Daily scheduled flights offer a highly competitive alternative on the heavily travelled corridor, linking Australian cities with the holiday island of Bali.

The expansion to include Bali-Melbourne flights follows TransNusa’s growth in the Australian market, as it secured a 20% market share in Perth.

TransNusa Group CEO Datuk Bernard Francis noted that the “launch of the Melbourne-Bali route represents a monumental step forward in TransNusa’s international expansion strategy. It strengthens Bali’s position as a premier gateway between Australia and Asia, while giving travellers a compelling new choice that combines connectivity, value, and a distinctly premium travel experience.”

To celebrate this milestone, TransNusa continues to offer exclusive introductory fares, with standard basic seats starting from just AUD299. Unlike traditional low-cost competitors, TransNusa’s standard tickets include baggage allowances and baseline comfort amenities, including complimentary water and snacks.

Flight schedule

Flight 8B18 departs Bali (DPS) at 2045 from I Gusti Ngurah International Airport, arriving at Melbourne Airport (MEL) at 0540 the following morning.
Flight 8B19 departs Melbourne Airport (MEL) at 0625, arriving in Bali (DPS) at 0940.

Initially, TransNusa will operate four flights weekly, scheduled on Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday. The airline will increase frequency to daily flights effective 15 November.

Travellers can book tickets via the airline’s official website or through authorised travel booking platforms.

(Source: TransNusa)

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Through the state’s Heal & Explore Selangor initiative, visitors can access high-quality healthcare services while experiencing the state’s rich culture, culinary offerings, natural attractions, and recreational destinations.

Located on the west coast of Peninsular Malaysia and surrounding Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia’s capital, Selangor has a well-connected transportation network that supports international travel. Visitors from Indonesia can fly directly to Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA), KLIA Terminal 2 (KLIA2), or Subang SkyPark Airport, all of which provide convenient access to hospitals, hotels, and tourist attractions across the state.

As part of its efforts to promote medical tourism, Tourism Selangor participated in the Malaysia Healthcare Expo (MHX) Indonesia 2026 in Jakarta from 15 to 18 October as part of the MedTravel Selangor: Heal & Explore initiative, which promotes integrating quality healthcare services with comprehensive travel experiences.

Healthcare institutions joining the Expo included Sunway Medical Centre, Subang Jaya Medical Centre (SJMC), Thomson Hospital Kota Damansara, KPJ Damansara Specialist Hospital, Avisena Specialist Hospital, Ara Damansara Medical Centre, Columbia Asia Hospitals, KPJ Klang Specialist Hospital, and Selgate Healthcare. 

These hospitals and healthcare providers offer a wide range of medical specialities, including comprehensive health screenings, cardiology, oncology, orthopaedics, gastroenterology, fertility treatments and IVF, supported by modern medical technology and experienced healthcare professionals.

Selgate Healthcare also plays an important role in expanding access to quality healthcare services throughout Selangor through its extensive healthcare network. Strategic partners such as Le Méridien Petaling Jaya and AirAsia Ride further support the initiative, enhancing the visitor experience through premium hospitality, seamless mobility, and convenient access to medical centres and key attractions across Selangor.

What sets Selangor apart from other medical tourism destinations is its ability to offer a holistic experience that combines quality healthcare with a diverse range of tourism products suitable for every type of traveller. Beyond healthcare and hospitality, family travellers can enjoy attractions such as SplashMania Waterpark, i-City Shah Alam, Skyline Luge, Monkeys Canopy Resort, and Gamuda Gardens Fun Park. In contrast, solo travellers can enjoy café-hopping, food adventures, shopping, and cultural and heritage attractions.

Visitors seeking a more authentic side of Selangor can discover destinations such as Kuala Selangor, Sekinchan, Kuala Kubu Bharu, Jugra, Mah Meri Cultural Village, Puncak Alop, and The Beacon Resort, which offer immersive nature, cultural, and wellness experiences that complement their journey.

As part of its ongoing efforts to strengthen healthcare tourism promotion in Indonesia, Tourism Selangor participated in the Malaysia Healthcare Expo (MHX) Indonesia 2026, organised by the Malaysia Healthcare Travel Council (MHTC) and held from 15 to 18 October 2026 at Central Park Mall, Jakarta. Through this platform, Tourism Selangor introduced the Heal & Explore Selangor initiative and the MedTravel Selangor: Heal & Explore publication, showcasing Selangor’s healthcare tourism ecosystem, which combines quality medical treatment, premium hospitality, and diverse cultural, culinary, and nature-based experiences for Indonesian travellers.

