DUBAI UAE, 3 JUNE 2025: Emirates Skywards has enhanced its partnership with Marriott Bonvoy, offering loyalty members the opportunity to convert Miles to Points and Points to Miles.
The strategic partnership will unlock even more rewards for 35 million members worldwide, who can now enjoy seamless conversions.
The new benefit further enhances the already strong collaboration between both loyalty programmes, which currently offers Members the chance to earn twice the rewards on both flights and hotel stays. Members can earn Skywards Miles in addition to Marriott Bonvoy points for stays at participating Marriott Bonvoy hotels and Marriott Bonvoy points in addition to Skywards Miles when flying with Emirates.
At the same time, Marriott Bonvoy members can still enjoy converting Points to Miles to ‘fly better’ with Emirates to more than 140 destinations across the airline’s extensive network. We’re proud of our long-standing partnership, and as two global brand leaders – we look forward to delivering more benefits, value, and the very best travel experiences for our members worldwide.”
Here’s how it works
Enjoy earning twice the rewards on flights and hotel stays, including one Skywards Mile for every USD1 spent on eligible stays at hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy (in addition to Marriott Bonvoy points) and three Marriott Bonvoy Points for every USD1 spent when travelling with Emirates (in addition to earning Skywards Miles).
To convert Skywards Miles to Marriott Bonvoy Points, visit emirates.com, log in using your Skywards credentials, enter your Marriott Bonvoy membership details, and simply convert.
KOTA KINABALU, 3 JUNE 2025: Sabah’s Ministry of Tourism, Culture, and Environment (KePKAS) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Boseong County, South Korea, to strengthen cooperation in festivals and tourism exchange.
The MoU was signed by KePKAS Deputy Permanent Secretary I Mary Malangking and Deputy Governor of Boseong County, Seo Hyung Bin.
Assistant Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister cum Sabah Tourism Board chairman Datuk Joniston Bangkuai alongside (from 2nd left-right) KepKas Deputy Permanent Secretary I Mary Malangking, Deputy Governor of Boseong County Seo Hyung Bin, and Director of the Culture and Tourism Bureau of Boseong County Rho Joung Yi.
Assistant Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister cum Sabah Tourism Board chairman Datuk Joniston Bangkuai and Director-General of the Culture and Tourism Bureau of Boseong County Rho Joung Yi witnessed the signing, which took place during a welcoming dinner in Kota Kinabalu held in conjunction with the Kaamatan Festival, on Friday.
Joniston said the MoU represents a step forward in building stronger ties and shared interest in learning about each other’s traditions.
“This partnership is about people. It’s about building understanding and sharing our stories. The timing of this MoU, held during our Kaamatan Festival, makes it even more meaningful.
“This year’s theme ‘, Kaamatan For All’, reflects our desire to share this celebration with the world, and we are honoured to welcome our friends from Boseong to experience the spirit of Kaamatan with us,” he said.
Joniston also highlighted the recent visit by Sabah representatives to Boseong during the Green Tea Festival.
He said the warm welcome and the opportunity to learn about Boseong’s tea culture were deeply appreciated, adding that such cultural exchange allows both sides to respect and enjoy each other’s heritage.
With direct flights connecting Kota Kinabalu and South Korea, Joniston believes more cultural and festival exchanges can happen.
As part of the cultural exchange, the Boseong cultural troupe is performing on the open stage at Hongkod Koisaan, KDCA in conjunction with the Kaamatan Festival finale today (31 May).
Johnston said the performance would give Sabahans a chance to experience the music and culture of Boseong.
He also expressed hope that Sabah will one day bring the Kaamatan Festival to Boseong.
The MoU is expected to lead to more cultural activities, exchange visits, and tourism promotions between the two regions.
Joniston said this is a good start and hopes the collaboration will grow stronger.
Also present at the signing ceremony were KePKAS Deputy Permanent Secretary II Alesia Sion; Consul General of the Republic of Korea in Kota Kinabalu, His Excellency Yoon Ockchae; Chief Executive Officer of the Jeollanamdo Tourism Organization Kim Young Sin; and Chairlady of the KDCA Women’s Council Datuk Joanna Kitingan.
NEW DELHI, 3 JUNE 2025: Leaders of the global aviation industry gathered for the 81st International Air Transport Association Annual General Meeting (AGM) and World Air Transport Summit (WATS) in New Delhi, India, from 1 to 3 June 2025.
IndiGo was the host airline of the 2025 AGM, which last took place in India in 1983. Approximately 1,700 participants attended, including industry leaders, government officials, and media representatives.
