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Emirates expands Chauffeur-Drive in Japan

TOKYO, Japan, 30 January 2026: Emirates has announced the expansion of its signature Chauffeur-Drive service in Japan, extending the premium ground experience to customers travelling from Narita International Airport from 1 February 2026 and Kansai International Airport from 1 March 2026. 

These destinations are added to the existing Chauffeur-Drive service available at Haneda Airport, reinforcing Emirates’ position as the only international airline offering this premium chauffeur-driven service in Japan.

Available to First Class and Business Class customers travelling on eligible Emirates-operated flights, the Chauffeur-Drive service offers a seamless, door-to-door travel experience, providing complimentary private transfers between the airport and a customer’s home, hotel or office.

Emirates’ world-class ground service for premium travellers at Tokyo Narita is rounded out with access to the airline’s lounge in Terminal 2.  

Service coverage and key details

  • Chauffeur-Drive service coverage includes up to 100 driven kilometres per journey, calculated based on the shortest distance between the airport and the customer’s designated pick-up or drop-off location.
  • Service to Narita International Airport covers the Tokyo 23 wards and most parts of Tokyo, Chiba, Saitama and Kanagawa prefectures.
  • Service to Kansai International Airport covers Osaka City and most parts of Osaka, Nara, Kyoto and Hyogo prefectures.
  • Excess mileage beyond the 100-kilometre allowance will be charged at JPY 500 per additional kilometre, with applicable tax/VAT added.
  • Any excess mileage charges are to be settled directly with the driver, payable in cash (Japanese Yen only) or by credit card.

Customers can arrange their Chauffeur-Drive service in advance through Manage Your Booking on emirates.com, or via the Emirates contact centre 03-6743-4567.

The expansion of Chauffeur-Drive further complements Emirates’ growing presence in Japan, where the airline operates flights to Haneda Airport, Narita International Airport and Kansai International Airport.

For more information on Emirates’ Chauffeur-Drive service, visit: https://www.emirates.com/jp/japanese/experience/chauffeur-drive.

(Source: Your Stories — Emirates)

Cebu headlines business event potential

LAPU-LAPU CITY, Cebu, 30 January 2026: Targeting more international events, the Department of Tourism (DOT) and the Cebu MICE Alliance launched Cebu’s first-ever MICE guidebook on the sidelines of ASEAN Tourism Forum TRAVEX earlier this week.

The annual regional trade show convened from 28 to 30 January in the host destination Cebu, the Philippines, attracting 271 international travel buyers, 124 Philippine travel content providers, and 222 registered seller exhibitors from the remaining 10 ASEAN member nations — Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Singapore, Thailand, Timor Leste and Vietnam.

Photo credit: DOT. Cebu presents Cebu’s business events guide.

In a move to boost Cebu’s Meetings, Incentives, Conventions, and Exhibitions (MICE) sector, leading players launched the inaugural edition of the Cebu MICE Guidebook to participants at the trade show, which ends today, Friday, 30 January.

DOT Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco, Tourism Promotions Board (TPB) Chief Operating Officer Marga Nograles, and Cebu MICE Alliance President Cleofe Albiso led the unveiling of the Cebu MICE Guide 2025 at the recently opened Mactan Expo, the main venue for the TRAVEX and ATF 2026 sessions.

Developed by the Cebu MICE Alliance and printed by the DOT, the guidebook contains key information on the island province’s venues, accommodations, destination experiences, service providers, and support infrastructure, serving as a practical resource and pitch for event planners and organisers worldwide. 

In 2024, the said regional alliance of line agencies and tourism-allied industries noted that MICE tourism in Cebu is rapidly growing and “is poised to make a significant economic impact, contributing an estimated PHP1 billion to Cebu’s economy by 2029.” 

Tourism Secretary Frasco lauded the Cebu MICE alliance for developing the guidebook, emphasising that the initiative not only promotes the province as a premier destination for international engagements but also empowers communities and local stakeholders. 

