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Sarawak rolls out triple showcase

By
TTR WEEKLY
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LONDON, 9 September 2025: Travellers today seek destinations that balance sustainability, authenticity, and growth — and Sarawak delivers. Here, ancient rainforests meet modern aspirations, and heritage, nature, and community are not only preserved but celebrated. 

As the Gateway to Borneo and a rising force in ASEAN tourism, Sarawak is taking bold steps to connect with the world while staying rooted in its values. 

Sarawak delegates with Encik Sulaiman Suip, Director of Tourism Malaysia UK (third from left), and H.E. Dato’ Zakri Jaafar, High Commissioner of Malaysia to the United Kingdom of Great Britain & Northern Ireland (fifth from left), at Celebrasia 2025 in Battersea Power Station, London.

Strengthening its position as the Gateway to Borneo and gearing up for Visit Malaysia Year 2026, the Sarawak Tourism Board (STB) has taken bold strides in its global and regional tourism push, engaging audiences across three major markets in a single week. 

The first event was at ITB India 2025 in Mumbai (2–4 September), followed by Celebrasia 2025 in London (5–7 September) and the Thai International Travel Fair – North Chapter (5–7 September) in Chiang Mai. 

This strategic triple showcase highlights Sarawak’s unique Indigenous heritage and trade readiness, underscoring its ambition to drive strong visitor growth in 2025 while positioning the state as the actual Gateway to Borneo.  

“In one week, Sarawak engaged audiences across India, the UK, and Thailand, proving our brand resonates regionally and globally. Through the CANFF pillars — Culture, Adventure, Nature, Food, and Festivals — we demonstrated that Sarawak is more than a destination; it is a living experience of authenticity, diversity, and sustainability. These efforts strengthen our global positioning as we move towards Visit Malaysia 2026,” said Sharzede Datu Haji Salleh Askor, Chief Executive Officer of the Sarawak Tourism Board. 

At ITB India in Mumbai, Sarawak joined over 400 global exhibitors and 8,000 trade visitors,  engaging with Indian agents, operators, and airlines. India remains a high-growth market, and these engagements are expected to accelerate Sarawak’s inclusion in Indian travel packages. 

Fifth from left: Mr. Azamuddin Abdul Razak with Mr. Thanapat Tiyanont of Tourism Malaysia Bangkok and the Sarawak delegates at the Thai International Travel Fair – North Chapter in Chiang Mai.

At the same time, Sarawak’s presence spanned both Europe and ASEAN. In Chiang Mai, Sarawak directly reached Thai consumers through traditional performances, Sape music, and B2B networking with travel agents. As Northern Thailand is a key emerging market, this presence builds on strong momentum and lays the foundation for future Fam Trips, travel partnerships, and media coverage. 

Meanwhile, in London, Sarawak captivated audiences at Celebrasia 2025 with six cultural performers and artisan-led beadwork and basketry workshops, complemented by a vibrant handicraft showcase at Battersea Power Station. The joint showcase with Tourism Malaysia UK and the Sarawak Craft Council highlighted Sarawak’s indigenous heritage and responsible tourism values to a European audience, reinforcing its universal appeal. 

By simultaneously bridging Asia, Europe, and ASEAN, STB has amplified Sarawak’s international visibility. Together, these showcases reaffirm Sarawak’s role as a trade-ready and culturally rich destination, anchoring its mission to become a top choice for global travellers. 

Visit: Sarawak Tourism Board 

About Sarawak Tourism Board  
Sarawak Tourism Board (STB) is the key promoter for Sarawak and has built a strong track record of global recognition for its innovative campaigns, destination branding, and commitment to sustainability. In 2025, STB’s “Gateway to Borneo” campaign received the PATA Gold Award for Best Destination Marketing  Campaign (Destination Management Organisation – Asia).

