Bangkok, Thailand, 30 June 2026: Zeroage.life, the longevity division of Borderless Healthcare Group, today announced the launch of its AI-enabled Longevity 5.0 Cloud platform and the development of a first-of-its-kind “Longevity Clinic-of-the-Future” in Thailand.
The platform enables medical experts across Asia and around the world to collaborate through specialist-led longevity protocols supported by cloud-based and agentic AI technologies. Zeroage.life aims to redefine longevity care by integrating preventive, precision, and specialist medicine into a seamless “Longevity Continuum” ecosystem that inspires confidence in groundbreaking healthcare solutions.
“We are expecting many longevity clinics today to evolve from a lifestyle medicine model into a deeper multi-specialty playbook supported by cloud-based longevity experts and agentic AI,” said Dr. Wei Siang Yu, Founder and Chairman of Borderless Healthcare Group. He added, “This evolution will enable clinics to deliver deeper, more personalized care through tailored services, bio-intelligent content, and precision-driven products for every individual.”
Zeroage.life believes the future of longevity care extends beyond standalone wellness assessments, machine-based screening or peptide discovery. The company is pioneering a “Longevity Continuum” framework in which primary care physicians, specialists, scientists, and allied healthcare professionals can operate within a unified longevity framework across preventive, therapeutic, and regenerative care pathways.
The platform also seeks to bridge the gap between “wellcare” and “sickcare” by enabling disease-specific and organ-specific specialists to participate in a patient’s longevity journey. Through integrated data intelligence and interoperability, longevity strategies become integral to a broader, multi-specialty framework that ensures secure, seamless data sharing and comprehensive patient management.
Within the Borderless Healthcare Group ecosystem, Zeroage.life has already participated in several specialist-focused longevity initiatives through collaborations with a global network of experts, including:
Longevity.men – focused on men’s longevity
SheSpan.life – focused on women’s longevity
HeartSpan.ai – focused on cardiovascular longevity
BoneDeep.ai – focused on musculoskeletal longevity
Zeroage.life is committed to helping healthcare practitioners and specialists become future-ready as longevity science gains wider adoption among healthspan-conscious consumers and patients worldwide, inspiring ongoing exploration and innovation.
Beyond clinics, the company’s broader vision is to enable a unified longevity operating system spanning resorts, gyms, homes, and wellness destinations. This approach aims to provide individuals with continuous, ubiquitous longevity care, fostering trust in a sustainable and forward-looking healthcare ecosystem.
As Asia emerges as one of the fastest-growing regions for innovation in preventive health, medical wellness, and healthy aging, Zeroage.life is positioning Thailand as a strategic launchpad for a scalable, cloud-enabled longevity ecosystem across the region.
BANGKOK, 30 June 2026: Set on the broad sandy beachfront of Khao Takiab, The Barai Hua Hin has officially opened adjacent to the Hyatt Regency Hua Hin, marking the arrival of The Unbound Collection by Hyatt in Thailand.
The 98-room beachfront wellness resort brings together Thai healing traditions, locally inspired design and the spirit of Sanook—the Thai expression for the joy of living.
The Barai Hua Hin. Four elements: Water, Fire, Earth and Air
As the brand’s first property in Thailand, The Barai Hua Hin introduces a new chapter in luxury wellness, where heritage, architecture, and personalised experiences converge into a single, distinctive destination.
“The Barai first opened as a spa 20 years ago and earned international recognition for its restorative treatments. Today, it has evolved into a boutique beachfront wellness resort while preserving its legacy of Thai hospitality and holistic wellbeing”, said Barai Hua Hin, General Manager Marco Avitabile.
“At the Barai Hua Hin, every stay is designed to unfold at the guest’s own rhythm. Our philosophy is rooted in Sanook, the belief that joy, ease and delight should be part of life’s most meaningful moments. Whether guests come for deep rest, movement, spa rituals, culinary discovery or time by the sea, we invite them to experience renewal in a way that feels personal, memorable and entirely their own.”
Architecture
Designed by renowned Thai architect Lek Mathar Bunnag, The Barai Hua Hin reinterprets Thai heritage through a contemporary architectural language inspired by the four elements: Water, Fire, Earth and Air. Sculptural forms, shaded corridors, tranquil courtyards and reflective water features encourage guests to slow down and reconnect. The resort also features two distinctive swimming pools: the Forest Pool, nestled within lush tropical surroundings, and the Beach Pool overlooking the Gulf of Thailand.
