SINGAPORE, 13 March 2025: Digital travel platform Agoda has observed a 358% increase in accommodation searches for Singapore following the announcement of exclusive Lady Gaga concerts that will be held in Singapore on May 18, 19, 21, and 24, 2025.
Fans from the region are looking forward to “just dance,” and searches on Agoda’s platform have multiplied compared to the previous weeks.
Photo credit: Agoda. Singapore cityscape at dusk.
The announcement of Lady Gaga’s concerts sparked a wave of interest, particularly from Taiwan, Indonesia, China mainland, Philippines, and Malaysia. Notably, Taiwan emerged as the top market searching for Singapore on 10 March, despite not being in the top five origin ranks in the two weeks prior to the announcement.
Agoda Chief Marketing Officer Matteo Frigerio shared: “It’s no abracadabra — big events inspire travel, and Lady Gaga’s upcoming concert series in Singapore is proof of that. Whether travellers come from near or far and are ‘Little Monsters’ or just looking for a great deal, Agoda has them covered with the best stays in Singapore. So pack your bags, get ready to ‘just dance,’ and let Agoda take care of the rest.”
The increased search activity underscores Singapore’s appeal as a destination for major events and highlights Agoda’s role in connecting travellers with great-value deals.
SINGAPORE, 13 March 2025: Jazeera Airways, Kuwait’s low-cost airline, confirms plans to streamline operations by insourcing ground handling services at its home base, Kuwait International Airport.
The airline describes the move as a key component to optimize operational efficiency, enhance customer experience, and drive lowest unit cost.
Photo credit: Jazeera Airways.
With a fleet of 24 Airbus A320 aircraft and nearly 5 million passengers annually, Jazeera Airways has strengthened its position as a major player in the aviation sector since it launched operations in 2002. The airline currently contributes to 31% of passenger traffic in Kuwait, with more than 18,000 annual ground handling rotations, reinforcing Kuwait’s status as a vital regional aviation hub.
Jazeera Airways is set for significant growth as it prepares to welcome new aircraft from its multi-billion-dollar order book. A total of 26 aircraft — comprising 18 Airbus A320 and 8 Airbus A321 — are scheduled for delivery starting in 2027. The airline recently acquired six Airbus A320ceo aircraft as part of this growth strategy.
Jazeera Airways Chairman Marwan Boodai said: “Bringing ground handling operations in-house marks another key milestone in our long-term strategy to enhance efficiency and elevate the passenger experience. As we expand and prepare for the arrival of new aircraft, this strategic move will allow us to improve turnaround times, deliver superior service quality, and achieve lower unit costs.
“As a Kuwaiti company, we also remain committed to investing in the growth of Kuwait’s aviation sector in alignment with the government’s Vision 2035. This year, we will announce new and exciting projects supporting our expansion, creating valuable job opportunities for the next generation of Kuwaiti graduates.”
PENANG, Malaysia, 13 March 2025: Business events in Penang boosted the state’s economy by a record MYR1.29 billion, the Penang Convention & Exhibition Bureau (PCEB) confirmed in a presentation of the Business Events Penang 2024 Annual Review held in George Town on Tuesday.
The event was presided over by the Chief Minister of Penang, YAB Chow Kon Yeow, the Penang State Exco for Tourism & Creative Economy (PETACE), YB Wong Hon Wai, and the Chief Executive Officer of PCEB, Ashwin Gunasekeran. Together, they provided insights into Penang’s thriving Business Events landscape and the state’s progress during 2024 to an audience of travel and hospitality executives.
Photo credit: PCEB. Bureau chief Ashwin Gunasekeran.
The Business Events Penang 2024 Annual Review showcased a year of “exceptional growth”, reinforcing Penang’s position as a leading destination for business events. In 2024, the state successfully hosted 2,059 events, representing a substantial 240.9% increase compared to the previous year. These events attracted 305,259 delegates, marking an 87.3% rise, while the room nights generated reached 558,543, reflecting a steady 3.6% increase.