We are the World Global Summit

By
Andrew Wood
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BANGKOK: 9 September 2025: The future of healthcare depends on blending compassion, clarity, and trust into both traditional and alternative systems of medicine. These urgent themes will be explored at the We Are The World Global Summit on Integrative East-West Medicine: Biotech-AI Innovation & Convergence, which will take place from 9th to 11th November 2025 at the Queen Sirikit National Convention Centre (QSNCC) in Bangkok.

Photo credit: AJW. Medical Compassion, Clarity and Trust Intertwined

“Healthcare shouldn’t be a privilege; it’s a right. And if we keep that at the centre of every conversation, the future of medicine will look very different.”

Balancing science and tradition

Photo credit: AJW. People are actively comparing medical opinions.

Patients today are more engaged than ever. From googling symptoms to joining support groups, people are actively comparing medical opinions. This awareness is beneficial but also carries risks, including misinformation, conflicting advice, and legal uncertainty regarding treatments.

Western medicine, for all its precision, can sometimes feel rushed or impersonal, while alternative therapies such as Chinese medicine or Ayurveda may provide relief but lack regulation. The summit in Bangkok will bring together doctors, researchers, and policymakers to tackle these concerns head-on.

10 guiding principles highlight the future of medical care:

• Patient-centred care

• Holistic approach

• Access for all

• Innovation and technology

• Blending East and West

• Collaboration

• Compassion and dignity

• Education and awareness

• Sustainability

• Global solidarity

These are not abstract ideals but lifelines. Anyone who has cared for a loved one in a hospital will understand the importance of dignity, compassion, and clear communication.

A personal journey

Back in 2010, I underwent emergency surgery for a brain aneurysm. I was one of the lucky 40% who survived. But brain surgery changes you. It interrupts your body’s natural sense of being grounded, centred, and in sync. It affects your balance, your walk, your rhythm and even your sense of self. At that time, I had no choice; surgery was the only path, and I am forever grateful for the gift that surgery, and surgery alone, gave me. Today, I value having alternatives, and I try to avoid invasive procedures whenever conservative options are available, while remaining forever grateful for the surgical skill that saved my life. 

This personal journey underscores the urgency of conversations that will be central to the “We Are The World” Global Summit in November. Patients everywhere must be given clarity, honesty, and trust in the advice they receive, whether from traditional hospitals or alternative practitioners.

Why attend

The summit at QSNCC Bangkok promises to be a world-class gathering where East meets West in search of integrated solutions. For those who believe healthcare should move beyond prescriptions and towards compassion, dignity, and innovation. 

Visit www.wearetheworldasia.org, a non-profit organisation. 

About Andrew J Wood

Andrew is a regular contributor to travel and tourism publications both regionally and globally. A former Director of Skål International, Past President of Skål International Asia, Skål International Thailand, and two-time Past President of Skål International Bangkok, Andrew is widely recognised as a preferred go-to choice for travel and tourism insights within the Pacific region.

PATA event travels to Chiang Rai

By
TTR WEEKLY
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BANGKOK, 9 September 2025: Chiang Rai will welcome the PATA Destination Marketing Forum 2025 (PDMF 2025), scheduled to be held at the Heritage Chiang Rai Hotel & Convention, from 1 to 3 December 2025.

Under the theme, “Steeped in Tradition, Rooted in Wellness: Weaving the Meaningful Narrative of Travel,” the event will be co-hosted by Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau (TCEB), Chiang Rai City, and the Designated Areas for Sustainable Tourism Administration (DASTA), with support from the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT).

“PATA is thrilled to partner with Chiang Rai hosting this year’s PATA Destination Marketing Forum, having previously organised the PATA Adventure Travel and Responsible Tourism Conference and Mart 2016 once before in the province,” remarked PATA CEO Noor Ahmad Hamid. 

“This collaboration reaffirms our commitment to elevating emerging yet exceptional destinations on the global stage. The forum’s unique format, combining a one-day destination experience with a one-day conference, will provide destination marketers and tourism professionals with practical insights, actionable strategies, and emerging trends to enhance their destinations’ appeal. It will also provide a meaningful platform for connecting with industry experts who share the vision for the growth of Asia Pacific tourism.”