“Cebu’s strength as a MICE destination lies in the depth and balance of what it offers. An award-winning international airport and broad air connectivity support venues and world-class hotels, as well as convention and exhibition facilities, including this venue. Beyond the meeting room, Cebu offers beaches and island diversity, world-class diving, living culture, vibrant festivals, and a tradition of warm Filipino hospitality that consistently distinguishes the Cebu experience,” said Secretary Frasco. 

MICE tourism has proven to be an income-generating opportunity for the Philippines. Data from the International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA) showed that foreign delegates spend an average of over PHR32,086 per day, which is nearly five times the amount spent by a typical leisure tourist. 

(Source: DOT Philippines)

Asia Pacific events calendar looks positive

SINGAPORE, 30 January 2026: New data reveals a projected business events spend of over USD250 million this year as The Meetings Show Asia Pacific prepares for its third edition, to be held in Singapore from 14 to 15 April 2026. 

Over half (52%) of event planners in the Asia Pacific (APAC) expect to produce more meetings in 2026. 41% anticipate producing the same performance as last year. Only 5% predict a drop in production compared to 9% a year ago.  

Photo credit: Northstar Meetings Group.

The new data comes from a survey of 167 planners in the APAC region by Cvent and Northstar Meetings Group, organiser of The Meetings Show Asia Pacific.  

However, despite the anticipated uplift in volume, only one quarter (28%) of planners expect to see an increase in attendees. This compares to 45% last year.  

MCI Middle East Regional Director – Business Development, Alexander John, will attend The Meetings Show Asia Pacific 2026 in Singapore as a hosted buyer. 

He explains what’s driving this growth: “There’s a measurable shift in economic momentum and demand coming from APAC. The region is now large enough — and increasingly integrated sufficiently — to generate more of its growth internally, even while remaining deeply connected to global markets. For example, East Asia and the Pacific alone have a population of 2.39 billion and a GDP of USD32 trillion (2024), creating a scale of domestic and regional demand that can support organic growth. 

“That scale is reinforced by deeper intra-regional trade. UN ESCAP notes that in 2024, intra-Asia-Pacific trade accounted for 53% of the region’s exports and 56% of its imports, meaning more than half of goods trade is now anchored within the region itself (not primarily dependent on Western markets). 

“APAC’s combination of massive market size, rising intra-regional trade intensity, and still-strong growth expectations helps it absorb shocks better than smaller, less-integrated regions – while not making it immune to global downturns, tariffs, or financial tightening.” 

Northstar Travel Group Asia Events Director Nelson Khoosaid: “With overwhelming market interest in The Meetings Show Asia Pacific, buyer applications reveal strong sentiments that APAC continues to demonstrate strength and resilience in MICE activities. Collectively, buyers project an annual meeting spend of over USD250 million, with strong demand for Singapore, Thailand, Malaysia, and Vietnam.”  

The research also shows significantly higher optimism among planners in APAC than last year and than their counterparts in EMEA and North America.  

70% of APAC planners are more optimistic than 44% in EMEA and 32% in North America. 

Last year, these stats were 63% (APAC) and 47% in EMEA and North America.   

Only 20% of APAC planners are less optimistic, compared to 26% in EMEA and 32% in North America. 

“The region has not only recovered from the pandemic but is now experiencing a strong and sustained phase of growth,” adds Alexander John in explanation of this burst of optimism.  

“With relative stability, expanding trade relations, and a more predictable geopolitical climate compared to many other parts of the world, economic activity continues to strengthen. This combination of increasing commercial momentum, minimal geopolitical disruption, and steady health and political environments has created an ideal landscape for continued growth and enhanced economic output.” 

Launched in 2024, The Meetings Show Asia Pacific co-locates with Business Travel Show Asia Pacific. It will take place from 14 to 15 April at Marina Bay Sands, Singapore and is free to attend for meetings and events professionals. 

