LONDON, 7 November 2024: Sarawak Tourism Board introduced its transformative “Gateway to Borneo” campaign to travel buyers and influencers attending the WTM in London this week, inviting global travellers to explore the cultures, pristine landscapes, and boundless adventures that Sarawak has to offer.
The campaign marks Sarawak’s refreshed brand as a rising star in sustainable tourism and the Gateway to Borneo’s natural wonders and diverse heritage.
During WTM that concludes today, 7 November, the Minister for Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts YB Dato Sri Haji Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah shared Sarawak’s story with industry stakeholders and partners.
“Sarawak’s ‘Gateway to Borneo’ is more than an entry point — it’s a journey into a land where rich traditions, majestic landscapes, and responsible tourism set a new benchmark for world travellers. As we step boldly into the future, our mission is to preserve and share this unique heritage while pioneering eco-friendly tourism experiences that honour both our environment and our communities,” said the Minister.
The UK remains a pivotal market for Sarawak, making up over 34% of the long-haul visitors. The numbers are rising encouragingly, supported by strong partnerships and a growing demand for Sarawak’s sustainable travel experiences. From January to September 2024, Sarawak welcomed a 7.73% increase in visitors from the UK, underscoring its global appeal and contributing to the 4 million arrivals target for the year.
STB’s presence at WTM London underscored Sarawak’s commitment to showcasing its distinct offerings and building strategic partnerships.
Four innovative initiatives, which capture Sarawak’s commitment to sustainable tourism and diverse travel experiences, were highlighted at this year’s WTM.
1. Audra’s Eat, Roam, and Relish – This culinary series celebrates Sarawak’s recognition as Malaysia’s first UNESCO City of Gastronomy, offering an immersive journey through the region’s authentic flavours and unique ingredients.
Hosted by renowned chef Audra Morrice, this six-episode series showcases Sarawak’s rich culinary landscape with her Sarawakian roots. Audra explores the flavours and traditions of her mother’s homeland, highlighting Sarawak as a premier food tourism destination where food connects people through shared stories and heritage.
2. Borneo Green Bike Tour – This eco-friendly tour allows visitors to explore Kuching’s iconic sites on electric bikes, promoting low-carbon travel while supporting Sarawak’s Post-COVID Development Strategy 2030 and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
3. XTERRA Sarawak Borneo Trail Run – This off-road trail run in rural Pueh Village, organised with Sarawak Adventure Challenge, brings adrenaline and adventure to the forefront, positioning Sarawak as a prime sports tourism destination in the region.
4. Clicktripz – In partnership with Clicktripz, Sarawak is also leading digital innovation with Asia Pacific’s first AI-powered marketing approach to amplify its global reach, directly engaging travellers in a meaningful way that highlights Sarawak’s rich heritage, adventure,and responsible tourism.
BANGKOK, 7 November 2024: Centara Hotels & Resorts, Thailand’s leading hotel operator, returned to WTM London from 5 to 7 November to meet with the world’s travel trade and reveal its latest news, insights and expansion plans.
2024 has been a highly productive year for Centara, with the opening of exceptional new hotels, the launch of revitalised brands, entry into exciting new markets, and several prestigious awards. The group will use WTM London to provide a timely update on its latest developments – including one of the most significant projects in Centara’s 41-year history: The Atollia by Centara Hotels & Resorts.
Since its founding in 1983, Centara has built a proud reputation for providing warm, family-centric, Thai-style hospitality. A sustainable growth strategy has increased its portfolio to 92 hotels and resorts either operating or in the pipeline, covering 11 countries and six diverse brands: Centara Reserve, Centara Boutique Collection, Centara Grand, Centara, Centara Life, and COSI. Earlier this year, Centara Life (formerly known as Centra by Centara) was relaunched under a new lifestyle concept that will “Elevate the Essentials” for visitors in key cities and resorts in Thailand and beyond, with guest-friendly innovations such as 24-hour check-ins and stays, flexible breakfasts until 4PM, and complimentary “daily delights”.