About Tourism Selangor
Tourism Selangor is Selangor State’s Official Tourism Promotion Agency, established to increase local and international tourism to Selangor by enhancing and developing the state’s known and undiscovered beauty.

Spanning over nine districts, including Petaling, Gombak, Klang, Sepang, Hulu Langat, Sabak Bernam, Kuala Selangor, Kuala Langat and Hulu Selangor, the area is known as an extraordinary holiday and event destination. 

(Source: Tourism Selangor).

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Together, IATA members account for approximately 85% of global air traffic. 

Established in Jakarta in 2022, BBN Airlines Indonesia is a non-scheduled airline specialising in wet-lease and charter services for airlines and other aviation customers across Indonesia and the broader Asia-Pacific region. 

IATA membership is open to airlines operating scheduled and non-scheduled services that maintain an IATA Operational Safety Audit (IOSA) registration, which BBN Airlines Indonesia obtained in 2025.

The milestone comes as BBN Airlines Indonesia continues to grow its wet-lease and charter operations. The airline currently operates two Boeing 737-800 aircraft, registered as PK-BBF and PK-BBG. It also plans to add an Airbus A320 to its fleet, with commercial services expected to begin in December 2026.

“We are proud to become part of the IATA network,” said  BBN Airlines Indonesia Chief Executive Officer Werry Orbani. “This membership represents an important step in our development as we continue expanding our wet-lease and charter operations. It strengthens our connection with the international aviation community. It allows us to contribute to industry discussions while continuing to provide reliable capacity solutions to our partners across Indonesia and the wider Asia-Pacific region.”

As an IATA member, BBN Airlines Indonesia will be able to participate more closely in industry discussions, advisory groups and initiatives covering areas such as safety, operational efficiency and regulatory development. The membership will also strengthen the airline’s connections with aviation stakeholders internationally. 

BBN Airlines Indonesia is part of Avia Solutions Group, the world’s largest ACMI provider. The group operates a fleet of 136 aircraft across six continents and is supported by more than 11,000 aviation professionals across its 250+ subsidiaries. 

Its portfolio also includes MRO, pilot and crew training, ground handling, and other aviation services worldwide.

About BBN Airlines Indonesia
BBN Airlines Indonesia is a subsidiary of Avia Solutions Group, the world’s largest ACMI (aircraft, crew, maintenance, and insurance) provider, operating a fleet of 107 passenger and cargo aircraft worldwide. 

(Source: BBN Airlines Indonesia)

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Flight 8B 541 departed I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport at 1130 for Phuket on 9 September, linking two of Southeast Asia’s most iconic beach destinations. 

The airline said in its launch promotions that the new route eliminates tedious layovers, turning a previously long travel day into a smooth four-hour flight.

“Today we celebrate more than just a new flight; we are bridging two world-class tourism capitals,” said TransNusa Group Chief Executive Officer Datuk Bernard Francis. “As Bali’s International Premium Airline, our goal is to design ultimate island experiences that bring the best of sun, sea and healing straight to our passengers. 

“This route was established to boost tourism in the region, create new economic opportunities, and further strengthen TransNusa’s hub in Bali. By providing a direct link, we make it easier than ever for global travellers to experience the unique cultures of Phuket, Bali and beyond Bali in a single itinerary”.

TransNusa has recently launched new services connecting island destinations directly with Bali, giving travellers direct access to Indonesia’s hidden gems such as Wakatobi, Lombok, Manado, and Bima.

Wakatobi: Home to the world’s second-largest barrier reef, this remote marine haven is a top spot for world-class diving and pristine underwater ecosystems.

Lombok: A premier leisure escape featuring holistic health retreats, oceanside yoga, and traditional Sasak healing therapies. In addition, Lombok is also known for its pristine coastal and volcanic adventures and high-octane sports tourism, including world-class surfing and the Mandalika international racing circuit.

Manado: Located in North Sulawesi, this diving destination is framed by dramatic volcanic beauty and serves as the gateway to the world-renowned Bunaken National Marine Park.