The event also offers a hosted-buyer programme for decision-makers in Asia. Registration is open now at www.themeetingsshow-apac.com

(Source: Northstar Travel Group)

Crystal lines up its third ship

MELBOURNE, 30 January 2026: Crystal, a cruise line under Abercrombie & Kent Travel Group, is entering 2026 with strong commercial momentum as it marks the next chapter in the brand’s revival.

Confidence in its long-term future is underscored by the announcement of Crystal Grace, the brand’s first new ocean ship in 25 years, scheduled for delivery in May 2028. 

Photo credit: A&K. Crystal Serenity and Crystal Symphony.

The 650-guest, all-suite vessel will represent a natural evolution of Crystal’s design and service philosophy, with generous public spaces, world-class dining and one of the highest crew-to-guest ratios in the segment. Crystal Grace’s 2028 inaugural season is set to go on sale in April 2026.

Following its acquisition by A&K Travel Group in 2022, Crystal has undergone a transformation. The brand’s two ships, Crystal Serenity and Crystal Symphony, returned to service in 2023 after extensive multi-million-dollar refurbishments, re-emerging with larger, refined suites, enhanced public spaces and a renewed focus on space, service and sophisticated elegance.

2025 marked Crystal’s second full year of operations, representing an important period of stabilisation and growth. During the year, the brand achieved net positive profitability, a foundation that continues to translate into strong demand. 

Looking ahead, the 2026 Asia season is nearing capacity, with Alaska also filling up fast, while the Mediterranean and Northern Europe continue to perform exceptionally well. Select sailings remain available, particularly on summer and autumn voyages, including in The Americas and Caribbean and Europe and the Mediterranean.

Crystal’s pioneering partnership with sister brand Abercrombie & Kent was brought to life through the ‘By Abercrombie & Kent’ programme. Throughout 2025, Crystal significantly expanded this portfolio of A&K-curated journeys, integrating shore experiences, overland adventures and pre- and post-cruise extensions directly into its itineraries.

Additionally, the brands announced a transformative new chapter for A&K’s Expedition Cruises division through a strategic partnership with Crystal, which will deliver A&K’s cultural voyages aboard Crystal’s fleet. The initial August 2026 sailing sold out within weeks, and 10 more voyages are scheduled for 2027.

(Source: A&K)

Japan’s financial repricing: Will travel feel the pinch?

BANGKOK, 30 January, 2026: Japan is rarely associated with uncertainty. For decades, it has represented stability, efficiency, and quiet confidence, traits that have underpinned its economy and its enduring appeal as a travel destination. 

Yet as 2026 gets underway, attention has shifted from cherry blossoms and Shinkansen timetables to a less comfortable topic, Japan’s government bond market. Rising yields, a volatile yen, and investor unease are raising questions not only for financiers but for tourism across Asia, particularly the long-standing travel relationship between Japan and Thailand. 

The market story, in plain English

Japan’s recent market turbulence stems from a gradual but significant shift in monetary conditions. After decades of ultra-low interest rates and heavy central bank intervention, government bond yields have begun to rise. This reflects concerns about public debt sustainability, inflation pressures, and the future direction of policy.

For travellers, the most visible effect is currency volatility A softer yen makes Japan more affordable for inbound visitors, from accommodation and dining to transport and shopping At the same time, it can make overseas travel more expensive for Japanese residents, subtly influencing outbound travel decisions As Mark Carney might say, ‘this is not a crisis, but it is a recalibration’. 

Iconic sustainability is a cornerstone of tourism in Japan

What does this mean for tourism in Japan

Tourism and confidence are quietly linked. When domestic confidence weakens, Japanese travellers tend to become more selective rather than retreat altogether. Trips may be shorter, closer to home, or more value-focused.