“We are excited to bring the IATA AGM to India after a 42-year gap. India’s position in global aviation has undergone significant changes, particularly over the last decade. The country has seen record aircraft orders, impressive growth, and world-class infrastructure developments. The AGM will allow aviation leaders and journalists from around the world to witness first-hand how India’s rapidly modernising and expanding aviation sector is contributing to the country’s overall economic and social development,” said IATA’s Director General Willie Walsh.
India’s aviation industry directly employs 369,700 people and generates USD5.6 billion of GDP. When indirect, induced and tourism impacts are included, the totals rise to 7.7 million jobs and USD53.6 billion of GDP (1.5%).
“As the host airline of the 81st IATA Annual General Meeting, IndiGo warmly welcomes the global airline community to India. Aviation is a powerful force for good worldwide, and that is particularly evident in India. India’s aviation market is rapidly thriving while significantly contributing to the country’s socio-economic growth, and IndiGo is at the forefront of this upward trajectory. IndiGo is proud to invite the IATA AGM back to India, and we look forward to showcasing the exciting developments in this market and the warm hospitality of India during this global mega-event,” said IndiGo CEO and Chair of the IATA Board of Governors Pieter Elbers.
A highlight of the AGM was the sixth edition of the IATA Diversity & Inclusion Awards. These awards recognised individuals and organisations who are advancing gender balance in the industry through the 25by2025 initiative.
KUALA LUMPUR, 3 JUNE 2025: AirAsia X reported revenue of MYR940.1 million in 1Q25, increasing by 3% year-on-year from MYR908.9 million in 1Q24 driven by a 12% growth in capacity to 1.29 million seats.
AirAsia X Berhad (AirAsia X) reported its unaudited financial results for the first quarter ended 31 March 2025 (1Q25) last week, noting that it achieved a 12% year-on-year increase in passenger traffic in 1Q25, carrying 1.08 million passengers. It was driven by sustained demand across core markets and efficient capacity deployment, resulting in a robust Passenger Load Factor of 83%.
During 1Q25, the average base fare stood at MYR550, aligning with the company’s load-active, yield-passive strategy. Ancillary revenue remained a key margin driver in 1Q25, with ancillary revenue per passenger increasing 10% year-over-year to MYR277. This uplift, combined with a higher passenger base, drove a 24% YoY increase in total ancillary revenue to MYR298.3 million. The growth reflects improved takeup rates, supported by enhanced digital personalisation and targeted product offerings that successfully maximised per-passenger spending.
The company posted a net profit of MYR50.2 million, representing a 5% margin even as its cost base expanded parallel to operational growth.
In 1Q25, AirAsia X expanded its Available Seat Kilometres (“ASK”) by 17% YoY to 5,878 million, strategically aligning capacity to capture peak demand during festive and holiday periods. Japan and Australia emerged as key outperformers within the network, with core routes delivering strong load factors between 85% and 90%, reflecting sustained travel demand and effective capacity optimisation in high-yield markets.
AirAsia X Thailand (TAAX) recorded MYR512.7 million in revenue and an operating profit of MYR15.5 million in 1Q25. TAAX carried a total of 500,128 passengers this quarter, up 14% year-on-year as seat capacity increased by 23% to 604,584 seats, charting a sound PLF of 83% during the quarter. The one-off effect of the hub transition from Suvarnabhumi to Don Mueang in October 2024 has stabilised, with the network now operating at peak performance. TAAX’s average fare held strong at RM833 per passenger this quarter.
As of 31 March 2025, AirAsia X’s total fleet increased to 19 A330 aircraft following the induction of one additional aircraft from a third-party lessor. Of these, 17 aircraft were activated and operational. TAAX maintained a fleet of 10 A330s, supporting network recovery and growth across core markets.
AirAsia X CEO Benyamin Ismail said: “This has been a stellar quarter of delivering sustained passenger load and profitability. In February, we took delivery of one additional aircraft, and today, the company has 18 out of its 19 aircraft fleet operational. The final aircraft is on track for reactivation by mid-year, and we are focused on ensuring full fleet deployment to meet market demand.
“Our network continues to demonstrate resilience, particularly on core routes to Japan and Australia, where load factors consistently trend around the 90% mark. Building on this momentum, we are capitalising on our first-mover advantage in Central Asia by ramping up capacity to Almaty, Kazakhstan, in the second half of the year, with further expansion in the pipeline. Recently, we have announced the suspension of Nairobi, Kenya. It was difficult but crucial for us, as the initial assumption for the premises of financial support did not materialise eventually. Essentially, we are driven by disciplined network management, allowing us to redeploy capacity to higher-yielding, strategically aligned markets.”
