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CX hits 100 destination goal in May

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TTR WEEKLY
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HONG KONG, 23 June 2025: The Cathay Group released its traffic figures for May 2025 last week noting it had added six new destinations to its global network.

Chief Customer and Commercial Officer Lavinia Lau said: “As a Group, with the six new destinations added to our global network in May and June, we are delighted to have reached a total of 100 passenger destinations worldwide. This critical milestone underscores our commitment to enhancing the global connectivity of our Hong Kong hub, and we won’t stop there. This year, we have already announced many new destinations to be joining our network, with more exciting ones to come in the future.

Photo credit: Cathay Group.

“Throughout 2025, we have been very pleased to receive a number of esteemed accolades across our business units, and we are delighted that just this week, Cathay Pacific has been named one of the world’s top three best airlines in 2025 in the prestigious Skytrax World Airline Awards, in addition to being named World’s Best Economy Class Airline and winning World’s Best Inflight Entertainment. These recognitions encourage us to continue going above and beyond for our customers in pursuit of our vision of becoming one of the world’s greatest service brands.”

Cathay Pacific

Cathay Pacific carried 36.1% more passengers in May 2025 compared with May 2024, while Available Seat Kilometres (ASKs) increased by 31.2%. In the first five months of 2025, the number of passengers carried increased by 28.4% compared with the same period for 2024.

Lavinia commented: “While May has typically been a quieter month for our travel business, this year it exceeded expectations with load factor reaching 84.7% — the highest it has been in the month of May since 2015. This was boosted by strong long-haul demand from the early return of student traffic to Hong Kong and our well-received special fares campaign launched in February. Demand for business travel also remained robust, supported by traffic from Hong Kong to the Chinese Mainland and various long-haul destinations in the Americas and the United Kingdom. Looking ahead, we anticipate demand during the summer travel peak to be healthy, with Southeast Asia being especially popular among customers from our home market.

“May also marked the first stage of our extensive lounge enhancement plan at Hong Kong International Airport. With The Bridge’s reopening and The Deck serving as an interim first-class lounge, we are ensuring that our members and customers continue to enjoy a premium lounge experience during the renovation of The Wing lounges.”

Cathay Cargo

Cathay Cargo carried 12.2% more cargo in May 2025 than in May 2024. Available Freight Tonne Kilometres (AFTKs) increased by 8% while the load factor increased by 0.1 percentage points year on year. In the first five months of 2025, the total tonnage increased by 12.3% compared with the same period in 2024.

Lavinia said: “Our cargo business performed well in May, with tonnage 1.8% higher than in April. Despite the ‘Golden Week’ holidays, we saw growth in both the Hong Kong and Chinese Mainland markets, with the temporary reduction in tariffs pending an agreement between China and the United States boosting short-term demand. In addition, our Cathay Live Animal solution experienced robust demand, particularly exports of live seafood from Southeast Asia and horses from Australia. Turning to June, we expect that the overall market sentiment will remain reasonable, and we will continue to maintain a close watch.

“We are also delighted that Cathay Cargo has been named Airline of the Year – Asia at the World Air Cargo Awards 2025 hosted by Air Cargo Week, recognising our commitment to innovation, quality, compliance and operational excellence, and our ongoing efforts to strengthen Hong Kong as a leading global air cargo hub.”

HK Express

HK Express carried more than 640,000 passengers in May, marking an increase of 35.7% year on year, while Available Seat Kilometres (ASKs) grew by 42.6%. In the first five months of 2025, the number of passengers carried increased by 37.2% compared with the same period in 2024.

Lavinia commented: “In addition to sustaining its network expansion with the launch of new routes to Changzhou and Yiwu in May, HK Express achieved a new milestone by recording the highest monthly seat capacity in its history. That said, it will take time for demand growth to catch up with the additional capacity, resulting in a decrease in load factor compared with May last year.

“For June, HK Express has already launched new services to Cheongju and Daegu, with Miyako (Shimojishima) still to come later this month. We have also recently announced flights to Guiyang and Kuala Lumpur (Subang), launching in July and August, respectively.”

