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HalalTrip Awards reach three cities

SINGAPORE, 10 April 2026: What began two years ago as a rigorous recognition of 16 outstanding Halal restaurants in Singapore has grown into the region’s most anticipated Halal culinary awards programme with big plans unfolding in 2026. 

At this week’s HalalTrip Gastronomy Awards (HTGA) 2026 Singapore Hari Raya Open House event, HalalTrip and the Singapore Halal Culinary Federation (SHCF) unveiled plans to bring the HalalTrip Gastronomy Awards to three cities in 2026: Singapore, Johor, and Jakarta. 

HalalTrip Gastronomy Awards 2026, third edition.

It is the most significant expansion in the programme’s history, and a clear signal that the region’s Halal food scene is ready for a definitive standard of recognition.

Since its debut in 2024, the HTGA has earned a reputation as a rigorous and credible recognition programme for Halal dining in the region. Restaurants are evaluated through an anonymous process covering culinary excellence, menu diversity, beverage excellence, service excellence, and atmosphere & environment. 

In 2025, that recognition extended to Johor for the first time. In Singapore, establishments like ASAP & Co, The White Label, Loong Dim Sum, and the 70-year-old institution Rumah Makan Minang joined a growing list that now carries the HTGA distinction.

A growing ecosystem for the Halal F&B industry

The HTGA 2026 programme will feature an expanded awards framework, a high-profile Gala Dinner, and the return of the Gastronomy Showdown, a live cooking competition where Halal dining establishments nominate their chefs to go head-to-head in a high-pressure culinary arena. 

The 2026 finals to crown the Best Forward Chef will take place once again for the third consecutive year aboard StarDream Cruises in September 2026.

The 2026 Singapore edition will once again feature the programme’s celebrated awards tiers.

Diamond Awards: Recognising restaurants achieving the highest standards of Halal dining excellence.

Best-in-Class Awards: Honouring category-leading establishments across concept, speciality, heritage, service, and chain dining.

Chef Awards: Spotlighting culinary talent with the Best Forward Chef and Most Promising Chef accolades.

Legacy Award: Presented to establishments whose enduring contribution has shaped the Halal culinary heritage of the region.

Best-In-Class Awards categories for HTGA 2026 

Best Ethnic Restaurant or Café

Best Hotel Café or Restaurant

Best Concept Restaurant or Café

Best Speciality Café, Kiosk or Bakery

Best Newcomer

Best Halal Caterer – Party Packs

Service Excellence Award

Sustainability in Halal Gastronomy Award

Innovation in Fusion Cuisine Award – NEW in 2026

Healthy Dining Award – NEW in 2026

The Diamond Awards will also continue to recognise dining establishments that have demonstrated sustained excellence, with multi-year designations awarded to those qualifying for two or three consecutive years.

Setting the standard for Halal culinary excellence

“The HalalTrip Gastronomy Awards was born from a simple but powerful belief, that Halal dining deserves the same level of recognition, rigour, and prestige as the world’s most celebrated culinary awards,” said  CrescentRating and HalalTrip Director of Operations Raudha Zaini. “As we bring the HalalTrip Gastronomy Awards to three cities in 2026, we are building a movement that elevates the standard of Halal cuisine worldwide and empowers chefs and entrepreneurs behind it.”

In its third edition, the HTGA 2026 will retain its strong partnership between HalalTrip and the Singapore Halal Culinary Federation (SHCF), underscoring a shared commitment to championing culinary talent and raising the profile of Singapore’s vibrant Halal food scene on the global stage.

“The HalalTrip Gastronomy Awards has been a tremendous platform to shine a spotlight on the incredible talent and dedication within Singapore’s Halal food industry. As we enter our third year of partnership with HalalTrip, we are proud to see this program grow from strength to strength, not just in Singapore, but across the region. For our chefs and restaurateurs, recognition of this kind is an affirmation that Halal cuisine belongs at the highest table of global culinary excellence. SHCF remains committed to nurturing that talent and raising the bar for what Halal dining can and should be,” said Singapore Halal Culinary Federation (SHCF) President Chef Muhammad Imran.