The group’s expansion strategy has gathered momentum this year. The debut of the 95-key COSI Vientiane Nam Phu, Laos, in March 2024 marked the first location outside Thailand for COSI, Centara’s affordable lifestyle brand. Then in August 2024, the 61-key Centara Life Lamai Resort Samui opened its doors just three minutes’ walk from idyllic Lamai Beach, marking the arrival of the newly-reimagined Centara Life brand in Koh Samui.
Attendees at WTM London were offered an exclusive first glimpse at Centara Mirage Lagoon Maldives, the stunning underwater world-themed, family-focused resort in the North Malé Atoll, which will welcome its first guests in November 2024. With spacious beach and overwater villa accommodations and fantastic facilities for all ages, all centred around a vibrant water park; this resort marks the start of a new era of dedicated family travel in the Maldives. Centara Mirage Lagoon Maldives is the first phase of The Atollia by Centara Hotels & Resorts, a brand-new multi-island destination, and will soon be complemented by Centara Grand Lagoon Maldives, its sophisticated neighbouring resort opening in February, creating options for every occasion just a short speedboat journey away from Malé airport.
In further exciting developments, two flagship properties will emerge from extensive renovations this year. Centara Grand Mirage Beach Resort Pattaya, the renowned family resort themed around the concept of a Lost World that thrills all ages with its fantastic facilities, water park and 230 metres of pristine sandy beach, has been completely upgraded. All-new rooms, restaurants and beach club, enhanced waterpark and entertainment facilities, and a new theme park attraction will further consolidate the resort’s position as Thailand’s pre-eminent family destination. Similarly, Centara Karon Resort Phuket, a flagship of the Centara brand, has been contemporarily refurbished and reimagined as an exceptional resort for every occasion, including fun-filled family escapes and romantic retreats.
Underlining Centara’s success, the company has received a series of major awards. Centara Hotels & Resorts Chief Executive Officer Thirayuth Chirathivat was honoured with a “Thailand Top CEO of the Year 2024” award from Business+ magazine in collaboration with the Journal of Business Administration Faculty at Bangkok’s Thammasat University. This followed Centara Hotels & Resorts being named as “Thailand’s Strongest Brand” in Brand Finance’s Thailand 50 report for 2024.
Centara’s Chief Operating Officer, Michael Henssler, said: “2024 is a transformative year for Centara, as we celebrate the launch of several exciting new brand concepts and key projects, including The Atollia by Centara & Resorts, our most ambitious and innovative development to date. WTM London is one of the world’s most important travel trade shows, so the team was delighted to return to provide our latest news and exclusive updates to our esteemed industry colleagues and media partners.”To learn more about Centara Hotels & Resorts, please visit www.centarahotelsresorts.com.
SINGAPORE, 7 November 2024: Frasers Hospitality, a business unit of Frasers Property, announced Tuesday the opening of Modena by Fraser Vinh Yen, its first hotel residence in the Vinh Phuc province of Northern Vietnam.
Centrally located in the heart of the city’s old quarters, it’s the preferred address for exploring the city. Modena by Fraser Vinh Yen features 88 fully furnished serviced apartments comprising studios and one – to three-bedroom units. These units have a kitchenette and separate large living and dining areas. The property offers 24/7 reception, security, a concierge team, housekeeping services, and an all-day dining restaurant. Other amenities include an outdoor pool, two sauna rooms and a 24-hour gym.
Vinh Yen is in the northern part of the country and a 50-minute drive from Hanoi. A vibrant city known for its rich history and stunning landscapes, guests can look forward to the picturesque scenery of the breathtaking Tam Dao Mountain range and tranquil Dai Lai Lake. This provincial capital is also home to numerous cultural and historical sites, such as the Vinh Son Pagoda and the Hoa Lu Ancient Citadel.
Foodies will enjoy exploring the famed Kim Ngoc Food Street, which offers a range of delicious street foods and snacks. Avid golfers will appreciate the short 30-minute drive to three of the largest golf courses in Vinh Phuc: Thanh Lang Valley Golf & Resort, Dai Lai Golf Club, and Tam Dao Golf & Resort. Other amenities are easily accessible, such as supermarkets, Vinh Yen train station, and the Noi Bai International Airport, which is a mere 46-minute drive away.
