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Paintings brighten Gaya Island Villages

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TTR WEEKLY
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KOTA KINABALU, 3 July 2025: A colourful transformation is underway on Gaya Island as water villages embark on a community-driven journey to turn their homes into vibrant tourism attractions.

Assistant Tourism, Culture, and Environment Minister Datuk Joniston Bangkuai commended the Meraki Daat Initiative, a non-governmental organisation, for actively involving Gaya Island residents in transforming their living spaces into potential community tourism attractions.

Datuk Joniston Bangkuai launching the 2025 Project Picaso Art Competition under the Meraki Daat Initiative. Also pictured are Sabah Tourism Board product division senior manager Effendi Mahany (left) and Meraki Daat Initiative president Michelle De La Harpe (3rd left).

This follows Joniston’s first meeting with the Meraki Daat Initiative in 2022, where he encouraged the group to incorporate a community-based tourism approach into their project to ensure greater local involvement and shared economic benefits.

Joniston, who chairs the Sabah Tourism Board, said such commitment aligns with the state’s vision to promote sustainable tourism, particularly through community-based attractions that showcase Sabah’s unique identity.

On Tuesday, the Meraki Daat Initiative team, led by its President Michelle De La Harpe, briefed Joniston on the progress of their ongoing Project Picasso, which aims to revitalise water villages and turn them into Instagram-worthy tourist spots.

The project focuses on creatively painting stilt houses and working closely with the Sabah Tourism Board to promote these water village destinations.

In June, the Sabah Tourism Board conducted a workshop that brought together five water villages on Gaya Island, namely Lok Urai, Torong Logong, Lobong, Kesuapan, and Kampung Pondoh.

Joniston was briefed that these villages are now working towards formal registration to form Community-Based Tourism Gaya Island.

“This is a positive step forward. Pulau Gaya is a unique settlement with its own story to tell. Developing community-based tourism on the island will create value for the villagers, especially given its proximity to the city centre. However, it is crucial to foster a cleaner, safer, and more sustainable tourism environment. Local participation and ownership are key to this effort,” he said.

During the meeting, Joniston launched the 2025 Project Picasso Art Competition, themed “Ocean Creatures,” as part of an initiative to encourage creative community participation in beautifying their villages further.

Michelle said the goal is to transform public spaces into vibrant community-owned tourism attractions, adding the project combines youth development, art, and environmental sustainability.

“We are currently building a 200-metre pathway towards the volleyball court using eco-bricks, made from recycled plastic waste. This innovation won the United Nations Development Programme’s Island Waste Innovation Challenge last year,” she said.

The art competition runs until 31 July. The judging period is scheduled from 1 to 7 August, followed by site painting from 20 to 27 August, and the official opening and mural launch on 31 August.

The public can follow updates on the Meraki Daat Initiative through their website at www.merakidaat.org and on social media platforms.

Follow updates on the Meraki Daat Initiative via the website www.merakidaat.org and social media platforms.

Emirates partners with Uber for seamless trips

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TTR WEEKLY
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DUBAI, UAE, 3 July 2025: Emirates and Uber are exploring ways to make journeys more seamless and rewarding for travellers through a recently signed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). 

It involves enhancing the on-ground mobility experience for Emirates customers while offering Skywards members loyalty benefits when using the Uber platform across select markets within the Emirates network.*

The MoU was signed by Emirates’ Deputy President and Chief Commercial Officer, Adnan Kazim, and Uber’s Vice President and Head of EMEA Mobility, Anabel Diaz Calderon.

Through the partnership, Emirates and Uber will work together to introduce several initiatives that offer travellers more seamless and effortless journeys. These include developing an integrated booking experience that combines Uber Rides Vouchers with flight bookings for easier airport transfers or in-city rides. Additionally, Emirates and Uber will explore offering Uber rides to and from the airport for select Emirates customers, supporting a complete door-to-destination experience.

The partnership will explore strategic opportunities to closely collaborate on offering Skywards members in the UAE the opportunity to earn miles on rides or redeem their miles for Uber app credits or vouchers. Emirates Skywards will also explore ways for members in the UAE to benefit from earning Miles on Uber rides across select markets in the Emirates network.

Another area of collaboration includes exploring opportunities around Last-Mile delivery initiatives for Emirates Courier Express, leveraging Uber’s advanced technology platform and vast network of global Delivery partners to enhance customer reach, speed, and efficiency.

