KOTA KINABALU, 29 July 2025: A new birding certification module is now in place following the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between University College Sabah Foundation (UCSF) and the Sabah Birdwatchers Association.
Assistant Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister cum Sabah Tourism Board chairman Datuk Joniston Bangkuai said the introduction of the module is timely, as birdwatching is fast becoming a promising segment in Sabah’s tourism landscape.
Datuk Joniston Bangkuai (centre) witnessed the signing of the MoU between UCSF Vice-Chancellor Datuk Dr Rafiq Idris (seated left) and Sabah Birdwatchers Association President Ronald Pudin (seated right). Also in the photo are Sabah MOTAC Director Ibrahim Othman (left) and STB Product Manager Effendy Mahani (right).
“According to birding experts, the UK alone has around six million active birders, while the number across Europe is estimated to be close to 10 million.
“If we can attract even 1% of that market, it would be a strong start for Sabah,” he said after witnessing the signing ceremony last Wednesday.
“The figures show clear potential and that Sabah is moving in the right direction to tap into this growing niche,” he added.
UCSF Vice-Chancellor Datuk Dr Rafiq Idris and Sabah Birdwatchers Association president Ronald Pudin signed the MoU, which also marked the launch of the module titled “Discover the Birds of Borneo: Sabah’s Feathered Jewel”, which aims to train and certify local birding enthusiasts and tour guides.
Supported by the Sabah Tourism Board, the initiative is part of ongoing efforts to develop birdwatching into a structured and sustainable nature-based tourism product.
Joniston said this reflects a shared commitment to strengthen eco-tourism while creating job opportunities and boosting rural economies through birdwatchers who tend to spend more, stay longer, and visit lesser-known areas.
“I hope that the module will encourage more rural youth to explore birding and gain valuable skills that could lead to meaningful livelihood opportunities.
“By training locals to become bird guides, we are helping them discover new income streams and encouraging long-term stewardship of the environment.
“When communities see value in protecting their forests and wetlands, they are more likely to participate in conservation efforts, and that’s the kind of sustainable tourism we want to encourage,” he said.
TOKYO - SEPTEMBER 9: Street life in Shinjuku September 9, 2013. Shinjuku is a special ward located in Tokyo Metropolis, Japan. It is a major commercial and administrative centre
SINGAPORE, 29 July 2025: Digital travel platform Agoda has unveiled the top five most popular cities in Asia for the first half of 2025, based on booking data from 1 January to 30 June.
The list highlights the allure of Asia’s bustling metropolises, with Tokyo, Bangkok, and Osaka leading the pack, followed by Seoul and Kuala Lumpur, which round out the top five.
Agoda’s data underscores the magnetic pull of urban exploration, as travellers continue to flock to Asia’s iconic cities for their unique blend of culture, cuisine, and experiences. From Tokyo’s neon-lit streets to Bangkok’s energetic atmosphere, these destinations remain perennial favourites for both first-time visitors and seasoned explorers.
Agoda’s Senior Vice President of Supply, Andrew Smith, shared: “Asia’s cities have a timeless appeal that keeps travellers coming back year after year, whether it’s the culinary adventures in Bangkok, the cultural treasures of Tokyo, or the urban buzz of Seoul.”
Top Five Asian Destinations HY 2025
Tokyo, Japan Bangkok, Thailand Osaka, Japan Seoul, South Korea Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
SINGAPORE, 29 July 2025: The Emirates Group has kick-started a global talent scouting and acquisition drive, revving up this phase of its remarkable growth. This financial year, the aviation powerhouse is looking to onboard 17,300 people across 350 career roles.
These roles span every facet, function and operation across Emirates and dnata, a leading global air and travel services provider. Hundreds of recruits are required across some roles, including cabin crew, pilots, engineers, commercial and sales teams, customer service, ground handling, catering, IT, HR and finance. dnata is seeking to hire more than 4,000 specialists in cargo, catering, and ground handling.