Modena by Fraser Vinh Yen sells a stay at USD35++ per room per night until 28 February 2025.
SINGAPORE, 7 November 2024: Macau International Airport (MFM) reports robust growth in passenger traffic for the first 10 months of 2024, reaching 6.34 million passengers, a 56.92% year-on-year increase.
Aircraft movements reached over 49,000, a 49.37% increase compared to the previous year. Passenger volume and aircraft movements have recovered to approximately 80% and 78%, respectively, compared with 2019 pre-Covid levels.
Photo credit: Macau International Airport.
During the first three quarters, international passport holders accounted for 15% of all arriving passengers, a 1.1-fold increase from last year. This indicates that MIA is steadily recovering and advancing toward new growth milestones.
Winter flight schedule
Air Macau will launch a new route between Macau and Taichung in November and increase services from 14 to 21 weekly flights to Bangkok on 1 December.
In Mainland China, Air Macau will increase its flights to Chongqing and Guiyang by five times per week and the Nanning routes by four times per week.
Westair plans to launch a new route from Lhasa City via Chongqing to Macau, while JEJU Air plans to resume the route between Jeju Island and Macau.
MIA is collaborating closely with transportation providers to develop air-land and land-air intermodal options, offering connected ground transportation from various Greater Bay Area cities such as Guangzhou, Jiangmen, Huangpu, Foshan, Gaoming, Dongguan, Zhangmutou, and Zhaoqing. Passengers can purchase bus tickets from those locations to the Gongbei or Hengqin border and seamlessly connect to MIA, providing a convenient travel option for Greater Bay Area passengers.
HO CHI MINH CITY, Vietnam, 7 November 2024: Mr Biker Saigon announced this week the release of its 2025 cycling tour catalogue, now available for download.
This comprehensive guide offers a wide selection of curated itineraries for tour operators, travel agents, and destination management companies (DMCs) looking to provide their clients with unforgettable cycling experiences across Vietnam and Cambodia.
Catalogue Highlights
Expanded E-Bike Options: Mr Biker Saigon is proud to offer the largest e-bike fleet in Vietnam, providing cyclists of all levels with the opportunity to explore the diverse landscapes of Vietnam and Cambodia at their own pace. From the serene Mekong Delta to the challenging hills of Central Vietnam, their state-of-the-art e-bikes cater to both seasoned cyclists and those looking for a more relaxed ride.
Authentic Local Experiences: Each itinerary is designed to immerse cyclists in Vietnam’s local culture and natural beauty. Mr Biker’s expert in-house guides share their deep knowledge of the regions, offering guests unique insights into local life and hidden gems while ensuring a smooth and enriching tour experience.
Flexible Itineraries for All Cycling Levels: The 2025 catalogue includes various tour options, ranging from leisurely day trips to challenging multi-day adventures, ensuring that there is something for every type of cyclist. These flexible itineraries are easily adaptable to meet clients’ diverse needs, whether they are beginners or experienced riders.
“We’re thrilled to collaborate with tour operators, travel agents, and DMCs to bring our 2025 cycling tours to more clients worldwide,” said Mr Biker Saigon founder and CEO Minh Thai. “We’re committed to providing high-quality, customisable tours and are excited to offer new opportunities for partners to work with us to create unforgettable experiences for cyclists of all abilities.”
Tour operators and agents are invited to download the catalogue and contact the Mr Biker team for more information about custom tours, white-label opportunities, and logistics support, including bike and e-bike rentals and support vehicles, to enhance their own offerings.
About Mr. Biker Saigon Founded by passionate cycling enthusiasts in 2016, Mr Biker Saigon is a premier cycling tour operator based in Ho Chi Minh City. It offers exceptional cycling experiences across Vietnam and Cambodia. With a focus on quality, safety, and local cultural immersion, Mr Biker Saigon provides tailored cycling tours for both leisure and adventure cyclists. It is known for its extensive fleet of traditional and e-bikes and expert in-house guides.