What the HTGA recognition has meant for past winners

For the restaurants recognised at HTGA 2025 Singapore, the awards have delivered more than a plaque on the wall. Winners like ASAP & Co and RROOLL, both recipients of the Two Diamonds Award in consecutive editions, have seen their distinction carry weight with diners who use the HTGA Winners Guide as a trusted dining resource throughout the year. The guide, published following each edition, serves as a living reference for Halal-conscious consumers across the region.

The programme also spotlights the full spectrum of Singapore’s Halal dining scene. Best-in-Class winners in 2025 ranged from The White Label, recognised for Best Concept Restaurant, to Dutch Colony Coffee Co. for Best Speciality Café, and Ginger at PARKROYAL on Beach Road for Best Hotel Café or Restaurant. The Gastronomy Legacy Award, presented to Rumah Makan Minang, honoured over seven decades of unbroken culinary heritage in Kampong Gelam.

Looking Ahead

The global Muslim travel and dining market remains on a strong growth trajectory. International Muslim arrivals reached 176 million in 2024 and are projected to hit 245 million by 2030, bringing with them growing demand for trusted, credible Halal dining options. The HTGA sits at the heart of that demand, providing consumers with a reliable guide and a standard to aim for in the Halal food sector.

To learn more about the HalalTrip Gastronomy Awards, visit the official microsite: https://www.halaltrip.com/halaltrip-gastronomy-awards/

(Source: HalalTrip Gastronomy Awards)

Tourism transport hit by rising fuel prices

KUALA LUMPUR, 10 April 2026: The Malaysian Association of Tour and Travel Agents (MATTA) has expressed deep concern over the continued hikes in diesel prices and their growing impact on tourism transport operators across Malaysia.

According to a recent survey conducted by MATTA on tour bus and van operators, 68.5% of tour van operators consume more than 1,500 litres of diesel per month per vehicle. In comparison, 54.8% of tour bus operators consume more than 3,500 litres per month per bus.

An illustrative image highlights the escalation of fuel costs for Malaysia’s tourism operators.

These figures highlight the significant fuel dependency of tourism transport operators, many of whom are already operating at minimal return on investment (ROI) and can only maintain day-to-day operations and fulfil existing contractual obligations.

The continuing increase in diesel prices is threatening the business viability of operators and the wider tourism ecosystem. MATTA is recommending temporary measures, such as targeted subsidies and a surcharge mechanism, to help provide relief to stakeholders during the current crisis.

To preserve customer trust while ensuring business continuity, MATTA recommends implementing a temporary fuel surcharge mechanism, similar to that adopted in the aviation sector, that emphasises transparency and the adoption of industry best practices to address this challenge.

Such surcharges should be implemented in a manner that does not contradict any relevant laws or regulations, with each company independently determining the appropriate surcharge based on its actual fuel consumption and operational profile.

This ensures that the surcharge remains fair, proportionate, and directly reflective of the additional costs incurred. The mechanism must also be clearly communicated to consumers, applied transparently, and be strictly temporary, with removal once diesel prices stabilise.

It should also be designed solely to offset the additional fuel costs incurred by operators, rather than to generate excess profit.

“The continued rise in diesel prices is placing an unsustainable burden on tourism transport operators, many of whom are already operating on very thin margins. We must adopt practical, balanced measures to ensure business continuity without compromising consumer trust. A temporary and transparent fuel surcharge mechanism, combined with targeted government support, will help the industry navigate this challenging period while maintaining service standards across Malaysia’s tourism sector,” said MATTA President Nigel Wong.

At the same time, MATTA calls on the Government to introduce targeted diesel subsidies to support tourism transport operators.

A proposal of up to 3,500 litres per month per vehicle operated by legitimate tour operators would provide immediate and meaningful relief, helping operators manage escalating fuel costs while continuing to deliver essential services to the tourism industry.

“Tourism transport operators are not in a position to absorb continuous fuel cost increases. A temporary, transparent fuel surcharge mechanism is the most practical way to ensure service continuity while maintaining customer trust,”  said MATTA Vice President of Land Transportation, Subramaniam Kandasamy. “At the same time, targeted subsidies, such as the proposed monthly allocation of 3,500 litres, would provide immediate relief to operators who are struggling to sustain operations under current market conditions. This is not about increasing profits, but about survival and maintaining the integrity of Malaysia’s tourism supply chain.”  