TMA ready for business networking

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TTR WEEKLY
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SINGAPORE 20 June 2025: Travel Meet Asia (TMA), organised by Messe Berlin Asia Pacific, is set to connect travel professionals across the leisure, MICE, and corporate sectors with an expanded exhibitor showcase, rich conference content, and curated networking experiences

Travel Meet Asia 2025, taking place on 25 and 26 June, will feature a strong lineup of exhibitors from around the world. This year’s edition brings together over 80% of international exhibitors, reflecting the event’s growing influence as a platform for strategic market entry and regional visibility. The strong exhibitor turnout reinforces TMA’s role as a key meeting ground for high-quality sourcing and long-term business partnerships across Asia Pacific.

Now a firm fixture in the region’s travel industry calendar, the event is poised to deliver unmatched opportunities for business generation, market insight, and strategic dialogue, attracting both local and international buyers, solution providers, and decision-makers from across the Asian travel landscape.

This year’s edition is held with the official endorsement of the Ministry of Tourism Indonesia, underscoring the country’s deepening commitment to regional tourism development and international cooperation. In a strong gesture of national support, Ni Made Ayu Marthini, Deputy Minister for Marketing at the Ministry of Tourism Indonesia, will grace the event as Guest of Honour, officially opening the show.

“We are proud to support Travel Meet Asia 2025 as it reflects Indonesia’s dedication to fostering innovation, building strategic partnerships, and accelerating tourism growth across the region. This platform is a clear demonstration of how collaboration drives opportunity for all,” said Ni Made Ayu Marthini, Deputy Minister for Marketing at the Ministry of Tourism Indonesia.

A Showcase of Asia’s Vibrant Travel Market

Travel Meet Asia 2025 will welcome the largest gathering of Asia-based travel companies, with a focus on Indonesia, presenting a dynamic mix of exhibitors from across leisure, MICE, and corporate travel. With a refreshed exhibitor lineup, the show is designed to reconnect the travel ecosystem through strategic B2B engagements and product showcases. Confirmed exhibitors include The Ascott Limited, Meliá Hotels International, Resorts World Sentosa, DidaTravel Technology, Miki Travel, SUNRATE, and many more.

The full list of exhibitors can be found on the event’s official website at travelmeetasia.com/exhibitor-list.

Ecolodge in Cambodia wins tourism award

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TTR WEEKLY
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PHNOM PENH 20 June 2025: Cardamom Tented Camp ecolodge in Cambodia has won a gold award in the 2025 ICRT Southeast Asia Responsible Tourism Awards in the “Nature Positive” category.

Astungkara Way, Indonesia, also received a gold award in the same classification.

The award ceremony in Lyceum of the Philippines University in Manila took place on 18 June, with a total of 24 responsible tourism operators from across Southeast Asia receiving gold, silver or “one to watch” accolades.

The camp will now be entered as a finalist along with the other gold award winners from Southeast Asia into the International Centre for Responsible Tourism global awards, taking place in November.

Other Southeast Asian gold award winners were:

Six Senses Ninh Van Bay, Vietnam, in the “Adapting to Climate Change” category;
Anthro on Foot Walking Tours, Philippines, for “Peace, Understanding and Inclusivity”;
WormingUp, Malaysia, for “Managing Waste”;
Nay Palad Hideaway, Philippines and Sen Caraih Cultural and Ecotourism Village, Vietnam, for “Responsible All-Inclusive”.

The judges chose Cardamom Tented Camp because its business model helps protect 18,000 hectares of native forest habitat in Botum Sakor National Park. It does this by co-funding forest patrols.

Since opening in 2017, deforestation and poaching have largely ceased. Wildlife populations have rebounded. The camp also provides visitors with meaningful and close encounters with wildlife and flora, all while preserving biodiversity.

The International Centre organises the Awards for Responsible Tourism, a not-for-profit established to amplify knowledge and implementation of responsible tourism globally.