Emirates Airline & Group Chairman and Chief Executive HH Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum said: “The Emirates Group’s people strategy is anchored in Dubai’s Economic Agenda D33 and our own projected growth and expansion. We’re seeking world-class talent to fuel our bold ambition, redefine the future of aviation, and continue our commitment to and culture of innovation and excellence. It represents an opportunity for skilled and talented professionals to play a stellar role in our future, our strategy, and our growth story.”
Throughout the year, the Group will be hosting more than 2,100 open days and other talent acquisition events in 150 cities to recruit the best pilots, IT professionals, engineers, and talent for cabin crew roles. This also includes Dubai-based events designed to engage UAE national students and graduates. For those keen to join the Group, it’s a valuable opportunity to meet experienced recruiters and sometimes passionate, long-serving employees in these roles.
Since 2022, the Group has onboarded more than 41,000 talented professionals, including nearly 27,000 in various operational roles, and now has a workforce of 121,000.
The Group has always been a top talent magnet and an employer of choice both in the UAE and globally. In the last financial year, the Group received more than 3.7 million applications for roles spanning all its brands and departments, with candidates attracted by its brand power, global reputation, people-first strategy, tax-free salary, top-notch benefits, and its renowned training, development, and recognition programmes.
Talented professionals around the world are drawn to Dubai for several reasons – safety, security, economic opportunities, tech-centric ecosystems, forward-thinking policies, and its vibrant lifestyle.
For Dubai-based employees, benefits at the Emirates Group include profit share eligibility, comprehensive medical and life insurance cover, a whole range of travel benefits including flight tickets – annual leave, service-related, and concessional ones for self, family, wider family and friends – concessional cargo rates, and membership cards that provide discounts at hundreds of retail, hospitality and lifestyle outlets.
Those aspiring to join the Emirates Group can apply for various roles and stay informed about open days and recruitment events worldwide by visiting www.emiratesgroupcareers.com.
MUMBAI, 29 July 2025: Thomas Cook (India) Limited, India’s leading omnichannel forex services company, has announced its partnership with Google Pay to facilitate contactless payments via its range of prepaid forex cards.
This makes Thomas Cook India the first in India in the cross-border payments category to enable customers to transact effortlessly using their mobile devices across retail tap & pay (contactless) or online – using Google Pay.
Thomas Cook’s cardholders gain an extra layer of security via Google Pay’s state-of-the-art network tokenisation standards.
The launch commences via Thomas Cook’s partnership with Visa.
The growing adoption of digital payments across India’s travel segments, from business to leisure and particularly among Millennials and Gen Z, highlights a significant market opportunity. India’s rapid shift toward contactless payments is evident, with the Government of India’s data revealing that UPI processed 16.58 billion transactions worth INR 23.49 lakh crore as of October 2024 — a 45% increase over the previous year. Thomas Cook’s forex data highlights the growing importance of digital solutions, with a noteworthy 20% contribution from its digital platforms, including its portal, apps, and forex services via WhatsApp.
Given the increasing need for seamless digital solutions in cross-border transactions, Thomas Cook’s partnership with Google Pay aims to equip India’s consumers when travelling overseas, across transactions for accommodation, transportation, dining, shopping, and more. Customers simply need to add their Thomas Cook forex cards (Borderless Travel, One Currency, Study Buddy, and EnterpriseFX) to Google Pay to enjoy a seamless payment experience.
Key Benefits
Seamless addition of Thomas Cook’s range of forex prepaid cards to Google Pay.
Contactless and quick payments via mobile.
Enhanced security with tokenisation.
Eliminates the need to carry physical cards, reducing the stress of card loss/theft; avoids the hassle of card replacement and the need for emergency cash.
Global access — transact smoothly and seamlessly in 95 countries.
Thomas Cook (India) Limited Executive Vice President Foreign Exchange Deepesh Varma said: “India today represents the youngest demography, the fastest growing major economy and the fastest growing digital economy all at once. This macro-confluence is constantly driving higher expectations from payment service providers to facilitate faster, seamless, safe payments globally, via technology-enabled solutions.