The resort offers 98 rooms and suites, including 27 suites and two two-bedroom penthouses. Each accommodation has been thoughtfully designed to embrace the surrounding tropical landscape through generous living spaces, expansive balconies, deep soaking tubs and rainforest showers. Higher-category suites further elevate the experience with butler service, expansive terraces, in-suite rituals and daily massage inclusions for guests seeking greater privacy and personalisation.
At the heart of the resort is The Barai Spa, named after the ancient barays that once sustained daily life in historic empires. Wellness extends beyond the spa into the two-storey Wellness Hub, which features a 24-hour fitness studio, yoga studio, holistic zone and wellness shop.
Guided by the resort’s elemental philosophy, guests are invited to explore Earth for grounding, Water for release, Air for vitality and Fire for momentum. Signature wellness pathways include Women’s Health, Sleep Recovery, Back Care, Longevity, Emotional Wellbeing and Heart Health, with each programme supported by a personalised wellness map.
Dining rooted in Hua Hin heritage
Dining at The Barai Hua Hin is led by Chef Benn Rowe, whose culinary philosophy celebrates coastal abundance, seasonal produce and the convivial pleasure of dining by the sea.
White Cottage draws inspiration from the seaside summer houses once built by Siamese nobility and Ban Chom Khluen, meaning “Seeing the Wave,” whose preserved timbers were carefully reassembled into the cottage guests experience today. The restaurant serves breakfast before transitioning into a refined dining destination
showcasing fresh seafood, plant-forward cuisine and Thai-inspired flavours.
McFarland House is set within a beautifully restored 19th-century beachfront pavilion overlooking the Gulf of Thailand. Once the seaside retreat of Dr George Bradley McFarland, a pioneering figure in Thailand’s medical and educational history, it now offers European cuisine, premium grilled specialities, and weekday afternoon tea and one of Hua Hin’s most celebrated Sunday brunches.
The Unbound Collection by Hyatt in Thailand
The opening of The Barai Hua Hin, part of The Unbound Collection by Hyatt, further expands the brand’s portfolio of independent, one-of-a-kind hotels—each distinguished
by its character, individuality, and deep connection to its surroundings. As the brand’s first property in Thailand, the resort brings a new wellness story to the collection, shaped by architecture, heritage, nature and the joyful Thai spirit of Sanook.
The brand is expected to continue its global growth this year with Cayo Levantado in the Dominican Republic and The Clayfield in Canada.
About the author Andrew J Wood is a British-born, Bangkok-based media executive, travel writer and hotel general manager with almost five decades of hospitality experience. A former President of Skål International Asia, SI Thailand President and a two-time President of Skål International Bangkok, he writes regularly on tourism and hospitality across the Asia-Pacific region.
BANGKOK, 30 June 2026: The Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA), in collaboration with the Research Centre for Digital Transformation of Tourism (RCDTT) at the School of Hotel and Tourism Management of The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU), has released the PATA Asia Pacific Visitor Forecasts 2026-2028: Mid-Year Update, highlighting the destinations and source markets expected to drive the next phase of tourism growth across the region.
The updated outlook projects that international visitor arrivals (IVAs) across 39 Asia Pacific destinations will reach 714.9 million in 2026, increasing to 758.8 million in 2027 and 789.2 million by 2028. By the end of the forecast period, visitor arrivals are expected to reach 115.6% of 2019 levels, confirming that the region has moved beyond recovery and entered a new phase of tourism expansion.
“Change is no longer an occasional disruption; it is the new constant,” said PATA CEO Noor Ahmad Hamid. “The destinations and organisations that thrive will be those that can adapt quickly, innovate continuously, and respond with agility to an increasingly complex and fast-changing world.
“The latest forecasts demonstrate the remarkable resilience of Asia Pacific tourism. While the region continues to grow and recover, success will increasingly depend on destinations’ ability to navigate geopolitical uncertainty, evolving traveller behaviour, connectivity challenges, and rising operational costs. This is precisely why timely, data-driven insights have become essential for strategic decision-making.”
One of the report’s key findings is the growing divergence in destination performance across the Asia-Pacific. While the region as a whole is expanding, some destinations are significantly outperforming others in terms of growth and recovery.
Highlights: APAC destination recovery and growth
Among the region’s 10 largest destinations, Vietnam is forecast to record the strongest growth between 2025 and 2027, with IVAs increasing by 31.2% to reach 27.8 million. This is followed by Macao, China (+19.4%), Japan (+15.8%), Hong Kong SAR (+13.9%), Türkiye (+12.7%), and Malaysia (+11.6%), reflecting strong demand, enhanced connectivity, and continued investment in tourism development.