The judges were looking for quantifiable and inspirational positive impacts, reduced negative impacts, and best practices that other operators can replicate. In addition to conservation, judges sought a commitment to local communities, economies and culture.

Wildlife photographer and conservationist Allan Michaud, who is the manager at the 12-tent ecolodge in Koh Kong province, southwest Cambodia, said: “We are grateful to the judges for recognising the commitment of everyone involved at the camp. We strive to deliver a genuine ecotourism experience in a setting we are proud to protect.”

A full list of winners in the 2025 ICRT Southeast Asia Awards is available here.

Royal Caribbean triples 2026 adventures

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TTR WEEKLY
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SINGAPORE, 20 June 2025: Royal Caribbean is tripling the adventure in 2026 when it debuts three newly amplified vacations on Ovation, Harmony and Liberty of the Seas.

The three ships are set to be reimagined with bold new experiences, offering visitors must-see destinations across Alaska, Europe, and the Caribbean. Vacationers have more choices than ever before for all-out adventures starting in spring 2026 and can book the vacations now on Royal Caribbean’s website.

Ovation of the Seas.

Ovation of the Seas

Vacationers can go all out with amplified experiences on Ovation, including a revamped pool deck with private casitas and a new whirlpool. 

Ovation will take adventure to the next level at sea and on land with getaways to Alaska, where vacationers can take in the wonders of the Last Frontier on seven to 13-night Alaskan adventures starting in spring 2026.

Harmony of the Seas

Making its way to Harmony is a new Caribbean-inspired pool deck as well as a refreshed adults-only Solarium. Adventurers can dive into bold bites at more than 20 venues, including Playmakers Sports Bar & Arcade for gameday favourites, El Loco Fresh for Mexican delights, and the new Samba Grill Brazilian Steakhouse.

Harmony will kick off its summer glow-up in Europe before the Oasis Class vacation calls Port Canaveral (Orlando), Florida, home. Starting in winter 2026, vacationers can escape to the Caribbean on five- and seven-night vacations to destinations like Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas, and Falmouth, Jamaica.

Liberty of the Seas

Families are in for all-new experiences for all ages with unmatched chill at the completely reimagined pool deck with The Lime & Coconut and new casitas, and thrills at an all-new Royal Escape Room concept coming to Liberty.

Sailing from Southampton in the summer of 2026, vacationers on Liberty can explore European hot spots with seven-night adventures to places like the awe-inspiring Norwegian fjords, the medieval streets of Bruges, Belgium, and the rich culture of Copenhagen, Denmark. Then, Liberty will head to Galveston, Texas, for the winter season, unlocking more ways for vacationers to explore the Western Caribbean at spots like the vacation brand’s Royal Beach Club Cozumel, delivering the ultimate beach day in Mexico when it opens in 2026.

ITA Airways grows Lufthansa Group codeshares

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TTR WEEKLY
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SINGAPORE, 20 June 2025: Rome-based ITA Airways has extended codeshare flights on an initial set of intercontinental destinations with Lufthansa Group airlines for travel starting from 1 July 1, 2025.

The new agreement covers flights departing from Europe to Africa, Asia, and South America, further reinforcing the collaboration between ITA Airways and the Lufthansa Group to enhance connectivity and passenger experience.

Photo credit: ITA Airways

Thanks to the new intercontinental codeshare agreements, ITA Airways will offer customers an even broader network and increasingly efficient, seamless connections between Italy and key destinations worldwide. With a single ticket, passengers will be able to reach their final intercontinental destination in an easier, smoother and safer way.

“Through the implementation of new codeshare flights on intercontinental routes with Lufthansa Group airlines, ITA Airways further strengthens its global presence,” said ITA Airways’ CEO and General Director, Joerg Eberhart. “Following the launch of our codeshare agreements on European routes in March, this expansion marks another important step forward in offering our customers even broader and more seamless travel options. Specifically, passengers will be able to travel with our AZ code on flights to African destinations, such as Kenya, Burkina Faso, Liberia, Ivory Coast, Cameroon, and Sierra Leone, which will be available for sale in the coming weeks.”