Most notably, the estimated economic impact (EEI) soared to MYR1.29 billion, a remarkable 24.8% increase from 2023. These achievements underscore the strength of Penang’s infrastructure, strategic initiatives, and PCEB’s continuous efforts to position the state as a premier destination for conferences, exhibitions, and corporate gatherings.
At the annual review presentation, YAB Chow Kon Yeow commended the industry’s outstanding performance and highlighted its economic significance.
“The Business Events sector has demonstrated resilience and played a crucial role in driving Penang’s economic growth. The MYR1.29 billion impact underscores the vast opportunities that business events bring, contributing significantly to tourism, trade, and investment,” he stated.
YB Wong Hon Wai emphasised the role of strategic partnerships and government support in facilitating this remarkable progress. “These achievements reaffirm Penang’s reputation as a premier Business Events destination in Asia. As we look ahead, we will continue to strengthen our offerings, attract high-impact events, and expand our industry collaborations to enhance Penang’s appeal further”.
PCEB CEO Ashwin Gunasekeran outlined the bureau’s vision to exceed the 2024 benchmarks by focusing on deeper industry engagement, targeted promotional efforts, and enhanced incentives.
“Our goal is to sustain and accelerate this growth by leveraging our extensive industry network, embracing digital advancements,
and continuously elevating the quality of events hosted in Penang. The rising number of business events has led to greater economic opportunities, increased employment, and a strengthened global presence for Penang,” he remarked.
SINGAPORE, 13 March 2025: During Vietnam’s General Secretary To Lam’s official visit to Singapore from 11 to 13 March, Vietjet announced the launch of a new direct route connecting Singapore and Phu Quoc and the signing of a USD300 million aircraft financing agreement with Carlyle Aviation Partners.
This milestone strengthens Singapore-Vietnam connectivity and fosters sustainable development between the two nations.
Photo credit: Vietjet. Vietnam’s General Secretary To Lam congratulates Vietjet on the new Phu Quoc -Singapore route.
Vietjet expands routes to Singapore
Launching on 30 May 2025, Vietjet will schedule four roundtrip flights weekly on the new Phou Quoc – Singapore route, bringing Vietjet’s total weekly flights between Singapore and Vietnam to 78.
This addition marks Vietjet’s fourth route to Singapore, complementing existing services from Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi, and Danang. With this growing network, the airline can serve 500,000 passengers annually between the two countries.
Since introducing its Ho Chi Minh City – Singapore route in 2014, Vietjet has operated over 16,000 flights, transporting more than 2.6 million passengers between the two countries. The new Phu Quoc – Singapore route should further boost tourism and strengthen economic, trade, and cultural ties.
USD300 Million Aircraft Financing Agreement
Vietjet and Carlyle Aviation Partners have signed a USD300 million financing agreement to support the delivery of new aircraft in during 2025 and 2026. The deal is a key step in Vietjet’s strategy to expand its modern fleet, which includes over 400 aircraft on order.
“We are proud to be a long-term strategic partner of Vietjet, supporting its international growth and commitment to providing affordable, convenient travel options,” said Carlyle Aviation Partners President Alexander Rasnava.
Carlyle Aviation Partners, the aviation arm of The Carlyle Group, manages 363 aircraft across 53 countries. The Carlyle Group, a global investment firm with USD447 billion in assets, plays a vital role in the international aviation supply chain.
Vietjet fosters trade and cultural exchange
Vietjet chair Nguyen Thi Phuong Thao commented: “Vietjet is more than an airline — it is a driver of economic trade, investment, education, and cultural exchange.”
With over 115 aircraft and serving more than 230 million passengers, Vietjet continues its commitment to sustainable development and cultural cooperation. As Singapore remains Vietnam’s largest investor with USD84.5 billion in investments, Vietjet’s partnerships with Singaporean firms contribute billions of dollars annually, fostering financial, trade, and innovation-driven collaboration.
HONG KONG, 13 March 2025: Cathay Group announced its annual results for 2024 on Wednesday, showcasing a solid financial performance driven by stronger cargo demand, higher passenger volumes, lower fuel price and higher cost efficiencies compared with the previous year.
