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MITEC celebrates ninth anniversary

KUALA LUMPUR, 18 August 2026: The Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre (MITEC) celebrates its ninth anniversary this August with a strong record of international events, industry partnerships and economic contribution, reinforcing its position as Malaysia’s gateway to the global business events community.

Since opening in August 2017, MITEC has developed into one of Southeast Asia’s largest and most internationally recognised trade and exhibition centres. The Centre connects Malaysia with global markets by bringing international organisers, exhibitors, buyers, investors, delegates, innovators and industry leaders together under one roof.

Photo credit: MITEC.

Owned by the Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (MATRADE) and managed by METCO Sdn Bhd, MITEC serves an important national purpose through an international platform. Its role extends beyond providing event space: MITEC enables trade, knowledge exchange, business generation, professional collaboration and Malaysia’s international engagement.

In 2026, MITEC has continued to demonstrate the scale, diversity and international appeal of its events portfolio. Among the Centre’s flagship events are Defence Services Asia (DSA) and National Security Asia (NATSEC) 2026, ARCHIDEX, MATTA Fair, Malaysian International Furniture Fair (MIFF), METALTECH & AUTOMEX, Kuala Lumpur International Mobility Show (KLIMS), Malaysia Diecast Expo and many others, reflecting the breadth of industries served by the venue.

These events represent industries ranging from defence, national security, tourism and furniture to advanced manufacturing, architecture, mobility, technology and the creative economy. Together, they have attracted significant international participation while connecting Malaysian businesses with new markets, technologies and commercial opportunities.

MITEC forecasts more than 3 million event visitors in 2026, building on the approximately 2.9 million delegates and more than 600 events hosted in 2025.

The Centre’s strong 2026 calendar continues with forthcoming events including MATTA Fair, ASEAN Roads & Traffic Tech Expo 2026 (ARRTE 2026), HYROX, TCE, the Malaysia International Halal Showcase (MIHAS), and International Sustainability Week 2026.

The calendar reflects MITEC’s ability to accommodate a broad spectrum of event formats from global trade exhibitions and high-level conferences to consumer events, indoor sporting competitions and large-scale lifestyle experiences.

METCO Chairman Datuk Azlan Shah Jaffril commented: “MITEC represents Malaysia’s confidence and capability on the international stage. It is a place where global industries meet, commercial opportunities are created, knowledge is exchanged, and long-term partnerships begin.

“As we celebrate nine years, the board remains focused on strengthening MITEC’s governance, competitiveness and long-term growth. We will continue to support its development as an internationally respected centre that generates meaningful economic and strategic value for Malaysia.”

Business events precinct

MITEC’s development is closely connected to the continued growth of KL Metropolis as an integrated trade, business, hospitality and lifestyle precinct.

The opening of Hyatt Regency Kuala Lumpur at KL Midtown has enhanced the availability of quality accommodation near MITEC for international organisers, exhibitors, delegates and business travellers. Continued development within KL Metropolis will further strengthen the surrounding destination and support MITEC’s ability to compete for major regional and global events.

As the precinct develops, MITEC will remain its international business events anchor, bringing people, industries and investment into Kuala Lumpur.

About MITEC
The Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre (MITEC) is one of Southeast Asia’s largest trade and exhibition centres and Malaysia’s leading international business events venue. Located within KL Metropolis in Kuala Lumpur, MITEC offers 52,000 sqm of exhibition space across 11 halls, together with conference, meeting, banquet, hospitality and event support facilities. MITEC is owned by the Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (MATRADE) and managed by METCO.

(Source: MITEC)

World Travel Awards heads for the Maldives

SINGAPORE, 18 August 2026: Visit Maldives Corporation has partnered with Maldives Airports Company Limited as the aviation partner of the World Travel Awards Asia, Oceania & Indian Ocean 2026.

The World Travel Awards (WTA) Asia, Oceania & Indian Ocean Gala Ceremony 2026 will take place on Sunday, 27 September 2026. The event aligns with World Tourism Day.

Photo credit: Visit Maldives. Aishath Shirany Nasir, Manager of Business Development at Visit Maldives Corporation, and Nashaya Abdul Wahid, General Manager of Air Service Development at MACL, signed the partnership agreement.

