Thursday, June 11, 2026
Home Blog Page 148

Sarawak joins MH Bonus Side Trip

KUALA LUMPUR, 8 September 2025: Sarawak’s participation at MATTA Fair Kuala Lumpur 2025 focused on Kuching’s selection as the 8th destination under Malaysia Airlines’ Bonus Side Trip (BST) programme. 

The airline’s international initiative positions Sarawak and the state capital, Kuching, as a must-visit destination for global travellers, while the MATTA Fair provided the ideal stage to share this milestone with a broad audience. 

The launch took place on 6 September 2025 at MAG Arena, Level 3, Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre (MITEC), marked by a handshake ceremony between Puan Sharzede Datu Haji Salleh Askor, Chief Executive Officer of Sarawak Tourism Board, and Dersenish Aresandiran, Chief Commercial Officer of Airlines, Malaysia Aviation Group (MAG). 

It represented a significant step forward for Sarawak’s tourism journey ahead of Visit Malaysia Year 2026. 

The BST programme, offered exclusively by Malaysia Airlines, is designed to encourage international travellers to discover more of Malaysia during their trip. Passengers flying into the country on international tickets can add an extra domestic destination at no additional fare, paying only the applicable taxes. With Kuching’s inclusion, Sarawak becomes the first and only Bornean destination in the programme, expanding its reach beyond Peninsular Malaysia. 

This outcome stems from the partnership between the STB and MAG, formalised in 2024 to enhance air connectivity and joint tourism promotion in the lead-up to Visit Malaysia Year 2026. Kuching’s inclusion in the BST programme reflects a key result of this collaboration. 

By being part of the BST programme, Sarawak is positioned as the natural gateway to Borneo, offering international visitors experiences anchored in its CANFF pillars of Culture, Adventure, Nature, Food, and Festivals. Highlights include living cultures shaped by 34 ethnic groups, the twin UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Gunung Mulu National Park and Niah National Park, distinctive gastronomy with Kuching recognised as a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy, and globally renowned festivals such as the Rainforest World Music Festival. Sarawak’s ability to deliver this complete experience within a single journey distinguishes it from other destinations, while strengthening its brand as ‘More to Discover.’ 

“Inclusion in Malaysia Airlines’ Bonus Side Trip (BST) programme reflects the strong partnership we have built with Malaysia Aviation Group since the signing of our Memorandum of Understanding in 2024,” said Sarawak Tourism Board Chief Executive Officer Puan Sharzede Datu Haji Salleh Askor. “Through this initiative, Sarawak is broadening its international reach and reinforcing its commitment to sustainable tourism growth as we prepare for Visit Malaysia Year 2026.” 

For more information, visit www.sarawaktourism.com  or follow Sarawak Tourism Board on Facebook, www.facebook.com/visitsarawak.

About Sarawak Tourism Board  
Sarawak Tourism Board (STB) is the key promoter for Sarawak and has built a strong track record of global recognition for its innovative campaigns, destination branding, and commitment to sustainability. In 2025, STB’s “Gateway to Borneo” campaign received the PATA Gold Award for Best Destination Marketing Campaign (Destination Management Organisation – Asia).

NCLH opens new office in Sydney

SINGAPORE, 8 September 2025; Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd, the parent company that operates Norwegian Cruise Line, Oceania Cruises and Regent Seven Seas Cruises, celebrates 10 years of expansion in the Asia Pacific. 

The anniversary coincides with the official opening of its new Sydney office, harbourside location in the heart of Barangaroo, marking a decade since the company first established its presence in the region.

(Photo credit: Tim Faircloth). (L-R): Steve Odell, SVP International and Consumer Sales, Oceania Cruises and Regent Seven Seas Cruises and Ben Angell, Vice President and Managing Director Asia Pacific for Norwegian Cruise Line.

Last week, the three cruise lines honoured the milestone with a tri-brand celebration at their new Sydney office, featuring a ribbon-cutting ceremony to open the Asia Pacific headquarters.

Since establishing its inaugural sales and marketing hub in Sydney in October 2015, the company has grown from approximately 20 employees across Australasia to 200 staff engaged in sales, public relations, marketing, administrative services, and operations. 

This regional success has unfolded alongside NCLH’s global expansion, from a fleet of 22 ships in 2015 to 34 vessels in 2025, offering more than 71,000 berths and itineraries to over 700 locales worldwide. Thirteen new vessels will join the fleet by 2036. 

Legend of the Sea celebrates float-out

SINGAPORE, 8 September 2025: Royal Caribbean’s Legend of the Seas marked a construction milestone, completing its float-out ceremony last week. 

The ship continues to take shape at the Meyer Turku shipyard in Turku, Finland, ahead of its summer 2026 debut in Europe. The teams behind the construction celebrated the float-out moment ahead of its August 2026 debut.

