Thursday, May 1, 2025
Home Blog Page 363

Malaysia promotes niche travel to Filipinos

By
TTR WEEKLY
-

MANILA, 25 May 2023: Tourism Malaysia has conducted its first sales mission to Manila and Davao in the Philippines from 20 to 28 May 2023 to convince Filipinos to return to Malaysia for specialised trip agendas.

The programme focuses explicitly on boosting inbound tourism through niche segments such as family, MICE, health care and medical tourism, education, and long-stay options for digital nomads.

Tourism Malaysia’s director-general Dato Dr Ammar Bin Abd. Ghapar led the mission comprising 19 organisations, including Melaka Tourism, Malaysia Healthcare Travel Council (MHTC), Selama District Council of Perak and Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H) agency.

In addition, the mission highlighted events such as the upcoming “Visit Melaka” and the “Visit Perak Year 2024.” Malaysian states made stage presentations demonstrating some of the attractions tourists will be able to enjoy during the upcoming Visit Malaysia Year 2025.

Malaysia is projecting 23.5m international tourists during the special year earning MYR76.8 billion in tourism receipts.

The Malaysian sellers and Filipino buyers gathered for business sessions and gala dinners in both cities, apart from two seminars conducted at the Dusit Thani Hotel, Makati City and Dusit Thani D2 Davao, Davao City, respectively, focusing on leisure, shopping, and niche tourism markets.

“The Philippines has always been the top 10 source market for international travel to Malaysia. Our challenge is to move forward after the pandemic and to work together to create a seamless and unforgettable experience for tourists when they visit ASEAN as a single yet diverse travel destination,” says Dato Dr Ammar.

In 2022, more than 159,442 tourists from the Philippines visited Malaysia. There are currently 64 weekly flights from Manila to Malaysia on Malaysia Airlines, Philippines Airlines, AirAsia and Cebu Pacific.

Last few days of MAG mid-year sale

By
TTR WEEKLY
-

KUALA LUMPUR, 15 May 2023: There are just four days left to grab a cheap fare during Malaysia Aviation Group’s annual mid-year sale.

Launched on 15 May, the promotion, featuring up to 40% discounts on flights on all MAG airlines, ends at midnight 28 May. The travel period ends 30 November 2023. Participating airlines are Malaysia Airlines, Firefly and MASwings.

Domestic Fares on Malaysia Airlines are as low as MYR99 all-in one-way within Peninsular Malaysia and MYR119 and MYR179 to Sarawak and Sabah in the airline’s Economy Lite category. Business Class fares start from MYR429 all-in one-way for travel within Peninsular Malaysia, MYR799 for Sarawak, and MYR899 for Sabah.

On international routes, the airline discounts fares to Chennai, Bengaluru, Mumbai, Guangzhou, Beijing, Shanghai, Adelaide, Perth, and Auckland and between Kota Kinabalu and Taipei starting from MYR 249 all-in one-way on Economy Basic.

The Economy Basic fare includes 20kg of free check-in baggage, the cabin baggage allowance of 7kg; complimentary snacks or meals and beverages; and in-flight entertainment, which offers many options from TV programmes, movies, music and more.

Firefly offers up to 25% off for domestic and ASEAN destinations. Customers can enjoy value bundles that include Plus, Extra and Flex value bundle services comprising 20kg baggage allowance, in-flight hot meals, 2X flight changes, priority baggage, boarding and check-in, all seat selection and travel insurance.

MASwings offers a 20% off fare for ATR-operated services within Sabah, Sarawak and Labuan FT.

Emirates adds a sparkle to economy

By
TTR WEEKLY
-

DUBAI UAE, 23 May 2023: As Emirates brings the distinctive travel experience of Premium Economy Class to more destinations, including New York JFK, San Francisco, London Heathrow, Sydney, Auckland, Christchurch, and Melbourne – passengers can sample an exceptional sparkling wine onboard that is a global exclusive to Emirates – Chandon Vintage Brut 2016.

Alongside luxurious seats, generous legroom, sophisticated cabin design, and world-class inflight entertainment, Emirates Premium Economy offers passengers an elevated food and beverage experience. As part of a robust beverage selection, the airline has procured an outstanding Australian sparkling wine as a global exclusive, providing passengers with the joy of refreshing bubbles inflight.