Chiang Rai Province Governor, Charin Thongsuk, added: “We are honoured that Chiang Rai will co-host the PATA Destination Marketing Forum 2025. This opportunity allows us to showcase our province not only as a destination of beauty and cultural richness, but also as a model for sustainable and community-based tourism. With the strong collaboration between our local communities, the public sector, and PATA’s international network, we look forward to welcoming delegates from across the world to experience the unique character and hospitality of Chiang Rai.”

Chiang Rai is best known for its historical and artistic heritage, as well as hands-on experiences that offer meaningful engagement with local traditions and ways of life. 

The forum’s programme will also highlight the Royal Project of Doi Tung. This sustainable development model transformed deforested mountains and former opium cultivation sites into protected forests, horticulture areas, and tourist attractions, while also showcasing Chiang Rai’s diverse ethnic cultures through creative community-based tourism activities.

The far north city is home to iconic sites like Wat Rong Khun (White Temple) and Baan Dam Museum (Black House), as well as its tea plantations and highland coffee culture. 

About PATA Destination Marketing Forum
The PATA Destination Marketing Forum is a three-day event designed to empower emerging destinations, providing them with tools and insights for growth as globally recognised tourism hubs. 

Registration Details and Carbon Offset Fee
Registration for PDMF 2025 is complimentary, with priority given to PATA Members on a first-come, first-served basis. Reflecting PATA’s commitment to sustainable tourism, PDMF 2025 will be a carbon-neutral event. PATA is partnering with a local environmental initiative in Thailand to support greenhouse gas reduction and enhance carbon sequestration. A nominal USD10 carbon offset fee will be applied per attendee.

About PATA
The Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) is a not-for-profit membership association dedicated to advancing a meaningful Pacific Asia tourism economy. PATA brings together governments, industry leaders, academia, and communities to drive positive, lasting change. Founded in 1951 and headquartered in Bangkok, the Association also has an official office in Beijing. Visit www.PATA.org.

Malaysia Airlines and Firefly expand routes

By
TTR WEEKLY
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KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia Airlines Group’s Firefly will launch new services to Krabi (KBV), Siem Reap (SAI) and Cebu (CEB) from Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KUL) Terminal 1 from November 2025 onwards, while parent airline Malaysia Airlines resumes flights to Chengdu, China from January 2026.

Firefly will also increase frequencies across its network beginning October 2025 by boosting domestic and regional connectivity with additional flights to Singapore, Kota Kinabalu, Kuching, Penang, and Johor Bahru. 

Photo credit: MAG

MH flies to Chengdu

Malaysia Airlines will commence daily flights between Kuala Lumpur and Chengdu Tianfu International Airport (TFU) beginning 9 January 2026, increasing the airline’s network in Greater China to seven destinations. The airline currently operates flights to Beijing (PKX), Shanghai (PVG), Guangzhou (CAN), Xiamen (XMN), Hong Kong (HKG), and Taipei (TPE).

Malaysia Airlines will also increase frequencies on routes from its home base at Kuala Lumpur International Airport to destinations across ASEAN, India, the Maldives, Bangladesh, Australia and New Zealand. 

New routes 

Vietjet sells 9 by 9 deal on flights to Vietnam

By
TTR WEEKLY
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SINGAPORE, 9 September 2025: Celebrate Double Day 9/9 with Vietjet’s special promotion, offering Singapore travellers direct flights to Phu Quoc, Da Nang, Hanoi, and Ho Chi Minh City. 

Passengers can book thousands of tickets at up to 99% off base fares and enjoy 20kg of complimentary checked baggage on all international direct flights. However, the deal is only valid today.

Photo credit: Vietjet. Deals on Singapore to Vietnam routes.

