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MATTA and Base Malaysia present adventure travel

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KUALA LUMPUR, 6 April 2026: The Malaysian Association of Tour and Travel Agents (MATTA) has formalised a strategic partnership with BASE Malaysia through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) at the MATTA Fair April 2026.

This collaboration marks a significant step towards positioning Malaysia as a leading destination for adventure tourism, combining MATTA’s extensive tourism network with BASE Malaysia’s expertise in extreme sports and BASE jumping activities.

Under this partnership, both parties will work together to organise and promote key tourism and adventure events scheduled for August and September 2026. These include the highly anticipated World Base Cup 2026, set to take place at Menara 118, and Bazaar MATTA, which will be held at Stadium Merdeka in conjunction with the event.

The MOU aims to promote safe, responsible, and sustainable adventure tourism in Malaysia, while enhancing visibility and engagement among both local and international travellers.

MATTA president Nigel Wong.

Speaking at the signing ceremony, MATTA President Nigel Wong noted that the collaboration reflects MATTA’s commitment to diversifying Malaysia’s tourism offerings and tapping into the growing global interest in adventure tourism. He added that by working with BASE Malaysia, MATTA aims to create impactful experiences that attract new segments of travellers while ensuring safety and sustainability remain at the forefront, including through initiatives such as the Bazaar MATTA led by the MATTA Kuala Lumpur Chapter.

BASE Malaysia President, Dann Lee Chee Seong, expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership, highlighting that the collaboration will bring world-class BASE jumping events to Malaysia. He added that it will not only showcase the country’s iconic locations but also strengthen Malaysia’s position as a leading hub for adventure tourism.

As part of the collaboration, both parties will also undertake joint promotional efforts, including marketing campaigns, social media engagement, and media outreach to maximise awareness and participation in the upcoming events.

The MOU, effective until 31 December 2026, reflects a shared vision to drive innovation and growth in Malaysia’s tourism industry, particularly within the adventure tourism segment. 

(Source: MATTA).

MATTA Fair draws record turnout

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KUALA LUMPUR, 6 April 2026: The Malaysian Association of Tour and Travel Agents (MATTA) returned from 3 to 5 April 2026 at the Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre (MITEC), Kuala Lumpur, breaking its own record once again to be declared Malaysia’s largest consumer travel fair.

Spanning 40,820 square metres across 10 halls, the 58th edition of the MATTA Fair made travel more accessible through a diverse showcase, featuring 2,051 booths from 332 participating organisations, marking a groundbreaking milestone for the association.

Macao, the fair’s International Favourite Destination, showcased its ancient temples, shrines, traditional Chinese beliefs and its historical origins as a fishing village.

Visitors browsed through the fair’s wide range of offerings, displayed by 210 tour and travel agencies presenting curated travel packages, alongside participation from six National Tourism Organisations (NTOs) and 11 State Tourism Organisations (STOs). The fair also featured 64 hotels and resorts, 11 theme parks, one participating airline, and 29 other travel-related service providers, reflecting the depth and vibrancy of the tourism industry.

 “We are proud to feature Johor as Malaysia’s Favourite Destination and Macao as our International Favourite Destination, both showcasing rich experiences that inspire travellers to explore with greater curiosity,” said MATTA President Nigel Wong. “Our collaboration with Malaysia Aviation Group, as the  Official Airline Partner and Premier Sponsor, enhanced the fair with greater connectivity and exciting travel possibilities, while RHB Bank, as the Official Bank Partner, added a layer of convenience and value to the overall travel planning experience.”

Macao: MATTA Fair’s International Favourite Destination.

As an advocate for sustainable travel through its MATTA Eco & Sustainable Tourism Initiative (MESTI), MATTA also featured its signature MESTI Pavilion at the fair, located in Level 1 (Domestic Hall) with 21 booths from nine participating organisations.

“Despite global uncertainties, Malaysia’s tourism industry remains resilient. Travellers continue to see Malaysia as a safe, well-connected, and diverse destination, with strong appeal across nature, culture, and community experiences. This resilience gives us confidence in achieving our visitor targets while promoting meaningful and sustainable travel experiences. MATTA Fair continues to serve as a trusted platform for travellers to plan their journeys with confidence and purpose,” said Wong.

(Source: MATTA)

Agoda presents favourite bar-hopping cities

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Singapore, 6 April 2026: Digital travel platform Agoda unveils a list of emerging Asian cities that are becoming hotspots for bar-hopping enthusiasts in 2026. These destinations offer unique nightlife experiences that are drawing attention from travellers seeking new adventures.