Bima: Situated on Sumbawa Island, Bima offers rugged landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and serves as an ideal entry point for surfers and adventure seekers looking for raw natural beauty.

Expanding Horizons: Gateway to Singapore and Perth

TransNusa also bridges Bali with major international hubs beyond Thailand. The airline operates routes from Bali to Singapore and Perth, marking a successful expansion that connects Western Australia.

Flight schedule: Bali-Phuket

The new Bali–Phuket route operates four times weekly on Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday, and will expand to daily service on 3 October 2026.

8B541 departs Denpasar (DPS) at 1130 and arrives in Phuket (HKT) at 1435. 
8B542 departs Phuket (HKT) at 1535 and arrives in Denpasar (DPS) at 2035.

For the four-hour scheduled flight from Bali to Phuket, TransNusa deploys an Airbus A320 with 174 seats.

To celebrate the Bali-Phuket launch, TransNusa offers an introductory promotional fare starting from IDR2,399,000 (USD135) one-way, bookable via the airline’s website. 

(Source: TransNusa)

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The four Bali additions further expand Preferred Hotels & Resorts’ footprint in Indonesia, joining AYANA Midplaza Jakarta and bringing the brand’s portfolio in the country to five member hotels. 

With these additions, Preferred Hotels & Resorts now represents 25 member properties across seven countries in Southeast Asia, including prominent hotels such as Dusit Thani Bangkok, The Fullerton Hotel Singapore, The Fullerton Bay Hotel Singapore, Artyzen Singapore, and The RuMa Hotel & Residences in Kuala Lumpur.

“We are pleased to strengthen our presence in Indonesia with the addition of four distinctive independent hotels in Bali,” said Preferred Hotels & Resorts Area Managing Director, Southeast Asia, Christine Tan. “As demand for authentic, experience-driven luxury travel continues to grow in the region, these new member properties enhance the diversity and competitiveness of our regional portfolio while providing travellers and our industry partners with greater choice in one of Asia Pacific’s most sought-after destinations. Their addition reflects our long-term commitment to expanding our footprint across key growth markets in Southeast Asia, including Indonesia, Thailand, and Vietnam.”

New member hotels in Bali

· Ametis Villa Bali (Canggu, Bali) – LVX Collection: Located in Canggu, Bali’s laidback coastal enclave known for its rice fields, black sand beaches and surf culture, this luxury retreat offers  14 residential-style private villas. Each villa features a spacious private swimming pool, open-plan living areas and contemporary interiors that showcase locally inspired design.  

· Nuju Uluwatu (Uluwatu, Bali) – LVX Collection: Nestled in Bali’s sought-after Bingin neighbourhood, this new opening is an adults-only boutique retreat offering a tranquil base across 17 private pool villas within one of the island’s most desirable coastal destinations.  

· Samsara Ubud (Ubud, Bali) – LVX Collection: Set amid the quiet highlands of Bali’s Kelusa Village, this One-Michelin Key resort comprises 17 villas within a rainforest landscape just north of central Ubud. Each villa boasts a heated infinity pool, outdoor living areas, and views of the surrounding valley. Guests can indulge in the Chakra Spa, which focuses on holistic wellness.

· The Meru Sanur (Sanur, Bali) – LVX Collection: Located on Sanur Beach, this oceanfront 184 all-suite resort sits within ‘The Sanur’, Indonesia’s first special economic zone dedicated to health and wellness tourism. The property features contemporary suites with Balinese design elements, while guests can enjoy amenities ranging from beachfront pools to a spa, fitness centre, and kids’ club. 

(Source: Preferred Hotels)

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The four-day event follows a record year for the Indonesian market, which generated MYR2.2 billion in healthcare travel revenue in 2025, a 24% year-on-year increase. The four-day healthcare consumer event underscores Malaysia Healthcare’s commitment to bringing trusted, high-quality healthcare services closer to Indonesian communities while expanding its footprint in one of Indonesia’s fastest-growing regional centres. 

Held under the Malaysia Year of Medical Tourism (MYMT) 2026 campaign themed Healing Meets Hospitality, MHX Yogyakarta 2026 reinforces Malaysia’s position as the preferred destination for medical tourism by combining world-class medical expertise with compassionate patient care and seamless healthcare experiences.