By contrast, some of the region’s largest destinations are entering a more mature phase of growth. China, while remaining Asia Pacific’s largest destination with 157.8 million arrivals projected in 2027, is expected to grow by just 2.2% over 2025 levels. Thailand and the USA are likewise forecast to record more modest gains of 5.2% and 9.0%, respectively, highlighting increasing competition across the region.
Looking further ahead, Mongolia is forecast to achieve the highest recovery rate by 2028, reaching 177.8% of its 2019 arrival levels. Japan, the Maldives, Vietnam, and Sri Lanka are also projected to outperform their pre-pandemic benchmarks significantly.
On the other hand, Thailand is expected to return to its pre-pandemic level only by 2028. The USA, Chinese Taipei, the Philippines, Myanmar, and several Pacific Island destinations, however, are projected to remain in recovery mode through to the end of the forecast period.
Of the 39 destinations included in the report, about 27 destinations are projected to exceed pre-pandemic arrival volumes in 2027, then proceed to rise to 30 in 2028
Notable outbound market sources
The forecasts also provide important guidance for destination marketing organisations, airlines, airports, and tourism investors. China is projected to remain the Asia Pacific region’s largest outbound source market in 2027, generating nearly 127 million visitor arrivals across the region, followed by the USA with 65.2 million. Both markets are expected to grow by approximately 18% from 2025 levels.
Korea (ROK), Canada, and Mexico are also forecast to generate substantial outbound traveller volumes, although growth rates are expected to vary across these markets.
Challenges and opportunities on the horizon
Despite the positive outlook, the report identifies several risks that could influence tourism performance over the coming years. Escalating geopolitical tensions and energy market volatility have increased concerns regarding fuel prices, aviation costs, and air connectivity. Continued inflationary pressures and higher living costs in several source markets may also affect discretionary travel spending, particularly among middle-income households and long-haul travellers.
At the same time, expanding airline networks, airport developments, improved visa facilitation measures, and strengthening intra-regional travel demand are expected to support continued growth across many destinations.
The PATA Asia Pacific Visitor Forecasts 2026-2028: Mid-Year Update provides annual and quarterly forecasts for 39 destinations across Asia Pacific, alongside analysis of major source markets, destination performance trends, and the macroeconomic and geopolitical factors shaping the future of tourism.
PHNOM PENH, 30 June 2026: Raffles Hotel Le Royal has been named Cambodia’s top city hotel, while its sister property, Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor, secured second place in the Travel + Leisure Luxury Awards Asia-Pacific 2026.
The iconic luxury heritage hotels were also honoured at the awards for having the country’s best hotel swimming pools (Raffles Hotel Le Royal No. 2 and Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor No 4) and best hotel spas (Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor No 4). Additionally, Raffles Hotel Le Royal General Manager Dagmar Lyons was named one of Cambodia’s best General Managers.
“We are deeply honoured that Raffles Hotel Le Royal has been named Cambodia’s best city hotel,” Lyons said. “This recognition belongs to our entire team, who bring the spirit of 1929 to life every day while delivering the warm, intuitive service for which Raffles is renowned.”
Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor, General Manager Joseph Colina, added: “It is a great privilege to see our luxury hotel recognised among Cambodia’s finest. As a historic gateway to the wonders of Angkor, we are proud to preserve and share this extraordinary legacy.
The strong showing in the “Best City Hotels” category follows Raffles Cambodia’s recent launch of the “Grand Path of History” tour and a new history book chronicling the golden age of Travel in Southeast Asia. A permanent exhibition at Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor showcases rare photographs, video footage, architectural drawings, and other vintage artefacts.
Raffles Hotel Le Royal in Phnom Penh originally opened in 1929 and today features 175 rooms and suites. The property completed a meticulous one-year restoration in 2019, reinterpreting its heritage in a bold, contemporary style that is inspired by French colonial, Khmer, and Art Deco influences.
Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor in Siem Reap opened in 1932 as a rest stop for archaeologists and adventurers exploring the ancient temples of Angkor Wat. The hotel remains an authentic expression of 1930s French Art Deco style, with refined rooms, suites and villas that blend old-world charm with Cambodian influences and modern comfort.
