and Services Tax (GST) to a zero rate beginning June 1, down from the current six per cent, effectively scrapping the consumer tax implemented on April 1, 2015.

The GST will be replaced by the Sales and Services Tax (SST), which will only kick in after the government makes a decision on it, likely after the zero-rated GST is effected in June.

While welcoming the zero-rated GST, the Malaysian Association of Tour and Travel Agents (MATTA) and Malaysian Association of Hotel Owners (MAHO) are currently seeking clarification from the Royal Malaysian Customs Department on details of the GST removal and implementation of the new SST system.

MATTA president, KL Tan, said: “It is not entirely clear whether GST needs to be charged for tours sold before June 1, 2018 but with a travel date on or after June 1, 2018.

Still, he expects the removal of the GST to ultimately grant a “discount” on the price of local tour and travel, which is likely to in turn boost the domestic travel industry.

Tan added: “The ‘zero per cent GST’ is bound to promote spending by both locals and tourist especially on Malaysian shopping and F&B, including tourist attractions, thus potentially increasing the price appeal of Malaysia as a travel destination and encourage more tourist spending.”

Likewise, MAHO’s executive director Shaharuddin Saaid expects the lower price of hotel rooms and services to buoy domestic and inbound tourism, in addition to spurring non-room spending in hotels in the interim period between June 1 and the introduction of the SST.

MATTA’s Tan added that the policy shift will also bring consistency in GST treatment between Designated Areas – Labuan, Langkawi and Tioman, which are tax free destinations, with the rest of Malaysian travel locations.

Meanwhile, Diethelm Travel Malaysia managing director, Manfred Kurz, expressed concern over the lack of information about the SST.

He said: “Contracts for 2019 have to be finalised by end of May because many tour operators in Europe start printing their brochures in July and selling in September. We cannot give them details about the SST such as how many per cent it will be because at this point – no one knows. What will it include – transportation, entrance fees to attractions? We don’t know at this time.

“Our strategy is to be very open with our partners. We have informed them that the GST will be zero-rated from June 1 and that the SST will be reintroduced at some point in the near future. We will keep them updated when we get more information, and advise them not to publish lower rates in their new brochures.”

-TTG Asia.

Double Bonanza Shopping Celebration!

PUTRAJAYA, 18 MAY 2018: For Malaysians, the coming weeks are highly anticipated as there is a double celebration of both Malaysia Mega Sale Carnival (MMSC) with Hari Raya together. To all avid shoppers out there, the mid-year Malaysia Mega Sale Carnival (MMSC) sale has kicked off officially on 15 May until 31 July. 

Major shopping malls in Malaysia have spread out their red carpet to welcome all visitors with super discounts and offers, and exciting family activities and competitions during this sale carnival with themes of Hari Raya Aidilfitri which is just around the corner. Check out the following events and happenings. 

Kuala Lumpur Craft Complex

For traditional craft lovers or those looking for festive gifts and apparel, Kuala Lumpur Craft Complex should not be missed as the premier craft outlet will be organising a Warna-Warni Aidilfitri event. Check out the Moving Out Sale, Sedondon Apparel, Quickie Mix & Match, Craft Painting Workshop, Puasa & Raya Promotion with many bargains offered from 1 till 10 June 2018 only.

Suria KLCC

A special shopping programme, Daily Raya Rewards, is taking place at the iconic Suria KLCC. Depending on amount spent, shoppers have a chance to bring home a 3-tier tiffin set or a Longines timepiece.

In partnership with the NGO We Care Journey, Suria KLCC will hold a charity Share the Care programme where shoppers can offer donations of RM10 towards young patients of Spinal Mascular Atrophy. This is the chance to do your bit for charity. As for cooking enthusiasts, there will be Live Cooking demonstrations by Chef Sherson in Chinoz and Svago, and food reviews at Madam Kwan, Melur & Thyme, Aseana Café and Mamasan.

Pavilion Kuala Lumpur

In line with its tenth anniversary, Pavilion KL is promoting the Malaysia Mega Sale Carnival with the theme The Special 10. Be the top spender and stand a chance to win a luxurious RADO watch. Tourists will enjoy a world of privileges, special offers, discounts and gifts at more than 250 participating outlets. 

