SINGAPORE, 26 March 2025: Cunard’s new ship, Queen Anne, made her debut in Singapore when she docked at Marina Bay Cruise Centre on 24 to 25 March for an overnight stay as part of her 107-night maiden world cruise that will visit over 30 destinations in more than 20 countries.
Captain David Hudson and representatives from SATS-Creuers Cruise Services, which operates the Marina Bay Cruise Centre Singapore, the Singapore Tourism Board, and Wallem Shipping, exchanged commemorative plaques to mark the ship’s maiden call to Singapore.
Cunard’s Queen Anne docks for an overnight stay in Singapore.
Fam tour for travel advisors
On Monday, over 40 local travel advisors visited the ship for a familiarisation tour to experience the signature offerings onboard, such as the Royal Court Theatre, a two-deck theatre with 825 velvet seats, and the ship’s grand atrium, which covers three storeys.
The staterooms provide guests with some of the finest spaces at sea, especially Cunard’s renowned Grills Suites. The suites offer accommodation in various sizes matched to the ship’s finest restaurants, the Queens Grill and the Princess Grill. Suites range from approximately 301 sqft up to 1440 sqft.
Queen Anne returns to Singapore in 2026
On Wednesday, 26 March, the ship resumes its world voyage sailing for Kuala Lumpur and Penang, followed by Mauritius, South Africa, Namibia, Senegal, and Tenerife (Spain) before completing her journey back to Southampton on 27 April 2025.
Singapore and Hong Kong are the only overnight destinations in Asia. Other overnight stops include New York, San Francisco, Auckland (New Zealand), Cape Town (South Africa) and Sydney (Australia).
In February 2026, Queen Anne will offer a five-night sailing from Singapore to Hong Kong as part of her 2026 world voyage.
KUALA LUMPUR, 26 March 2025: The Malaysian Association of Tour & Travel Agents (MATTA) welcomes and fully supports the recent initiatives announced by the Minister of Transport, YB Anthony Loke, aimed at reducing congestion at Puspakom* and improving the efficiency of vehicle inspections.
This comprehensive and proactive approach will significantly benefit tourism industry players, particularly those in the transportation sector, by addressing longstanding operational challenges.
Effective 17 March 2025, the Ministry of Transport (MOT) introduced improvements, including Self-Declaration for Non-Safety Inspection Items. Items such as body lettering, speed limit signs, first aid kits, vehicle number plates and seat conditions will no longer require mandatory inspections.
This will reduce excessive administrative burden and enable companies to prioritise vehicle safety. This move aligns with MATTA’s earlier proposal to prevent vehicles from failing inspections due to these minor technical issues.
The Exemption for Heavy Vehicles also allows tourism transport operators to utilise highways while heading to Puspakom for inspections. This decision will provide much-needed relief for operators, ensuring that vehicle inspections do not disrupt daily operations and scheduled tourism activities. MATTA appreciates the MOT’s initiative in engaging relevant stakeholders, including the Ministry of Works and the Malaysian Highway Authority, to implement this practical solution.
Another significant improvement is the Extension of the Periodic Inspection Period from 14 days to 30 days before the expiry of the Motor Vehicle License (LKM). This extension gives tourism transport operators more flexibility in scheduling their vehicle inspections, reducing operational downtime and enhancing service reliability for tourists.
MATTA acknowledges Puspakom’s improvement measures, particularly the Elimination of Multiple Slot Bookings and Extension of Operating Hours. These efforts will streamline the inspection process, reduce waiting times, and allow operators to plan their schedules more effectively, especially during peak travel seasons.
“We would like to take this opportunity to praise the MOT for taking a solution-oriented approach to resolving these longstanding issues. These initiatives demonstrate the government’s commitment to supporting the tourism industry and ensuring a more seamless, efficient, and business-friendly environment for transport operators,” said Nigel Wong, President of MATTA president Nigel Wong.