Photo credit: Agoda. Nighttime scene in the Dotonbori district of Osaka, Japan.

Chiang Mai, Thailand*

Chiang Mai is not just about temples and mountains; it’s also a burgeoning nightlife destination. The city offers a mix of traditional Thai bars and modern cocktail lounges, making it a perfect spot for those looking to explore a different side of Thailand. Visitors can enjoy a night out in the bustling Nimmanhaemin area, where creativity and culture blend seamlessly with the nightlife.

*Warning: Chiang Mai, Thailand, ranked as the most polluted major city globally, on 26 March 2026. Smog continues to plague the destination. 27 March, 2026: Chiang Mai among top 10 most polluted cities in the world. 

Osaka, Japan

Known for its culinary delights, Osaka is also gaining fame for its eclectic bar scene. From hidden speakeasies to bustling izakayas, the city offers a diverse range of drinking spots. Visitors can enjoy local sake and craft cocktails while soaking in the energetic vibe of this Japanese city. The Dotonbori district, with its neon lights and lively atmosphere, provides a unique backdrop for an unforgettable bar-hopping experience.

Da Nang, Vietnam

Da Nang is quickly becoming a favourite for nightlife seekers. The city’s bar scene is a blend of beachfront bars with stunning views and cosy pubs with live music. The dynamic atmosphere and affordable drinks make it an attractive destination for those looking to experience Vietnam’s nightlife. The Han River area, with its vibrant night markets and riverside bars, offers a picturesque setting for a night of exploration and enjoyment.

Nagoya, Japan

Nagoya offers a unique bar-hopping experience with its mix of traditional and contemporary bars. The city’s vibrant districts are hubs for nightlife, where visitors can enjoy local beers and cocktails in a lively setting. Nagoya’s blend of history and modernity provides a distinctive backdrop for a night out. The Sakae district, known for its entertainment options and bustling nightlife, is a must-visit for those seeking a diverse and exciting bar scene.

Jeju Island, South Korea

Jeju Island’s nightlife is as diverse as its natural beauty. The island boasts a variety of bars, from chic lounges to quirky themed bars. With a friendly local crowd and a wide selection of drinks, Jeju Island is an exciting destination for those looking to explore South Korea’s vibrant bar scene. The Seogwipo area, with its coastal charm and unique bar offerings, provides a refreshing escape for travellers seeking a blend of relaxation and excitement.

Agoda Regional Director, North Asia, Jay Lee, shared: “Across Asia, more and more cities are redefining nightlife on their own terms, and offering visitors the best of post-sunset adventures. Agoda is thrilled to spotlight these destinations, offering travellers a chance to explore new and exciting bar-hopping experiences across a range of locales in the region.”

(Source: Agoda)

Air Astana expands summer season flights

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SINGAPORE, 6 April 2026: Air Astana has launched its summer schedule, which runs through until 24 October 2026. During this period, flight frequencies to existing destinations have been increased, seasonal routes have resumed, and new destinations have been inaugurated.

The new Almaty to Shanghai service was launched on 29 March 2026 and initially operates three times a week on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays. 

Photo credit: Air Astana. Shanghai joined the airline’s network on 29 March.

A further new China service between Astana and Guangzhou will commence on 2 June 2026, with twice weekly flights on Tuesdays and Thursdays. New services between Astana and Larnaca (Cyprus)  will launch on 2 June 2026, and from Almaty to Larnaca from 4 June 2026. All services will be operated with Airbus A321LR aircraft.

Gradual increases in flights from Astana and Almaty to Beijing, Istanbul and Antalya (Turkey) are expected during the Summer Schedule period. Flights from Astana to Frankfurt will operate daily starting in May. Fights from Almaty to Urumqi (China), Tbilisi (Georgia) and Tashkent (Uzbekistan) are also expected to increase.

Seasonal flights are resuming from Almaty to Nha Trang and Da Nang (Vietnam), Batumi (Georgia), Podgorica (Montenegro) and Bodrum (Turkey), as well as from Astana to Nha Trang and Da Nang, Podgorica, Tbilisi, Bodrum and Tashkent and from Atyrau to Tbilisi. Seasonal flights from Almaty to Male (Maldives) have been extended until the end of May.

(Source: Astana)

MATTA Fair: Big savings on Sarawak stays

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Your Stories
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KUALA LUMPUR, 3 April 2026: Travellers planning their next holiday can enjoy up to 40% savings on curated Sarawak travel packages at the upcoming MATTA Fair Kuala Lumpur 2026, available exclusively at the Sarawak Pavilion, Booth 1R01.