From 0100 to midnight on 9 September 2025 (GMT+8), travellers can enter the promo code SUPERSALE99 when booking on the airline’s website or mobile app to secure Eco tickets at discounts of up to 99% (excludes taxes and fees). 

The promotion applies across Vietjet’s entire network of international and Vietnam domestic flights for travel between 1 October 2025 and 27 May 2026 (Specific travel periods may apply depending on routes. Blackout dates may apply).

Between 10 September and 23 September 2025, passengers booking Eco tickets on international routes will also receive 20kg of free checked baggage. Select the 20kg option at no extra cost during booking for travel throughout the festive season. 

For Singapore-based travellers, the special fares are available for travel between 1 October 2025 and 31 October 2025 on all Singapore–Vietnam routes, which include flights from Singapore to Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi, Da Nang and Phu Quoc.

Vietjet will increase flights on the Singapore – Da Nang route to twice daily from 21 November 2025 and the Singapore – Phu Quoc route to daily flights from 23 December 2025. 

Air India launches One India sale

By
TTR WEEKLY
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GURUGRAM, India, 9 September 2025: Air India has launched a ‘One India’ promotional sale*, designed to offer travellers from India an attractive flat fare* for flights to any destination in Europe.

Photo credit: Air India.

The ‘One India’ sale simplifies travel planning with seamless connectivity across Air India’s extensive network, encouraging travellers from India to explore Europe’s vibrant cities, cultural landmarks, and scenic destinations at a consistent, affordable fare.

The limited-time offer applies to flights from any point in Air India’s domestic network to any of the airline’s European gateways. This means that a traveller pays the same flat fare for a round-trip from Varanasi to Milan via Delhi as they would for a round-trip from Delhi to Milan.

As part of the promotion, all-inclusive, round-trip fares to anywhere in Europe are as follows: INR47,000 in economy class, INR70,000 in premium economy (on applicable routes) and INR1,40,000 in business class. 

The all-inclusive, round-trip fares to London (Heathrow) are as follows: INR49,999 in economy class, INR89,999 in premium economy, and INR1,69,999 in business class.

As an added benefit, every ticket booked under this promotional sale offers one complimentary date change, providing greater flexibility to travellers and peace of mind while planning their trips.

Maharaja Club Members

Maharaj Club members enjoy zero convenience fee along with the special sale fares when they book their tickets after logging into the Air India website or mobile app, thereby unlocking further savings.

The ‘One India’ sale rolled out across all channels on 8 September and continues until 11 September 2025, including travel agents worldwide and Air India’s airport ticketing offices and customer contact centre. 

The ‘One India’ sale fares are available for travel until 31 March 2026.

Travellers, including Maharaja Club members, can save up to INR3,000 per passenger by using the promo code FLYAI.

*Fares are subject to availability and may vary due to local taxes and exchange rates.

Air India’s flights to Europe

Air India operates non-stop flights to 10 points in Europe — London (Heathrow), London (Gatwick), Paris (Charles de Gaulle), Frankfurt, Amsterdam, Milan, Copenhagen, Vienna, and Zurich. 

MATTA Fair breaks records

By
TTR WEEKLY
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KUALA LUMPUR, 8 September 2025: The Malaysian Association of Tour and Travel Agents declared the 57th edition of the MATTA Fair featured a record-breaking 2,049 booths from 334 participating companies.

Taking place from 5 to 7 September 2025 at the Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre (MITEC), the biannual national fair yet again earned recognition as the country’s ‘Largest Consumers’ Travel Fair, by the Malaysia Book of Records. 

Photo credit: MATTA. Opening ceremony for MATTA Fair 5 to 7 September.

Show organiser MATTA noted that the 57th edition attracted a record turnout of travel consumers, drawn to the show by an expanded array of travel packages for domestic and international travel offered by licensed travel agencies, airlines, cruise lines, and hotels.