Crossroads Maldives, a multi-island integrated lifestyle resort a 15-minute boat transfer from Velana International Airport, will host the awards.

The partnership will provide branding and promotional visibility at Velana International Airport in support of the World Travel Awards.

Speaking at the signing ceremony,  MACL General Manager Air Service Development Nashaya Abdul Wahid said: “ We are delighted to formalise this partnership with Visit Maldives Corporation in support of the World Travel Awards. As the official aviation partner, MACL is proud to contribute to showcasing the Maldives to a global audience while creating a welcoming and memorable experience for visitors arriving through Velana International Airport.”

The World Travel Awards are widely recognised for celebrating excellence across the global travel and tourism industry, bringing together leading destinations, tourism organisations and hospitality brands. 

Hosting the Asia, Oceania & Indian Ocean 2026 ceremony in the Maldives provides an opportunity to showcase the destination to key international industry stakeholders, strengthen professional networks, and reinforce the Maldives’ position as a leading global tourism destination supporting Visit Maldives’ efforts to host world-class tourism events that showcase the destination to international audiences and foster stronger industry connections.

(Source: Visit Maldives)

Abu Dhabi offers free visa for eligible Indian travellers

MUMBAI, 18 August 2026: Thomas Cook (India) Limited and its group company, SOTC Travel, have partnered with the Department of Culture and Tourism — Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) under the destination’s Visa Subsidy Programme to make holidays to Abu Dhabi more accessible for Indian travellers. 

As select travel partners for the programme, under which DCT Abu Dhabi covers the full cost of UAE entry visas for eligible bookings, the companies will enable eligible customers booking leisure holiday packages with a minimum continuous three-night hotel stay in Abu Dhabi to avail of a complimentary UAE entry visa at no additional cost. 

Photo credit: DCT Abu Dhabi. https://dct.gov.ae/en/default.aspx

The offer is applicable for eligible bookings made until 31 October 2026, for travel until 31 October 2026, and is subject to applicable terms and conditions.

The initiative reinforces the long-standing partnership between DCT Abu Dhabi, Thomas Cook India and SOTC Travel, reflecting a shared commitment to creating greater value for Indian travellers. 

By combining destination-led initiatives with the companies’ extensive omnichannel reach and holiday expertise, the collaboration aims to drive awareness and encourage more Indian travellers to experience Abu Dhabi’s unique blend of cultural heritage, world-class attractions, family entertainment, adventure, luxury hospitality and immersive experiences.

As one of India’s largest source markets for international travel, the country continues to play a key role in Abu Dhabi’s tourism growth strategy. Through strategic collaborations with leading travel partners such as Thomas Cook India and SOTC Travel, Abu Dhabi continues to strengthen its engagement with the Indian market by making travel planning more seamless, accessible and rewarding.

Thomas Cook (India) Limited President & Country Head – Holidays, MICE, Visa, Rajeev Kale said: “Our long-standing partnership with Abu Dhabi has enabled us to curate enriching holiday experiences for Indian travellers consistently. 

“We are delighted to be among the select travel partners for Abu Dhabi’s Visa Subsidy Programme, which further enhances the value proposition for our customers. By offering a complimentary UAE entry visa  for eligible leisure holiday bookings, we are making it even more compelling for Indian travellers to explore Abu Dhabi’s diverse experiences—from iconic landmarks and cultural attractions to family entertainment, adventure and luxury.”

SOTC Travel, President & Country Head – Holidays & Corporate Tours, SD Nandakumar, commented: “Indian travellers today seek holidays that combine enriching experiences with exceptional value. Abu Dhabi continues to enjoy strong appeal across families, couples, young professionals and groups, thanks to its diverse tourism offerings and year-round attractions. We are delighted to partner with DCT Abu Dhabi on this initiative, enabling eligible leisure travellers to enjoy the added value of a complimentary UAE entry visa.

We look forward to inspiring more Indian travellers to choose Abu Dhabi for their next international holiday.”