ITA Airways’ AZ code will be applied to flights operated by the Lufthansa Group to several African destinations via its hub in Brussels (BRU), including Nairobi (NBO), Abidjan (ABJ), Douala (DLA), Freetown (FNA), Monrovia (ROB), and Ouagadougou (OUA). The flights will be available for sale in the coming weeks.

At the same time, Lufthansa Group customers will benefit from seamless travel with a single ticket to reach intercontinental destinations within ITA Airways’ network, such as Bangkok (BKK), Jeddah (JED), Riyadh (RUH), Cairo (CAI), Rio de Janeiro (GIG), and São Paulo (GRU).

Following the launch of the first intercontinental codeshares, ITA Airways and the Lufthansa Group will continue working together to expand global connectivity and enhance travel options for passengers. In the following months, the network will be further extended with the addition of new codeshare flights on long-haul routes.

Bangkok Airways stays top regional airline

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TTR WEEKLY
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BANGKOK, 20 June 2025: Bangkok Airways has once again brought pride to Thailand by winning two prestigious global accolades: “World’s Best Regional Airline” and “Best Regional Airline in Asia” at the SKYTRAX World Airline Awards 2025.

This marks the ninth consecutive year the airline has achieved both titles. The award ceremony was held at the Paris Air Show at Le Bourget Airport in France earlier this week.

SKYTRAX World Airline Awards are often referred to as the “Oscars of the aviation industry” and are internationally recognised benchmarks of excellence. The 2025 rankings were determined based on passenger satisfaction surveys conducted throughout the year, which covered feedback on over 325 airlines worldwide.

Winning at the SKYTRAX World Airline Awards once again reflects Bangkok Airways’ unwavering commitment to delivering an exceptional travel experience built on its signature boutique airline concept. This includes complimentary lounges for all passengers, carefully curated in-flight and lounge meals, and an extensive route network connecting key cultural and tourist destinations across the region.

Bangkok Airways President Puttipong Prasarttong-Osoth commented on the achievement: “These esteemed awards are a true reflection of the dedication and passion of our entire team. I extend my deepest appreciation to all our passengers for their continued trust and support and for voting us World’s Best Regional Airline and Best Regional Airline in Asia once again. We remain fully committed to raising the bar in service excellence while advancing our sustainability journey through ongoing programs and initiatives.”

Royal Jordanian starts Mumbai flights

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TTR WEEKLY
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MUMBAI, 20 June 2020: Royal Jordanian Airlines has launched a new direct route between Amman’s Queen Alia International Airport (AMM) and Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport in Mumbai (BOM), commencing 19 June 2025.

The new service will operate year-round with four weekly flights on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays using an Airbus A320neo.

Photo credit: Royal Jordanian.

This strategic addition enhances connectivity between India and Jordan, offering seamless onward travel to over 50 destinations across the Middle East, the Gulf, and North Africa.

The new route will open the door for Indian tourists to explore Jordan on three or seven-day package tours to witness the breathtaking rose-red city of Petra — one of the Seven Wonders of the World — float in the healing waters of the Dead Sea and explore the dramatic desert landscapes of Wadi Rum, positioning Jordan as a contemporary, truly authentic Arabia five hours away from India.

“With direct access to Jordan, a captivating country rich in history and culture, passengers can now easily explore Jordan’s inspiring landscapes. This expansion reflects our dedication to showcasing Jordan’s unique allure to tourists, inviting them to uncover its hidden gems, immerse themselves in its vibrant traditions, and experience the renowned hospitality that awaits every visitor,” stated Royal Jordanian’s Chief Commercial Officer Karim Makhlouf.

Royal Jordanian’s new route to Amman offers more than just added convenience — it serves as a vibrant bridge between India and Jordan, connecting travellers to the heart of a land where ancient wonders and modern vitality coexist in harmony. With this launch, Indian tourists can now explore Jordan’s captivating history, breathtaking landscapes, and dynamic culture more easily than ever before, as they will be eligible for visa-free entry when booking tourist packages.