“MATTA looks forward to continued collaboration with MOT and other stakeholders to further enhance Malaysia’s tourism transportation ecosystem and better support our members.”
*Pusat Pemeriksaan Kenderaan Berkomputer, or Puspakom, is a Malaysian computerised vehicle inspection company owned by DRB-HICOM. Established in 1994. Puspakom is the main inspection centre for commercial vehicles throughout Malaysia. It has 50 permanent branches and 21 scheduled branches. (Wikipedia).
MANILA, 26 March 2025: The Philippines’ tourism sector faces slower growth in core source markets, air connectivity limitations, geopolitical uncertainties, and destination capacity constraints, the Department of Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco told a recent gathering of the Tourism Coordinating Council, which is entrusted with strengthening national tourism development initiatives.
She was addressing the Tourism Coordinating Council (TCC) Meeting 18 March to discuss the National Tourism Development Plan (NTDP) 2023-2028 with key government agencies and industry stakeholders.
Photo credit: DOT Philippines. The Department of Tourism (DOT) convened the Tourism Coordinating Council (TCC) Meeting last week to advance the National Tourism Development Plan (NTDP) 2023-2028 through strategic collaboration with key government agencies and industry stakeholders.
She told the council that to address these challenges, the DOT has intensified efforts to enhance tourism infrastructure and streamline travel processes by fostering strategic partnerships with key government agencies.
These included cooperation with the Department of Transportation (DOTr) for airport and seaport enhancements, the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) for expanding internet connectivity in key tourism destinations, the Bureau of Immigration (BI) and the Department of Justice (DOJ) for implementing the Cruise Visa Waiver Programme, the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) for developing tourism roads, and the Department of Health (DOH) for establishing Tourist First Aid Facilities to ensure visitor safety and well-being.
Secretary Frasco recognised the importance of sustained synergy among government agencies and industry stakeholders and called on all TCC members to actively contribute to the sector’s development.
“Tourism continues to be a thriving sector, one of the top economic drivers of our country. This is evident in the numbers that reflect our collective hard work and commitment to transforming tourism as a force for good,” she told the council.
Need to expand flight routes
The meeting also featured insights from consultants and thought leaders. Philippine Institute for Development Studies (PIDS) senior research fellow Dr John Paolo R Rivera emphasised that domestic tourism remained a key stabiliser during economic downturns and highlighted the Philippines’ position as the ASEAN leader in tourism receipts per arrival.
However, he stressed the need for regional competitiveness through sustainability initiatives in major destinations such as Boracay, Palawan, and Cebu while promoting emerging locations for inclusive economic growth.
To sustain strong international markets such as South Korea, the United States, and Japan while expanding into new markets like India, the Middle East, and the European Union, Rivera recommended enhanced visa facilitation, expanded flight routes, and the maximisation of secondary gateways to boost connectivity and access.
He also pointed out the need for stronger cross-sector collaboration, noting that although progress has been made in inter-agency coordination, there are further opportunities for local government implementation, investment promotion, and improved tourism governance. He stressed the “importance of strengthening institutional mechanisms, enhancing digital infrastructure in key destinations through the adoption of digital tourism platforms, and investing in workforce development by sustaining tourism-related training programs and equipping personnel with 21st-century skills in digital tourism management, AI, and sustainable practices.”
BANGKOK, 26 March 2025: Thai AirAsia will add three direct routes from Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) on 1 July to the northeast city of Buriram, Surat Thani (a mainland port town where ferries depart for Samui Island) and Narathiwat in Thailand’s deep south bordering Malaysia.
Flights to Buriram will operate three times weekly on Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday, daily to Surat Thani and daily to Narathiwat. The low-cost airline will now serve nine domestic routes from its Suvarnabhumi Airport hub.
Photo credit: AirAsia. Three new routes from Suvarnabhumi hub.
Flights on the three routes begin on 1 July 2025, with a promotional fare starting at THB880 one-way. Bookings opened on 24 March and will remain open until 24 April 2025 for travel from 1 July to 25 October 2025 via AirAsia MOVE or www.airasia.com.