SINGAPORE, 7 November 2024: Taipei-Bangkok is one of the busiest airline routes in Asia, and it will get busier when EVA Air adds four more weekly flights from January to March 2025.
According to websites monitoring advance airline timetables, the airline has scheduled 28 flights weekly between Taipei Taoyuan and Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport using the 333-seat Boeing 777-300. That increases to 32 flights weekly with the addition of four flights weekly from 15 January to 29 March 2025 using an Airbus A330-300 with 309 seats.
EVA Air competes on the Bangkok route with China Airlines, which offers 28 weekly flights; THAI, 21 flights; Thai Vietjet, 21 flights; and Starlux, w14 flights. The additional four weekly Eva Air flights to Bangkok are identified in an advance timetable.
Flight schedule
Flight BR211 departs Taipei (TPE) at 0825 and arrives in Bangkok (BKK) at 1135. Flight BR212 departs Bangkok at 1250 and arrives in Taipei at 1720.
HONG KONG, 7 November 2024: Vietjet Aviation Joint Stock Company has reported robust business performance for the first nine months of 2024.
In the first nine months of 2024, Vietjet transported over 19.6 million passengers on 104,000 flights, increasing by more than 6% and 2% YoY, respectively. The airline welcomed over 2.54 million international passengers, representing a rise of 9.1% YoY.
During the same period, Vietjet reported air transport revenue and consolidated revenue of VND51.7 trillion (HKD15.8 billion) and VND52.2 trillion (HKD15.9 billion), respectively, growing by 32% and 19% YoY. Separate and consolidated after-tax profit reached VND1.13 trillion (HKD340 million) and VND1.4 trillion (HKD430 million), respectively, seeing leaps of 884% and 564% YoY.
As of 30 September 2024, Vietjet’s total assets reached nearly VND94 trillion (HKD28.8 billion), with a debt-to-equity ratio of 2.25 and a liquidity ratio of 1.4, considered safe levels in the aviation industry.
Vietjet’s fleet comprises 85 aircraft, achieving an average seat utilisation rate of 87% and a technical reliability rate of 99.7%. The airline operates 155 routes, of which 112 are international routes.
The airline has launched new direct services to China, India, Australia and Laos, among others, while boosting flight frequencies on many other routes to Hong Kong, South Korea, Japan, and more. The Hong Kong-Da Nang route has operated daily since 27 October 2024, up from four weekly flights, while the Hong Kong-Phu Quoc route has also transitioned to daily service, increasing from three flights per week. Vietjet is the first airline to fly directly from Hong Kong to Phu Quoc, opening the gateway for Hong Kong citizens to explore Vietnam’s largest island, which uniquely offers a visa exemption for stays of up to 30 days.
With a comprehensive flight network and strong passenger growth, Vietjet welcomed its 200 millionth passenger in Q3/2024, marking a significant milestone in its journey to connect Vietnam with the world and bring the world closer to Vietnam, promoting tourism, trade, and bilateral investment between Vietnam and other nations.
SINGAPORE, 7 November 2024: Ethiopia’s national flag carrier and largest Airbus operator in Africa, Ethiopian Airlines, has taken delivery of its first of four A350-1000 from Airbus in Toulouse, France.
The first to be operated by an African-based operator, the A350-1000 will enable Ethiopian Airlines to enhance its premium service on key destinations, including Washington DC, London, Paris, and Frankfurt.
Photo credit: Airbus
To date, Ethiopian Airlines operates a fleet of 21 A350 Family aircraft. In the coming years, 14 additional A350 aircraft, including 11 A350-900 and three additional A350-1000, will join the airline’s fleet.
With a total capacity of 395 seats, the A350-1000 will increase Ethiopian Airlines’ passenger capacity and provide enhanced passenger experience in the largest business class cabin in the airline’s fleet.
Ethiopian Airlines will also introduce Airbus’ new HBCplus satcom connectivity solution, offering seamless, high-speed gate-to-gate connectivity.