(Source: Thomas Cook India)

Korean Air and Asiana Airlines secure merger approval

SINGAPORE, 18 August 2026: Korean Air’s board of directors and Asiana Airlines’ shareholders have formally approved the merger agreement, finalising a major milestone as the two airlines prepare to launch an integrated airline by 17 December 2026.

Korean Air’s board ratified the merger agreement on 12 August, fulfilling small-scale merger requirements under Article 527-3 of Korea’s Commercial Act. Concurrently, Asiana Airlines secured shareholder approval during an extraordinary general meeting, with 81.86% shareholder attendance and 99.3% (167,436,677 shares) voting in favour.

Photo credit: Korean Air. Merger of KAL and Asiana ratified.

These approvals formally ratify the merger agreement executed by both boards in May 2026. Following creditor protection procedures and remaining administrative formalities, the corporate merger registration will be completed on 17 December 2026.

Korean Air continues to advance its post-merger integration roadmap. Following conditional merger approval from the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport (MOLIT) on 25 June and clearance of its merger registration statement on 24 July, the airline is proceeding with Air Operator Certificate (AOC) amendments and international operational permits in close consultation with relevant authorities.

With merger approvals finalised, the two airlines are accelerating operational readiness, focusing on systems integration, joint training, and team engagement ahead of the launch.

(Source: Korean Air)

Etihad schedules Gothenburg flights

ABU DHABI, UAE, 18 August 2026: Etihad Airways has confirmed a new seasonal service between Abu Dhabi and Gothenburg will start 17 December 2026, offering four weekly flights until 21 March 2027.

Departures are scheduled for Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday and Sunday from Abu Dhabi using A321LR aircraft for the seven-hour and 35-minute flight to Gothenburg.

The new service will create Gothenburg’s first direct air link to the Middle East and Asia, connecting Sweden’s west coast directly with Abu Dhabi and providing some of the fastest one-stop journeys to sought-after destinations across India and Asia through Etihad’s Abu Dhabi hub.

Photo credit: Etihad. Seasonal flights from Abu Dhabi to Gothenburg.

Abu Dhabi offers an extraordinary variety of experiences. Visitors can kayak through the mangroves at Jubail, explore the museums of the Saadiyat Cultural District and the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, relax on the beaches of the Arabian Gulf, or experience the attractions of Yas Island. 

Etihad’s complimentary Abu Dhabi Stopover programme allows eligible guests connecting through the city to add a hotel stay of up to two nights, turning their connection into a chance to experience the capital.

For travellers from Gothenburg, the evening arrival in Abu Dhabi also opens Etihad’s onward network across Asia. Onward services include Bangkok, Phuket, Krabi, Singapore, Hanoi, Bali, Shanghai, Taipei, Bengaluru, and Colombo.

Gothenburg is the 15th destination launched in 2026. The route will be served by Airbus A321LR, the newest aircraft in Etihad’s fleet, configured with two First Suites, 14 business seats and 144 in economy. First and business feature fully flat beds with direct aisle access, and economy features ergonomic seating with 13.3-inch 4K touchscreen displays with hundreds of hours of films, television and music on demand. High-speed Wi-Fi is available across all cabins.

Travelling the other way, Gothenburg is Scandinavia at its most characterful. Sweden’s second largest city sits where the Göta River meets the sea, with an archipelago a short ferry ride from the centre, seafood markets, the Christmas lights at Liseberg and the wooden streets of the Haga district.

Etihad Airways Chief Executive Officer, Antonoaldo Neves, said: “The A321LR is the aircraft that makes a route like this possible, bringing our full three-cabin product on a scale that suits Gothenburg. It is a city Scandinavia is rightly proud of, a centre of industry and research with an archipelago at its door. This new service gives the region its first direct air link to Asia and, through Abu Dhabi, some of the fastest connections to key destinations across India and Asia. It also allows travellers to experience Abu Dhabi itself before continuing their journey”

Bookings opened on 12 August on the airline’s website.

Flight schedule

EY175 departs Abu Dhabi (ABU) at 0250 and arrives in Gothenburg (GOT) at 0725 (Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday and Sunday).
EY176 departs Gothenburg (GOT) at 0910 and arrives in Abu Dhabi (ABU) at 1855.