Described as having ‘youthful and vibrant flavours with subtle complexity,’ Chandon Vintage Brut 2016 is a premium sparkling wine made traditionally for elegance and depth. From the pristine Strathbogie and King Valley vineyards in the Victorian Mountains, the grapes are grown in rich loamy soils and flourish in the mild summer weather. The wine is then crafted with precision by experienced winemakers, who focus on climate and fruit potential to achieve the perfect acidity and freshness with a distinctive style that reflects the locale in which it is made. The result is a remarkable sparkling wine effervescent with freshness and energy, with six years of lees age, adding a touch of refinement – and a luxurious wine completely exclusive to Emirates Premium Economy passengers.

Taste Profile of Chandon Vintage Brut 2016

A deliciously soft, fresh, and creamy wine with length and finesse, Chandon Vintage Brut 2016 is a blend of 50% Pinot Noir, 45% Chardonnay and 5% Meunier, where the Chardonnay grapes highlight the lime and green apple aromas, and the Pinot Noir and Meunier grapes bring home pomegranate and pink grapefruit. The spritely freshness and white flower aromas are due to a slightly younger yeast. On the palate, there are lime and green apple notes, while hazelnut praline, biscuit and fresh dough add extra body. Chandon Vintage Brut 2016 is a refreshing apéritif on its own but is also highly versatile with food due to its crisp acidity. Emirates Premium Economy passengers can enjoy the beverage perfectly paired with inflight meals throughout the flight.

Chandon Vintage Brut 2016 is the first wine ever made at Chandon Australia since its foundation in 1986. Located in the renowned Yarra Valley, northeast of Melbourne, it is one of Australia’s oldest and most prestigious wine regions with excellent form in growing sparkling wine grapes and a reputation for top-level oenology. Chandon is one of only three Yarra Valley vineyards to obtain Sustainability Australia accreditation.

The Premium Economy Experience

In addition to the exclusive Chandon, Premium Economy Class passengers can enjoy gourmet, regionally inspired menus with generous portions, including a choice of the main course. Menus are updated monthly by Emirates expert chefs, guaranteeing variety even for frequent travellers. Emirates Premium Economy cuisine is an elegant experience, served with linen napkins, fine Royal Doulton china, stainless-steel cutlery, and liqueurs, chocolates, coffee, and tea served to round off the meal. The complimentary drinks menu also includes a selection of spirits, beers, soft drinks, and fine wines, with each beverage chosen by Emirates as a best-in-class preferred beverage for passengers, forming part of Emirates’ USD1 billion investment into its wine programme since 2006.

For more information on flights and to make a booking visit www.emirates.com.

(Source: Emirates)

AirAsia X to raise up to MYR50 million,

By
TTR WEEKLY
-

SINGAPORE, 25 May 2023: AirAsia X Berhad will enter into a proposed placement of shares with two institutional investors, one of them being a local institutional investor, potentially raising MYR50 million of new capital.

Between 2020 and 2022, AirAsia X implemented several measures to address the company’s financial concerns in the wake of the pandemic, including its debt restructuring scheme and an array of corporate restructuring and cost containment exercises.

In a media statement released Tuesday, the company said it has regularised and improved its financial condition, coupled with the scaling up of its operations since early 2022 allowing it to declare two consecutive quarters of profit for the financial periods ended 30 September 2022 and 31 December 2022.

Funds raised by the Proposed Placement will bolster short-term working capital as the company continues to recover and grow its operations.

As of May 2023, AirAsia X has 17 aircraft in its fleet, with 11 activated and operational. The airline serves 16 medium-haul destinations, including the recently launched Chengdu (Tianfu) and three short-haul routes from Kuala Lumpur to Kota Kinabalu, Bali – Denpasar and Bangkok, totalling  83 flights weekly.

Halal In Travel Global Summit 2023

By
TTR WEEKLY
-

SINGAPORE, 25 May 2023: The third edition of the Halal In Travel Global Summit will unveil significant trends in the Global Muslim travel market from 30 May to 1 June 1 2023.