(Source: MATTA)

Air India introduces flights to Halwara

DELHI, 10 April 2026: Air India will add a service to Halwara (Ludhiana) as its newest destination in India, enhancing access for travellers between the industrial heartland of Punjab and Delhi.

Beginning 15 May 2026, Air India will operate two daily flights between Delhi and Halwara using its A320 Family aircraft.

Photo credit: Air India.

The flight schedule has been designed to offer same-day connectivity via Delhi to destinations across the UK and the rest of Europe. Passengers from Halwara/Ludhiana and surrounding areas can travel with Air India to Delhi and join onward flights from the same terminal, direct to London, Birmingham, Rome, Milan, and Paris – on a single ticket with baggage checked through to their final destinations.

Air India Chief Commercial Officer, Nipun Aggarwal, said: “We are pleased to serve the people and communities in Ludhiana and neighbouring towns and cities with the convenience of travelling across continents via Delhi. With this addition to our network, we are making international travel simpler and more seamless for more customers across Punjab.”

Air India flights to Halwara are available for booking across all channels, including Air India’s official website, mobile app and through travel agents worldwide.

(Source: Air India)

Insurance giant Allianz joins WTTC

SINGAPORE, 10 April 2026: The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) welcomes Allianz Partners as its newest industry partner, further strengthening its global network of leading organisations shaping the future of Travel & Tourism.

As part of WTTC’s membership, Allianz Partners will contribute its expertise in travel protection, assistance, and digital innovation to advance discussions around traveller confidence, emergency services, and the evolution of seamless, end-to-end travel experiences.

WTTC President & CEO Gloria Guevara said:  “Welcoming Allianz Partners to WTTC highlights the increasing importance of resilience and traveller assurance in a rapidly evolving Travel & Tourism landscape. As the sector grows and adapts, integrated insurance and assistance solutions play a vital role in enabling safe, confident, and frictionless journeys. Allianz Partners brings valuable global insight and innovation that will help strengthen our collective efforts to build a more resilient and future-ready sector.”

Allianz Partners, interim Chief Officer Global Strategic Partnerships & Travel Anna Kofoed, noted:  “The travel industry is transforming faster than ever, and WTTC is at the heart of that transformation. Becoming a member allows us to bring our digital expertise and global perspective to a network that is actively shaping the future of travel.

At the same time, it allows Allianz Partners to learn from WTTC and its members, leaders who are redefining resilience, sustainability, and innovation across the sector. I’m thrilled for us to contribute to this collective momentum, to exchange knowledge, and to work alongside WTTC members to push boundaries and unlock new possibilities for travellers worldwide.”

Through its participation, Allianz Partners will support WTTC’s research, policy engagement, and industry collaboration—helping to strengthen resilience, enhance traveller trust, and reinforce the sector’s long-term economic and social impact globally.

About Allianz Partners
Allianz Partners is a world leader in B2B2C insurance and assistance, offering global solutions spanning international health and life, travel insurance, and mobility and assistance. 

(Source: WTTC)

RBA delays return of Dubai flights

SINGAPORE, 10 April 2026: Royal Brunei Airlines extends its current flight suspension between Bandar Seri Begawan (BWN) and Dubai (DXB) until 2 July 2026.

The airline serves the route with three weekly flights, departing Brunei at 1845 on Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday, using a Boeing 787-8 with 254 seats. Flight time is eight hours and 45 minutes.

Photo credit: Royal Brunei Airlines. Dubai.

Passengers can choose to rebook on the next available Royal Brunei Airlines flight (subject to operational approvals and seat availability) or reroute through another Royal Brunei Airlines-operated network, where applicable.

They can also convert the ticket to a Travel Voucher (TV) or request a full refund to the original form of payment.

Passengers who booked through a travel agent or third-party platform should contact their respective agents for assistance.

Royal Brunei Airlines says in the notification that it continues to monitor the situation closely. Depending on developments, further extensions to the suspension of Dubai services may be necessary.

In response to the current regional airspace situation, RB will continue to operate three times weekly direct services between Brunei Darussalam and London to maintain connectivity for passengers between the two destinations.