Inbound tourism, however, often benefits. A weaker yen reinforces Japan’s appeal as a safe, clean, culturally rich destination offering excellent value. For Asian travellers in particular, Japan remains easy to access, well organised, and endlessly rewarding, even in times of economic uncertainty.

The Thailand connection

For Thailand, Japan’s financial adjustment matters most for outbound travel. A volatile or weak yen can dampen outbound travel from Japan, particularly in long-haul leisure and premium segments. Historically, Japanese visitors to Thailand have been high-value travellers, known for repeat visits and longer stays; therefore, any softening is closely monitored.

That said, experience suggests moderation rather than collapse. Japanese travellers adapt. When value, reliability, and emotional connection align, travel continues. Thailand continues to offer all three.

The global backdrop, the US and confidence

Japan’s domestic challenges are unfolding amid broader global uncertainty, particularly regarding the US Under the catastrophic influence of Trump, markets are again facing unpredictability, from tariff rhetoric and trade tensions to strained alliances What is striking this time is the growing crisis of confidence among Trump’s supporters, which increases the risk of erratic policy signals and sudden reversals The probable abandonment of his much-touted “beautiful ballroom”, stalled by court action over funding, alongside his conspicuous absence of support at Davos – respected World Leaders using the forum to consolidate their collective dislike of the man and rising discontent among his own base, points to a rapid erosion of confidence that may well thankfully mark the beginning of the end for Trump.

For Japan, deeply integrated into global trade and financial systems, this matters. Trade disruptions and capital-flow volatility can amplify bond-market stress and currency swings. In such environments, investor caution rises, and consumer confidence softens, with knock-on effects for discretionary spending, including travel.

Tourism in an age of uncertainty

When global confidence weakens, tourism patterns tend to shift rather than disappear. Business travel and long-haul discretionary trips are often the first to feel pressure. Leisure travel adapts, favouring destinations perceived as safe, efficient, welcoming, and politically neutral.

Japan fits this profile well for inbound tourism. Thailand does too. In an unsettled world, reassurance becomes a competitive advantage.

A personal reflection

Japan remains one of my favourite countries to visit. Food culture, environmental awareness, safety, and quiet sustainability are embedded in everyday life. Even when markets wobble, those fundamentals do not change.

For Asian travellers, particularly those from Thailand, practicality matters. Flights to Japan are frequent, schedules are reliable, and accommodation options are broad. Availability has rarely been a problem. That ease removes friction, and friction is often the silent killer of travel demand. The same can be said of Thailand.

The bottom line

Japan’s bond market volatility signals a transition, not a decline. Tourism will feel the effects at the margins, particularly in outbound travel. Still, core drivers remain intact. For Thailand, the implications are manageable and may even present an opportunity.

In a world marked by financial recalibration and geopolitical noise, destinations that offer stability, value, and genuine welcome tend to perform best. Japan remains compelling. Thailand remains well-positioned. Markets may fluctuate, but the desire to travel endures.

About the author
Andrew J Wood is a British-born travel writer, former hotelier, and tourism consultant who has lived in Thailand since 1991 With more than four decades of experience in international hospitality and tourism, he is a former Director of Skål International and a past President of Skål International Asia, Thailand, and Bangkok Andrew writes extensively on tourism trends, sustainability, aviation, and destination strategy across the Asia-Pacific region, contributing to travel and hospitality publications worldwide His work reflects a long-standing commitment to responsible tourism, cross-cultural understanding, and the evolving role of travel in a changing global economy.

Discova names head of educational travel

SINGAPORE, 30 January 2026: Discova has appointed Michaela Connor as General Manager of Discova Educational Travel, a division of the global destination management company headquartered in Brisbane, Australia, with country offices across Asia.

Connor has already been working closely with the team since mid-January as she prepares to step into the role, with a clear focus on what schools, universities, and agent partners need most: strong safeguarding, thoughtful programme design, and trusted, consistent delivery on the ground.

Photo credit: Discova. Michaela Connor.