The summit will bring together more than 50 speakers and key stakeholders from across the globe who will join 18 sessions to address some of the key opportunities and challenges facing the next phase of Halal tourism.

More than 50 speakers will join 18 sessions to address some key opportunities and challenges facing the next phase of Halal tourism.

Some of the speakers announced include Enver Duminy, Chief Executive Officer, Cape Town Tourism; Jonathan Gómez Punzón, Head of Málaga Tourism Board, Málaga Tourism Board; and Janette Roush, Executive Vice President, Marketing and Digital, NYC & Company.

Keynote speech will be delivered by KH Ma’ruf Amin, Vice President of the Republic of Indonesia; Sandiaga Salahudin Uno, Minister of Tourism and Creative Economy of the Republic of Indonesia; Ozodbek Nazarbekov, Minister of Tourism and Cultural Heritage of the Republic of Uzbekistan; Khairul Firdaus Akbar Khan, Deputy Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture of Malaysia; and Myra Paz Valderrosa-Abubakar; Undersecretary, Department of Tourism Philippines.

The summit will feature thought-provoking discussions covering areas such as sustainable tourism development, the impact of the pandemic on the industry, destination management, emerging trends in halal tourism, female Muslim travel experiences, the role of technology in shaping the future of travel, and the representation of Muslim women in travel tech leadership. These engaging sessions will bring together industry experts, thought leaders and stakeholders to foster collaboration and shape the trajectory of the travel industry.

“As a passionate advocate for inclusive and sustainable travel, I believe the Halal In Travel – Global Summit represents a unique platform for fostering dialogue and collaboration among key stakeholders to address the needs and aspirations of the rapidly growing Muslim travel market,” said Enver Duminy, CEO of Cape Town Tourism.

One of the key highlights of the Halal In Travel Global Summit 2023 will be the launch of the highly anticipated Mastercard-CrescentRating Global Muslim Travel Index (GMTI) 2023 report.

Based on more than 50 datasets, GMTI 2023 will introduce new models and frameworks to assist stakeholders in developing strategies based on the rankings of the destinations. This annual report, now in its’ 9th year, will also provide insights into how Muslim visitor arrivals recovered in 2022 and projections on future growth. This year’s report will also identify the top Muslim Women Friendly destinations.

The event will also feature the Halal in Travel (HIT) Awards 2023. These prestigious awards will recognise over 30 outstanding contributions in various categories, including Muslim-friendly Hotel Chain of The Year, Muslim-friendly Restaurant Chain of The Year, Muslim-friendly Airline of The Year, and Halal Travel Marketing Campaign of The Year, among many others.

“We are proud to announce the second edition of the Halal In Travel Awards at the event. These awards serve as a testament to our mission to recognise and celebrate outstanding achievements and innovative practices in the Halal travel sector,” said Fazal Bahardeen, the CEO of Crescentrating & HalalTrip.

Furthermore, the 3rd edition of HalalTrip40 will celebrate 40 exceptional individuals from more than 10 countries, including Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia, the United States, New Zealand, the United Kingdom, Canada and more. The HT40 award highlights their remarkable contributions to society, culture, entrepreneurship, academia, philanthropy, and other domains that will be celebrated and showcased to inspire and uplift the global Muslim community.

Hosted by CrescentRating, Halal In Travel Global Summit 2023 promises to be a groundbreaking event that propels the Halal travel industry forward. The summit provides a platform for knowledge exchange, collaboration, and innovation, fostering a more inclusive and accessible travel experience for Muslim travellers worldwide.               

For more information and to register for the event, please visit: https://events.crescentrating.com/HalalInTravel-GlobalSummit2023                                      

Visit website https://www.crescentrating.com                             

About CrescentRating

CrescentRating is the leading authority on Halal travel and tourism. The company uses insights, industry intelligence, lifestyle, behaviour and research on the needs of the Muslim traveller to deliver authoritative guidance on all aspects of Halal travel to organisations across the globe.

Founded in 2008, CrescentRating services are used by every tier of the tourism industry, from government bodies and tourism agencies to hospitality service providers, to serve the needs of the Muslim traveller better.