KUALA LUMPUR, 30 June 2026: AirAsia MOVE expanded its global connectivity in the second quarter of 2026 with the addition of four direct airline partners, namely Oman Air, Uzbekistan Airways, FitsAir and Hainan Airlines – strengthening travel options across the Middle East, Central Asia, South Asia and China, while offering travellers greater choice and seamless access to emerging destinations.
The additions signal growing airline confidence in MOVE as a preferred distribution channel to reach the region’s fast-growing traveller base, as the platform continues to deepen its flight inventory across full-service and low-cost carriers.
AirAsia MOVE CEO Nadia Omer said: “Travel across ASEAN is evolving rapidly, with travellers demanding greater choice and seamless control all on one platform. As a flights-first OTA, expanding our network offering is core to our mission. Securing the trust of major carriers like Oman Air, Uzbekistan Airways, FitsAir, and Hainan Airlines, particularly amidst ongoing macroeconomic headwinds and volatility, is a powerful testament to the commercial strength of the MOVE ecosystem and the regional reach we deliver to our partners.
Each new partnership unlocks meaningful new corridors for MOVE users. Oman Air adds premium connectivity to the Sultanate and its broader global network. Uzbekistan Airways opens Central Asian routes via Tashkent, tapping surging traveller interest in Silk Road destinations. FitsAir strengthens affordable connectivity between Kuala Lumpur and Colombo, with onward reach to Lahore, Dubai, Dhaka and Chennai. Hainan Airlines, one of China’s largest full-service carriers, expands domestic access from hubs in Haikou, Beijing, Chongqing, Shenzhen and Xi’an, alongside international routes across Asia, Europe and North America.
With these latest additions, MOVE continues to scale its airline partnerships as part of its broader strategy to offer unrivalled flight choices across Asia and beyond.
Oman Air, Uzbekistan Airways, FitsAir, and Hainan Airlines join 75 other carriers that have partnered directly with MOVE. Complementing these direct partnerships, MOVE also has a selection of about 700 other airlines through its authorised suppliers for travellers to choose from. Beyond flights, the platform offers access to over a million hotels, airport transfers, attractions, online duty-free shopping, travel insurance and more.
SINGAPORE, 30 June 2026: Digital travel platform Agoda and the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC) celebrate the first anniversary of the Sustainable Tourism Academy, a joint effort to drive more sustainable practices across Asia.
Marking its first full year since inception, the academy continues to support hospitality professionals across the region in building practical knowledge on sustainable tourism, based on the GSTC Hotel Standard.
Photo credit: GSTC.
Since its launch, the academy has surpassed 3,000 registered users. Together with the in-person training programs GSTC and Agoda have been delivering since 2022, the partnership has collectively reached over 3,500 industry professionals.
GSTC CEO Randy Durband said: “Education and training are one of the most powerful ways to inspire meaningful change in tourism. One year after its launch, the Sustainable Tourism Academy reminds us that when knowledge is made accessible, more people are empowered to take practical steps toward sustainability. We are proud to celebrate this milestone with Agoda and all learners who are part of this journey.”
The majority of registered users are based across Asian markets, with India, Thailand, and Malaysia representing the largest user bases. Other key markets include Indonesia, Cambodia, Vietnam, the Philippines, Singapore, Sri Lanka, and Nepal. Academy users represent a diverse cross-section of the region’s hospitality sector, from professionals at leading global hotel groups such as Accor Group, Rosewood Hotels & Resorts, and ONYX Hospitality Group to independent operators and hospitality students from institutions such as the Asian Institute of Hospitality Management.
Agoda, Senior Vice President of Supply Andrew Smith, said: “At Agoda, we aim to be a trusted partner our hotel partners turn to as they navigate their sustainability journeys. By making high-calibre, localised resources like the Sustainable Tourism Academy freely accessible, we are proud to equip our partners and the wider industry with the practical tools and knowledge aligned with international standards.”
Marking its anniversary, the Sustainable Tourism Academy was also recognised by ASEAN as a key regional resource for capacity building. Moving forward, Agoda and GSTC will collaborate with ASEAN Member States to expand the academy’s reach and drive more sustainable practices across the region.
Congratulating both organisations on the milestone, Philippine Tourism Undersecretary Verna C. Buensuceso, Chair of the ASEAN National Tourism Organisations (NTOs), emphasised the alignment between the academy’s mission and the region’s long-term economic and environmental goals.