“Our partnership with Google Pay & Visa is tailor-made for these Global Indians – by simply adding their Thomas Cook forex cards to their Google Pay wallet, they can now seamlessly and securely complete contactless, cross-border transactions using their mobile devices across retail tap & pay POS or online. In addition to the unmatched convenience, our cardholders are also assured an extra layer of security via Google Pay’s state-of-the-art network tokenisation standards”
Visa Country Manager India Rishi Chhabra said: “We are thrilled to introduce Visa’s contactless payment technology on Thomas Cook Forex Cards, empowering customers to make secure and seamless Mobile Tap & Pay transactions. As overseas travel surges, especially among millennials and Gen Z, there is a growing demand for safe, ultra-fast payment experiences. With this collaboration, Visa reaffirms its commitment to delivering cutting-edge digital payment solutions that offer today’s travellers unmatched convenience, security, and peace of mind, right from their smartphones.”
HO CHI MINH CITY, Vietnam, 29 July 2025: Mr Biker Saigon, Vietnam’s cycling tour specialist, has launched its first-ever gravel bike tour: a bold, 10-day ride from Saigon to Hoi An designed for serious riders seeking challenge, culture, and adventure.
Gravel Bike Vietnam: Saigon to Hoi An is not your average cycling tour.
Photo credit: Mr Biker Saigon.
It’s a ride through Vietnam’s most rugged coastlines, highland tea hills, and off-grid backroads — a region-spanning journey blending endurance, discovery, and deep local insight. Riders will cover 60 to 100km a day on red clay trails, misty pine descents, coastal gravel flats, and forest tracks once used by farmers and fishermen.
“We’re delighted to offer this new gravel cycling experience to our clients — and there will be many more to come,” says Mr Biker Saigon founder Minh Thai. “The tour is inspired by my passion for gravel riding as well as by our successful mountain biking team. We believe Vietnam has the potential to be one of the world’s great gravel biking destinations, and we are proud to be pioneers in this field.”
The route passes through Vietnam’s tea and coffee-growing highlands, past ancient Cham ruins, quiet fishing villages, bustling coastal towns, and the haunting My Lai Memorial, ending in the lantern-lit streets of Hoi An, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Days are demanding but never punishing, and nights are spent in handpicked boutique hotels where hot showers, beachside dinners, and local craft beer await.
Each ride is fully supported by a professional team of local cyclists, mechanics, and drivers – people who know every inch of the route and can recommend a better roadside bánh xèo as easily as they can fix a bent derailleur. And as Mr Biker also runs an official Trek dealership in Saigon, riders will get to ride specially imported Trek Checkpoint 2025 model bikes.
Riders can expect gravel with personality: varied, wild, and challenging – but always rewarding.
Why Vietnam for gravel
While the world’s gravel crowd obsesses over Colombia, Morocco, and the Rockies, Vietnam remains one of the scene’s best-kept secrets. That’s changing. With its vast network of quiet rural roads, diverse terrain, and still-authentic atmosphere, Vietnam offers everything a gravel cyclist craves – without the crowds or price tag.
“This is gravel with proper riding and proper support,” says Thai. “And the roads? Often, you’ll have them to yourself.”
Mr Biker Saigon has already built a reputation for expertly run road, MTB, and custom cycling adventures across Southeast Asia. With this launch, the company adds another first to its name – and opens the door for Vietnam to take its rightful place on the global gravel map.
*A gravel bike is a versatile type of bicycle designed to perform well on a wide range of surfaces, bridging the gap between traditional road bikes and mountain bikes. It’s often called an “adventure bicycle” due to its capability for multi-terrain riding, including paved roads, dirt paths, gravel tracks, and even light singletrack.
KUALA LUMPUR, 29 July 2025: The Malaysian Association of Tour and Travel Agents (MATTA) congratulated the country’s Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture Malaysia (MOTAC) on its recent enforcement efforts to clamp down on unlicensed tourism operators under the Tourism Industry Act.