SINGAPORE, 3 June 2025: Sabre Corporation, a global travel technology company, has named Maneesh Jaikrishna as Vice President and General Manager of Airline IT Solutions, Asia-Pacific.
With nearly three decades of leadership experience in the airline and travel technology industry, Maneesh brings deep knowledge of the Asia-Pacific aviation landscape, having worked extensively across this fast-evolving region. His appointment reflects Sabre’s strong commitment to accelerating growth and innovation in Asia-Pacific — a key strategic market for the company. Maneesh also brings a valuable wider perspective, having led operations across the Middle East and Africa.
Maneesh has held senior leadership roles at companies including SITA and, most recently, biometrics business Vision-Box — leading high-growth initiatives and building strong customer ecosystems by aligning technology and innovation with commercial value.
In his new role, he will lead Sabre’s airline technology business across the Asia-Pacific region, focusing on strategic growth, deepening customer engagement, and market expansion.
“Maneesh joins Sabre at a pivotal time for the aviation industry,” said Sabre Senior Vice President Commercial and Services, Airline IT, Darren Rickley. “His deep regional expertise, customer focus, leadership experience and passion for innovation will play a key role in helping our airline partners across the Asia-Pacific transform their operations and deliver better outcomes for travellers and businesses alike.”
SINGAPORE, 3 JUNE 2025: Digital travel platform Agoda invites travellers to lace up their walking shoes and discover the charm of Asia’s most stroll-worthy cities.
From cobblestone streets to scenic riversides, Agoda’s list of Asia’s top cities to explore on foot celebrates destinations where pedestrian-friendly streets, compact layouts, and clusters of attractions make walking the ideal way to experience the local culture.
Chiang Khan, Thailand: Riverside Charm in Loei Province.
Walking through a city is more than just a way to get around. It’s a journey of discovery that engages all five senses. Whether it’s the aroma of street food wafting through the air, the chatter in bustling markets, or the intricate details of historic architecture, exploring on foot allows travellers to experience the rhythm of daily life, discover hidden corners, and fully engage with their surroundings.
Agoda has rounded up seven destinations across Asia where walking isn’t just an option — it’s the best way to experience the heart and soul of the city.
Hanoi, Vietnam: A Stroll Through Time in the Old Quarter
Hanoi’s Old Quarter is a labyrinth of narrow streets brimming with history and culture. French colonial architecture, ancient temples, and vibrant street markets create a dynamic backdrop for exploration. The area’s pedestrian-friendly layout makes it easy to wander and discover local delicacies, such as Pho and Bánh mì, from street vendors. The Old Quarter’s charm lies in its ability to surprise, with hidden cafés, serene pagodas, and bustling markets around every corner.
Kurashiki, Japan: Canal-Side Serenity in Okayama Prefecture
Kurashiki’s Bikan Historical Quarter in Okayama Prefecture is a compact, flat area that is a dream come true for those who love strolls. The picturesque canals lined with weeping willows and traditional white-walled kura (storehouses) create a tranquil atmosphere. Art enthusiasts will appreciate the Ohara Museum of Art, while shoppers can browse a selection of handmade crafts. Walking through Kurashiki feels like stepping into a postcard, with every corner offering a picture-perfect view.
Chiang Khan, Thailand: Riverside Charm in Loei Province
Located on the banks of the Mekong River, Chiang Khan is a quaint town in northeastern Thailand, best explored on foot. Its famous pedestrian-friendly walking street, Chai Khong Road, is a car-free stretch lined with well-preserved wooden shophouses, cosy guesthouses, quirky cafés, and local boutiques. In the evenings, it transforms into a lively night market with street food, handicrafts, and live music. Visitors can also experience the serene Buddhist ritual of giving alms to monks at dawn, a photogenic and peaceful tradition. Don’t forget to catch the sunrise over the Mekong for a truly magical experience.
Melaka, Malaysia: A Fusion of Cultures in a UNESCO-Listed Old Town
Melaka Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage site that’s compact, flat, and ideal for a walking tour. The city’s rich history as a trading port is reflected in its diverse architecture, from Dutch colonial buildings to Chinese shophouses. Attractions, museums, cafés, and shops are clustered together, making it easy to wander on foot. Jonker Street and the surrounding heritage area are car-free on weekends, ensuring a safe and enjoyable walking experience. Shaded walkways, riverside promenades, and historical sites add to the charm of this culturally rich destination.