“The ASEAN National Tourism Organisations (NTOs) welcome the continued growth of the Sustainable Tourism Academy and its contribution to strengthening sustainability knowledge and capacity among tourism stakeholders across the region. We commend Agoda and GSTC for this achievement and look forward to continued collaboration in promoting sustainable tourism practices across the region.”
The academy now supports seven languages: English, Vietnamese, Malay, Thai, and Indonesian, as well as the recent additions of Japanese and Korean. The academy’s most popular courses include GSTC Standards & Performance Indicators, GSTC Certification, and Developing a Sustainable Policy and Strategy, highlighting the sector’s interest in both foundational sustainability knowledge and practical implementation.
PHNOM PENH, Cambodia, 30 June 2026: Malaysia Healthcare Travel Council (MHTC) launched the first-ever Malaysia Healthcare Expo (MHX) Phnom Penh last Friday, marking the first MHX to be held in Cambodia and the organisation’s first consumer-focused healthcare expo outside Indonesia.
Cambodia rapidly emerges as an increasingly important growth market for Malaysian healthcare. Healthcare traveller volume from Cambodia surpassed 12,000 in 2025, while healthcare travel revenue reached MYR30.3 million, underscoring the rising trust that Cambodian patients place in Malaysia’s healthcare ecosystem.
Photo credit: Malaysia Healthcare. Phnom Penh Expo 26 to 28 June.
Held from 26 to 28 June 2026 at Aeon Mall Sen Sok City, the three-day expo represents a significant milestone in Malaysia Healthcare’s efforts to deepen engagement with Cambodian healthcare tourists and strengthen Malaysia’s position as a preferred healthcare destination in the region.
Organised under the Malaysia Year of Medical Tourism 2026 (MYMT 2026) campaign themed Healing Meets Hospitality, the event reflects Malaysia Healthcare’s commitment to bringing Malaysia’s excellent healthcare facilities closer to international patients through direct engagement, meaningful conversations and greater accessibility to quality care.
Speaking at the launch, MHTC’s Chief Executive Officer Suriaghandi Suppiah said the inaugural expo reflected Malaysia Healthcare’s growing commitment to the Cambodian market.
“As MHX Phnom Penh brings hospitals and specialists directly to Cambodian families, we hope to provide trusted, quality care that is easier to access and understand. This is what the Malaysia Year of Medical Tourism 2026 is about: meeting patients where they are and building lasting relationships across the region,” he said.
MHX Phnom Penh featured leading Malaysian healthcare providers, including MHTC’s Flagship Medical Tourism Hospitals, namely Institut Jantung Negara (IJN) and Subang Jaya Medical Centre. Other participating institutions included Alpha IVF & Women’s Specialists Centre; KPJ Ampang Puteri Specialist Hospital; KPJ Damansara Specialist Hospital; KPJ Damansara Specialist Hospital 2; MSU Medical Centre; Sunway Medical Centre Penang; Sunway Medical Centre, Sunway City; and Thomson Hospital Kota Damansara. The expo also featured Asia OneHealthcare, represented by Beacon Hospital and Subang Jaya Medical Centre, as well as IHH Healthcare Malaysia, represented by Gleneagles Kuala Lumpur, Pantai Hospital Kuala Lumpur and Prince Court Medical Centre.
About Malaysia Healthcare Travel Council Malaysia Healthcare Travel Council (MHTC), established in 2009 under the purview of the Ministry of Health (MOH) Malaysia, is entrusted with developing and nurturing the “Malaysia Healthcare” brand. With 82 member hospitals nationwide, MHTC continues to elevate the healthcare travel ecosystem through strong branding, seamless patient experiences, and strategic market initiatives. In line with these efforts, MHTC is spearheading the Malaysia Year of Medical Tourism (MYMT) 2026, the nation’s first dedicated year to celebrate and advance healthcare travel.
SINGAPORE, 30 June 2026: Chiang Rai in far north Thailand will welcome the Hilton brand with the opening of Kahavadi Chiang Rai, Curio Collection by Hilton on 1 July.
Located on the northern banks of the Mae Kok River that flows through the heart of Chiang Rai town, the relatively unknown Curio Collection brand is now attached to the door of the renovated Rimkok Resort.
Photo credit: Kahavadi Chiang Rai, Curio Collection by Hilton.
This popular mid-scale hotel opened in 1990 but has been closed for several years to undergo an extensive renovation and upgrade. As the name implies, the hotel’s remake draws on Northern Thai merchant mansions and Lanna traditions.
In pre-opening publicity, the Hilton group presents Kahavadi Chiang Rai as blending contemporary design with local artistry and authentic experiences that reflect the destination’s character.