Asia: Flight suspensions to Dubai

Meanwhile, as of 8 April 2026, several major carriers across Asia have extended flight suspensions to Dubai (DXB) due to ongoing regional conflict and airspace closures over the Persian Gulf.

Dubai International Airport (DXB) remains open and operational, with a “reduced schedule” in place for local carriers such as Emirates and flydubai. However, many international airlines have chosen to suspend services entirely through late May to avoid the restricted airspace.

The following airlines have confirmed suspensions of their Dubai routes:

AirlineOrigin RegionSuspension Status
Cathay PacificHong KongSuspended until 31 May, 2026
Philippine AirlinesManilaSuspended until 31 May, 2026
Singapore AirlinesSingaporeSuspended until 30 April, 2026
Air IndiaMultiple CitiesSuspended through May 2026 (includes UAE and Qatar)
IndiGoIndiaSignificant cancellations reported from Chennai, Mumbai, and Bengaluru
Japan AirlinesTokyoSuspended Doha/Dubai connections through April
US-Bangla AirlinesDhakaReported cancellations as of early April

Emirates & flydubai: Both are operating but at reduced capacity. Flights are being rerouted to avoid conflict zones, resulting in longer flight times (up to two hours extra for some Asian routes).

(Source: Royal Brunei, plus additional reporting)

Sarawak: Video Storytelling

Sarawak Welcomes You: Visit Malaysia 2026
Malaysia’s Hidden Wonder Awaits — Sarawak. Explore Mulu, Niah, Kuching Waterfront, Semenggoh, Laksa and the Borneo Cultures Museum. Culture, adventure, nature, food and festival, all in one unforgettable journey.

#sarawak #malaysia #Kuching #borneo

MATTA partners with MyTravelKaki

KUALA LUMPUR, 9 April 2026: The Malaysian Association of Tour and Travel Agents (MATTA) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with PMJ AI Sdn Bhd, the developer of the MyTravelKaki platform, on the sidelines of the MATTA Fair held in Kuala Lumpur last week.

The collaboration reflects MATTA’s continued commitment to advancing digitalisation in the tourism industry by enhancing the visibility, accessibility, and online booking potential of its members’ travel packages.

Through this partnership, both parties will explore developing a digital booking ecosystem, including a mobile application to support seamless promotion and booking of travel products. The initiative also aims to strengthen digital marketing capabilities and encourage greater adoption of technology among MATTA members.

Speaking at the signing ceremony, MATTA President Nigel Wong said this collaboration underscores MATTA’s commitment to innovation and to helping its members adapt to an increasingly digital travel landscape. By working with MyTravelKaki, MATTA aims to enhance the way travel products are marketed and distributed, while improving accessibility for consumers through integrated digital platforms.

PMJ AI Sdn Bhd Chief Technology Officer Justin Tang expressed enthusiasm for the collaboration, highlighting that the company’s MyTravelKaki platform will empower travel businesses with advanced digital tools while enhancing the overall user experience for travellers. He added that this partnership will accelerate the development of a comprehensive and user-friendly ecosystem that connects travellers directly with MATTA members.

Under the MOU, MATTA will provide industry insights and support to facilitate the development and adoption of the platform. At the same time, PMJ AI Sdn Bhd will lead the design, development, and operation of the digital infrastructure.

The collaboration is expected to play a key role in strengthening Malaysia’s tourism digital ecosystem, in line with ongoing efforts to future-proof the industry and enhance its global competitiveness.

(Source: MATTA)

Centara Hotels & Resorts: Thailand safe and stable

BANGKOK, 9 April 2026: As global travellers continue to navigate a complex geopolitical landscape, Thailand stands out as a safe, stable and deeply rewarding destination for visitors from Europe and around the world. 

Amid ongoing tensions around the world, the Kingdom continues to offer peace of mind, seamless accessibility, and meaningful travel experiences rooted in culture, wellness and connection.

At a time when travellers are prioritising reassurance alongside inspiration, Thailand’s consistent track record in tourism safety, service excellence, and warm hospitality reinforces its role as a trusted global destination. From first-time visitors to long-standing repeat guests, the country continues to provide a sense of ease, familiarity and genuine welcome that is increasingly valued in today’s travel environment.