To maximise awareness around the rollout of initiatives under the partnership, Emirates and Uber will explore leveraging cross-promotional marketing campaigns across the airline’s network.

For more information on the airline or to book a flight visit www.emirates.com.

YouTrip unveils June holiday trends

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TTR WEEKLY
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SINGAPORE, 3 July 2025: As the June school holidays wrap up, YouTrip, Singapore’s leading multi-currency digital wallet, reports a strong surge in outbound travel by Singaporeans, with one in four visiting more than one destination during the school break. 

YouTrip Chief Operating Officer Kelvin Lam shared: “Amidst shifts in the global economic and heightened financial prudence, travellers are thinking how — not whether — they explore the world.

Our findings reveal a clear trend where Singaporeans are prioritising destinations with stronger cost-to-value appeal, paired with more deliberate planning to maximise every dollar. Travel remains non-negotiable, but the playbook has evolved.”

Asia dominates June travel

Top holiday destinations for Singaporeans this June holiday include: Australia, China, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia, South Korea, Taiwan, Thailand, the UK and the US.

With over 80% of Singaporeans choosing destinations within Asia, regional travel remains the preferred choice due to shorter flight times and more affordable airfares. Notably, China overtook Japan with a 58% growth in visitor numbers. This shift highlights Singaporeans’ growing interest in China as a wallet-friendly destination offering diverse travel experiences.

Major cities like Shanghai, Shenzhen, Beijing, Guangzhou, and Chengdu were among the most visited, as they are seen as accessible and first-timer-friendly gateways to experience China’s culture and cuisine.

The rising appeal of popular Chinese brands such as Pop Mart, Chagee, and Hai Di Lao also played a role, with many Singaporeans actively seeking them out during their trips.

Destinations dictate spending

Singaporeans’ itineraries reveal a clear picture of what they value most on their travels. Travellers to Southeast Asian destinations prioritised local cuisines. From night markets to popular local chains, like Thong Smith and Chatramue in Thailand, Hai Kah Lang-Sentosa and Oriental Kopi in Malaysia, the region’s diverse culinary offerings are a major highlight of their trips.

On the other hand, North Asia has become a shopping haven, with travellers spending 300% more compared to those who visited Southeast Asia. Singaporeans are drawn to popular local retailers such as Miniso in China, GU in Japan, and Olive Young in South Korea, alongside luxury department stores. The appeal lies in the more attractive prices for similar products, due to local brand pricing and tax refunds. To offset their retail splurges, many opt for budget-friendly meals from convenience stores, food halls, and fast-food establishments, reflecting a practical and value-conscious approach to their overall travel expenses.

North Asia itineraries typically last close to a week, with longer stays reserved for the long-hauls. Regardless of which country Singaporeans ventured to, certain brands remained consistent favourites; Uniqlo, McDonald’s, and Starbucks appeared among the most frequently cited brands visited when travelling, reflecting a strong affinity for these familiar names.

Families and budget-conscious millennials

The June holidays continued to be dominated by families, given the month-long school break.

Millennials (aged 30-44) and Gen X (aged 45–59) made up the largest share of travellers, gravitating towards destinations such as China, Japan, Indonesia, and Thailand. This trend reflects a clear preference for cost-effective, short-haul trips that help manage family travel budgets.

Gen Z travellers (aged 18–29) demonstrated a more diverse choice of destinations, highlighting their exploratory nature. Unlike older generations who prefer tangible keepsakes, Gen Z prioritised unique, immersive experiences over material purchases. Meanwhile, travellers aged 60 and above emphasised comfort and convenience, often opting for all-inclusive tours or cruises. 

They skewed towards slower-paced itineraries and deliberately avoided crowded hubs like Japan and South Korea.

About YouTrip
YouTrip is the leading and fastest-growing multi-currency payment platform in Asia Pacific, dedicated to creating the next generation of digital finance services for consumers and businesses. In 2018, YouTrip pioneered the region’s first and leading multi-currency digital wallet and is now trusted by millions across the region, processing over USD15 billion in total payment value annually.

Qantas flies A321 XLR

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TTR WEEKLY
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BANGKOK, 3 July  2025: Australia’s Qantas Airways is set to become the Asia-Pacific launch operator of the latest generation single aisle A321XLR following the delivery of its first aircraft from the Airbus assembly line in Finkenwerder, Hamburg. 