The Cathay Group reported an attributable profit of HKD9.9 billion in 2024, compared to HKD9.8 billion in 2023.
Photo credit: Cathay Group.
The Cathay Group’s airlines and subsidiaries, excluding exceptional items, reported an attributable profit of HKD8.8 billion for 2024 versus a profit of HKD9.2 billion in 2023. Results from associates, the majority of which are recognised three months in arrears, were a full-year profit of HKD288 million, compared with a loss of HKD1.6 billion in 2023.
Cathay Group Chair Patrick Healy said: “This second consecutive year of solid financial performance is a testament to our global teams’ outstanding effort and dedication. It has enabled us to complete buybacks, pay dividends to our shareholders, reward our people and commit substantial investments that will enhance the experience for our customers and benefit our home hub, Hong Kong.”
Stronger cargo demand
Cathay Cargo performed very well in 2024, especially in the second half, with strong e-commerce demand being a key driver. Overall, cargo tonnage was 11% higher, and yield was about 3% higher than in 2023.
Higher passenger volumes
Cathay Pacific and HK Express carried over 30% more passengers on the travel side. However, as the airlines added flights to the market, passenger yields (or average revenue generated per revenue passenger kilometre (RPK)) continued to normalise as expected. Cathay Pacific saw a 12% decrease in yield, while for HK Express, this was even more pronounced, with yields down 23% year on year, reflecting the intense competition on regional routes.
Cathay is committed to its dual-brand strategy to serve customers with different needs. Cathay Pacific is its premium full-service airline, and HK Express is its low-cost airline. HK Express experienced short-term operational issues in 2024 that affected its earnings, with an average of five of its Airbus A320neo fleet grounded due to industry-wide Pratt & Whitney engine issues.
Cathay has confidence in the long-term, low-cost carrier business model of HK Express, with its commitment to offering low fares and more destination choices for customers. A path to sustained profitability can be expected as the airline grows and increases its efficiencies. HK Express is the world’s fastest-growing airline, according to aviation analytics provider OAG, and was recently named one of the world’s top five low-cost airlines by Airline Ratings.
Lower fuel price and higher cost efficiencies
Although Cathay Group’s airlines flew more, fuel was less expensive. The average into-plane unit fuel price (excluding hedging) was over 9% lower year-on-year.
With the increase in both passenger and cargo volumes, the Cathay Group (before subsidiaries and associates) was able to spread its fixed costs over a broader base, resulting in a 4.5% decrease in cost per available tonne kilometre (ATK) (excluding fuel) compared with 2023.
Improved results from associates
The results from associates, recognised three months in arrears, also improved from a HKD1.6 billion loss in 2023 to a HKD288 million profit in 2024. The Cathay Group’s associates primarily include Air China Limited (Air China) and Air China Cargo Co Ltd. Air China’s results improved due to the recovery of the civil aviation market, increased fleet efficiency and stricter cost management.
Buybacks and dividends
In addition to Cathay buying back the remaining 50%, or HKD9.8 billion, of the preference shares from the Hong Kong SAR Government in July 2024, nearly HKD4 billion was paid to the Government in preference share dividends over its holding period and in buying back the warrants in September 2024.
In early January 2025, Cathay repurchased approximately 68% of the HK$6.7 billion guaranteed convertible bonds due 2026.
Cathay’s full-year result has allowed it to announce a second interim dividend payment of 49 cents per share to ordinary shareholders. With the first interim dividend already paid, 69 cents per share or HKD4.4 billion will have been paid in ordinary share dividends in 2024.
Cathay confirms it will provide its people with more than 10 weeks of eligible pay through discretionary bonuses and profit sharing.
HKD100 billion in investments, 100 new aircraft, 100 destinations
Healy continued: “We are excited about the future and remain firmly committed to strengthening the Hong Kong international aviation hub by boosting air travel and cargo capacity and elevating our customer experience. Our financial performance gives us the confidence to commit to investing over HK$100 billion to coincide with the launch of the Three-Runway System.