The offers are part of the Sia Sitok Sarawak campaign, led by the Sarawak Tourism Board (STB) in collaboration with the Sarawak Tourism Federation (STF) to encourage travellers to book their Sarawak holidays directly during the fair.

At the Sarawak Pavilion, visitors will find 35 exhibitors, including 24 travel and tourism operators alongside 11 non-trade exhibitors showcasing Sarawak’s arts, culture and gastronomy, offering a vibrant snapshot of the destination beyond travel packages alone.

Visitors can explore more than 80 bundled travel packages offered by 17 licensed Sarawak tour operators, each designed as a minimum three-day two-night (3D2N) holiday experience.

These packages combine accommodation with curated tours, transfers and guided experiences, allowing travellers to secure complete Sarawak journeys at compelling value during the fair.

The fair-exclusive promotion offers up to 40% off. It is available only to visitors who confirm their bookings with participating Sarawak agents at the pavilion during the three-day MATTA Fair in Kuala Lumpur.

Packages secured during the fair will be valid for travel from April until 15 December 2026, allowing travellers to lock in their Sarawak holiday now and plan their trip later within the year.

The travel experiences span multiple regions of Sarawak, reflecting the state’s diverse landscapes and cultures. In Southern Sarawak, Kuching offers heritage streets, vibrant culture and access to wildlife and national parks. Central Sarawak, centred around Sibu, introduces travellers to river journeys along the Rajang River, visits to traditional longhouses and authentic cultural encounters. Meanwhile, Northern Sarawak opens the door to the coastal gateway of Miri, the UNESCO World Heritage-listed sites of Gunung Mulu National Park and Niah National Park, and the cool highland landscapes of Bario.

Travellers can also time their visit to coincide with Sarawak’s vibrant calendar of events throughout the year. Among the highlights is the Rainforest World Music Festival (RWMF) 2026, scheduled from 26 to 28 June 2026 at the Sarawak Cultural Village. Widely regarded as one of Southeast Asia’s most distinctive music festivals, RWMF brings together international and regional musicians, including Dato M Nasir, The Commodores featuring Thomas McClary, and Incognito, alongside immersive daytime workshops, cultural exchanges, and evening performances set against the backdrop of Borneo’s rainforest.

Complementing the travel offerings, the pavilion will also spotlight Sarawak’s arts, culture and culinary heritage, with participating non-trade exhibitors presenting traditional crafts, cultural expressions and local flavours that reflect the state’s diverse communities.

With limited-time savings available only during MATTA Fair, the Sarawak Pavilion offers travellers a compelling opportunity to secure a value-driven holiday while discovering the many sides of Sarawak.

Visitors can find the Sarawak Pavilion at Booth 1R01 at the MATTA Fair Kuala Lumpur.

Or visit: https://www.sarawaktourism.com/web/home/index

(Source: Your Stories — Sarawak Tourism Board)

Handl heads the Dusit trio team

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Your Stories
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BANGKOK, 3 April 2026: Dusit International, one of Thailand’s leading integrated hospitality companies, has appointed Marc Handl as Managing Director of Dusit Thani Bangkok, its reimagined luxury hotel overlooking Lumpini Park in central Bangkok, alongside Dusit Residences and Dusit Parkside, two upcoming luxury residential offerings managed by Dusit. 

All three form part of Dusit Central Park, one of the city’s most significant mixed-use developments, which also includes a retail centre, an office tower, and one of Thailand’s largest rooftop parks in the heart of the capital. 

A third-generation hotelier, Handl brings more than three decades of international experience across luxury hotels, resorts, and mixed-use developments. His career spans senior leadership roles with globally recognised brands, including Park Hyatt, The Ritz-Carlton, Aman, and Rosewood, with experience across Asia, the Middle East, and the Americas.

With a professional foundation in food and beverage, Handl combines strong operational expertise with commercial leadership across sales, marketing, and multi-property management. His international upbringing and extensive experience in Asia support a culturally attuned leadership style aligned with the expectations of today’s global luxury traveller.

He joins Dusit from Abu Dhabi National Hotels, where he oversaw a portfolio of 15 properties across 10 international brands, further strengthening his expertise in multi-asset operations, asset management, and brand positioning in complex, competitive markets.

His appointment comes at a pivotal time for Dusit, as the company builds on the early success of its reimagined flagship hotel, which reopened in September 2024 following a complete redevelopment that honours the original property’s rich heritage. Since then, it has already received a Michelin Key for its accommodations and service, and a Michelin Star for its signature restaurant, Cannubi by Umberto Bombana. 