“The debut of Kahavadi Chiang Rai marks an important milestone in Hilton’s continued growth in Thailand and further highlights Chiang Rai’s appeal as one of the country’s most compelling cultural destinations. Southeast Asians and Pacific Islanders,” Hilton said in pre-opening promotions on 18 June.
Kahavadi Chiang Rai, Curio Collection by Hilton, is now accepting reservations for stays starting 1 July 2026. It features 167 rooms and suites across several room categories. Accommodation includes 144 deluxe rooms, 22 one-bedroom suites, and a two-bedroom Kahavadi Family Suite.
To celebrate, Kahavadi Chiang Rai has set its opening rate at THB3,800 per night. As part of the opening celebration, Hilton Honors members who book directly will earn 1,000 bonus points per night for stays between 1 July and 31 December 2026. Hilton Worldwide, on its trending stories portal, flagged the opening rate at THB4,136, including service charge but excluding government taxes.
Kahavadi Chiang Rai, Curio Collection by Hilton is located at 6 Moo 4, Tambon Rimkok, Muang Chiang Rai, Chiang Rai 57100.
A business card sent to TTRW by a third party purportedly identified the GM as an Australian national, Ms Terryn Schlenther. Still, efforts to confirm the GM’s details directly with the hotel’s administration were unsuccessful at the time of posting the news.*
The hotel group appointed Schlenther general manager of the Chiang Rai project in June 2025 following a four-month stint at Hilton Suvarnabhumi Golf Resort and Spa in the Thai capital. She has worked at various Hilton properties in Thailand since 2018 and, before that, for Hilton properties in Australia — Darwin, Melbourne and Sydney.
The resort is a rebirth of the Rimkok Resort Hotel that opened in 1990 with 248 rooms on an extensive garden estate overlooking the river. It initially catered to international tour groups before undergoing a management change and operating as the Wiang Indra Riverside Resort.
Following the COVID-19 crisis, which caused massive damage to emerging and hidden-gem destinations across northern Thailand, the property closed for a major makeover, ushering in Hilton’s “Curio Collection” and rebranding it as the Kahavadi Chiang Rai, Curio Collection by Hilton.
* Postscript: The hotel’s Front Office Manager confirmed the GM’s details were correct.
KUALA LUMPUR, 29 June 2026: Golden Destinations (GD), a leading outbound travel brand, has announced the charter of Star Voyager from StarCruises for a series of sailings from Port Klang during the December 2026 school holiday season.
Available through Golden Destinations’ flagship cruise division, GD World Cruises, the specially chartered sailings will offer Malaysian travellers holiday escapes to Phuket and Krabi in Thailand aboard Star Voyager.
Photo credit: StarCruises. Star Voyager
The deployment will feature five departures between 5 and 22 December 2026, offering two- and three-night itineraries designed to cater to families, couples, groups of friends, corporate incentive groups, MICE travellers and holidaymakers seeking a memorable year-end getaway.
By sailing directly from Port Klang in Malaysia, travellers can enjoy a convenient and hassle-free cruise holiday, making it one of the most convenient and value-packed holiday options during Malaysia’s peak year-end travel season.
This collaboration combines Golden Destinations’ expertise in curating travel experiences with StarCruises’ hospitality, entertainment and onboard offerings, delivering exceptional value and memorable experiences for Malaysian travellers.
Five school holiday sailings from Port Klang
Travellers can choose from five specially arranged departures throughout the December school holidays:
• Sailing 1: Departing 5 December 2026, Saturday (three-night Phuket–Krabi Cruise). Visits Phuket and Krabi, experiencing two of Thailand’s most popular beach destinations in a single voyage.
• Sailing 2: Departing 8 December 2026, Tuesday (three-night Phuket–Krabi Cruise). Ideal for a mid-holiday escape, this sailing offers the opportunity to unwind at sea while enjoying world-class onboard experiences.
• Sailing 3: Departing 18 December 2026, Friday (two- night Krabi Cruise). A short escape to Krabi, ideal for a relaxing weekend without the need for an extended leave.
• Sailing 4: Departing 20 December 2026, Sunday (two-night Phuket Cruise). A short break to Phuket, combining island excitement with the comfort of a cruise holiday.
• Sailing 5: Departing 22 December 2026, Tuesday (three-night Phuket–Krabi Cruise). Round off the school holidays with a festive getaway before returning in time for Christmas and year-end celebrations.