CrescentRating’s products and services include rating & accreditation, research & consultancy, training, & certification (CR Academy), industry reports, Halal-In-Travel conferences, destination marketing and content provisioning. HalalTrip is a sister brand of CrescentRating.

Wedding planners head for the Masala Fair

By
TTR WEEKLY
-

BANGKOK, 25 May 2023: The annual Masala Wedding Fair, recognised as Thailand’s largest and most popular Indian wedding exhibition, convene for its 10th edition from 10 to 11 June.

The two-day fair will be held at Bangkok Marriott Marquis Queen’s Park, bringing together under one roof a diverse range of stakeholders involved in the Indian wedding industry.

Photo credit: Masala Wedding Fair

More than 100 booths representing companies will provide wedding fashion, jewellery, F&B venue and world-class content, making Thailand a leading wedding destination for Indian couples. 

“In this post-pandemic landscape, it is projected that Indian visitors to Thailand, and specifically for Indian weddings, will only continue to rise,” the fair’s organisers forecast.

Like last year, the Masala Wedding Fair will be held at the Thai Chitlada Grand Ballroom at the Bangkok Marriott Marquis Queen’s Park. 

This year, the fair will focus on providing visitors with more choices than ever, including an ever-expanding F&B section populated with some of the biggest names in the industry from around the country.

Around 5,000 visitors, many of them wedding organisers, will mingle with over 100 local and international exhibitors.

Admission is free to the event. The fair is open from 1100 to 2000, 10 to 11 June.

Website: www.masalathai.com

Tourism Malaysia leads roadshow

By
TTR WEEKLY
-

KUALA LUMPUR, 24 May 2023: Following the success of My Destination Sabah & Labuan Meet Johor and Putrajaya Roadshow last year, Tourism Malaysia continues the promotional efforts by organising ‘Bah, Mari Pigi Sabah & Labuan Roadshow 2023’.

With the tagline “Sustaining Tourism for Our Future”, the programme targets travel trades, expatriates’ communities, and students at international schools and private higher learning institutions in Kuala Lumpur, Selangor and Putrajaya.

Held in collaboration with Sabah Tourism Board and Malaysia Aviation Group (MAG) as strategic partners, the 34 strong delegates from Sabah and Labuan consist of tour operators, namely Borneo Excursions AHSB Rentacar Sdn Bhd, Borneo Sandakan Tours & Travel, Camp Borneo Travel and Tours Sdn Bhd, Intrepid Tours & Travel, TYK Adventure Tours Sdn Bhd, YTL Gaya Island Resort, Malaysia Aviation Group, members of Federal of Rural Tourism Association Sabah (FERTAS) namely Ranau Tourism Association, Kadamaian Tourism Association and Tambunan Tourism Association; Kadaiku and officials from Tourism Malaysia Sabah and Sabah Tourism Board.

The roadshow began on 23 May with Destination Presentation & B2B Session for Klang Valley agents at Ibis Kuala Lumpur City Centre, targeting 100 to 120 hosted buyers, followed by Roadshow and Get Together dinner at Parkroyal Collection. The Roadshow and B2C Session continues today, 24 May, at Management & Science University, at Sunway University on 25 May and wraps up at Nexus International School Putrajaya on 26 May. Tourism Malaysia forecasts as many as 2,000 people will attend the entire series of events.

“This year, the roadshow concept is different from the previous roadshow, which focused on B2B and destination update sessions, and the target audience was the travel trade in West Malaysia,” said Shahrin Mokhtar, director of package development division, who was representing Tourism Malaysia director-general Dato Dr Ammar Abd Ghapar.

“This roadshow aims to promote community-based and rural tourism destinations, products and packages in Sabah and Labuan and subsequently to create awareness among the target audience on sustainable tourism in line with Tourism Malaysia’s new focus on promoting Malaysia as the most recognisable must-visit ecotourism destination of the world.

“Undoubtedly, this is the right time to intensify Tourism Malaysia’s promotion effort for Visit Malaysia Year in 2025 to achieve the target of 23.5 million international tourists with a projected revenue of MYR76.8 billion,” he added.