Dusit is now preparing for the phased introduction of its branded residences, Dusit Residences and Dusit Parkside, at Dusit Central Park. These offer two distinct luxury living concepts within the same tower overlooking Lumpini Park, combining classic, heritage-inspired luxury residences with contemporary, lifestyle-led living. Unit transfers are expected to unlock significant value for the company.

“Bangkok has long been a city I’ve aspired to work in, so it’s a real privilege to join Dusit and take on this role at such an important time for the business,” said Handl. “Dusit Thani Bangkok has a strong legacy, rooted in heritage and a clear sense of identity, and I look forward to working with the team to continue building its international profile while staying true to what makes Thai hospitality so distinctive. I’m also excited to be leading Dusit Residences and Dusit Parkside as they prepare to welcome their first residents and establish themselves among the city’s most distinctive new addresses.”

For more information, visit dusit.com/dusitthani-bangkok.

About Dusit Thani Bangkok 
Located overlooking Lumpini Park in central Bangkok, Dusit Thani Bangkok is Dusit International’s reimagined flagship hotel, reopened in September 2024 following the redevelopment of the original property, which operated for nearly five decades. 

The luxury hotel forms part of Dusit Central Park – a landmark mixed-use development comprising branded residences (Dusit Residences and Dusit Parkside), a retail centre, an office tower, and one of Thailand’s largest rooftop parks.

The property has been awarded a Michelin Key, while its signature restaurant, Cannubi by Umberto Bombana, holds a Michelin Star. It was also included on the extended list of The World’s 50 Best Hotels 2025, further cementing its status among Bangkok’s leading luxury destinations.

(Source: Your Stories — Dusit International)

Millennium hires Chief Commercial Officer

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Newsdesk
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SINGAPORE, 3 April 2026: Millennium Hotels and Resorts (MHR), an international hospitality group with 145 hotels across key gateway cities worldwide, has announced the appointment of Cinn Tan as Chief Commercial Officer.

Tan has more than three decades of international hospitality experience across Asia Pacific, China, Europe, and the US.

Photo credit: MHR. Cinn Tan, Chief Commercial Officer.

She has held senior leadership roles within leading hospitality groups. She has a strong track record of advancing commercial capabilities, strengthening brand equity, and building high-performing teams across multiple markets.

Before joining MHR, she served as Chief Commercial & Marketing Officer at Pan Pacific Hotels Group, where she led integrated commercial and marketing functions, including branding, loyalty, sales, revenue management, distribution, and digital marketing. She has also held senior leadership roles at Jin Jiang International and The Ascott Limited.

About Millennium Hotels and Resorts 
Millennium Hotels and Resorts is a dynamic, global hospitality group with properties spanning four continents and 80 destinations. MHR owns, manages, and operates over 145 properties worldwide, including in New York, Los Angeles, London, Paris, Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Auckland, Beijing, and Singapore. MHR is a Hong Leong Group subsidiary of Singapore-listed global real estate company City Developments Limited. 

(Source: MHR)

ITA returns to London Heathrow

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Newsdesk
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ROME, 3 April 2026: ITA Airways resumed flights from Rome Fiumicino to London Heathrow earlier this week, marking a welcome return to the UK aviation hub.

Lufthansa made the necessary airport slots available to ITA Airways at London Heathrow, allowing ITA to schedule twice daily services from Rome.

A ribbon-cutting ceremony was held on 29 March in the presence of Carla Catuogno, Head of Europe Sales Region ITA Airways, Ben Crowley, Head of Aviation – Airline Partnerships & Engagement, Heathrow and Jonas Badde, First Secretary at the Embassy of Italy in London.

Rome Fiumicino → London Heathrow 
The first flight departs at 0750 and arrives at 0940. The second flight departs Rome at 1350 and arrives at 1540.

London Heathrow → Rome Fiumicino
The first flight departs at 1030 and arrives at 1410. The second flight departs at 1630 and arrives at 2010.

Connections between the British capital and Milan Linate will continue to operate via London City Airport. With these services, travelling between Italy and London becomes even easier and more convenient — whether for business or leisure.

“Our company is back at Heathrow, the UK’s only hub airport and the most connected airport in the world. It is further proof of the importance of the synergies with the Lufthansa Group, which enabled us to secure the slots needed to operate”, said ITA Airways CEO and General Manager Joerg Eberhart. “Returning to Heathrow will bring many advantages: thanks to the characteristics of the airport, we will be able to operate flights with larger aircraft and greater capacity, increasing both passengers and revenues”.