Reflecting the long-range capability of the A321XLR, the aircraft is flying from the Airbus facility to Sydney with just one crew rest stop in Bangkok.

Powered by Pratt & Whitney GTF  engines, the Qantas A321XLR features a two-class layout with 20 seats in Business Class and 177 in the main cabin. Qantas will initially operate the A321XLR on domestic services across Australia, with the potential to open future new services on secondary routes to Asia.

Altogether, the Qantas Group has ordered 40 A321XLRs under its fleet modernisation programme, with 28 aircraft allocated to Qantas and 12 to low-cost subsidiary Jetstar. These are part of the airline’s outstanding orders with Airbus for 128 single aisle aircraft and 24 A350-1000 widebodies.

The A321XLR is the next evolutionary step of the A320neo Family, responding to market needs for more range and payload, creating even more flexibility and value for the airlines.

In typical airline service, it offers the longest range of any single aisle aircraft – up to 4,700 nautical miles – and brings a reduction in fuel consumption and carbon emissions of 30% compared with previous generation competitor aircraft. To date, Airbus has secured more than 500 orders for the type. 

As with all Airbus aircraft, the A321XLR aircraft is already able to operate with up to 50% Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF). Airbus is targeting to have its aircraft capable of flying with up to 100% SAF by 2030.

Juneyao starts Shanghai-KUL route

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TTR WEEKLY
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KUALA LUMPUR, 3 July 2025: Tourism Malaysia welcomed the launch of Juneyao Airlines’ direct flight from Shanghai Pudong International Airport to Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA), last week, marking a strategic milestone in enhancing connectivity between Malaysia and China.

Operating four times weekly, flight HO1353 uses an Airbus A320neo aircraft configured with 162 seats. 

Samuel Lee Thai Hung, Deputy Director General of Tourism Malaysia, alongside key representatives from Juneyao Airlines, Malaysia Airports Holdings Berhad (MAHB) and Pos Aviation.

This route is set to meet the growing demand for travel between the two dynamic cities, improving convenience for both business and leisure travellers. The establishment of this route also supports Malaysia’s efforts in capitalising on Shanghai’s reputation as a critical market for outbound travel and a global financial hub with expansive international connectivity, thus positioning Kuala Lumpur as a preferred Southeast Asian gateway for Chinese travellers.

The inaugural flight was welcomed last week by Samuel Lee Thai Hung, Deputy Director General of Tourism Malaysia, alongside key representatives from Juneyao Airlines, Malaysia Airports Holdings Berhad (MAHB) and Pos Aviation.

Lee stated: “Tourism Malaysia remains committed to working closely with Chinese airlines and trade partners to ensure sustained growth and mutual benefit. This initiative aligns with national strategies to expand market outreach ahead of Visit Malaysia 2026 (VM2026), which will focus on promoting cultural and sustainable tourism in line with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UNSDG).

“The enhanced air connectivity with Shanghai also supports regional integration under the Indonesia-Malaysia-Thailand Growth Triangle (IMT-GT) framework, further reinforcing Malaysia’s role as a key player in regional tourism development.”

From January to April 2025, Malaysia recorded 1.44 million visitor arrivals from China,  a 37.8% increase compared to the same period in 2023 and 22.6% above pre-pandemic 2019 levels. 

The recent extension of visa-free entry for Chinese nationals until 31 December 2026, coupled with enhanced flight access, is expected to drive visitor growth further and yield a significant economic impact across Malaysia’s tourism value chain.

Vietjet presents double-day deal

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TTR WEEKLY
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SINGAPORE, 3 July 2025: Vietjet presents its 7/7 double-day promotion, offering discounted tickets with up to 77% off (excluding taxes and fees), applicable across the airline’s entire Vietnam domestic and international network. 

With this promotion, Singapore travellers can enjoy discounted deals when flying to Vietnam to explore popular destinations such as Hanoi, Danang, Ho Chi Minh City, and Phu Quoc. The airline also marks its continued international growth with the addition of two new routes from Hanoi to Chengdu and Xi’an, launching this week.

For one day only, from 0100 to 2400 (GMT+8) on 7 July 2025, guests booking Eco tickets at the airline’s website or mobile app using the promo code SUPERSALE77 will enjoy savings of up to 77% (excluding taxes and fees). The offer is valid for travel between 11 August 2025 and 28 March 2026 (terms and conditions apply), across all Vietjet’s routes.     