Fahrenheit88

With the dual Mega Sale & Hari Raya celebration, Fahrenheit88 presents a Gaya Raya celebration filled with festive experiences with gifts, tourist’s specials and more. Lucky shoppers who spend RM100 may redeem a Batik handkerchief, and those who spend RM200 in a single receipt will be able to redeem a RM50 Carlo Rino voucher.

For Mega Sale, Mega Spin promotion, spend RM150 in a single receipt, and stand a chance to spin and win away attractive prizes. 

Also, tourists will be able to get their hands on a Batik craft for only RM10, or free of charge for the first ten who redeem the mall’s Tourist Privilege card. 

Avenue K Shopping Mall

With its Raya Madness Reward, lucky winners stand a chance to win prizes worth RM30,000! Not only that, qualified shoppers will be invited to test their luck with AK Raya Madness Vending Machine to win attractive prizes and no one walks home empty handed.

Plaza Low Yat KL 

In celebration of Hari Raya Aidilfitri, Plaza Low Yat is organising a Redemption Campaign. Get exclusive PLY Woven Bags & Raya Packets with a minimum spend of RM250, receive Weekend Giveaways to Shoppers, and on selected dates, enjoy traditional Malay dance performances at the main entrance. Raya-themed decoration is setup throughout the inner and outer parts of the mall, too. 

Sunway Pyramid 

Sunway Pyramid will launch The Radiance of Hari Raya with great deals and bargains for the festive needs, plus free Batik gift for lucky shoppers. Various activities including traditional games will keep you occupied and entertained during your shopping spree. Make your way to the free photo booth for a memorable keepsake.

Sunway Velocity Mall

At Sunway Velocity mall in Cheras, sports fans who support their World Cup team will be given the opportunity to win authentic signed jerseys or limited-edition Adidas balls. Enter the Go for Goal competition held during this carnival with a minimum RM50 spend. 

The mall’s Hari Raya craze continues with the Weaves of Raya Harmony programme, promising a traditional and beautiful décor that reflects the beauty of Hari Raya Aidilfitri. Event highlights include cameo appearances by animation characters Omar and Hana as well as Ejen Ali, along with kids’ workshops, silat performances, traditional dance performances, storytelling sessions, and congkak competition. As a bonus, many free redemptions are available for HSBC cardholders.

More activities and workshops for kids are available at Sunway Velocity mall during the Velokiddie Carnival. 

Sunway Putra Mall

Meanwhile, Sunway Putra is putting together a Summer Sama Raya campaign which welcomes shoppers with Moroccan inspired décor and offerings, plus a Marrakesh bazaar with a variety of delicacies. The World Cup Fever will also be celebrated at the Al-Ikhsan Football Fiesta, while the Shop, Spin and Win gives shoppers a chance to bring home great prizes.

Quill City Mall

Quill City Mall’s Yass Raya 2018 brings around a Raya bazaar entertained by 30 local celebrities, Yass 100,000 points AirAsia BIG Points Balloon Drop and 2X Big Points Redemption, Yass Lucky Grab and Yass Raya Grand Launch. The whole carnival promises big prizes such as television sets, Ipads, audio systems and many more under its Shop, Dine and Win 3.0 competition.

IOI City Mall

IOI City Mall with its A Season of Shared Happiness will hold a Spend & Travel competition that offers holiday packages to Macao and other prizes. In addition, the Rasa Sayang Aidilfitri competition will give away free gifts for customers.

Alamanda Shopping Centre Putrajaya

With its Shoppers’ Redemption Program, Spend RM1,500.00 and above, and shoppers stand a chance its Daily Raya rewards. Other family fun activities such as Dining with a Star session and contests such as ketupat weaving, greeting cards and batu seremban workshops will also be happening during this sale carnival.

Elsewhere in Malaysia

In other parts of Malaysia, Gurney Paragon Mall in Penang will offer a RM10,000 Grand Prize of Home Make-Over for a lucky shopper. Genting Highlands and Johor Premium Outlets are also participating, and promise a lot of goodies.

To know further details and dates of exciting events and happenings during the Malaysia Mega Sale Carnival at our local major malls, log into the Miss SHOPhia website (missshophia.malaysia.travel), follow her IG @miss_shophia and like her Facebook page at www.facebook.com/missshophia.

-Tourism Malaysia.