The event was officiated by Shahrin Mokhtar, director of the package development division of Tourism Malaysia. Also present were Ahmad Johanif Mohd Ali, Senior Deputy Director Domestic & Event Division of Tourism Malaysia; Azmi Abdullah, Director of Tourism Malaysia Central Region; Trecey J Tojuka, Deputy Director of Tourism Malaysia Sabah; and Zarinah Amiluddin, Marketing Manager of Sabah Tourism Board and Malaysia Aviation Group (MAG).

Marina Bay Sands deepens MICE ties

By
TTR WEEKLY
-

SINGAPORE, 24 May 2023: Sands Expo and Convention Centre, part of the integrated resort Marina Sands, has deepened its relationship with two MICE professional bodies – Events Industry Council (EIC) and Professional Convention Management Association (PCMA) – to create strategic partnerships that will shape the future of the industry.

EIC, a prominent global federation representing over 103,500 individuals and 19,500 firms in the business events industry, has welcomed Sands Expo and Convention Centre as its first strategic partner in Asia.

EIC certification

The three-year partnership will provide Marina Bay Sands with a robust platform, offering strategic recognition and thought leadership opportunities in collaboration with EIC’s Certified Meeting Professional (CMP), CMP Fellows, and Knowledge programmes.

As part of the partnership, 100 client-facing staff in Marina Bay Sands will be accredited with the Sustainable Event Professional Certificate (SEPC) within the next 12 months, up from the current 50.

“We are honoured to be the first convention centre in Asia to collaborate with the Events Industry Council as a strategic partner to foster the exchange of best practices and contribute to the growth and development of the industry,” said Marina Bay Sands vice president of conventions & exhibitions, MICE Ong Wee Min.

PCMA partnership

Marina Bay Sands has also deepened its longstanding partnership with PCMA. This latest collaboration builds upon the strong relationship that began in 2015, signifying a continued commitment to advancing the global meetings and events industry.

With the new phase of the PCMA partnership, Marina Bay Sands will leverage the collective strength of Las Vegas Sands’ properties in Singapore and Macau. By bringing together the expertise and resources across Sands’ properties in the region, this collaboration aims to amplify further the shared objectives of PCMA and the integrated resort leader, addressing critical topics such as sustainability, innovation, technology, talent development and audience engagement.

“We are proud to deepen our partnership with PCMA by bringing the collective strength of Las Vegas Sands’ properties to this collaboration. This partnership represents an exciting new chapter, harnessing the expertise and resources of both Singapore and Macao to deliver even greater value to our stakeholders and the industry as a whole,” said Ong.

About Marina Bay Sands Pte Ltd

Marina Bay Sands is an integrated resort that features Singapore’s largest hotel with over 2,200 rooms and suites, crowned by the spectacular Sands SkyPark and iconic infinity pool.

Summer getaways in Dubai

By
TTR WEEKLY
-

SINGAPORE, 24 May 2023: Emirates announced Monday an exciting new offer for travellers planning to visit Dubai this summer.

Up until 11 June 2023, travellers who purchase an Emirates return ticket in First Class or Business Class to or stopping over in Dubai will be able to enjoy a complimentary two-night stay at 25hours Hotel Dubai One Central. Those travelling in Premium Economy Class or Economy Class can enjoy a complimentary one-night stay at Novotel World Trade Centre, Dubai.

This special offer is valid for all return tickets to or stopping over in Dubai for more than 24 hours for travel dates between 26 May 2023 and 31 August 2023. The offer is available on bookings made on emirates.com or Emirates call centre or ticket officesor via participating travel agents, made at least 96 hours in advance of passengers’ arrival.

Located right next to Dubai’s iconic Museum of the Future, the 5-star 25hours Hotel Dubai One Central draws inspiration from traditional Bedouin culture and design but with a modern twist. Travellers can lose themselves in a culinary experience, ranging from North Indian Cuisines to Bavarian beer, across five amazing in-house restaurants and bars at the hotel. Travellers can also relax and unwind at the Extra Hour Spa, a unique rooftop sauna that overlooks the stunning city of Dubai.