To meet the soaring travel demand this summer, Vietjet has added over 600,000 additional seats across its growing network of more than 145 domestic and international routes. The airline connects travellers to top destinations in Vietnam, Australia, India, China, South Korea, Japan, Southeast Asia, and beyond.     

As part of its global expansion strategy, Vietjet launches two new direct routes this week from Hanoi, connecting to Chengdu on 1 July and Xi’an on 6 July. These new services strengthen Vietjet’s presence across Asia, enhancing access to major cultural and economic hubs while reinforcing the airline’s commitment to regional connectivity and international growth.     

Ponant launches fly, stay & cruise package

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TTR WEEKLY
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SINGAPORE, 3 July 2025: Ponant Explorations has launched its Fly, Stay & Cruise package for the 2026 Kimberley season, offering travellers an all-inclusive journey to one of Australia’s most awe-inspiring destinations. 

Packaged with return economy flights from Australia and New Zealand’s major cities, premium accommodation with transfer on sale until 30 September 2025, the world-class Australia’s Iconic Kimberley small ship expedition is the most seamless way to discover the wild beauty of the Kimberley.

The Kimberley 2026 season features 16 departures between May and September aboard Ponant Explorer Le Jacques-Cartier and its Sistership Le Soléal. 

Sailing between Broome and Darwin, guests are invited to indulge in Ponant’s signature style, where the onboard atmosphere evokes the feeling of a private yacht. 

“The Kimberley region is unlike anywhere else on Earth,” said Ponant CEO Asia Pacific Deb Corbett. “Given its remote location, we understand that arranging travel can feel complex… From flights and hotel stays to an extraordinary small-ship expedition, every element is effortlessly connected.”

Extending the offer to the West Coast in 2026

In addition to their extensive Kimberley programme, two exclusive departures in July and August 2026, West Coast Odyssey will offer guests the opportunity to experience Australia’s west coast  – a 10-night expedition voyage between Broome and Fremantle. Guests will explore the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Shark Bay, celebrated for its rare marine species and ecological significance, and venture into a string of extraordinary parks including Jurien Bay Marine Park, Abrolhos Marine Park, Montebello Islands Marine Park, and Murujuga National Park on the Burrup Peninsula. 

Starting price is USD13, 670 per person in a deluxe stateroom with private balcony. The package includes:

Return economy airfares from Australia and New Zealand’s major cities;

1-night hotel stay & transfer – before or after the sailing;

10-night Australia’s Iconic Kimberley or the 10-night West Coast Odyssey luxury expedition;

Daily expert-led shore excursions, lectures and Zodiac outings;

All onboard meals, drinks, including 24/7 room service and mini bar restocked daily.

The Fly, Stay & Cruise package is available to book until 30 September 2025.

Qatar and PAL commence daily Manila-Doha flights

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TTR WEEKLY
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DOHA, 3 July 2025: Qatar Airways and Philippine Airlines celebrated the introduction of a codeshare daily service between Manila and Doha with a ribbon-cutting ceremony at Hamad International Airport (DOH) on Monday.

Celebrating the occasion were Philippine Airlines’ President. Richard Nutall, and Philippine Airlines’ Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer, Atty Carlos Luis Fernandez, alongside executive delegates from Qatar Airways Group.

Qatar Airways Chief Commercial Officer, Thierry Antinori, said: “Qatar Airways is proud to celebrate the start of codeshare flights with Philippine Airlines. This daily service marks the beginning of a strong partnership between our two airlines, paving the way for even closer ties between the Philippines and Qatar for the benefit of both business and leisure travel.”

The daily nonstop flights are operated by Philippine Airlines’ long-range Airbus A330-300 aircraft in a dual-class configuration, featuring 18 flat-bed seats in the business class cabin and 341 seats in the main economy class cabin.

The new partnership allows passengers flying from Manila to Doha to connect to Qatar’s global network of over 170 destinations via Hamad International Airport.

BWH Hotels expands in Indonesia 

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TTR WEEKLY
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BANGKOK, 2 July 2025: BWH Hotels, a leading global hospitality network comprising WorldHotels, Best Western Hotels & Resorts, and SureStay Hotels, has expanded its network in Indonesia with the opening of Best Western Setiabudhi Bandung, a stylish new hotel in the city of Bandung, West Java.