“We have already commenced taking delivery of more than 100 new-generation aircraft and introducing new world-leading cabin interiors, including Aria Suite and our all-new Premium Economy, new flagship lounges, and digital innovations.
“We are also continuing to expand our global network, having already announced 11 additional destinations for 2025, with more to come. Cathay Pacific and HK Express will operate passenger services to more than 100 destinations this year.”
BANGKOK, Thailand, 12 March 2025: Dusit International, one of Thailand’s leading hotel and property development companies, has signed a hotel management agreement with PT Komodo Property Management to manage Kaliwatu Residences — Dusit Collection.
The exclusive new luxury retreat is located in Labuan Bajo, Flores Island, one of Indonesia’s fastest-growing tourism destinations.
This signing marks Dusit’s first Dusit Collection branded hotel in Indonesia, complementing the success of its subsidiary, Elite Havens — the region’s premier luxury villa rental provider — which already manages properties in Bali and Lombok.
Located on the western tip of Flores, just 10 minutes by car from Komodo International Airport and the vibrant town of Badjo — the gateway to Komodo National Park, renowned for its legendary Komodo dragons and world-class diving — Kaliwatu Residences – Dusit Collection promises a serene escape in a private hillside setting, surrounded by natural beauty and offering panoramic sea views.
Developed in phases, with full completion scheduled for Q2 2028, the project will feature 63 spacious, well-appointed private villas with plunge pools, 194 contemporary apartments, and a clubhouse housing a restaurant, bars, shops, a gym, a spa, and a rooftop swimming pool.
As part of Dusit’s luxury Dusit Collection brand — dedicated to exceptional hotels and residences in iconic locations — the new property embodies sleek, contemporary architecture inspired by European style and standards. Each villa has been meticulously designed with unique shapes and orientations to blend seamlessly with its natural surroundings, ensuring an exclusive and immersive experience for guests.
Beyond its luxurious offerings, the property will provide easy access to Labuan Bajo’s rich cultural and natural attractions, including stunning pink beaches, fascinating underground caves, cascading waterfalls, breathtaking hiking trails with panoramic viewpoints, and extraordinary encounters with Komodo dragons — the world’s largest lizards — within Komodo National Park.
Recognised for its unique wildlife and pristine marine environment, Labuan Bajo has been designated the best of Indonesia’s five super priority destinations — with a target of attracting 1.5 million tourists annually. Ongoing infrastructure improvements include recent upgrades to Komodo International Airport. Also, new direct flights from Kuala Lumpur and Singapore (launching in March) and Perth, Australia (coming soon), will elevate Labuan Bajo’s status as a premier destination for relaxation and adventure.
“The signing of Kaliwatu Residences – Dusit Collection marks a significant milestone in Dusit’s expansion strategy, strengthening our presence in Southeast Asia’s thriving luxury hospitality market,” said Dusit International Chief Operating Officer Gilles Cretallaz.
“Labuan Bajo is an extraordinary destination with immense potential, and we are delighted to introduce our signature Thai-inspired gracious hospitality to this stunning location. This project embodies everything Dusit stands for: Refined luxury, cultural richness, and a commitment to creating value for the wider community. We look forward to delivering an exceptional experience for our guests.”
PT Komodo Property Management CEO Alessandro Mugavero said: “As Labuan Bajo cements its position as a premier global destination, this project is perfectly timed to set new standards in sustainable luxury hospitality. Our vision for Kaliwatu Residences – Dusit Collection is to create a sanctuary that harmonises with nature while delivering world-class amenities. With Dusit’s expertise and commitment to excellence, we are confident this collaboration will redefine the region’s hospitality landscape. Local authorities fully support the development and construction of the project, which are being carried out in collaboration with the neighbouring community, further enhancing its positive impact on the local economy.”
With this latest addition, Dusit’s portfolio now spans 296 properties across 18 countries, including 57 operating under Dusit Hotels and Resorts and 239 luxury villas under Elite Havens. Kaliwatu Residences – Dusit Collection joins two other properties currently in development: Layan Verde in Phuket (opening 2027) and Plaza De Zamboanga – Dusit Collection, Philippines (opening later this year).