Yogyakarta has emerged as a strategic market for Malaysia Healthcare, supported by a well-educated population, increasing demand for advanced speciality care, and convenient direct connectivity to Kuala Lumpur. These factors present strong opportunities to strengthen healthcare collaboration between Malaysia and Indonesia further and to provide greater access to specialised treatment options for Indonesian patients.

Speaking at the event,  MHTC’s Head of Indonesia Market Rahmatullah Baragau said: “Indonesia has always been Malaysia Healthcare’s closest and most valued market, and Yogyakarta represents an exciting opportunity as healthcare awareness and demand for specialised treatments continue to grow. Through MHX Yogyakarta 2026, we aim to strengthen public confidence in Malaysia Healthcare while bringing our trusted healthcare ecosystem closer to local communities.”

More than 15 member hospitals participated, showcasing Malaysia’s strengths across various medical disciplines including cardiology, oncology, orthopaedics, fertility, health screening, gastroenterology, and other specialised services.

Participating hospitals:

1. Island Hospital Penang

2. Institut Jantung Negara

3. Mahkota Medical Centre

4. Subang Jaya Medical Centre

5. Alpha IVF & Women’s Specialists

6. Ampang Puteri Specialist Hospital

7. GenPrime Everlink Fertility Centre

8. Hospital Picaso

9. Damansara Specialist Hospital 2

10. KPJ Klang Specialist Hospital

11. MSU Medical Centre

12. Optimax Eye Specialist Centre

13. Pantai Hospital Kuala Lumpur

14. Pantai Hospital Penang

15. Penang Adventist Hospital

16. Sunway Medical Centre Damansara

17. Sunway Medical Centre Penang

18. Sunway Medical Centre Sunway City Kuala Lumpur

19. Thomson Hospital Kota Damansara 

Indonesia continues to be Malaysia Healthcare’s largest source market. Healthcare traveller arrivals from Indonesia reached 968,000 in 2025, a 16% increase from the previous year, reflecting sustained confidence among Indonesian patients in Malaysia’s healthcare offerings. 

MHX Yogyakarta 2026 forms part of MHTC’s broader strategy to strengthen long-term partnerships with communities, healthcare stakeholders, and local organisations across Indonesia, while supporting MYMT 2026’s goals to position Malaysia as the world’s preferred medical tourism destination.

(Source: Bernama)

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Meanwhile, the Accommodation and Food & Beverage Service sector recorded a 13.14% growth in the first quarter of 2026.

In response, Archipelago Hotels introduces five properties across Java and Sumatra, comprising two new openings and three rebrandings. The five properties are Aston Cimone Hotel & Convention Centre, Aston Malang Hotel & Conference Centre, Nawana by Alana, fave+ hotel Lampung, and fave+ hotel Pamanukan. This portfolio will cater to various travel needs, including business trips, MICE, family vacations and leisure stays. 

“The growth of tourism and the accommodation sector is creating greater demand for hotels that offer quality while remaining relevant to the character of each destination. Importantly, the Indonesian traveller is no longer choosing a hotel on price alone. Low price may attract attention, but genuine value comes from the combination of quality, comfort and an experience that feels interesting and distinctive. For Archipelago Hotels, this shift represents both an opportunity and a responsibility: to develop hotels that meet the market’s practical needs while giving guests something memorable enough to choose, enjoy and recommend,” said Archipelago Hotels Chief Executive Officer John Flood.

Archipelago Hotels is the largest privately owned hotel management group in Indonesia and Southeast Asia, operating more than 45,000 rooms across 350 hotels in more than 200 destinations in Indonesia, Southeast Asia, Latin America, the Caribbean, the Middle East, and Oceania. 

Headquartered in Jakarta, the group has a portfolio of 13 brands, including Aston, Alana, Huxley, Park Lane, Kamuela, Avanika, Harper, Quest, Four Corners, Neo, fave, Nordic, and Aston Collection. 

(Source: Archipelago Hotels)

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Located on Bintan’s northern coast and accessible by ferry from Singapore, the resort features 408 rooms and suites, each with a private balcony or terrace overlooking the gardens or sea. 

Accommodation ranges from deluxe rooms and premium terrace rooms to junior, executive, ambassador and presidential suites.

Dining options include Port 19, an all-day dining restaurant serving Indonesian, Asian, and international cuisine alongside live cooking stations, while Yokatta Izakaya & Bar offers Japanese favourites.