The return to Heathrow is one of the most important new features of Summer 2026, in which ITA Airways will fly to 72 destinations on 19 domestic, 36 international and 17 intercontinental routes, including 12 seasonal destinations (three domestic and nine international) to Italian, Greek and Spanish islands.

The new intercontinental flight to Houston, US, will also begin on 1 May 2026. This is the first direct connection between Rome Fiumicino and the state capital of Texas, with three weekly flights, which will increase to five from June.

The summer timetable will also include new direct flights from Rome Fiumicino to Malaga, Valencia, and Marseille. ITA will add seven flights per week from Rome Fiumicino to Tunis between June and September. 

For Summer 2026, seasonal connections will also include Olbia–Turin and Olbia–Genoa, both operating in August with weekly Saturday services.

(Source: ITA)

Star Alliance welcomes Italy’s flag carrier

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Newsdesk
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SINGAPORE, 3 April 2026: ITA Airways marked its entry into the Alliance during a ceremony held at the Piazza di Spagna Lounge, Rome Fiumicino Airport Terminal 3, presided over by ITA Airways Chief Executive Officer and General Manager Joerg Eberhart, Star Alliance Chief Executive Officer Theo Panagiotoulias, and Lufthansa Group Chief Commercial Officer Dieter Vranckx.

Since 1 April, ITA Airways has been connected to the Alliance’s global network, linking its Rome Fiumicino hub and Milan Linate airport, served by 17 Star Alliance members collectively, to more than 1,150 destinations worldwide.

Photo credit: Star Alliance.

Customers travelling across the network can now benefit from through check-in, reciprocal frequent flyer recognition and access to Star Alliance lounges, creating a more seamless customer experience, in and out of Italy.

Celebrating the milestone, Star Alliance Chief Executive Officer Theo Panagiotoulias said: “On behalf of our members, I am delighted to welcome ITA Airways as the 26th member of Star Alliance. This is the result of a focused and collaborative integration effort. With ITA Airways on board, we not only expand our network to and from Italy, but also elevate the connected experience of our customers when travelling across multiple airlines, through access to the world’s largest network of airport lounges, more comprehensive loyalty benefits, and other benefits like baggage tracking – all designed to enhance the journey at every step.”

The Lufthansa Group has mentored ITA Airways’ induction into the Alliance, and expert teams across the group’s airlines have facilitated an intense integration programme over the last several months.

ITA Airways, which flies over 16 million customers every year, adds more than 350 daily flights to the Alliance network, supported by a strong domestic and regional footprint. The addition expands travel options across Italy and Europe and improves connectivity between Southern Europe and key international markets.

As part of its membership, eligible customers can enjoy priority services, lounge access across the Alliance network, and reciprocal recognition of frequent flyer programmes, including the ability to earn and redeem miles. Star Alliance Gold customers will also have access to ITA Airways lounges in Rome, Milan and Catania.

Star Alliance now comprises 26 member airlines, offering more than 17,500 daily flights across a global network spanning over 190 countries.

Series by Marriott debuts in Japan

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Newsdesk
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OSAKA, 3 April 2026: Series by Marriott, part of Marriott Bonvoy’s global portfolio, has confirmed the opening of the 256-room Sugata Hotel Osaka Shinsaibashi, Series by Marriott in the Shinsaibashi district, one of Osaka’s most dynamic commercial and lifestyle neighbourhoods. 

The opening marks the debut of Series by Marriott in Japan.

L-R: Sugata Hotel Osaka Shinsaibashi, Series by Marriott — exterior, double room.

“Series by Marriott is a regionally created, globally connected collection brand that brings together independent hotels and locally recognised hotel groups under the umbrella of Marriott Bonvoy,” said Marriott International Chief Lodging Product & Services Officer — Asia Pacific, excluding China, Cristiano Rinaldi. “Following the successful global debut of Series by Marriott in India last year, this opening represents an important milestone for the brand’s expansion in Asia Pacific and underscores Marriott International’s continued commitment to Japan as a strategically important market.”

Situated in the heart of Shinsaibashi, one of Osaka’s most dynamic commercial and lifestyle districts, the hotel places guests within walking distance of Shinsaibashi-suji Shopping Street, Amerikamura, and the entertainment quarter of Dotonbori. It is 300 metres from Shinsaibashi Station on the Midosuji Subway Line, providing seamless city-wide access. Osaka Itami International Airport is 15 kilometres away (a 30-minute drive), while Kansai International Airport is 48 kilometres away (a 45-minute drive).

(Source: Marriott International)

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