The A350 is considered the long-range leader in the 300- to 410-seat category and the quietest twin-aisle aircraft in the sky. Its noise footprint is reduced by 50% compared to the previous generation.
By the end of September 2024, 1,340 A350s had been ordered by 60 customers worldwide.
The A350-1000 boasts a revolutionary design with innovative aerodynamics and a carbon-fibre fuselage powered by the fuel-efficient Rolls-Royce Trent XWB engines, ensuring a quieter, smoother journey for long-haul travel.
Based on the airline’s ambitious Vision 2035 plan, Ethiopian Airlines will welcome three additional A350-1000 aircraft in the upcoming months.
SINGAPORE, 6 November 2024: Pandaw is promoting its full Brahmaputra cruise, sailing from now until 15 March. The cruise spotlights an overland trip to the UNESCO World Heritage Site Kaziranga National Park.
Explore India’s far extremes from the Northeast Assam region to South-West Kerala. This combo cruise takes guests 3,000 km on two distinct small-ship river expeditions in the lesser-visited parts of the country. It allows travellers to combine Pandaw’s popular expedition along the wild Brahmaputra River with its newest itinerary sailing the backwaters of Kerala.
Wildlife sightings
Kaziranga National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its diverse wildlife, particularly the one-horned rhinoceros. Here are some of its key attractions:
One-horned Rhinoceros: Kaziranga is home to the world’s largest population of one-horned rhinoceroses. These majestic creatures roam freely in the grasslands and swamps.
Indian Elephant: The park also supports a significant population of Asian elephants, often spotted bathing in the Brahmaputra River or grazing in the grasslands.
Royal Bengal Tiger: Although less common than rhinos and elephants, tigers are also found in Kaziranga. Look for these elusive predators while on safari.
Swamp Deer: Large herds of swamp deer can be seen grazing in the open meadows.
Wild Water Buffalo: These massive herbivores are well adapted to the wetlands of Kaziranga.
Birds: The park is home to over 400 species of birds, including migratory waterfowl, eagles, and vultures.
Gangetic River Dolphin: These shy mammals can sometimes be spotted in the Brahmaputra River.
LONDON, 6 November 2024: Sarawak Tourism Board is participating in this year’s World Travel Market (WTM) in London, 5 to 7 November, led by Minister for Tourism, Creative Industry, and Performing Arts Sarawak YB Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah.
Marking a year of dynamic growth and collaboration, 2024 introduces Sarawak’s new brand marketing partnerships, positioning Sarawak as a premier destination for eco-conscious and culturally immersive travel experiences.
Located on the island of Borneo, Sarawak invites visitors to explore its rich tapestry of eco-tourism, vibrant cultural heritage, and adventure tourism against one of the world’s most biodiverse landscapes.
To ensure the sustainability of tourism in Sarawak, the Sarawak Tourism Board remains dedicated to promoting responsible tourism practices that safeguard the region’s natural and cultural heritage. This commitment extends across key areas, including conservation efforts, eco-friendly practices, community engagement, and cultural preservation. The latest initiatives launched this week at WTM strongly reflect this focus, highlighting Sarawak’s drive to foster sustainable tourism development.
Showcasing Gastronomy
At WTM, Sarawak will spotlight its dedication to immersive travel experiences with a special focus on its rich culinary heritage. A key highlight is the release of the Sarawak Gastronomy Video by MasterChef Australia finalist Audra Morrice, showcasing the unique flavours and cultural significance of Sarawak’s cuisine. This initiative reinforces Sarawak’s emerging role as a premier destination for food tourism, seamlessly blending culinary exploration with eco-conscious travel.
Eco-Friendly and Responsible Tourism
Sustainability remains central to Sarawak’s tourism initiatives. Among the latest responsible travel packages, the Borneo Green Bike Tour by Smart Leisure Travels offers travellers a low-impact way to experience Sarawak’s natural beauty, promoting responsible exploration and environmental awareness.