Thai AirAsia CEO Santisuk Klongchaiya noted: “By providing service from both Don Mueang and Suvarnabhumi airports, the airline has created the most extensive domestic network in Thailand with 37 routes” (including the latest introductions).
“These additions also grow our domestic network. In 2024, AirAsia held a 40% share in the domestic market, and we will reach out to even more customers in the coming year,” Santisuk explained.
AirAsia serves nine routes (including the latest additions) from Suvarnabhumi Airport — Chiang Mai eight daily, Phuket six daily, Krabi three daily, Hat Yai two daily, Udon Thani two daily, Khon Kaen two daily. The latest additions are Buriram, three weekly, Surat Thani daily, and Narathiwat daily.
KUCHING, 25 MARCH 2025: The Sarawak Tourism Board (STB) hosted the inaugural Ramadhan Mubarak Market 2025, celebrating unity, tradition, and the holy month’s rich culinary heritage.
The two-day event took place from 22 to 23 March at the Visitors’ Information Centre IKGardens in Miri and Sibu. The venues offered an immersive cultural experience featuring traditional cooking demonstrations, community Iftar gatherings, and live performances.
In Miri, the festivities began on 22 March with a Bubur Pedas cooking demonstration by Persatuan Melayu Miri, followed by a traditional kuih-making workshop on 23 March.
In Sibu, the event featured a Bubur Lambuk cooking demonstration by JKKK Kampung Bahagia Jaya Teku on the first day and a kuih-making workshop the following evening.
The cooking sessions showcased local delicacies and allowed visitors to participate in the preparation and distribution of food, fostering a spirit of sharing and togetherness.
The Ramadhan Mubarak Market was part of STB’s ongoing effort to transform its Visitor Information Centres (VICs) into more than just tourism hubs. These spaces have evolved into vibrant cultural and social gathering points that bring communities together through meaningful experiences.
Previous events, such as the Twinkling Christmas Market, Lunar New Year Market: Spring in the City created the garden as a community space for both residents and visitors.
STB CEO, Sharzede Datu Haji Salleh Askor, emphasised the significance of this initiative: “The Visitors’ Information Centres in Miri and Sibu are more than just places for tourism information; they are spaces where people can come together to celebrate traditions,
connect through food and music. and be close to the community. The Ramadhan Mubarak Market was another step in our mission to make these VICs dynamic and community-driven.”
DUBAI, UAE, 25 March 2025: Emirates has revealed the next seven cities to be served by its A350, as more newly delivered aircraft featuring the airline’s latest cabin innovations enter scheduled service.
With the latest tranche of planned Emirates A350 deployments, the airline is expanding the list of its short to medium-haul destinations served in the Middle East/GCC and Europe. The Emirates A350 will debut in Africa and Southeast Asia for the first time.
Emirates Airline Deputy President and Chief Commercial Officer Adnan Kazim said: “Our strategic A350 expansion across diverse geographies in the Middle East/GCC, Europe, Africa and Southeast Asia leverages the aircraft’s operational flexibility and efficiency while offering more customers expanded premium travel options and the opportunity to experience our latest generation interiors like Business Class and Premium Economy along with plenty of thoughtful touches throughout every cabin, now available in more cities than ever before.”
He added: “The introduction of the (A350) aircraft and layering it on existing route schedules also enable Emirates to maintain a compelling competitive position as the airline of choice for discerning travellers looking for a unique slate of connectivity options and elevated onboard experiences they can’t have with any other carrier.”
The airline’s latest A350 fleet additions will start scheduled operations to the following destinations:
Emirates will operate the A350 six times weekly (all days except for Tuesday) to Tunis on EK 747/748 from 1 June.
Amman’s EK 905/906 will be served daily by the Emirates A350 from 1 June.