Photo credit Royal Caribbean. Legend of the Sea float-out from dry dock.

The third in Icon Class lineup is set to make waves and deliver the boldest experiences yet across eight onboard neighbourhoods that will feature a  Category 6 waterpark and the Crown’s Edge — part skywalk, part ropes course and part thrill ride. 

Legend will deliver summer 2026 adventures in Europe on seven-night Western Mediterranean vacations before making a grand Caribbean debut in November 2026 with six-night Western Caribbean and eight-night Southern Caribbean vacations.

Legend will also be the vacation company’s fourth ship, fueled by liquefied natural gas (LNG), featuring industry-leading environmental programmes with applications ranging from waste heat recovery systems to shore power connections. Royal Caribbean Group plans to introduce a net-zero cruise ship by 2035.

HKIA offers free layover city tours

HONG KONG, 8 September 2025: Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA) launched a new free local tour service last Friday designed exclusively for transfer passengers to explore Hong Kong’s culture and iconic attractions, all within a single layover. 

Tour participants can enjoy fast-track immigration clearance upon arrival and departure at HKIA, ensuring smooth access in and out of the restricted areas and timely boarding.

AAHK Chief Executive Officer Vivian Cheung.

The new tour service is jointly organised by Airport Authority Hong Kong (AAHK) and Trip.com. Air-to-air transfer passengers with a layover of at least seven hours can join for free.

The launch ceremony, hosted at the airport last Friday, was officiated by AAHK, Chief Executive Officer Vivian Cheung and Trip.com, Jane Sun.

Designed for transit passengers, the free half-day tours include the “Heritage and Local Lifestyle Citywalk”, which provides guided walks through the neighbourhoods of historic Hong Kong, and the “Victoria & West Kowloon Waterfront Journey”, featuring the city’s iconic harbour night views. 

Beginning in December 2025, the “Serenity & Stories: A Harmony Journey” will showcase Hong Kong’s countryside. 

To join the tours, travellers must hold a valid visa or meet the entry requirements set by the Hong Kong SAR Government. Eligible transfer passengers can either pre-book the service online before their departure to Hong Kong or register on-site at HKIA upon arrival. 

The Free Layover Tour is the first service of HKIA’s wider Transfer Programme, which will include offerings, such as interactive mobile games and cultural workshops, to elevate the transfer experience at HKIA for passengers with varying layover durations and interests. 

Web in Travel unveils the ‘Next 20 theme’

SINGAPORE, 8 September 2025: Set to take place from 6 to 8 October 2025 at Marina Bay Sands Expo & Convention Centre, Web in Travel (WiT) has confirmed its 2025 theme: The Next 20, marking the event’s 20th anniversary.

WiT has chronicled the evolution of travel through the digital age. As artificial intelligence accelerates, demographics shift, and societal change reshapes the global landscape, “The Next 20” will explore how travel must reinvent itself to remain relevant, resilient, and human.  

Photo credit: WiT.

Will AI rewrite how we discover and book travel, or rewire the traveller’s brain entirely? Will science and art converge to spark a new travel renaissance? What becomes of intermediaries when the funnel flattens and choice becomes conversation?

“As we embark on The Next 20, we’re not just looking ahead, we’re mastering reinvention,” said Web in Travel CEO and co-founder Siew Hoon Yeoh. “The Next 20 belongs to those who can see what’s coming, build what’s needed and lead with imagination, not just innovation.”

Featured speakers include leaders from Expedia Group, Booking.com, Klook, JetBlue Ventures, Trip.com, and GlobalTix, among others.

The programme will include WiT’s signature Coffee Chats, debates, and panels, as well as invite-only sessions such as the Next Generation Leaders Unconference and the Global Travel Tech Thinktank.   
For more information and registration, visit the official WiT Singapore 2025 website

United resumes services to Tel Aviv

SINGAPORE, 8 September 2025: United will resume flights to Tel Aviv, Israel, from Chicago O’Hare and Washington Dulles international airports on 1 and 2 November, respectively.

This marks the first time United has operated these flights since 2023. United offers more flights to Tel Aviv than any other US airline. It will be the only airline operating flights between Tel Aviv and both Chicago and Washington, DC. Flights from Chicago begin on 1 November and will operate four times weekly. Three weekly flights from Washington, DC will start on 2 November.

“The resumption of these flights underscores United’s longstanding commitment to Tel Aviv,” said United’s senior vice president of Global Network Planning and Alliances. Patrick Quayle.

United currently offers twice daily flights between Tel Aviv and Newark/New York, and has flown more to Tel Aviv this year than any other US airline. United’s services to Tel Aviv are subject to a detailed assessment of operational, safety, and security considerations in the region.