(Source: Etihad)

Sarawak sets sights on Greater Business Events

KUCHING, Malaysia, 17 August 2026: Business Events Sarawak paid a courtesy visit to the Premier of Sarawak, The Right Honourable Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Haji Abdul Rahman Zohari bin Tun Datuk Abang Haji Openg, to discuss the next phase of Sarawak’s business events growth and strengthen collaboration in support of the Post COVID-19 Development Strategy 2030 (PCDS 2030). 

Building on Sarawak’s strong industry foundation and international reputation, discussions focused on the next phase of growth and how business events can create greater value for the destination through economic opportunities, knowledge exchange, industry development, investment and benefits for local communities. 

A courtesy call to The Right Honourable Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Haji Abdul Rahman Zohari bin Tun Datuk Abang Haji Openg was led by The Honourable Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah.

During the visit, Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, Minister for Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Sarawak, said the Sarawak Government’s continued support strengthens the industry’s ability to build on its progress. 

“Sarawak has built a strong international reputation in business events, strengthened by our focus on legacy-driven outcomes. We are now seeing that translate into more events and wider opportunities for local businesses and industries. With the Sarawak Government’s continued support for the industry, we are well positioned to build on this progress, attract bigger opportunities and ensure the benefits extend across more sectors and communities in Sarawak as competition across ASEAN grows.” 

The discussion during the visit highlighted infrastructure, venue and accommodation capacity, and air connectivity as important factors in strengthening Sarawak’s ability to attract larger and more diverse international and national business events. The events and tourism industries are also encouraged to explore creative ways for Sarawak’s growing range of venues and facilities to complement one another in supporting conventions, exhibitions, corporate meetings and incentives, performances and other major events.

With Borneo Convention Centre Kuching 2 (BCCK2) in progress and improved air connectivity through AirBorneo, the discussion also highlighted the opportunity for Sarawak to tap into and drive more business events and tourism from across the wider Asia Pacific region.

Datu Hii Chang Kee, Deputy State Secretary (Operation) and Chairman of BESarawak, emphasised the importance of stronger collaboration and coordination to ensure business events contribute to Sarawak’s wider development.

“As the industry grows, our role in connecting business events more closely with PCDS 2030 becomes even more important. With a growing pipeline of larger events addressing globally relevant issues across industries, we need to consider how each opportunity can contribute to Sarawak’s broader priorities, whether through investment, talent development, industry growth, knowledge exchange, or international partnerships.”

“This is where stronger coordination becomes essential. Government agencies, industry and institutions need to work together so that when these events come to Sarawak, we are ready to maximise the opportunities and benefits they can create for the destination.”

This direction builds on Sarawak’s growing focus on legacy impact, with business events increasingly used to create long-term benefits through knowledge, innovation and partnerships.”

Jason Tan Chin Foo, Chief Executive Officer of BESarawak, said BESarawak is clear about how it intends to build on the strengths of the past two decades.

“With the strong support of the Sarawak Government, we are excited about the next phase of growth. We have built significant momentum over the years, and our focus now is to use that momentum strategically by being intentional about the events we pursue, strengthening Sarawak’s business events ecosystem, and creating more value from every opportunity we secure.”

“As Sarawak advances towards the goals of PCDS 2030, BESarawak will continue to strengthen the alignment between its business events pipeline and Sarawak’s priority sectors, creating more opportunities to bring knowledge, innovation and partnerships that support Sarawak’s broader development.”

(Source: Your Stories — BESarawak)

Agoda and STB renew three-year MOU

SINGAPORE, 17 August 2026: Digital travel platform Agoda and the Singapore Tourism Board (STB) have renewed and broadened their partnership through a three-year Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), extending collaboration beyond joint destination marketing into new areas of data, technology, and AI-powered travel innovation.

The MOU was signed in the presence of Agoda CEO, Omri Morgenshtern and  STB Chief Executive Melissa Ow. This latest agreement entails a three-year commitment focused on promoting Singapore as a destination, deepening data and technology collaboration, and advancing industry development.