STIC Travel Group CEO Isha Goyal shared her enthusiasm for the new service, saying: “The new direct service between Mumbai and Amman is more than just a flight — it is a bridge between two ancient civilisations and a gateway for deeper tourism, trade, and cultural exchange. Jordan holds a distinctive place in the Levant region, and as a longstanding friend of India, this long-awaited route marks a significant step in bringing our countries closer together. This milestone reflects STIC Travel’s continued commitment to forging strategic airline partnerships built on trust, shared vision, and service excellence. We look forward to introducing Indian travellers to the richness and beauty of Jordan, an inspiring and still largely untapped destination.”

Royal Jordanian offers travellers from Mumbai smooth connections not only to Jordan but also onward to more than 50 destinations across the Middle East, Europe, North Africa, the United States, and Canada.

Vietjet Thailand adds Seoul flights

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TTR WEEKLY
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BANGKOK, 20 June 2025: Vietjet Thailand will commence direct daily flights between Bangkok (Suvarnabhumi) and Seoul (Incheon) in South Korea on 1 October 2025.

This launch not only expands travel options between Thailand and Korea but also reaffirms Vietjet Thailand’s strategic commitment to growth, strengthening its fleet and route network across Asia.

Vietjet Thailand unveils first flights to Seoul.

Flights opened for bookings on 17 June via the airline’s website with a zero-fare offer (excluding tax and charges).

For the first time, passengers can enjoy Vietjet Thailand’s award-winning service between Bangkok (Suvarnabhumi) and Seoul (Incheon) with convenient flight times:

Flight schedule

VZ850 will depart Bangkok (BKK) at 0145 and land in Seoul (ICN) at 0920.
VZ851 will depart Seoul (ICN) at 1155 and arrive in Bangkok (BKK) at 1545 (all local times).

Seoul, a favourite destination among Thai travellers, offers a blend of traditional and modern attractions, including majestic palaces and charming Hanok villages, as well as trendy K-fashion, vibrant K-pop culture, and iconic street food.

“This new service represents a major leap forward as we connect Thailand with Korea for the very first time,” said Vietjet Thailand CEO Woranate Laprabang. “It reflects our clear ambition to expand across Asia with a growing fleet of modern aircraft and an unwavering focus on delivering exceptional service. We aim to create more travel opportunities and seamless connectivity for our passengers while contributing to stronger economic and tourism growth between Thailand and South Korea.”

Masters golf tournament celebrates 10th edition

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TTR WEEKLY
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HUA HIN, Thailand, 19 June 2025: The 10th Centara World Masters Golf Championship concluded on 14 June, having attracted 500 amateur golfers from 29 countries.

Golfasian and Go Golfing hosted the event, which was supported by Centara Hotels & Resorts and the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT).

Host hotel Centara Grand Beach Resort & Villas Hua Hin’s general manager, Jan Weisheit, welcomes golfers to the 10th Centara World Masters Golf Championship.

With golfers and supporters flying in from Australia, New Zealand, USA, UK, Canada, South Africa, France, Germany, Belgium, Netherlands, Ireland, Scotland, England, Switzerland, Poland, Portugal, Japan, South Korea, China, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, UAE, Qatar, India, Mauritius, and the Marshall Islands, the international appeal of the Centara World Masters continues to grow – solidifying its place as Asia’s most prestigious and welcoming tournament for club golfers.

World-Class Golf Meets Five-Star Hospitality

Tournament rounds were held at three of Thailand’s finest championship courses — Black Mountain Golf Club, Pineapple Valley Golf Club, and Springfield Royal Country Club.

Off the course, players enjoy a vibrant social programme, including welcome and gala dinners, nightly 19th-hole entertainment, cultural showcases, and generous prize giveaways — all set against the elegant surroundings of the Centara Grand Beach Resort & Villas Hua Hin, the tournament’s host hotel.

A Decade of Masters Magic

“This year is a special one,” said Golfasian Managing Director Mark Siegel. “Ten years ago, we launched the Centara World Masters to give everyday golfers a taste of tour-style competition, and it’s grown into a global celebration of golf and friendship. We’re proud to welcome so many returning players who’ve been with us since the beginning.”