In the past, United flew from San Francisco (SFO) to Tel Aviv, but the route is currently suspended.

Qatar Airways adds the Red Sea to network

DOHA, 8 September 2025: Qatar Airways will launch operations at The Red Sea, Saudi Arabia, with three weekly flights from 21 October 2025, making it the 12th destination in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to be served by the airline.

Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive Officer, Engr Badr Mohammed Al-Meer, said: “The Red Sea, our 12th destination in Saudi Arabia, offers a wide range of distinct and enriching Middle East experiences. 

The new route is set to open greater regional connectivity and boost travel from Asia and Europe to Saudi Arabia, making Qatar Airways the only airline connecting the Red Sea to more than 170 global destinations.” 

The Red Sea features 90 pristine islands, rugged canyons, ancient landscapes, and one of the largest barrier reef systems in the world. It appeals to travellers seeking wellness, adventure, history, and scenic getaways. It now counts five luxury hotels that are open and welcoming guests. This year, Shura Island, the heart of the Red Sea, will begin opening the first of its 11 resorts, as well as an 18-hole championship golf course, dining and retail options, signature experiences and cultural programming.

The Red Sea International Airport aims to serve over a million passengers per year by 2030. Since its launch in 2023, the Red Sea International Airport has been operated by daa International.

MATTA Fair 2025 episode 2 gets underway

KUALA LUMPUR, 5 September 2025: The National MATTA Fair returns for its second round in 2025, with a fresher and greener take in advancing the industry. 

The 57th edition of the MATTA Fair transcends all expectations, as it opens today, 5 September, at The Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre (MITEC), Kuala Lumpur.

 Busy footfall from the start as MATTA Fair opens its doors for its second edition of the year.

In line with MATTA’s green transition, the MATTA Eco & Sustainable Tourism Initiative (MESTI) takes centre stage. Developed as a structured pathway to a cleaner, kinder, and more conscious way of exploring Malaysia, MESTI is grounded by three core pillars: wildlife conservation, marine conservation, and cultural and historic preservation. These initiatives empower the travel industry and travellers alike to protect what makes Malaysia truly unique and sustainable now and into the future.

The MATTA Fair remains open until 1900 on 7 September, featuring dedicated MESTI booths that cover four pavilions, with over 40 booths from RHB Bank, Sabah Tourism Board, Penang Global Tourism, Resorts World Genting, Royal Selangor, AMPSPA, Easy Motorbike, and Pos Malaysia. Through thoughtfully curated experiences in our MESTI Pavilions, visitors can see and uncover tourism’s powerful force in protecting Malaysia’s diverse cultural heritage and promoting green and sustainable practices.

Located at the Domestic Hall at Level 1, visitors can experience the interactive and immersive world of sustainability, where the participating brands that champion sustainability will showcase their eco-friendly products and initiatives throughout the three-day Fair.

The MESTI Pavilions highlight MATTA’s commitment through RHB’s Ocean Harmonic Initiative to emphasise the importance of protecting our oceans while promoting sustainable tourism practices. In addition, the MATTA Fair September 2025 will also highlight efforts to preserve Malaysia’s rich culture and history.

“Through MESTI, we learn the tales that make Malaysia Truly Asia, through time-honoured traditions, and the green and blue landscapes that define our nation. MESTI makes way in preserving these treasures, inspiring sustainable practices for generations to come. We look forward to working closely with our partners as we continue to move towards a better future,” said MATTA President Nigel Wong.

To ensure a smooth visitor experience, MATTA Fair offers free admission and is open from 1000 to 2100, Friday to Sunday. Visitors are encouraged to take advantage of the complimentary shuttle services from KL Sentral and Sunway Putra Mall to MITEC. For those driving, parking facilities are available at the South Entrance basement in MITEC, MITI basement, MATRADE open parking, Kompleks Mahkamah KL open parking, The MET basement, MET 1 basement and MET 9 open parking.

BWH Hotels celebrates sustainable milestone

BANGKOK 5 September 2025: BWH Hotels, a leading global hospitality enterprise, is celebrating a major sustainability milestone as its Best Western Hotels & Resorts and SureStay Hotels in Southeast Asia, Japan, and Pakistan have successfully achieved certification under the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC) standards.

Through its accredited partner Bureau Veritas Group, the group’s operational effectiveness was assessed in four key areas: Sustainable Management, Socio-Economic Impact, Cultural Impacts and Environmental Impacts. The results revealed that BWH Hotels is equipping its hotels and teams with the tools they need to drive long-term change and create meaningful experiences that have a positive impact on the planet.