Pondicherry, India: A French Connection
Pondicherry’s French Quarter is a walker’s paradise, with its grid-like street layout, pastel-coloured colonial buildings, and tree-lined avenues. The seaside promenade, Goubert Avenue, is closed to vehicles in the evenings and early mornings, providing a peaceful space for pedestrians to stroll or relax by the sea, with stunning views of the Bay of Bengal. The city’s relaxed vibe, with less traffic and noise compared to many Indian cities, makes it an ideal destination for those who enjoy exploring on foot.
Gyeongju, South Korea: A Walk Through History
Known as “the museum without walls,” Gyeongju’s historic city centre is a treasure trove of historical sites, making it perfect for walking. The main attractions, including Tumuli Park, Cheomseongdae Observatory, Gyeongju National Museum, and Woljeonggyo Bridge, are all within walking distance of each other. The city’s well-maintained sidewalks, pedestrian zones, and scenic walking paths make it easy to explore on foot at a leisurely pace.
Taipei, Taiwan: The Emerging “15-Minute City”
Cited by The Economist as an emerging “15-minute city,” Taipei offers wide sidewalks, clear signage, and shaded boulevards for the perfect city adventure, complete with an efficient MRT system that seamlessly connects walkable hubs. Highlights include Da’an Forest Park, Yongkang Street’s food scene, the historic Dihua Street in Dadaocheng, and the Songshan Cultural and Creative Park loop. Scenic riverside bikeways and walkways add another layer of accessibility and beauty to the city.
Agoda Senior Vice President, Supply Andrew Smith shared: “Walking is such a simple yet rewarding way to explore a destination. It’s about letting the world unfold around you, noticing the little things, and truly immersing yourself in a place’s atmosphere. At Agoda, we love to help travellers find places where they can wander, get lost, and make memories that last a lifetime.”
GURUGRAM, 3 JUNE 2025: Air India and Air Mauritius have expanded their existing codeshare partnership to offer travellers improved connectivity across the Indian Subcontinent and the African region.
The two airlines signed the expanded codeshare agreement on the sidelines of the 81st IATA AGM in New Delhi in the presence of Air India CEO & Managing Director Campbell Wilson and Air Mauritius Chairman Kishore Beegoo.
MD & CEO Air India, Campbell Wilson and Chairman, Air Mauritius, Kishore Beegoo at the expanded codeshare agreement signing.
As part of the strengthened bilateral codeshare agreement, Air India and Air Mauritius will place their designator codes on 17 routes between India, Mauritius, Réunion, South Africa, and Madagascar.
With the enhanced codeshare partnership, Air India will place its ‘AI’ designator code on Air Mauritius flights to and from Cape Town and Johannesburg in South Africa and Antananarivo in Madagascar, for Air India guests to seamlessly travel to these cities via Mauritius on a single ticket and baggage checked through to their final destination. Air India already codeshares on Air Mauritius flights between Mauritius and Mumbai, Delhi, and Réunion.
Air Mauritius currently places its ‘MK’ designator code on Air India flights between Mumbai and Delhi, Bengaluru, Chennai, Hyderabad, Ahmedabad, Kolkata, Goa, Bengaluru, and Chennai. As part of the enhanced codeshare, Air Mauritius will place its ‘MK’ designator code on Air India flights between Mauritius and Mumbai.
All flights operated by Air India and Air Mauritius between the two countries will have each other’s designator codes, thereby multiplying flight options for customers of either carrier.
HONG KONG, 3 JUNE 2025: AirAsia introduced its latest fifth freedom route on 1 June, connecting Bangkok (DMK) – Hong Kong – Okinawa, marking the airline’s first route to Japan with a stop in Hong Kong.
AirAsia, in collaboration with the Okinawa Prefectural Government and Hong Kong International Airport, hosted a special celebration at the boarding gate to introduce the new route, which gives the airline full traffic rights to sell tickets on the Bangkok-Hong Kong and Hong Kong-Okinawa sectors.
Thai AirAsia Chief Executive Officer Santisuk Klongchaiya stated: “Hong Kong is a key hub with great potential for connecting passengers to places like Okinawa, a beloved Japanese destination. The journey from Hong Kong to Okinawa takes approximately two and a half hours, making it an ideal option for a short, comfortable trip. Whether it’s a weekend escape or a beachside retreat, Okinawa is a year-round destination.”