From left to right: Jun Dong, Agoda Vice President; Omri Morgenshtern, Agoda Chief Executive Officer; Melissa Ow, STB Chief Executive, and Terrence Voon, STB Executive Director, Southeast Asia, at the MOU launch ceremony on 13 August.

First established in 2022 and renewed in 2024, the partnership has evolved with each iteration to address shifting traveller behaviours and the increasingly central role of digital tools across the traveller journey. 

This latest expansion broadens the scope across four pillars: 

  • joint marketing; 
  • data strategy and insights; 
  • thought leadership and innovation; 
  • tech collaboration exploring the use of artificial intelligence (AI). 

The signing builds on momentum established earlier this year. In May 2026, Agoda and STB launched a joint marketing campaign to support demand for Singapore amid global disruptions, while tapping into growing interest in short-haul regional travel. With strong participation from Singapore hotel partners, the campaign delivered encouraging results across target markets — a promising sign of what the partnership can achieve.

Ow commented: “The renewed collaboration presents the opportunity to tap on Agoda’s platform reach, traveller insights and technology capabilities to strengthen Singapore’s destination appeal in the digital space. The partnership also supports STB’s Tourism 2040 ambitions, with a mutual commitment to harness technology and raise industry capabilities for Singapore tourism.”

Morgenshtern added: “Agoda shares a bond with Singapore, and this expanded collaboration reflects our investment in the market’s digital future. We’re excited to bring our AI and analytics capabilities to this partnership, enabling STB to reach travellers more precisely while supporting the innovation priorities that benefit the entire Singapore tourism ecosystem.”

(Source: Agoda/STB)

Vietjet uniforms win award

SINGAPORE, 17 August 2026: Vietjet has been voted “Best Cabin Crew Uniform” at the 2026 Flyers’ Choice Awards organised by AirlineRatings, while also being named as “Favourite Low-Cost Carrier”, securing the top spot in both categories following a global traveller vote.

AirlineRatings CEO Sharon Petersen said: “Winning two categories marks an important tipping point for Vietjet. The airline is now firmly recognised on the global stage, with its uniform playing a key role in that recognition. Unique, fun and instantly recognisable, it leaves a lasting impression long after the flight. The Flyers’ Choice win for best cabin crew uniform reinforces this. “

Vietjet’s signature red uniform voted Best Cabin Crew Uniform by travellers worldwide.

Created by European designers, Vietjet’s cabin crew uniform features the airline’s signature red and combines youthful energy with inspiration from youth cadet attire.

Vietjet has consistently maintained AirlineRatings’ highest seven-star safety rating and has been recognised among the world’s safest airlines for many consecutive years. The airline has also received international recognition from CAPA, the World Travel Awards, Skytrax, and other organisations for its safety, service, customer experience, and brand value.

From its home base in Vietnam, Vietjet continues to expand across the Asia-Pacific region and into new international markets, bringing its brand to more travellers worldwide. From Singapore, Vietjet currently flies direct to Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang and Phu Quoc, with a new direct service to Nha Trang scheduled to commence in December 2026.

The annual Flyers’ Choice Awards are the only AirlineRatings awards determined entirely by travellers. With around 40,000 verified votes cast in 2026, the awards provide direct insight into the airlines earning travellers’ confidence and loyalty.

(Source: Vietjet)

CTS hires team leader to scale expansion

SINGAPORE, 17 August 2026: Custom Travel Solutions (CTS), the white-label travel loyalty platform powering membership and subscription businesses, has appointed Ishan Anand as Vice President of Product.

The hire marks the latest in senior leadership additions as CTS scales its position as the most powerful infrastructure layer behind branded travel and lifestyle programmes.

Photo credit: CTS. Vice President Product Ishan Anand.

Anand joins CTS from MakeMyTrip (NASDAQ: MMYT), India’s largest travel platform, where he led product strategy and business performance for several of the platform’s highest-traffic businesses.

At MakeMyTrip, Anand repeatedly took businesses with no search visibility, no funnel, and no revenue model and built them into some of the platform’s strongest growth engines. He conceived industry-first products that raised the standard for traveller trust and was an early champion of AI-first product practices across the organisation.