StarDream Cruises President Michael Goh said: “Golden Destinations has been a valued travel partner over the years, and we are delighted to collaborate on this Star Voyager charter programme. As one of Malaysia’s leading travel specialists, Golden Destinations’ extensive experience in developing cruise holiday offerings and deep
An understanding of the local market will help bring these exciting sailings to more travellers seeking a convenient year-end getaway from Port Klang.”
Bookings are now open through Golden Destinations’ nationwide network of travel partners and authorised agents.
KUCHING, Sarawak, 29 June 2026: Sarawak welcomed the world to the rainforest as the 29th edition of the Rainforest World Music Festival (RWMF) 2026 opened at the Sarawak Cultural Village, attracting more than 200 performers from 13 countries for three days of music, culture, community and sustainability from 26 to 28 June 2026.
The opening day was marked by a walkabout by YB Dato Sri Haji Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, Minister for Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Sarawak, who visited key festival activations across the Sarawak Cultural Village to experience first-hand how RWMF 2026 brings together culture, sustainability, community participation, food, innovation and responsible tourism within one festival setting.
Held under the theme “Regenerations: Roots & Rhythms,” RWMF 2026 transforms the iconic festival grounds in the foothills of Mount Santubong into a global meeting point where heritage, creativity and cultural exchange come alive through the universal language of music.
During the walkabout, YB Dato Sri Haji Abdul Karim was briefed on several festival highlights, including Green Ruai, the Rainforest Flavours gastronomy activation at the Global Village Pavilion, food and beverage offerings across the festival grounds, sustainability operations, and community-led experiences designed to enhance the visitor journey throughout the three-day festival.
A key highlight of the walkabout was Green Ruai, which carries the theme “Roots of Change, Future of Sustainability.” Located near Rumah Gasing, Green Ruai serves as a dedicated sustainability platform showcasing practical green innovations, community-based initiatives, and environmentally responsible solutions that support the festival’s broader sustainability direction.
Among the featured showcases is DBKU’s E-Penambang at the Sarawak Cultural Village lake, presenting an environmentally friendly interpretation of Sarawak’s traditional river-transportation heritage.
The showcase reflects how cultural memory, local identity, and green innovation can be brought together in a way that is both educational and relevant to contemporary sustainability conversations.
Green Ruai also features collaborations and showcases involving renewable energy solutions, solar-powered infrastructure, clean energy systems, community-based sustainability initiatives, eco-friendly products and innovative approaches to waste and resource management. These initiatives reflect RWMF’s continued effort to make sustainability visible, accessible and participatory for festivalgoers.
Over three days, RWMF 2026 featured a diverse international and regional line-up spanning world music, soul, funk, groove, Nusantara traditions, Afro-fusion, Basque folk, Mongolian and Southeast Asian contemporary sounds. The festival continues to strengthen its reputation as one of Southeast Asia’s most distinctive cultural festival experiences, bringing together artists, audiences and communities in a setting that is uniquely Sarawak.
The opening day offered festivalgoers an immersive experience beyond the concert stage, with afternoon music workshops, cultural demonstrations, wellness sessions, interactive activities and community engagements taking place across the festival grounds. These activities allowed visitors to connect directly with artists, traditions, and stories from around the world while experiencing the cultural richness of Sarawak and Borneo.
According to YB Dato Sri Haji Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, RWMF continues to play an important role in strengthening Sarawak’s global visibility as a cultural tourism destination.
“For nearly three decades, the Rainforest World Music Festival has shown how culture can bring the world together while strengthening appreciation for heritage, community and sustainability. RWMF is more than a festival. It is one of Sarawak’s strongest international platforms, reflecting who we are as the Gateway to Borneo and demonstrating how culture, nature and responsible tourism can coexist meaningfully,” he said.
He added that the festival’s on-the-ground activations demonstrate how Sarawak continues to strengthen responsible tourism through practical, visible initiatives.
“What we see at RWMF today is not only music and performance, but a wider ecosystem of culture, food, craft, sustainability and community participation. Initiatives such as Green Ruai and the E-Penambang showcase are important because they demonstrate how heritage and innovation can work together. This is the kind of meaningful tourism Sarawak wants to champion, where visitors enjoy the festival while also learning about our culture, environment and way of life,” he said.
Dr Sharzede Datu Haji Salleh Askor, Chief Executive Officer of the Sarawak Tourism Board, said the 2026 theme reflects the festival’s evolution as it approaches its 30th anniversary next year.