With the support of MATTA’s partners, the fair recognises the commitment of Sabah as MATTA Fair’s Malaysia’s Favourite Destination, RHB Bank as the Exclusive Platinum Sponsor, Malaysia Aviation Group as the Official Airline Partner and Premier Sponsor, AmLeisure as the Fair’s Media Partner, and Mayoly and Duria as sponsors. 

As a leader in sustainable tourism, MATTA presented the largest-ever MATTA Eco & Sustainable Tourism Initiative (MESTI) pavilion. This initiative is powered through collaborations with leading sustainability-focused brands, including RHB Bank, Sabah Tourism Board, Penang Global Tourism, Resorts World Genting, Royal Selangor, AMPSPA, Easy Motorbike, and Pos Malaysia.

Through this meaningful step toward sustainability, MATTA has partnered with independent auditors to measure the carbon footprint of the MATTA Fair across all three days of the event. This initiative aims to understand the impact of the MATTA Fair and take tangible action to promote sustainable practices. MATTA is setting new standards for responsible and sustainable tourism events, while also strengthening its reputation among travellers, partners and industry leaders who value transparency and environmental stewardship.

MATTA Fair consumer highlights

Buyers’ Contest:

MATTA’s flagship crowd favourite, the Buyers’ Contest, returned with exciting prizes. Visitors visiting the MATTA Fair September 2025 who spent a minimum of MYR100 on any travel and holiday packages stood a chance to win round-trip flight tickets to Paris, Japan, Perth and many other destinations. Plus, visitors could also win a brand-new EV Bike.

Ride & Reels: Vlog Your Journey

The Ride & Reels campaign encouraged visitors to commute to the fair sustainably, vlogging their journey for a chance to win tech prizes.

Spin & Win

Visitors who spent a minimum of MYR300 gained a chance to spin the wheel for exclusive gift merchandise. 

“This MATTA Fair was a bold step toward a more sustainable and connected future. From its humble beginnings as a modest exhibition, we have now evolved into Malaysia’s largest and most recognised travel Fair, and today it stands as a symbol of how far our industry has come. Moving closer to Visit Malaysia 2026, the MATTA Fair is our way of telling the world that Malaysia is ready to welcome travellers not just with open arms, but with open hearts,” said MATTA President Nigel Wong.

Sarawak joins MH Bonus Side Trip

By
TTR WEEKLY
-

KUALA LUMPUR, 8 September 2025: Sarawak’s participation at MATTA Fair Kuala Lumpur 2025 focused on Kuching’s selection as the 8th destination under Malaysia Airlines’ Bonus Side Trip (BST) programme. 

The airline’s international initiative positions Sarawak and the state capital, Kuching, as a must-visit destination for global travellers, while the MATTA Fair provided the ideal stage to share this milestone with a broad audience. 

The launch took place on 6 September 2025 at MAG Arena, Level 3, Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre (MITEC), marked by a handshake ceremony between Puan Sharzede Datu Haji Salleh Askor, Chief Executive Officer of Sarawak Tourism Board, and Dersenish Aresandiran, Chief Commercial Officer of Airlines, Malaysia Aviation Group (MAG). 

It represented a significant step forward for Sarawak’s tourism journey ahead of Visit Malaysia Year 2026. 

The BST programme, offered exclusively by Malaysia Airlines, is designed to encourage international travellers to discover more of Malaysia during their trip. Passengers flying into the country on international tickets can add an extra domestic destination at no additional fare, paying only the applicable taxes. With Kuching’s inclusion, Sarawak becomes the first and only Bornean destination in the programme, expanding its reach beyond Peninsular Malaysia. 

This outcome stems from the partnership between the STB and MAG, formalised in 2024 to enhance air connectivity and joint tourism promotion in the lead-up to Visit Malaysia Year 2026. Kuching’s inclusion in the BST programme reflects a key result of this collaboration. 