Emirates’ A350 featuring the latest cabins will land in Istanbul for the first time to commence daily operations on EK 117/118 from 1 July.
The Emirates A350’s first debut to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia on its Dammam services will start on 1 July on flights EK 827/828.
The Emirates A350’s first foray into Southeast Asia will begin 1 August on the daily EK364/365 to Ho Chi Minh City.
Emirates will operate its A350 to Baghdad three times weekly (Monday, Wednesday and Sunday) on EK 941/943 from 3 August.
The Emirates A350 will debut in Oslo for the first time on 1 September on its daily EK 159/160.
As new aircraft join its fleet in the coming months, Emirates will announce more A350 destinations, including long-haul routes.
In addition to the newly added cities, Emirates will layer on more A350 services to Bahrain and Kuwait. Bahrain will become a nearly all-A350 operation with the addition of the third daily EK 835/836 flight from 1 June. Kuwait will be served by a second A350 flight on the daily EK 857/858 from 1 October. In addition, Bologna will receive its first A350 on 1 June, one month ahead of its latest announced deployment date.
The Emirates A350 features three spacious cabin classes, accommodating 312 passengers in 32 next-generation Business Class lie-flat seats in a 1-2-1 configuration and a mini-bar for quick snacks, 21 Premium Economy seats and 259 generously pitched Economy Class seats.
Emirates flights to the seven A350 destinations are now on sale and can be booked on emirates.com, the Emirates App, Emirates Retail Stores, or via travel agents.
BANGKOK, 25 March 2025: SAii, a resort brand of S Hotels and Resorts PCL under Singha Estate PCL, confirms SAii Laguna Phuket and SAii Lagoon Maldives have achieved Sustainable Event Standards certification from the Event Industry Council (EIC).
The two properties are the first event venues in Thailand and the Maldives to gain Gold Certification following investments in upgrading both resorts’ event facilities.
Photo credit: SAii Laguna Phuket
SAii Laguna Phuket
The first venue in Thailand to achieve Gold certification from the EIC, SAii Laguna Phuket, is an outdoor event complex offering sustainable meeting solutions. All events held at its 1,900 sqm ocean-facing MICE centre are free from single-use plastics thanks to initiatives such as reusable decorations and a ban on plastic straws. In addition, event organisers can measure and minimise their environmental impact by calculating their event’s carbon footprint using the latest technology.
SAii Lagoon Maldives, Curio Collection by Hilton
SAii Lagoon Maldives is the first venue in the Maldives to achieve Gold certification from the EIC. It is part of Crossroads Maldives, a multi-island leisure destination.
The resort’s events hall, a dedicated 326 sqm venue, can accommodate over 400 delegates. Event planners can organise environmental and social activities, from setting up beachfront boardrooms to crafting ecological experiences, all aligned with Hilton Worldwide’s “Meet with Purpose” concept.
In addition to helping MICE groups reduce waste, the concept incorporates interactive cooking and dining experiences that are healthy, sustainable and fun.
SINGAPORE, 25 March 2025: Norwegian Cruise Line has welcomed the first guests aboard the Norwegian Aqua before embarking on her maiden voyage from Lisbon to Southampton, England.
Marking a new chapter in NCL’s fleet evolution, Norwegian Aqua will host over 2,000 invited guests aboard to experience how the brand delivers its newest innovations and offerings. This is the first of a five-part inaugural series that will conclude in Miami with the official christening voyage in April.
Norwegian Cruise Line’s Norwegian Aqua debuts in Europe, welcoming first guests in Lisbon, Portugal.
As the first vessel in the new Prima Plus Class, Norwegian Aqua builds on the legacy of the award-winning Prima Class. It introduces groundbreaking experiences, and to celebrate, the cruise line released a first look at its 20th ship, showcasing its upscale design and key innovations.