“Regenerations: Roots & Rhythms captures the spirit of this year’s festival beautifully. ‘Roots’ reminds us of the cultural heritage, traditions and knowledge passed down through generations. At the same time, ‘Rhythms’ reflects renewal, creativity and the way music continues to evolve through collaboration and contemporary expression,” she said.
“This year, we see that theme coming alive across the festival through the performances, workshops, cultural storytelling, food, craft, sustainability initiatives and the shared energy of festivalgoers. RWMF continues to show that culture is not static. It is lived, shared, renewed and carried forward,” she added.
The evening programme culminated in a highly anticipated performance by Malaysian music icon Dato M Nasir, whose poetic storytelling, timeless repertoire and enduring influence in the regional music landscape captivated audiences gathered beneath the rainforest canopy. His performance set the tone for a weekend dedicated to celebrating cultural identity, artistic innovation, and the power of music to transcend borders.
In addition to the main concerts, festivalgoers can look forward to a full programme of immersive experiences throughout the weekend, including more than 50 workshops and activities across the festival grounds. These include music and dance workshops, artist-led sessions, cultural storytelling, traditional craft demonstrations, wellness activities, family-friendly programmes, cultural performances, and community-led activities.
The programme also features the BIMP-EAGA and ASEAN Gastronomy Experience through Rainforest Flavours at the Global Village Pavilion. Curated by the Culinary Heritage and Arts Society Sarawak (CHASS), the activation showcases distinctive regional flavours and shared culinary traditions from Brunei Darussalam, Indonesia, the Philippines, Thailand and Malaysia, including Sarawak.
Rainforest Flavours highlights heritage ingredients, traditional cooking techniques, local food stories, and authentic food showcases, offering festivalgoers a deeper taste of Sarawak, Borneo, and the wider region. This complements RWMF’s celebration of music, culture and community by positioning food as another important expression of shared heritage.
Festivalgoers can also enjoy approximately 50 food and beverage vendors across the festival grounds, offering Sarawakian favourites, traditional local cuisine, international street food, Western delights, barbecue specialities, artisanal desserts, tropical fruits, vegetarian selections, festival-style bites and a wide selection of beverages.
Sustainability remains a core pillar of RWMF 2026, with the festival serving as a live implementation platform for the ISO 20121 Event Sustainability Management System as it progresses towards sustainable event management and responsible tourism development.
On-the-ground initiatives include Green Ruai, the Green Warriors Waste Management Programme, structured waste segregation and recycling initiatives, nine EcoStations across Damai Sentral and Sarawak Cultural Village, and the EcoGreen Planet Tree Planting Initiative.
Through EcoGreen Planet, implemented in collaboration with the Sarawak Forestry Corporation, more than 6,000 trees have been planted across Sarawak since 2023, and the programme is on track to plant 10,000 trees this year. These efforts reinforce RWMF’s commitment to reducing environmental impact while encouraging festivalgoers to engage in responsible tourism practices.
RWMF 2026 is made possible through the strong support of its official partners and sponsors, who continue to play a vital role in strengthening the festival’s global reach, cultural impact and sustainability commitments.
Malaysia Airlines and Firefly serve as the Official Airline Partners, supporting connectivity and travel access to Sarawak. TV Sarawak (TVS) returns as the Official Broadcast Partner, extending the festival’s reach to audiences across Malaysia and beyond, while Astro Radio, comprising Era FM Sarawak, Sinar FM, Mix FM and Lite FM, serves as the Official Radio Partner. Rip Curl joins as the Official Apparel Partner, contributing to the festival’s lifestyle and creative expression ecosystem.
A diverse network of partners across the sustainability, hospitality, beverage, mobility, media, and corporate sectors further supports the festival. These included Cuckoo International (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd, F&N Marketing Sdn Bhd as Non-Alcoholic Beverage Partner, Plaza Merdeka, The Waterfront Hotel Kuching, Media Exchange, Avis Budget Malaysia, Carlsberg Marketing Sdn Bhd, Solarvest Borneo Sdn Bhd (Sarawak), PETROS, and Trienekens (Sarawak) Sdn Bhd.
As RWMF 2026 continued through the weekend, audiences enjoyed world-class performances, cultural discoveries, sustainability showcases, and meaningful encounters that celebrated the diversity of global music while reinforcing Sarawak’s position as the Gateway to Borneo and one of Asia’s most compelling destinations for cultural and sustainable tourism.