‘We are deliberately bringing in leaders who have built and scaled at the highest level of the travel industry. Ishan has done exactly that – from zero to category-leading growth engines, and he’ll shape what CTS builds next for our partners and beyond,” said CTS Founder and CEO Mike Putman.

“CTS gives any brand the platform, the inventory, and the economics to turn travel into something rare: a loyalty experience their members genuinely value, and a revenue line the brand fully owns. That combination is what drew me in, and the platform is already building for where booking goes next as the industry becomes more AI-driven. I’ve spent my career turning platforms like this into trusted, category-leading businesses, and the chance to do that at CTS’s global scale made this an easy decision.” – Ishan Anand, VP of Product 

At CTS, Anand will lead product strategy and vision across the company’s platform, spanning its white-label travel loyalty infrastructure, AI-powered member experience, and an expanding suite of modules.

About Custom Travel Solutions
Custom Travel Solutions provides white-label travel loyalty and booking infrastructure to banks, membership organisations, fintech companies, publishers, and enterprise partners worldwide that want to grow loyalty, engagement, and non-dues revenue through travel.

Meet connect and celebrate: Phuket Marriott Resort & Spa

PHUKET, Thailand, 17 August 2026: From inspiring business meetings and conferences to unforgettable beachfront weddings, Phuket Marriott Resort & Spa, Merlin Beach, launched a distinctive setting where business and celebration come together in paradise.

Nestled along Tri-Trang Beach, just minutes from Patong Beach, the resort combines tropical surroundings with versatile event spaces, professional services, and five-star hospitality. With seven event rooms, more than 740 sqm of indoor event space, and a spectacular 3,780 sqm beach lawn venue, the resort provides flexible options for meetings, corporate events, social celebrations, and destination weddings.

Meetings designed to inspire

Meetings at Phuket Marriott Resort & Spa, Merlin Beach are designed to be productive, engaging, and memorable. The resort’s flexible venues can accommodate everything from intimate executive meetings to large conferences, with the Merlin Grand Ballroom accommodating up to 650 guests in theatre setup. Modern audiovisual technology and an experienced events and catering team ensure that every occasion is delivered professionally.

Merlin Grand Ballroom accommodating up to 650 guests

Creative and memorable coffee breaks

At Phuket Marriott Resort & Spa, Merlin Beach, guests can enjoy thoughtfully designed coffee breaks, creative themed refreshments, and delectable cuisine in stylish pre-function spaces. With natural light and flexible layouts, these areas are ideal for networking, registration, entertainment, and meaningful connections.

Beach Lawn: Events by the Andaman Sea

For an unforgettable outdoor experience, the resort’s expansive 3,780-sqm Beach Lawn offers an exceptional beachfront setting overlooking the Andaman Sea.

Events by the Andaman Sea

The open-air venue can accommodate large receptions and banquets, providing an inspiring backdrop for corporate events, celebrations, and special occasions. Guests can enjoy alfresco dining surrounded by tropical landscapes and the beautiful shoreline of Merlin Beach.

For couples looking to celebrate their love in Phuket, Phuket Marriott Resort & Spa, Merlin Beach offers a romantic and secluded setting along Tri-Trang Beach.

The beach lawn can host ceremonies of up to 500 guests

From beachfront ceremonies and cocktail receptions to elegant ballroom celebrations, the resort offers diverse indoor and outdoor venues for every stage of a destination wedding. The Beach Lawn can host ceremonies of up to 500 guests, while the Merlin Grand Ballroom can accommodate up to 350 guests for a seated wedding reception.

Marriott Certified Wedding Planners work closely with couples to personalise their celebration and coordinate every detail, from menus and table settings to entertainment and other wedding services.

Where business meets paradise

Whether gathering for a meeting, celebrating a corporate milestone, or beginning a new chapter together, Phuket Marriott Resort & Spa, Merlin Beach offers an inspiring destination where professional events become memorable experiences.

For enquiries and event planning, contact [email protected]

(Source: Your Stories — Phuket Marriott Resort & Spa, Merlin Beach)