There are 17 new and returning guest-favourite restaurants and 18 bars and lounges. New dining experiences aboard Norwegian Aqua include Sukhothai, NCL’s first-ever Thai speciality restaurant offering a rich culinary journey inspired by Thailand’s vibrant cuisine and Planterie, the brand’s debut plant-based eatery at Indulge Food Hall.
Following her inaugural voyage, Norwegian Aqua will embark on a Transatlantic voyage to the US, where she will be officially christened in Miami on 13 April 2025. She will then homeport in Miami, Port Canaveral (Orlando), Florida, and New York City, offering Bahamas, Caribbean and Bermuda itineraries until March 2027.
SINGAPORE, 25 March 2025: SalamAir, Oman’s low-cost airline, launched flights from Muscat to Nairobi starting last week.
The milestone marks an essential step in SalamAir’s expansion into Africa, offering travellers more opportunities to connect between the Sultanate of Oman and Kenya.
Photo credit: SalamAir.
SalamAir CEO Adrian Hamilton-Manns said: “We are thrilled to expand our network by introducing flights between Muscat and Nairobi. This new route supports our vision to connect Oman to key global destinations, strengthening economic and cultural ties in alignment with Oman Vision 2040. Nairobi is a dynamic city with significant business potential and rich tourism offerings, and we are pleased to provide our passengers with an affordable and convenient travel option.
“Additionally, this connection will allow Kenyan travellers to visit Oman and discover its unique attractions, among the region’s most sought-after destinations. The route also opens seamless connections from Nairobi to the GCC and the Indian subcontinent.”
He emphasised that Nairobi is the first of several destinations SalamAir will introduce across East Africa, reinforcing the airline’s commitment to expanding connectivity across the region.
SalamAir, Oman’s low-cost airline, commenced services in 2017. It operates a fleet of 13 Airbus A320 family aircraft. SalamAir serves six domestic destinations in Oman and 37 cities in 18 countries.
KUALA LUMPUR, 25 March 2025: The Malaysian Association of Tour and Travel Agents has confirmed it will spearhead the organisation and promotion of the MATTA Malaysia Pickleball Grand Slam 2025 (MPG2025), which is scheduled for this October.
MATTA signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Malaysia Pickleball Association, marking the start of a long-term collaboration to develop pickleball in the country and boost sports tourism.
Photo credit: MATTA. MATTA and Malaysia Pickleball Association Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signing ceremony.
This first-ever tournament is scheduled from 7 to 20 October 2025 at PIKABOL, Malaysia’s Pickleball Powerhouse, Kuching and is expected to attract international players and enthusiasts.
MPG2025 should attract around 1,350 participants with more than 2,600 visitors and contribute an estimated MYR31.6 million in tourism spending.
Endorsed by the Malaysia Pickleball Association, Sarawak Pickleball Association, and Kuching Pickleball Association, and supported by the Ministry of Youth and Sports and Entrepreneur Development Sarawak and the Ministry of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Sarawak, MPG2025 will kick start the further development of pickleball as a competitive and recreational sport and boost domestic and inbound tourism.
The tournament will feature multiple categories, including team and individual events for men, women, and mixed doubles across different skill levels and age groups. With a total pool prize value of MYR100,000, the largest cash prize in the region, the event is expected to draw top-ranked international players.
The Team Event will take place from 7 to 13 October, featuring 64 teams of 12 players each. The Individual Events, including the Junior Category, will follow from 15 to 20 October. The Individual Open will target 320 participants, and the Junior Category will target 192, making this a grand stage for both underdogs and professional players.
Regarding this initiative, MATTA President Nigel Wong stated: “As part of our commitment to promoting sports tourism, MATTA is taking the lead in establishing the Malaysia Pickleball Grand Slam as an annual event. This tournament elevates Malaysia’s standing in the international sports scene. It encourages inbound and domestic tourism, allowing international players and visitors to experience our country’s rich culture, breathtaking landscapes, and warm hospitality. By integrating sports and tourism, we want to create a lasting impact on the economy and position Malaysia as a must-visit sports tourism hub.”