She brings broad experience across travel leadership and risk-led practice, with a track record of strengthening standards, building capable teams, and setting clear expectations. That perspective is critical in educational travel, where duty of care and responsible practice are non-negotiable.

As general manager, she will lead DET to its next phase of growth, supporting partners with programmes that are academically purposeful, delivered safely, and built with local expertise.

Meanwhile, Discova Education Travel has appointed Raymond Wong as head of programme operations. Tricia Loh took on the assignment of Singapore Country Manager for Discova earlier this month. She has been leading the Malaysia team since last year, and will also start overseeing Discova’s business in Singapore.

Discova is a global destination management company, owned by the Flight Centre Travel Group (FCTG).

(Source: Discova)

AAPA reports 2025 air traffic performance

KUALA LUMPUR, 30 January 2026: Preliminary traffic figures for the full calendar year 2025 released yesterday by the Association of Asia Pacific Airlines (AAPA) showed robust growth in both international air passenger and cargo markets, underpinned by resilient economic conditions and healthy travel demand, even as trade and geopolitical uncertainties remained elevated.

For the year, the region’s airlines carried a combined 390.5 million international passengers, a solid 9.4% increase from 2024. Demand, as measured in revenue passenger kilometres (RPK), rose by 11.0%, reflecting relative strength on long-haul routes, while intra-regional traffic remained buoyant, supported by regional economic growth. Continued network expansion drove a 10.2% annual increase in available seat capacity, resulting in a 0.5 percentage point rise in the average international passenger load factor to a record 82.2% in 2025.

Amid a challenging operating environment marked by tariffs on Asian and major global economies, air cargo markets benefited from the rapid adaptation of global supply chains. As a result, Asia Pacific airlines recorded a 5.6% increase in international air cargo demand, as measured in freight tonne kilometres (FTK), in 2025. Continued expansion in belly-hold space contributed to a 6.8% increase in offered freight capacity, leading to a 0.7 percentage point decline in the average international freight load factor to 60.3% for the year.

Commenting on the results,  AAPA Director General, Subhas Menon,  said: “Asia Pacific carriers saw a year of strong growth in international passenger traffic, supported by robust demand across key markets in the region, including China, India, Japan and Vietnam. This resulted in a 9.4% increase in the number of international passengers carried for the year.”

“In addition, Asia Pacific airlines recorded a 5.6% increase in international air cargo demand in 2025, building on the strong 14.9% growth achieved in 2024. The region’s carriers demonstrated agility in responding to changes in trade policies and market dynamics, while benefiting from continued growth in e-commerce demand and intermediate goods flows from manufacturing hubs across the region.”

Looking ahead, Menon added: “The broader outlook for air travel remains positive in 2026, supported by steady economic growth and continued network expansion. Air cargo demand is also expected to continue growing, but may be weighed down by trade tensions in the global economy.”

“At the same time, Asian airlines continue to face inflationary pressures on operating costs, partly reflecting ongoing supply chain disruptions. Overall, Asia Pacific airlines remain focused on active cost management, investments in digital capabilities, and network adjustments in response to market changes, as they navigate ongoing uncertainties while delivering sustainable, long-term growth.”

(Source: AAPA)

Diamond Princess heightens dining experience

SINGAPORE, 29 January 2026: Princess Cruises’ Diamond Princess has added two speciality dining venues — Makoto Ocean and Princess’s signature, guest‑favourite steakhouse Crown Grill, further elevating the onboard culinary experience. 

Reservations are now available for all sailings.

Photo credit: Princess Cruises.

Diamond Princess is currently sailing round-trip from Singapore, offering a range of immersive itineraries throughout the region, visiting destinations including Thailand, Malaysia and Vietnam, before returning to Japan on 10 February for a sold-out 14-day cruise where guests can celebrate Valentine’s Day as well as Chinese New Year onboard.