The 10th-anniversary tournament got underway with a grand welcome reception presided over by Thailand’s Vice Minister of Tourism and Sports, Jakkaphon Tangsutthitham. His presence underscored Thailand’s dedication to promoting world-class sports tourism and reinforced the significance of the Centara World Masters as a flagship international golf event.

Go Golfing Founder and Managing Director Peter McCarthy commented at the welcome reception: “The success of this event is built on passion – for the game, for travel, and for bringing people together. Seeing players from five continents return year after year proves we’ve created something truly unique in amateur golf.”

More than just a tournament

The Centara World Masters is more than just a golf tournament; it’s a global gathering of like-minded golfers who share a passion for competition, connection, and discovery. With every round played and every story shared, this unique event continues to build a community that extends far beyond the final putt, said Siegel. 

Visit the Centara World Masters Golf Championship website: https://www.thailandworldmasters.com/.

For more information on Centara Hotels & Resorts or to make a booking visit Centara Hotels & Resorts

Penang prepares for Phnom Penh flights

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TTR WEEKLY
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PHNOM PENH, 19 June 2025: Cambodia Airways will commence twice-weekly direct flights between the Cambodian capital and Penang Island in Malaysia on 26 June.

To launch promotions and support the airline, the Penang Convention & Exhibition Bureau, representing the State of Penang, conducted a courtesy visit and strategic meeting with Cambodia Airways executives on 17 June 2025 at the airline’s headquarters in Phnom Penh.

PCEB Chief Executive Officer Ashwin Gunasekeran led the delegation, which included Head of Sales and Marketing Siti Sarah Ismail and Marketing and Communications Manager Terry Neoh.

The meeting served as a key platform to discuss collaborative efforts to support the successful launch and long-term sustainability of the new route.

The PCEB delegation met with senior representatives from Cambodia Airways, including Executive Deputy General Manager Guowei Bai; Deputy Director of the Marketing Committee Daniel Ly and Assistant to the CEO Sok Ravy.

Discussions focused on potential marketing collaborations, joint initiatives to raise awareness of the new connection, and opportunities to foster deeper ties between Penang and Cambodia.

The Phnom Penh–Penang direct flight is scheduled to commence operations on 26 June 2025, with services operating twice weekly, on Thursdays and Sundays. Cambodia Airways will deploy a 150-seat A319 to serve the route.

Flight schedule

KR785 will depart Phnom Penh (PNH) at 0805 and arrive in Penang (PEN) at 1055.
KR786 will depart Penang (PEN) at 1155 and arrive in Phnom Penh (PNH) at 1240.

This new route marks a significant milestone in enhancing regional connectivity, particularly for business and corporate travellers seeking convenient access between Cambodia and northern Malaysia.

As Penang continues to position itself as a dynamic hub for business events, investment, and innovation, the direct air link with Phnom Penh is set to enhance its standing within Southeast Asia’s corporate travel landscape.

Beyond the convenience of direct flights, the route will catalyse deeper bilateral ties, fostering business partnerships across tourism, MICE, trade, and creative sectors while opening doors to meaningful cross-border collaborations and industry exchange.

In addition, the shared cultural and heritage values between Penang and Cambodia. Both destinations are home to numerous UNESCO World Heritage sites that will open new doors for cultural tourism and heritage-based exchanges.

With George Town in Penang and the historical richness of Phnom Penh and Siem Reap, this connection fosters a deeper appreciation and exploration of Southeast Asia’s diverse yet intertwined cultural legacies.

The route also offers strategic value as a transit option for business travellers, providing seamless access between Cambodia and northern Malaysia while linking them to the broader ASEAN region through Penang’s expanding network of regional and international connections.

To ensure the route’s success, PCEB will explore strategic collaborations with Cambodia Airways and other partners to promote the service and enhance awareness among key target markets. These efforts are designed to support the long-term viability of the route and encourage stronger two-way engagement between Penang and Cambodia.

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