The nationwide crackdown conducted during the first two weeks of July involved checks on vehicles, travel companies, accommodation premises, and tourist guides, sending a clear and timely message: compliance and accountability are non-negotiable.
“We applaud MOTAC’s continued efforts to uphold the law and protect the integrity of our tourism industry. Only licensed and qualified operators must be allowed to serve tourists. MATTA remains committed to working alongside the government to build a stronger, more sustainable tourism ecosystem,” said MATTA president Nigel Wong.
He further noted: “Illegal operators often operate without the many overheads and various compliance costs incurred by legitimate stakeholders, forcing many licensed businesses to compromise simply to make ends meet. It not only erodes standards across the board but also places unfair pressure on those who play by the rules.
“We also encourage closer collaboration between MOTAC and enforcement agencies such as the Road Transport Department (JPJ), Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM), National Anti-Drugs Agency (AADK), and Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (APMM) to build a robust and coordinated regulatory ecosystem.
“We hope to see continued enforcement activities carried out with greater intensity in the lead up to VM2026. We also hope to see other ministries like MCMC working more closely with MOTAC to clamp down on illegal online operators – this will also have the effect of reducing scams perpetrated online,” Wong concluded.
Beyond enforcement, MATTA strongly believes that strategic public-private partnerships are crucial in promoting a safe and professional tourism environment. Industry players must be part of the solution by operating legally, raising awareness, and supporting compliance mechanisms.
These efforts are fully aligned with the goals of the National Tourism Policy 2020–2030 and Malaysia’s broader vision to position itself as a sustainable, competitive, and inclusive tourism destination. MATTA remains committed to supporting MOTAC in this journey and calls on all stakeholders to work together to protect and grow the Malaysian tourism sector.
BANGKOK, 29 July 2025: Thai Airways International Public Company Limited (THAI) has confirmed its upcoming relisting on the Stock Exchange of Thailand, with trading of “THAI” stock set to resume on August 4, 2025.
The milestone follows the Central Bankruptcy Court’s order on 16 June 2025, which concluded the company’s business rehabilitation process.
The successful completion of the implementation under the business rehabilitation plan has transformed the airline into a private entity, which has begun rebuilding confidence among shareholders and investors.
The airline’s press statement noted it has achieved a strong performance track record and a clear strategy to support future growth”.
THAI is poised to reclaim its position as a leader in the regional aviation industry and a top-listed company on the country’s stock exchange once again.”
THAI Chairman of the Board of Directors, Lavaron Sangsnit, added: “The new Board of Directors is committed to steering THAI into a new era — one defined by operational excellence and robust corporate governance as a private company.”
The 11-member board includes three directors from the pre-rehabilitation period, two of whom also served as plan administrators. They are joined by eight new directors, appointed by shareholders following a review to ensure comprehensive expertise in aviation, finance, law, strategy, marketing, and digital technology.
The board has established dedicated sub-committees, including the Audit Committee and the Nomination and Remuneration Committee, which will also provide comprehensive oversight.
On the environmental front, as an airline operator, THAI is committed to minimising the environmental impact of our operations, with a clear target to achieve net-zero emissions by 2065.
THAI has now completed all conditions of its business rehabilitation plan in just four years since the plan was approved by the Central Bankruptcy Court in 2021. In 2024, the airline achieved an operating profit (before financial costs and excluding one-time items) of THB41,515 million. For the first quarter of 2025, the board reported an operating profit (before financial expenses and non-recurring items) of THB13,661 million, resulting in an EBIT margin of 26.5%.
THAI Chief Executive Officer Chai Eamsiri elaborated on the company’s growth strategy, claiming restructuring and rightsizing have established an organisational structure that is more agile and efficient.
While increasing transparency and accountability in operational processes, we are executing a strategic fleet optimisation with a target of having 150 aircraft by 2033. By streamlining our fleet from eight aircraft models to just four, and our engine types from nine to five, we have significantly enhanced cost control in both operations and maintenance.