Makoto Ocean

Makoto Ocean, which premiered onboard Sun Princess and Star Princess, brings the refined artistry of Chef Makoto Okuwa’s Edomae-style sushi to Diamond Princess. Located on Deck 7, the venue showcases a premium menu of signature dishes such as truffle salmon, snow crab temaki and toro tartare, paired with handcrafted cocktails inspired by Japanese flavours, including the Genmai Negroni and Kodai No Hana, which blends yuzu juice with traditional Doburoku sake. The restaurant reflects Princess Cruises’ continued commitment to elevated, globally inspired dining at sea.

With popular restaurants in Miami Beach, Washington, D.C., Vail, Sao Paulo, Madrid and Panama City, Chef Okuwa has showcased his skills on Food Network’s Iron Chef America. The prestigious James Beard Foundation has recognised him.

Crown Grill

Also debuting is the award-winning Crown Grill, a longtime Princess guest favourite set in the former Savoy Dining Room on Deck 5. Featuring premium aged beef, chops and fresh seafood, the steakhouse offers an elegant, welcoming atmosphere and attentive service. Crown Grill has consistently been recognised among the “Best Cruise Ship Steakhouses at Sea.”

Both speciality dining venues are priced at US$55 per person and are included with the Princess Premier package.

“With Makoto Ocean and Crown Grill now onboard Diamond Princess, and also recently added onboard sister ship Sapphire Princess, we’re proud to enhance the guest experience as Diamond Princess sails across Asia and as we look ahead to our dual-ship Japan season in 2027,” said  Princess Cruises Vice President of Food and Beverage Sami Kohen.

Historic Japan season in 2027

In a historic first for the cruise line, Princess Cruises will offer its most expansive Japan season ever in 2027, featuring Diamond Princess and Sapphire Princess sailing from the Tokyo region throughout the entire season. Marking a major milestone for the brand’s legacy in Asia, the 2027 programme includes 78 departures across 50 unique itineraries, with voyages ranging from seven to 28 days, making it Princess’s most robust Japan deployment to date. The March–December 2027 Japan season is now open for sale.

Sister ships built in Japan

Diamond Princess, at 115,875 tons and accommodating 2,670 guests, is a sister ship to Sapphire Princess, both built in Japan. This important distinction underscores Princess Cruises’ long-standing legacy in the region and deep connection to Asia.

Diamond Princess features the largest onboard Japanese bath complex at 820 sqm, offering guests both outdoor and indoor bathing experiences.

(Source: Princess Cruises)

Emirates Skywards partners with Jet2

DUBAI, UAE, 29 January 2026: Emirates Skywards has partnered with the UK’s favourite airline, Jet2.com, to offer members flight rewards to more than 75 destinations across the leading leisure airline’s network. The award-winning loyalty programme of Emirates and flydubai continues to expand its portfolio in the UK to offer its four million members more opportunities, rewards and travel choices.

Emirates Skywards, Divisional Senior Vice President Dr Nejib Ben Khedher said: “The UK is one of our top markets, and we’re pleased to expand our portfolio to offer millions of members a chance to redeem flight rewards on popular holiday destinations served by Jet2.com. In addition to flight tickets, members can also redeem Miles for meals, extra baggage allowance, preferred seat selection, and more – making it possible to enjoy the perfect start to a holiday, fully covered by Skywards Miles. We’re always looking for new ways to expand our offerings and provide members with the best value, choice, and rewards a loyalty programme can offer.”

Starting from 8,000 Skywards Miles

Starting from 8,000 Skywards Miles, including all fees, members can now enjoy convenient redemption options to popular leisure destinations served by Jet2.com. The UK’s third largest airline operates from 14 airport bases, including London Gatwick from March 2026, to destinations across Europe, the Mediterranean, North Africa and the Canary Islands.