By being part of the BST programme, Sarawak is positioned as the natural gateway to Borneo, offering international visitors experiences anchored in its CANFF pillars of Culture, Adventure, Nature, Food, and Festivals. Highlights include living cultures shaped by 34 ethnic groups, the twin UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Gunung Mulu National Park and Niah National Park, distinctive gastronomy with Kuching recognised as a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy, and globally renowned festivals such as the Rainforest World Music Festival. Sarawak’s ability to deliver this complete experience within a single journey distinguishes it from other destinations, while strengthening its brand as ‘More to Discover.’ 

“Inclusion in Malaysia Airlines’ Bonus Side Trip (BST) programme reflects the strong partnership we have built with Malaysia Aviation Group since the signing of our Memorandum of Understanding in 2024,” said Sarawak Tourism Board Chief Executive Officer Puan Sharzede Datu Haji Salleh Askor. “Through this initiative, Sarawak is broadening its international reach and reinforcing its commitment to sustainable tourism growth as we prepare for Visit Malaysia Year 2026.” 

For more information, visit www.sarawaktourism.com  or follow Sarawak Tourism Board on Facebook, www.facebook.com/visitsarawak.

About Sarawak Tourism Board  
Sarawak Tourism Board (STB) is the key promoter for Sarawak and has built a strong track record of global recognition for its innovative campaigns, destination branding, and commitment to sustainability. In 2025, STB’s “Gateway to Borneo” campaign received the PATA Gold Award for Best Destination Marketing Campaign (Destination Management Organisation – Asia).

NCLH opens new office in Sydney

By
TTR WEEKLY
-

SINGAPORE, 8 September 2025; Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd, the parent company that operates Norwegian Cruise Line, Oceania Cruises and Regent Seven Seas Cruises, celebrates 10 years of expansion in the Asia Pacific. 

The anniversary coincides with the official opening of its new Sydney office, harbourside location in the heart of Barangaroo, marking a decade since the company first established its presence in the region.

(Photo credit: Tim Faircloth). (L-R): Steve Odell, SVP International and Consumer Sales, Oceania Cruises and Regent Seven Seas Cruises and Ben Angell, Vice President and Managing Director Asia Pacific for Norwegian Cruise Line.

Last week, the three cruise lines honoured the milestone with a tri-brand celebration at their new Sydney office, featuring a ribbon-cutting ceremony to open the Asia Pacific headquarters.

Since establishing its inaugural sales and marketing hub in Sydney in October 2015, the company has grown from approximately 20 employees across Australasia to 200 staff engaged in sales, public relations, marketing, administrative services, and operations. 

This regional success has unfolded alongside NCLH’s global expansion, from a fleet of 22 ships in 2015 to 34 vessels in 2025, offering more than 71,000 berths and itineraries to over 700 locales worldwide. Thirteen new vessels will join the fleet by 2036. 

Legend of the Sea celebrates float-out

By
TTR WEEKLY
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SINGAPORE, 8 September 2025: Royal Caribbean’s Legend of the Seas marked a construction milestone, completing its float-out ceremony last week. 

The ship continues to take shape at the Meyer Turku shipyard in Turku, Finland, ahead of its summer 2026 debut in Europe. The teams behind the construction celebrated the float-out moment ahead of its August 2026 debut.

Photo credit Royal Caribbean. Legend of the Sea float-out from dry dock.

The third in Icon Class lineup is set to make waves and deliver the boldest experiences yet across eight onboard neighbourhoods that will feature a  Category 6 waterpark and the Crown’s Edge — part skywalk, part ropes course and part thrill ride. 

Legend will deliver summer 2026 adventures in Europe on seven-night Western Mediterranean vacations before making a grand Caribbean debut in November 2026 with six-night Western Caribbean and eight-night Southern Caribbean vacations.

Legend will also be the vacation company’s fourth ship, fueled by liquefied natural gas (LNG), featuring industry-leading environmental programmes with applications ranging from waste heat recovery systems to shore power connections. Royal Caribbean Group plans to introduce a net-zero cruise ship by 2035.

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