Klon-Tong Deli draws inspiration from Bintan in the 1980s, serving pastries, ice cream, local specialities and coffee, while the Recreation Village Sports Lounge offers casual dining alongside live sports. 

Sports and wellness

Guests have access to Bintan Lagoon International Golf, with two 18-hole golf courses designed by Jack Nicklaus and Ian Baker-Finch.

Shantara Spa & Wellness provides a dedicated space for relaxation and wellbeing, with private treatment rooms, couples’ rooms, reflexology and facial treatments, together with a sauna and steam room.

Mövenpick Resort & Spa Bintan Lagoon also offers more than 2,000 sqm of meetings and events space. 

(Source Mövenpick)

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While favourites like Bandung, Yogyakarta, and Bali remain the most-searched accommodations, the popularity of nature-oriented regional holiday spots in West Java, such as Pangandaran, Garut, and Anyer, is also rising.

Top 10 domestic destinations for Independence Day long weekend 2026 – Agoda

• Bandung
• Yogyakarta
• Bali
• Jakarta
• Puncak
• Malang
• Pangandaran
• Anyer
• Bogor
• Garut

Agoda’s search data shows that cultural and leisure hotspots continue to draw the highest interest for one of Indonesia’s most celebrated holidays. Travellers can enjoy not only famous attractions related to nature, culture, and culinary experiences, but also take part in Independence Day-themed activities at these destinations, from visiting museums and monuments to exploring historic sites.

Earning the top spot was Bandung, offering a popular short-break destination for those travelling from nearby Jakarta and surrounding areas, with renowned historical landmarks such as Gedung Sate, Monumen Bandung Lautan Api, and Gedung Merdeka. 

Meanwhile, Yogyakarta, ranking second, makes an ideal destination for cultural heritage, sightseeing, and family-friendly attractions such as Benteng Vredeburg, Istana Kepresidenan Gedung Agung, and Monumen Jogja Kembali. 

Finally, as Indonesia’s flagship holiday destination, Bali ranked third, appealing to domestic travellers seeking a beach and resort getaway.

Jakarta, ranking fourth, saw nearly a three-fold increase in travel interest as the capital hosts the centre of Indonesia’s Independence Day celebrations. Beyond the festivities, the city continues to attract travellers with its urban attractions, culinary experiences, and staycation options.

Nature-led short-drive getaways lead the growth in searches

Agoda also reports that regional destinations in West Java saw the highest increase in searches during the long holiday weekend. Pangandaran and Anyer saw increases of more than nine- and 10-fold in travel interest.

Cool-weather escapes draw steady travel interest

Agoda’s data also reveals that destinations offering cool weather, scenic hillside views, and diverse culinary offerings are also appealing to domestic travellers seeking a quick getaway during the upcoming Independence Day long weekend. Puncak, Malang, and Bogor have seen a four- to five-fold increase in travel interest, offering accessible, family-friendly leisure options. Malang specifically features amusement parks, a zoo, and museums, making it an ideal holiday for all ages.

Agoda Senior Country Director, Indonesia, Gede Gunawan shared: “The fourfold increase in travel interest during this year’s Independence Day holiday shows just how eager Indonesians are to make the most of the long weekend by travelling and making memories with family and friends. While iconic destinations like Bandung, Yogyakarta, and Bali remain enduring favourites, it’s also exciting to see rising travel interest in alternative getaways such as Pangandaran, Garut, and Anyer, as travellers look for destinations that are close to major cities, more affordable, less congested, and rich in different kinds of travel experiences.”

(Source: Agoda)

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The Rafa Nadal Tennis Centre, which operates flagship academies in Mallorca and Kuwait, has chosen to establish its first Southeast Asian outpost at Samara Lombok.

Located on Lombok’s south coast, just a 25-minute drive from Lombok International Airport, Samara Lombok is a 150-hectare integrated coastal destination set to open in Q1 2028 — the first “Destination by Hyatt” in Southeast Asia. The development will open with three boutique hotels and 150 of a planned 500 villas. It will also feature 12 dining concepts, a marine biology and watersports centre operated by luxury expedition company Rascal Voyages, and a football training centre.

The centre will feature four world-class tennis courts and four padel courts.

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