Strategically located on Jalan Dr Setiabudi, the hotel is surrounded by attractions, including Bandung city centre (only 2km away), The Great Asia Africa cultural park (4.5km), the floating market (7.7km), and Tangkuban Perahu (22km), the active volcano and popular tourist area, providing complete convenience for business and leisure travelers alike.

Best Western Setiabudhi Bandung features 63 rooms and suites, all designed in a modern minimalist style and fully equipped with modern amenities, including whirlpool baths in the junior suites. Every morning can start with fresh coffee at the café, with its elegant outdoor terrace, or a fulfilling breakfast at the restaurant, which serves a diverse menu of local specialities, pan-Asian dishes and international cuisine throughout the day. 24-hour room service is also available. Five meeting rooms create options for corporate and social gatherings, and when travellers are not working or exploring the wonders of Bandung, they can work out at the fitness centre.

“Indonesia is one of our key strategic markets, so we are delighted to welcome Best Western Setiabudhi Bandung to our fast-growing portfolio in the country,” said BWH Hotels Vice President – APAC, Olivier Berrivin. “Blessed with a cool climate and trendy café culture, Bandung blends the energy of a major city with a youthful, laid-back vibe. This makes it a desirable destination for local and international visitors, and I look forward to introducing all our international and domestic guests to this exceptional new hotel.”

Best Western Setiabudhi Bandung is BWH Hotels’ newest property in Indonesia and its second in Bandung, complementing Best Western Premier La Grande.

To book a stay with BWH Hotels in Asia, visit bestwesternasia.com and worldhotels.com.  

ForsaTEK 2025 delivers high-impact innovation

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TTR WEEKLY
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DUBAI, UAE, 2 July 2025: The Emirates Group’s annual flagship innovation and technology forum, ForsaTEK, wrapped up last week, bringing cutting-edge technology partnerships, dynamic startups, thought-provoking discussions, and emerging talent to the forefront.

The second edition of ForsaTEK expanded its reach this year to drive greater innovation engagement across the Group’s different departments and businesses, focusing on scaling successful trials to extract the full value of promising innovation and solutions. This year, the annual forum’s themes highlight how AI, robotics and the Internet of Things (IoT) will reshape aviation, in addition to the role human factors play in the successful adoption of technology.

His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman and Chief Executive Emirates Airline and Group said: “Building on the success of the first two editions, ForsaTEK 2025 underpins the Emirates Group’s continued commitment to anchoring the next wave of innovations within our business, scaling up existing innovations, supporting startups, and creating a powerful testbed of partnerships that introduce fresh solutions and propel our digital future forward.”

Technology showcases and drives startup growth

This year, ForsaTEK featured over 40 in-house and partner showcases strategically organised across the innovation pipeline spectrum, from early-stage research and prototyping to proof-of-concept trials and fully launched initiatives being scaled up.

Fully launched initiatives included Transguard and Emirates Group Security’s advanced autonomous robotics to enhance urban safety and security; dnata Cargo’s autonomous drone system for inventory validation; dnata’s 3D prototyping and custom manufacturing of spare parts; Emirates Airport Services’ AI-enabled aircraft turnaround analysis and resource optimisation system, amongst other aviation and customer-centric innovations.

The Trial Zone included several accessibility initiatives, including Glidance’s groundbreaking self-guided mobility aid enabling safe, independent navigation for the visually impaired; the JeffCAN immersive media chair, blending sensory design and technology to support and engage neurodiverse passengers; the Airbus Accessible and Inclusive cabin featuring a Persons with Reduced Mobility (PRM) lavatory and personal wheelchair onboard. Maintenance and engineering trials featured an AI and computer vision platform for fast and accurate engine part detection and identification. Additionally, Apple Vision Pro-based augmented reality maintenance provided enhanced visualisation of brake, wheel, and APU assemblies. Drone-based aircraft inspections enable fast, safe, and accurate aircraft exterior inspections.

A pitch zone also featured 13 startups showcasing their ideas to a panel of VIPs, investors, and tech industry representatives. People and youth engagement areas within the Experience Zone were also activated to showcase innovation journeys and enhance visitor engagement.

At ForsaTEK 2025, the Emirates Group’s Afkar app was also launched. Afkar, which means ‘ideas’ in Arabic, is a company-wide digital platform that enables employees — wherever they work and whatever they do — to contribute to generating new ideas for implementation. The winning concept unveiled at this year’s event was the automation of visa validation for customers, removing yet another source of friction for passengers during their travel journeys.

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

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