Situated within the Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre (DWTC), Novotel World Trade Centre, Dubai, promises a luxurious yet homely experience right in the heart of Dubai. Travellers can relax by the pool and enjoy signature cocktails and light meals at Chills Pool Bar and cap off their adventure with a live music performance at the soul-soothing Blue Bar. Novotel World Trade Centre, Dubai, is a stay of choice for solo travellers and families alike. 

Explore more of Dubai with Emirates

Whether it is frolicking in private pools or enjoying family fun at indoor theme parks and water parks, there is something for every traveller visiting Dubai this summer. From sun-soaked beaches and cultural activities to world-class hospitality and leisure facilities, Dubai offers a variety of world-class experiences for every visitor:

  • My Emirates Pass: Customers flying to or through Dubai can simply show their boarding pass and a valid form of identification to hundreds of retail, leisure, and dining outlets, as well as famous attractions and luxury spas, to enjoy fantastic discounts throughout Dubai and the UAE. To see all My Emirates Pass offers, please visit www.emirates.com/myemiratespass.
  • Skywards Partners: Members of Emirates’ award-winning loyalty program, Skywards, can earn Miles with our worldwide partners like hotels, airlines, car rentals, retail and banking. Members can spend these Miles on reward tickets, upgrades, or even tickets for concerts and sports events. Learn more about Emirates Skywards here: https://www.emirates.com/english/skywards/

Emirates has safely restarted operations to more than 130 destinations across six continents and currently operates 21 flights per week from Singapore to Dubai.

For more information, visit emirates.com.Tickets can be purchased on emirates.com, Emirates Sales Office, via travel agents or through online travel agents.

Centara deal seals Maldives stays

By
TTR WEEKLY
-

BANGKOK, 19 May 2023: Centara Hotels & Resorts,  Thailand’s leading hotel operator, is offering travellers over 30% savings and an array of exclusive privileges when booking stays at Centara Grand Island Resort & Spa Maldives and Centara Ras Fushi Resort & Spa Maldives through its new Paradise Found: Maldives Exclusive offer.

Book from today to 31 July 2023 for stays through 20 December 2023 to experience the ultimate island getaway at Centara’s two award-winning Maldivian properties.

Whether looking for a sun-drenched family holiday at Centara Grand Island Resort & Spa Maldives or a romantic retreat at Centara Ras Fushi Resort & Spa Maldives, guests will enjoy 25% off their stay, as well as a further 15% discount when logged in as a CentaraThe1 member, plus special discounts on spa treatments and dining, a refreshing welcome drink upon arrival, hotel transfer privileges and an unforgettable sunset adventure.

Guests at the exclusive and family-friendly Centara Grand Island Resort & Spa Maldives will receive indulgent breakfast setups, a 15% discount on seaplane transfers, spa treatments and dining at six onsite bars and restaurants, as well as a breathtaking sunset cruise in the Indian Ocean, and access to snorkelling, diving, the lively Kids’ Club and much more.

Couples and honeymooners opting for an adults-only experience at Centara Ras Fushi Resort & Spa Maldives will also enjoy an assortment of luxurious privileges hand-selected to make each holiday genuinely memorable, including complimentary hotel speedboat transfers, 15% off dining and the rejuvenating SPA Cenvaree, and a unique sunset fishing trip, among others. Moonlit strolls on the beach and snorkelling in the house reef are also included.

CentaraThe1 members who make their booking while logged into their member account are eligible for an additional 15% discount. Sign up for the CentaraThe1 loyalty programme is free and takes less and a minute at www.CentaraThe1.com For more information on Paradise Found: Maldives Exclusive offer, please visit https://www.centarahotelsresorts.com/paradise-found-maldives-exclusive

1...362363364...600Page 363 of 600

Stay ahead with the
latest travel news
on Southeast Asia.

Subscribe now


Contact Us
TTR Weekly (TTRW) is published in Bangkok, Thailand, registered since 1978.
/ month
placeholder text
/ month
placeholder text
Press releases, announcements, events for calendar should be sent to: [email protected]
/ month
placeholder text

Copyright © 2023 TTR Weekly, all rights reserved.