A ceremony was held at Best Western Chatuchak, Bangkok, on 2 September 2025 to honour the GSTC-certified properties. The event was attended by BWH Hotels leaders Olivier Berrivin, Vice President – APAC and Rodney Simpson, Managing Director – Operations APAC, along with representatives from Bureau Veritas Group.

BWH Hotels is committed to operating in a responsible and environmentally conscious way. Through its global ‘Because We Care’ program, the group integrates three core pillars — Earth, People, and Community (EPC) — into every facet of its operations. From reducing water consumption and cutting carbon emissions to minimising waste and supporting local sourcing, these values are embedded in daily practices, driving meaningful change across the organisation.

“I’m incredibly proud of our outstanding teams across Southeast Asia, Japan, and Pakistan. Achieving GSTC certification is more than just earning a credential,” said BWH Hotels. Managing Director – Operations APAC Rodney Simpson. “It reflects the unwavering commitment, extensive training and deep belief in the power we have to drive meaningful change. In partnership with Bureau Veritas, we not only met but also exceeded GSTC standards, integrating sustainability into the very fabric of our hotel operations. At BWH Hotels, responsible travel isn’t a trend; it is part of who we are. This milestone marks a significant step forward in our journey to create more sustainable and mindful hospitality experiences”.

To learn more about the company’s commitment to sustainability, please click here. Or to book a stay with BWH Hotels in Asia, visit bestwesternasia.com and worldhotels.com

Emirates strengthens commercial leadership team 

DUBAI, 5 September 2025: Emirates has announced new appointments to its commercial leadership team as it ramps up its network, fleet and products for its next era of growth. 

The newly created roles, which include Senior Vice President, Network Passenger Sales Development and Vice President for Passenger Sales – Regional Clusters, will support the airline’s regional growth and market expansion ambitions, drive integrated performance across markets and segments, as well as foster key corporate relationships to drive long-term passenger growth, build market share and revenue. 

As part of the newly established commercial leadership structure, two seasoned Emiratis have been appointed to lead key market clusters. These strategic appointments reflect the airline’s ongoing commitment to cultivating exceptional UAE National talent and developing the next generation of industry leaders.

Emirates Airline Deputy President and Chief Commercial Officer Adnan Kazim commented on the recent appointments: “Emirates stands at a pivotal moment in its evolution as we scale up our network and deepen our engagement across an increasingly diverse range of markets and consumer demographics. This period of dynamic growth calls for leaders with the right commercial know-how and the thinking to navigate our complex and evolving industry landscape, so that we can capitalise on emerging opportunities and cement our position as the airline of choice for global travellers. I’m particularly proud that two of the top roles will be led by UAE Nationals who have demonstrated their leadership excellence, and we’re committed to building a robust pipeline of homegrown talent to drive our continued growth.”

Commercial appointments

Matthew Scott 

Matthew Scott will lead Emirates’ Network Passenger Sales Development (NPSD) team as Senior Vice President, overseeing the airline’s Global Sales & Leisure teams. He was previously Vice President of Cargo Pricing and Interline at Emirates SkyCargo. Matthew began his Emirates career with SkyCargo in 2018 and has more than 20 years’ experience with international airlines, holding key positions in passenger commercial operations, revenue optimisation and planning, including Head of Corporate and Leisure Sales and Head of Commercial Strategy.

Abdulla Al Olama

Abdulla Al Olama has been promoted to VP Regional Clusters for the Middle East and North Africa (MENA). Abdulla previously held the role of Senior Regional Manager, Commercial Operations, Far East, and has also managed commercial performance in the Far East, West Asia, and the Indian Ocean. He joined Emirates in 2012 and has worked across the commercial organisation, including teams in Interline, Codeshare and Revenue Optimisation.

Rashid Alardha

Rashid Alardha has been promoted to VP Regional Clusters, Sub-Saharan Africa. He was previously Country Manager for Sri Lanka and the Maldives. Rashid joined Emirates in 2009 and has since gained extensive country management experience across eight countries in the Middle East, Africa, Far East, West Asia, and the Indian Ocean.

Flavio Ghiringhelli 

Flavio Ghiringhelli has been promoted to VP Regional Clusters for South and Central Europe. He joined Emirates in 2018 as Country Manager Italy, bringing a wealth of senior leadership experience in corporate sales, commercial strategy and business development across aviation, hospitality and tourism.

Pierfrancesco Carino will join Emirates as VP Regional for the West and North Europe Clusters later this month. He brings 20 years of experience in sales, marketing, omnichannel distribution, revenue management and strategic partnerships from various airlines. Pierfrancesco has previously

worked for Emirates in Commercial Sales in France.

Emirates’ Executive Vice President Passenger Sales and Country Management, Nabil Sultan, is spearheading the new teams and structure.

For more information on the airline and to make a booking, visit www.emirates.com.