KOTA KINABALU, 12 March 2025: Participation in this year’s OCEANMAN is expected to more than triple compared to last year, reflecting the event’s growing appeal among international open water swimmers to compete in Sabah’s coastal seas.
The competition, which will be held from 19 to 20 July in Kota Kinabalu, will welcome athletes from Indonesia, Taiwan, Kazakhstan, India, Thailand, the Philippines, and Singapore.
Photo credit: Sabah Tourism Board. Assistant Tourism, Culture, and Environment Minister Datuk Joniston Bangkuai launching OCEANMAN 2025 at ITB Berlin. Also present are: (from left) Ministry’s Deputy Permanent Secretary II, Alisia Sion, Sabah Tourism Board Chief Executive Officer Julinus Jeffery Jimit, OCEANMAN Malaysia Event Director Azura Zainol Abidin, and Embassy of Malaysia in Berlin Charge d’Affaires Rozaime Mohamed Desa.
OCEANMAN Malaysia Event Director Azura Zainol Abidin said the event is on track for significant growth from last year’s 180 participants, with more swimmers signing up as registration remains open.
Assistant Tourism, Culture, and Environment Minister Datuk Joniston Bangkuai officially launched OCEANMAN 2025, supported by the Sabah Tourism Board, at last week’s International Exchange Tourism (ITB Berlin).
He said hosting international events like OCEANMAN promotes sports tourism and showcases Sabah’s world-class natural assets and proves that the state can deliver exceptional global experiences.
“Sabah is more than just a travel destination. It’s a playground for adventurers, a training ground for athletes, and a stage for world-class competitions,” Minister Joniston said.
He added that events of this scale help strengthen Sabah’s reputation while supporting the local economy, from hotels and restaurants to transport and small businesses.
He also said hosting large-scale events supports Sabah’s goal of reaching 3.3 million tourist arrivals this year.
Joniston led the Sabah Tourism Board delegation to ITB Berlin, accompanied by Sabah Tourism, Culture, and Environment Ministry’s Deputy Permanent Secretary II, Alesia Sion, and Sabah Tourism Board Chief Executive Officer Julinus Jeffery Jimit.
PALMA DE MALLORCA, Spain, 12 March 2025: Meliá Hotels International’s 2024 results reflect the general growth and consolidation trend in the global hotel industry, with a healthy return to normalisation after two years of accelerated growth.
For Meliá, this trend translated into a 4.4% increase in revenue excluding capital gains (EUR2,013 million) and a 10.7% improvement in Average Revenue Per Available Room (RevPAR), 75% of which was attributed to the improvement in the average rate during the year, while occupancy levels remained slightly below those recorded in 2019, leaving room for further growth.
Photo credit: Melia Koh Samui Thailand.
The group’s EBITDA also surpassed expectations, reaching EUR575.4 million (EUR533.6 million excluding capital gains), and consolidated profit (EUR162 million) improved by 24.5% compared to 2023.
Meliá reduced its Net Financial Debt by nearly one-third and reached its goal of positioning its Net Debt/EBITDA ratio at 2.2x, a level similar to pre-Covid figures.
Direct booking channels
Meliá’s strategy to build a more resilient and profitable business has relied on several levers to ensure sustainable and qualitative growth.
These include expansion into both traditional destinations and emerging markets such as Albania, Saudi Arabia, and the Indian Ocean, as well as a focus on the luxury segment, where premium and luxury brands now represent 64% of the portfolio and 80% of the pipeline.
Additionally, revenue maximisation is supported by direct channels like Melia.com and the revamped Meliá App, which now account for 50% of total centralised sales.
Support for travel agencies
At the same time, the group has reaffirmed its commitment to travel agencies, companies, meeting planners, and tour operators by introducing a new, more intuitive and faster MeliaPro website — Meliá’s B2B digital platform for professionals — equipped with the latest technology. In 2024, sales through MeliaPro increased by 21%, surpassing the growth of the B2C channel Melia.com, which grew by 19%.