Centara Hotels & Resorts, Thailand’s leading hotel operator, reaffirms its confidence in the country’s enduring appeal and commitment to welcome international guests seeking both reassurance and inspiration in their journeys.

A Destination Defined by Stability and Connectivity

Thailand’s geographic position, robust tourism infrastructure, and long-standing reputation for hospitality make it a preferred destination amid global uncertainty. With strong air connectivity from major European hubs and across the Asia-Pacific region, travellers can easily and efficiently reach Thailand.

The country’s well-established safety standards, reliable healthcare system, and diverse quality offerings further reinforce its position as a secure and dependable choice for leisure, family, and business travel.

A Shift Toward Meaningful Travel Experiences

Centara Hotels & Resorts Vice President – Sales, Jurairat Mongkolwongsiri.

Today’s travellers are increasingly seeking more than just a destination—they are looking for emotional connection, authenticity, and a sense of place. Thailand delivers this through its rich cultural heritage, world-renowned cuisine, and diverse landscapes, from vibrant cities to tranquil beaches. Centara Hotels & Resorts has seen growing demand for experiences that reflect these values, including wellness retreats, immersive cultural activities, and family-oriented stays that foster deeper connections.

“Thailand continues to demonstrate its strength as one of the world’s most trusted and versatile travel destinations. From seamless connectivity and high service standards to the diversity of experiences it offers, the country is uniquely positioned to meet the evolving expectations of global travellers.

At Centara, we see strong and sustained interest from key markets, particularly those seeking both reassurance and meaningful travel experiences,” said Centara Hotels & Resorts Vice President – Sales Jurairat Mongkolwongsiri.

A Trusted Name in Thai Hospitality Across Diverse Destinations

As a homegrown brand with decades of experience, Centara Hotels & Resorts embodies the essence of Thai hospitality—warm, gracious, and rooted in family values. The group’s philosophy is built on treating every guest as part of the extended family, creating a sense of comfort and belonging that resonates strongly with international travellers.

Centara’s diverse portfolio spans some of Thailand’s most sought-after destinations, each offering its own distinct appeal. In Bangkok, guests enjoy dynamic city experiences, world-class dining and cultural landmarks. Beachfront resorts in Phuket, Krabi and Koh Samui provide idyllic escapes with pristine coastlines and vibrant marine life. At the same time, destinations such as Hua Hin and Pattaya cater to both relaxation and family-friendly leisure. In the north, locations like Chiang Mai offer a more tranquil, culturally immersive experience surrounded by nature and heritage.

 A Commitment to Guest Confidence

Centara remains committed to maintaining the highest standards of safety, hygiene, and service excellence across all its properties, ensuring guests can travel with confidence and peace of mind. Robust health and safety protocols are in place, supported by well-trained teams dedicated to guest wellbeing at every stage of the journey.

Flexible booking policies and attentive on-the-ground support provide additional reassurance. At the same time, the group’s family-driven approach to hospitality ensures every guest feels cared for, comfortable, and secure throughout their stay.

“Across our portfolio in Thailand and wider Asia, we are fully prepared to welcome international travellers with confidence. Our teams are well-trained, our operational standards are robust, and we continue to prioritise the safety, comfort and wellbeing of every guest.

This readiness, combined with our Thai hospitality ethos, ensures a consistent and high-quality experience across all Centara properties,” said Centara Hotels & Resorts Chief Operating Officer Michael Henssler.

Looking Ahead

While global challenges may influence travel decisions, Thailand’s enduring strengths—its safety, accessibility, and heartfelt hospitality—ensure it remains a destination of choice. For travellers seeking both escape and enrichment, the country offers a compelling balance of security and soul.

As travel continues to evolve, Centara Hotels & Resorts remains dedicated to welcoming guests from Europe and beyond with experiences that are not only memorable but meaningful. By combining trusted standards with a deeply human approach to hospitality, the group invites travellers to rediscover the joy of travel in a destination that feels both exciting and reassuring—now more than ever.