AirAsia operates direct flights from Hong Kong and Macau to destinations such as Kuala Lumpur, Kota Kinabalu (Sabah), Bangkok (DMK), Manila, Jakarta, Bali, and, as of 1 June, Okinawa.
KUCHING, 2 JUNE 2025: Sarawak’s return to ITB China 2025 was marked by strong interest in its nature, culture, and immersive travel offerings.
Held in Shanghai from 27 to 29 May, the three-day event saw Sarawak strengthen its position in China’s travel market with a newly launched Mandarin destination video and continued momentum from a digital campaign.
Following a 90.41% surge in arrivals in 2024 — from 39,243 to 4,721 — Sarawak is now targeting 100,000 visitor arrivals from China in 2025, a goal made increasingly achievable after a highly driven campaign.
“Our presence at ITB China 2025 is more than a showcase—it is a reaffirmation of our long-term commitment to building deep, strategic relationships with China’s travel industry,” said Puan Sharzede Datu Haji Salleh Askor, Chief Executive Officer of Sarawak Tourism Board (STB). “The enthusiastic response from our travel partners from China confirms that Sarawak’s values of authenticity, sustainability, and cultural richness are resonating powerfully. Together, we are not just promoting a destination — we are co-creating experiences that inspire, connect, and endure.”
STB’s 2024 digital campaign with Qunar and Ctrip, which ran from July to August, recorded 116 million total exposures, surpassing expectations. During the campaign period, ‘Sarawak Hotels’ recorded a 19% year-on-year increase in Gross Merchandise Value (GMV) and a 23% rise in booking volume compared to the same period in 2023.
The campaign also saw rising interest from travellers under 30, reflecting a shift toward a younger demographic, while nature and cultural heritage remain core motivators. Bako National Park, Gunung Mulu National Park, Sarawak Cultural Village, Kuching Waterfront, and Carpenter Street ranked high in searches, aligning with Sarawak’s efforts to highlight authentic and immersive travel experiences.
“Sarawak’s growing digital presence and strong interest from younger Chinese audiences show that our storytelling and strategic partnerships are working,” said John Teo, Member of the Board of Directors, Sarawak Tourism Board. “We look forward to welcoming even more travellers to experience the unique wonders of Sarawak—where adventure, culture, and nature converge.”
Looking ahead, Sarawak will launch a new Golden Week campaign across Qunar and Ctrip to capitalise on heightened interest and convert it into bookings. This follows the announcement of Malaysia’s 30-day visa-free entry for Chinese nationals, with expectations for a 90-day extension further energising long-stay itinerary planning.
As Sarawak prepares for the upcoming 28th edition of the Rainforest World Music Festival (RWMF), it continues to build strong momentum as a globally attractive destination. From lush rainforests and ancient heritage to vibrant cityscapes and world-class events, Sarawak is poised to welcome international travellers in search of authentic, sustainable experiences — cementing its place as the Gateway to Borneo.
DUBAI, UAE, 2 JUNE 2025: Emirates and Real Madrid unveiled a bold new campaign that inspires fans to strive for excellence and ‘choose better’ whether in the skies or on the pitch.
The campaign features Real Madrid players Kylian Mbappé, Jude Bellingham, and Brahim Díaz alongside Emirates’ iconic cabin crew, inviting fans to experience the power of sport and travel with brands that share the same values of excellence, passion and ambition.
Choosing to ‘fly better’ with Emirates means ultimate comfort, world-class products and superior travel experiences to more than 140 destinations via Dubai, and choosing to support one of the best football clubs in the world means backing a club defined by greatness and a lasting legacy, on and off the pitch.
With a shared vision that ‘excellence is not a destination, it’s a continuous journey’ – the ad seamlessly weaves in striking visuals from both worlds, drawing powerful parallels of commitment, drive, and success. Together, Emirates and Real Madrid continue to raise the bar and redefine what ‘excellence’ truly means.
The campaign plays on Real Madrid and Emirates social media platforms across Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and YouTube channels.
Emirates has been a proud partner of Real Madrid since 2011 and became the club’s jersey sponsor in 2013. The airline will remain as the Official Main Sponsor of the Spanish club until 2026 – making it the longest jersey sponsorship in La Liga history.
Earlier this year, the airline unveiled a special livery on one of its Boeing 777 aircraft featuring some of the club’s top players, including Kylian Mbappe, Vinicius Junior, Luka Modric, Jude Bellingham, Lucas Vazquez and Federico Valverde.
For more information on the airline and to book flights, visit www.emirates.com.