In 2024, Meliá signed 34 new hotels in emerging destinations across Europe, such as Albania and Malta, Southeast Asia, including Thailand and Vietnam, the Caribbean, Latin America, and Spain. In Albania (with over 4,000 rooms in operation and in the pipeline) and Vietnam (with 8,185 rooms), Meliá is already the leading hotel operator in these countries.
Asia: Hotel business outlook (Q4 2024 and Q1 2025)
At the end of the year, China continued to face the challenges experienced throughout 2024. The domestic customer remained the primary contributor, although international demand — particularly in the Company’s hotels in Chengdu and Xian — showed signs of recovery.
Looking ahead to 2025, a moderate increase in demand is expected. Domestic demand is anticipated to be concentrated around festive seasons, with rate stability but volume growth and later bookings. This trend aligns with the broader economic uncertainty, including slower-than-usual growth, the real estate crisis, and risks related to the ongoing trade war with the US. As for international demand, the recovery of air capacity is expected to continue.
2025: Double-digit growth in Thailand and Vietnam
Southeast Asia saw a positive fourth quarter, driven by international customer contributions, improved local connectivity, and events. By country, Vietnam experienced a significant increase in travellers, particularly from high-purchasing power markets such as India, South Korea, and China.
Thailand continued to lead in international arrivals, supported by new routes and aggressive promotional campaigns. Both countries showed notable improvements in occupancy compared to the previous year and, to a lesser extent, in average rates. Meanwhile, the historic Meliá Bali was closed due to a complete refurbishment.
2025 should deliver strong international growth, particularly in Thailand and Vietnam, which are anticipated to see double-digit RevPAR growth compared to the previous year. This growth will primarily stem from average price increases, though solid occupancy growth is also expected. Additionally, regional demand will be boosted by the reactivation of major events and the improvement of air routes.
BANGKOK, 12 March 2025: Unicorn Hospitality, a hospitality management & consultancy firm based in Bangkok, is now managing the recently rebranded Xcape River Kwai Hotel located in Kanchanaburi province on the banks of the iconic River Kwai Noi
The riverside retreat joins the Unicorn Hospitality management and hotel consultancy firm’s portfolio of hotel clients in Bangkok, Phuket, Chiang Mai, Myanmar, Vietnam and Oman.
Photo credit: Xcape River Kwai.
Following the rebrand, Unicorn Hospitality oversees the “full management of the property”, the company reports.
“Joining forces with Unicorn Hospitality will help us refine our brand and embark on this new journey together,” said Xcape River Kwai Hotel owner Thienchai Techawatanasuk.
Special Rebranding Promotion
A rebranding promotion with F&B and other perks is currently available for stays until 30 June 2025. Rooms start at THB4,500 per night. A surcharge of THB 1,500 per room per night applies for guests planning weekend or long weekend stays.
The resort is adjacent to the River Kwai at Noi Nong Ya Soi 5 Ban Wanglan, Tambon Nong Ya, Amphoe Mueang Kanchanaburi, Thailand. It is approximately 10 km from Kanchanaburi’s town centre.
SINGAPORE, 12 March 2025: CÉ LA VI Singapore is set to undergo an ambitious transformation of its restaurant and skybar from 17 March to June 2025.
The renovation aligns with Marina Bay Sands’ multi-year redevelopment and its enhanced focus on luxury hospitality and marks a significant milestone as the homegrown brand prepares to celebrate its 15th anniversary.
Photo credit: Marina Bay Sands. CÉ LA VI in the sky.
Since 2010, CÉ LA VI has been a symbol of Singapore’s lifestyle scene. It features sky-gazing cocktails at dusk, dining experiences, live entertainment, and music against the stunning Marina Bay skyline.
The renovation project will completely transform the venue’s restaurant and bar spaces, while CÉ LA VI’s Club Lounge will continue to operate.
The renovation announcement comes as CÉ LA VI continues to expand its presence globally, with new venues on the horizon in key cities worldwide, including London (17,000 sq ft) and Miami (14,000 sq ft).