About Centara
Centara Hotels & Resorts is Thailand’s leading hotel operator. Its 90 properties span all major Thai destinations plus the Maldives, Vietnam, Laos, Japan, Nepal, Oman, Qatar and the UAE. Centara’s portfolio comprises six brands – Centara Reserve, The Centara Collection, Centara Grand, Centara, Centara Life and COSI Hotels – ranging from luxury island retreats and upscale family resorts to affordable lifestyle concepts supported by innovative technology. 

Find out more about Centara at www.CentaraHotelsResorts.com   

(Source: Your Stories — Centara Hotels & Resorts)

Sanya China hosts PATA’s 2027 Annual Summit

BANGKOK, 9 April 2026: The Pacific Asia Travel Association confirmed earlier this week that the PATA Annual Summit 2027 will be hosted by the Sanya Tourism Board (STB) in Sanya, China, 17–19 May 2027.

PATA CEO Noor Ahmad Hamid said: “The Sanya Tourism Board has been an active and valued PATA member, and we have had the privilege of working closely together to deliver several regional initiatives successfully.

Photo credit: PATA.

“Building on this strong track record, combined with world-class facilities and a diverse destination offering spanning culture, wellness, community-based tourism, and year-round sunshine, Sanya is exceptionally well-positioned to host the PATA Annual Summit. We look forward to collaborating closely with Sanya to bring the 2027 Summit to life.”

“Hosting the PATA Annual Summit 2027 in Sanya is a great honour and a significant opportunity to showcase our city’s unique tropical coastal charm to the global travel community,” said a spokesperson from the Sanya Tourism Board. “As a premier destination offering pristine beaches, rich cultural heritage, and world-class facilities, we are committed to promoting sustainable tourism development. We look forward to welcoming delegates from around the world to experience Sanya’s warm hospitality and to fostering meaningful collaborations that will drive the future of travel in the Asia Pacific region.”

Located in the southern part of China’s Hainan Province, Sanya is a tropical coastal destination covering approximately 1,921 square kilometres and offering a diverse range of attractions. The city is recognised as a major modern tourism destination, known for its tropical climate and luxury resorts with world-class amenities. Sanya’s natural landscapes range from the white-sand beaches of Haitang and Yalong bays to the Yalong Bay Tropical Paradise Forest Park and Wuzhizhou Island. 

Moreover, Sanya boasts a culturally rich and charming urban scene, where visitors can experience its delightful gastronomy and rich cultural heritage.

In recent years, STB has observed growing travel demand from visitors from Central Asia, alongside continued efforts to expand air connectivity and strengthen partnerships. In November 2025 alone, Sanya recorded over 2.24 million overnight domestic and international visitors, underscoring its strong potential to contribute to the sustained growth of the Asia Pacific travel and tourism industry.

Learn more about Sanya at www.pata.org/welcome-to-sanya.

AirAsia Move recruits former TAT deputy governor

BANGKOK, 9 April 2026: AirAsia MOVE welcomes Chattan Kunjara Na Ayudhya as Country Representative for AirAsia MOVE in Thailand.

Chattan previously served as Deputy Governor at the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), where he played a pivotal role in shaping Thailand’s tourism strategies across key global markets. 

Photo credit: AirAsia Move.

Widely recognised as one of Thailand’s most respected tourism leaders, he brings deep policy-level experience, strategic market insight, and a strong international network that will further strengthen AirAsia MOVE’s leadership and partnerships in Thailand and the region.

Chattan is best known for his long and distinguished career at the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), which ended with his retirement in September 2024. He spent 37 years at TAT, where he was a key architect of Thailand’s global tourism strategy.

His notable positions included:

  • Deputy Governor for International Marketing (Asia and South Pacific): In his final role at TAT, he focused on recovering and growing markets across the Asia-Pacific region post-pandemic.
  • Deputy Governor for Marketing Communications: Responsible for overseeing the “Amazing Thailand” branding and global PR campaigns.
  • Deputy Governor for International Marketing (Europe, Africa, Middle East, and Americas): He led the strategy for long-haul markets, positioning Thailand as a top-tier destination for Western travellers.
  • Regional Leadership: Earlier in his career, he led TAT offices in Thailand’s critical tourism source markets, including India and Australia.

He is recognised for his “straight-talking” and candid approach to industry challenges and has been a frequent speaker at major regional forums like the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA)

(Source: AirAsia Move with additional background)