“With this lean foundation, we aim to reclaim our historical market share, targeting an increase from the current 26% to 35% by 2029 and will expand routes and increase flights to solidify our position as a regional network airline connecting Asia with the rest of the world.”
KUALA LUMPUR, 29 July 2025: Final preparations are underway for the Asia Pacific Aviation Safety Seminar 2025 (APASS 2025), taking place on 10 to 11 September 2025 at the Hilton Manila, Philippines.
Hosted by Philippine Airlines and organised by the Association of Asia Pacific Airlines (AAPA), APASS 2025 will see a return of the region’s flagship aviation safety event.
More than 200 safety professionals from airlines, civil aviation authorities, equipment manufacturers (OEMs, MROs), air navigation service providers, training organisations, and aviation safety solution providers will attend this year’s APASS in the Philippines.
Under the theme ‘Safety Without Borders: Global Partnerships, Local Impact’, the Seminar will spotlight today’s most pressing safety challenges.
Seminar standouts
Emerging concerns — GNSS interference & spoofing.
Crew performance and decision-making in dynamic environments.
The future of aviation safety leadership and organisational culture.
Fatigue management for Crew, Maintenance and Dispatch.
Multi-source safety data integration and resilience.
Operational safety in high-growth environments.
AAPA Director General Subhas Menon remarked: “As the Asia Pacific region continues its rapid growth trajectory, the need for shared strategies, transparency, and trust across borders becomes ever more important. APASS 2025 will convene leading voices from across the industry to drive meaningful and objective improvements in safety performance.”
New features at APASS 2025 include dedicated Flight Operations and Cabin Safety components, a joint Engineering/Airlines/MRO collaboration panel, and roundtables involving turboprop and regional jet operators, thereby enhancing the practical value of the seminar for participants.
The event is endorsed by the Flight Safety Foundation and supported by ICAO. It continues to draw strong engagement from Asia-Pacific states and global partners committed to ICAO’s “No Country Left Behind” initiative.
AAPA extends an invitation to aviation safety stakeholders from Asia Pacific and beyond to participate in this event.
KUCHING, Malaysia, 25 July 2025: APAC Now, a UK-based strategic communications agency specialising in Asia-Pacific travel, has been appointed by Sarawak Tourism Board (STB) to lead its public relations efforts in the UK.
With a strong focus on destination storytelling, sustainable travel, and cultural engagement, APAC Now will promote Sarawak as a leading destination for eco-conscious and immersive travel experiences. The agency will play a pivotal role in raising Sarawak’s profile among UK travellers, aligning with the growing demand for meaningful, responsible, and nature-rich holidays.
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Situated on the island of Borneo, Sarawak is home to one of the world’s most biodiverse ecosystems, offering pristine rainforests, rich indigenous heritage, and a broad spectrum of adventure and cultural experiences. The partnership signals a renewed commitment to connecting with the UK market through impactful storytelling and targeted media engagement.
Sarawak Tourism Board, Chief Executive Officer Sharzede Datu Haji Salleh Askor commented: “We are delighted to welcome APAC Now as our UK public relations partner. The UK remains a vital market for Sarawak. With APAC Now’s expertise in sustainability-led travel marketing and cultural storytelling, we are confident in our ability to connect with British travellers who value authenticity, nature, and purpose. Sarawak is home to rare wildlife like orangutans and hornbills, ancient rainforests, and warm, welcoming communities, all of which make it a destination where travellers can truly engage, explore, and leave a positive impact.”
APAC Now Managing Director Hannah Filer added: “We are thrilled to represent Sarawak in the UK. For nature lovers, adventure seekers, and culturally curious travellers, Sarawak offers an experience unlike anywhere else. From UNESCO-listed national parks and rare species to vibrant festivals and immersive homestays, this region embodies responsible and regenerative tourism.
We look forward to inspiring UK audiences to discover this hidden gem of Southeast Asia.”