To illustrate the benefits of this new partnership: 

Emirates Skywards members can travel from London to Sydney via Dubai on a round-trip Premium Economy Flex Plus ticket and earn 18,000 Miles, which can then be fully redeemed for a Jet2.com round-trip flight ticket from London Stansted to Majorca, Spain.

Emirates Skywards members can also book two round-trip flights with Emirates from Manchester to Dubai in Business Class Flex and earn 21,000 Miles, which can then be fully redeemed for a Jet2.com round-trip flight ticket from Manchester to Salzburg, Austria, for a ski trip.

For more information, visit emirates.com/skywards.

(Source: Your Stories — Emirates)

Sarawak builds awareness in Thailand

BANGKOK, 29 January 2026: Building on three consecutive years of presence in Thailand’s travel marketplace, Sarawak Tourism Board (STB) continued its engagement at the Thai International Travel Fair (TITF) Bangkok 2026, held from 22 to 25 January 2026 at the Queen’s Park Sirikit National Convention Centre (QSNCC), reinforcing Sarawak’s long-term commitment to the Thailand market in support of Visit Malaysia Year 2026.

Thailand continues to show positive year-on-year growth for Sarawak, reflecting the effectiveness of sustained engagement and collaborative promotional efforts. Visitor arrivals in 2025 exceeded those of the previous year, reinforcing Thailand’s role as a growing market within Sarawak’s ASEAN outreach.

From right: H.E. Datuk Wan Zaidi Wan Abdullah, Ambassador of Malaysia to the Kingdom of Thailand, and YB Datuk Razali bin Idris, Terengganu State Chairman of Tourism and Arts, at the Sarawak booth during TITF Bangkok 2026.

“Thailand is a market where Sarawak has built sustained visibility and trust through long-term engagement,” said Dr Sharzede Datu Haji Salleh Askor, Chief Executive Officer of Sarawak Tourism Board. “Our presence at TITF Bangkok 2026 reflects our focus on deepening trade collaboration, strengthening Sarawak’s role as Malaysia’s Gateway to Borneo, and translating market confidence into measurable visitor growth as part of Visit Malaysia Year 2026.”

As part of the Malaysia Pavilion led by Tourism Malaysia, Sarawak’s presence at TITF Bangkok 2026 directly supported Malaysia’s national tourism promotion efforts and aligned with Tourism Malaysia’s efforts.

Malaysia’s projected target of 43 million visitor arrivals for Visit Malaysia Year 2026. The engagement also forms part of Sarawak’s EDGE Strategy, specifically under Elevate to enhance international destination awareness, and Diversify to strengthen Thailand as an emerging market in ASEAN, complementing Sarawak’s traditional source markets of Indonesia and Singapore.

TITF Bangkok 2026 marks the Sarawak Tourism Board’s third participation at the Thai International Travel Fair, following previous engagements in Bangkok (2024) and Chiang Mai (2025). This sustained presence reflects a deliberate, long-term strategy to build destination recognition, trade confidence, and consumer familiarity in the Thai market.

Throughout the four-day fair, STB promoted Sarawak’s tourism offerings across culture, nature, and experiential travel, engaging Thai consumers seeking regional and international travel inspiration.

The Board also conducted networking and discussions with Thai travel agents, tour operators, airline partners, and industry stakeholders, laying the groundwork for future collaborations, improved air connectivity, promotional initiatives, and familiarisation programmes.

Sarawak’s continued presence at TITF reflects a broader strategy of consistent, multi-year market engagement, reinforcing destination visibility through repetition, trust-building, and sustained messaging rather than one-off participation.

As Visit Malaysia Year 2026 unfolds, Sarawak remains committed to playing a meaningful role within the national tourism narrative, positioning itself not only as a destination to visit, but as Malaysia’s Gateway to Borneo, offering immersive experiences rooted in culture, nature and authentic connection.

For more information on Sarawak, visit: Sarawak Tourism Board

(Source: Your Stories — Sarawak Tourism Board)