Digital Innovation
In an era of evolving travel expectations, the Sarawak Tourism Board is enhancing visitor engagement through cutting-edge digital innovation, setting a pioneering standard as the first DMO in the Asia-Pacific region to integrate AI-driven campaigns into its marketing strategy. This forward-thinking approach, achieved in partnership with Clicktripz – one of the world’s largest travel-focused ad networks – gives Sarawak exclusive access to a global audience of 100 million travel shoppers per month. By implementing advanced digital solutions, the Board aims to create seamless, enriched travel experiences promoting sustainable practices. Leveraging AI technology, Sarawak reaches potential visitors more effectively and provides real-time information that encourages responsible travel behaviours, supporting both the environment and local communities.
Adventure and Sporting Tourism
Sarawak’s dedication to adventure tourism takes centre stage in May 2025 with the debut of the XTERRA International Adventure Triathlon Series, held in Sarawak for the first time. This renowned triathlon series strengthens Sarawak’s position as a premier sports tourism destination, aligning with its commitment to sustainable, low-impact exploration. Hosting XTERRA allows athletes and adventure enthusiasts to experience Sarawak’s unique landscapes in ways that promote both environmental stewardship and community engagement.
Empowering Sustainable Tourism through Community Engagement
Sarawak is committed to enhancing its community-based tourism offerings by expanding the availability of homestays and eco-host accommodations. These initiatives enable travellers to fully immerse themselves in local cultures while actively contributing to sustainable tourism practices. By fostering meaningful connections between visitors and local communities, Sarawak promotes environmental stewardship and supports its residents’ economic well-being.
“We are excited to showcase Sarawak’s unique blend of culture, sustainability, and innovation at WTM this year,” said YB Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, Minister for Tourism, Creative Industry, and Performing Arts Sarawak.
“From immersive cultural experiences and eco-friendly travel initiatives to partnerships in digital innovation, Sarawak is committed to promoting responsible tourism that celebrates and preserves our rich heritage while supporting community development and conservation. We are also delighted to host the XTERRA International Adventure Triathlon Series for the first time in 2025, enhancing our reputation as a top destination for sporting events. Our new initiatives, which seamlessly blend gastronomy, sport, nature, and cultural connection, reinforce Sarawak’s standing as a vibrant, eco-conscious destination for travellers while ensuring the sustainability of our tourism industry for years to come.”
During a press conference on Tuesday, 5 November, the Sarawak Tourism Board and the Minister for Tourism, Culture, and Performing Arts Sarawak presented a first look at Sarawak’s latest tourism highlights.
On Wednesday, 6 November, Sarawak Tourism Board CEO Sharzede Datu Hj Salleh Askor joined an inspiring panel discussion in the Orange Theatre titled “Indigenous Tourism… A Legacy Reawakened in Heritage, Community, and Conservation.” The session explored how Indigenous-focused initiatives preserve and celebrate cultural heritage, drive sustainable practices, foster social change, and support economic and environmental growth.
In partnership with the WTTC, this discussion highlights the profound impact of Indigenous Tourism on the global travel landscape, demonstrating how it creates meaningful connections, honours cultural legacies, empowers local communities, and contributes to the conservation of sacred lands responsibly and inclusively.
Experience Sarawak’s rich culture
Travel buyers and influencers visited the Sarawak stand (N9-420) throughout the show to indulge in immersive cultural experiences. Highlights include the Sarawak Cultural Show, featuring traditional dances and music, a Tattoo Showcase, and a Pua Kumbu exhibition, each offering an authentic glimpse into Sarawak’s heritage and artistry. Pua Kumbu, a traditional woven textile, is highly symbolic in Sarawak’s Iban culture, embodying intricate patterns and spiritual meanings carefully crafted by skilled weavers. These displays showcase Sarawak’s rich cultural diversity and celebrate the region’s unique craftsmanship and time-honoured traditions.
Sarawak Tourism Board’s participation in WTM underscores its commitment to promoting Sarawak as a leading eco-tourism and cultural destination that combines authentic experiences with responsible tourism practices.