As Malaysia’s largest state, Sarawak is home to extraordinary natural diversity, including two UNESCO World Heritage Sites — Gunung Mulu National Park and Niah National Park — and 67 protected areas, ranging from national parks and wildlife sanctuaries to marine reserves. Visitors can explore limestone cave systems, kayak along jungle rivers, or spot iconic wildlife, including orangutans, proboscis monkeys, Rafflesia flowers, and the rhinoceros hornbill, Sarawak’s state bird.
At the heart of Sarawak’s tourism approach is sustainability, with a focus on conservation, eco-friendly innovation, and community-based experiences. The region continues to expand its network of eco-hosts and homestays, giving travellers the chance to live alongside local communities, experience traditional crafts and cuisine, and support indigenous livelihoods. Accommodation in Sarawak ranges from eco-lodges and boutique hotels to community-run homestays, offering meaningful stays in rainforest, coastal, or village settings.
Last month’s successful staging of the Rainforest World Music Festival (RWMF) marked a significant milestone. Now in its 28th year, the festival welcomed over 22,000 attendees, with a notable increase in family participation, reflecting its growing focus on creating a warm, inclusive atmosphere for visitors of all ages. Offering something for all tastes, the event featured over 200 performers from 20 countries, blending global music with environmental education under the theme “Connections: One Earth, One Love.”
With its unique rainforest setting, dynamic programming, and international reputation, RWMF remains one of Asia’s most significant cultural festivals and will continue to be a key event for international travellers to watch in future years.
Beyond the festival, visitors can delve deeper into Sarawak’s culture by exploring the Sarawak Cultural Village, a living museum showcasing 34 ethnic groups, or visiting the award-winning Borneo Cultures Museum in downtown Kuching, the largest in Malaysia and the second-largest in Southeast Asia.
APAC Now will also spotlight Sarawak’s dedication to immersive travel experiences with a special focus on its rich culinary heritage. A key highlight is the release of Eat, Roam, Relish, a culinary travel series hosted by MasterChef Australia finalist Audra Morrice. The series explores Sarawak’s unique flavours and the cultural stories behind its cuisine, offering viewers an authentic taste of the region. This initiative reinforces Sarawak’s emerging role as a premier destination for food tourism, seamlessly blending culinary exploration with immersive travel experiences.
As Sarawak continues to position itself at the forefront of eco-cultural travel, this new partnership with APAC Now marks a pivotal step in bringing the state’s rich heritage, natural wonders, and sustainable vision to a broad UK audience.
DUBAI, UAE, 25 July 2025: UAE-headquartered Global Hotel Alliance (GHA), an alliance of independent hotel brands, has announced three appointments to strengthen its leadership team.
Katharina Dein has been promoted to Vice President, Commercial, Jelena Kezika becomes Vice President, Strategy, and Andrea Krenn takes on the new role of Senior Vice President, Communications.
She was the first member of the GHA Commercial team, joining in 2013 to oversee a growing portfolio of brands. In her new role as Vice President Commercial, Dein will broaden her scope of responsibilities, optimising the performance of newly integrated properties.
Jelena Kezika, who has also been with GHA since 2013, has played a pivotal role in implementing strategic initiatives to enhance member engagement and improve GHA’s commercial success by driving member acquisition and increasing cross-brand revenue for GHA hotels. In her new role as Vice President of Strategy, Kezika will continue to shape GHA’s future, planning, developing, and implementing new strategies, as well as expanding GHA’s partnerships to increase the reach of GHA’s loyalty ecosystem.
Andrea Krenn, appointed Senior Vice President of Communications, has led global public relations efforts for GHA since 2021, bringing a wealth of international experience in corporate communications and media relations to the company. She held previous positions at Atlantis, The Palm, and Dubai Tourism before founding her consultancy endeavour.
These appointments coincide with a period of strong growth for GHA, as new brands such as Cinnamon Hotels (Sri Lanka), Sunway (Malaysia), and Rotana (UAE) are set to join in 2025, further expanding and innovating in the travel and hospitality space.
