SINGAPORE, 7 MAY 2025: As school breaks and summer holidays get underway digital travel platform Agoda reveals the top family travel destinations in Asia for 2025, based on search data from January to March 2025.
Agoda identifies the top 10 family-friendly destinations in Asia — Tokyo, Osaka, Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur, and Seoul, with Singapore, Bali, Taipei, Okinawa, and Hong Kong.
Photo credit: Agoda.
According to Agoda’s 2025 Trend Survey, family travel is on the rise, with over a third of travellers (34%) planning to explore the world with their loved ones this year — a testament to the growing desire for shared experiences. Families embrace the joy of travel together, but none more so than travellers from South Korea, Taiwan, Japan, Malaysia, and Thailand, leading the charge as the most avid family travellers in order of importance.
For city-loving groups, Tokyo, Kuala Lumpur, and Singapore deliver a mix of culture, entertainment, and kid-friendly attractions. Beach lovers can head to Bali or Okinawa, while foodies can explore Bangkok’s famous street food or family-friendly mega shopping malls.
Agoda Associate Vice President North Asia Hiroto Ooka said: “Family travel is all about creating memories that last a lifetime, and Agoda is here to make that as seamless and affordable as possible. Whether it’s a beach escape, a city adventure, or a mix of both, Agoda’s got the perfect stay for every family. Plus, with our mobile app, finding the best deals is as easy as planning your next family game night.”
SINGAPORE, 7 MAY 2025: Passenger demand, measured in revenue passenger kilometres (RPK) during March 2025, improved by 3.3% compared to March 2024, according to the latest data from the International Air Transport Association (IATA) released last week.
IATA’s air traffic highlights for March 2025 also showed capacity, measured in available seat kilometres (ASK), was up 5.3% year-on-year.
The March load factor was 80.7% (-1.6 ppt compared to March 2024).
International demand rose 4.9% compared to March 2024. Capacity was up 7.0% year-on-year, and the load factor was 79.9% (-1.7 ppt compared to March 2024).
Domestic demand increased 0.9% compared to March 2024. Capacity was up 2.5% year-on-year. The load factor was 82.0% (-1.3 ppt compared to March 2024).
“Passenger demand grew by 3.3% year-on-year in March, a slight strengthening from the 2.7% growth reported for February. However, a capacity expansion of 5.3% outpaced the demand expansion, leading to a load factor decline from record highs to 80.7% systemwide. There remains a lot of speculation around the potential impacts of tariffs and other economic headwinds on travel. While the small decline in demand in North America needs to be watched carefully, March numbers continued to show a global growth pattern for air travel. That means the challenges associated with accommodating more people who need to travel—specifically alleviating supply chain problems and ensuring sufficient airport and air traffic management capacity — remain urgent,” said IATA’s Director General Willie Walsh.
Regional Breakdown – International Passenger Markets
International RPK growth slowed to 4.9% in March year-on-year, from the 5.9% reported for February and the 12.5% reported in January. This slowdown since January largely reflects the final normalisation of year-on-year demand comparisons post-COVID. Asia-Pacific was the strongest performer among regions, with 9.9% growth. Load factors fell in every region, for a -1.7 ppt overall decline.
Asia-Pacific airlines reported a 9.9% year-on-year increase indemand. Capacity increased 11.6% year-on-year, and the load factor was 84.1% (-1.3 ppt compared to March 2024).
European carriers had a 4.9% year-on-year increase in demand. Capacity increased 6.9% year-on-year, and the load factor was 78.2% (-1.5 ppt compared to March 2024).
Middle Eastern carriers saw a -1.0% year-on-year decline in demand. Capacity increased 2.8% year-on-year, and the load factor was 74.6% (-2.9 ppt compared to March 2024). The decrease in demand is likely related to the timing of Ramadan, which impacts travel patterns.
North American carriers saw a 0.1% year-on-year fall in demand. Capacity increased 2.0% year-on-year, and the load factor was 83.0% (-1.8 ppt compared to March 2024). While demand had a second consecutive month of year-on-year contraction, it is important to note that this is an improvement on the -1.5% decline reported for February.
Latin American airlines saw a 7.7% year-on-year increase in demand. Capacity climbed 12.1% year-on-year. The load factor was 80.9% (-3.3 ppt compared to March 2024).
African airlines saw a 3.3% year-on-year increase in demand. Capacity was up 3.5% year-on-year. The load factor was 70.1% (-0.2 ppt compared to March 2024).
BANGKOK, 7 MAY 2025: Hotel investment growth in Thailand will likely normalise in 2025, with factors including the entry of new high-quality hotels and favourable occupancy and average day rates (ADR) easing the record trading momentum seen in 2024.
According to JLL ((NYSE: JLL), hotel investment is expected to stabilise in 2025, with over THB13 billion (approximately USD385 million) in capital projected to be deployed into Thailand’s hotel sector.
In 2025, JLL estimates that Bangkok transactions will continue dominating the investment market, comprising nearly 60% of all deals nationally. Significantly, JLL analysis shows that the average transaction size will grow to THB1.8 billion (USD53.2 million), 80% higher than the 10-year average of THB1 billion (USD29.5 million). Furthermore, the market in 2025 is expected to be dominated by single asset deals, consistent with transactions including the Hyatt Regency Bangkok Sukhumvit, the largest ever single asset hotel deal in Thailand history closed by JLL in 2024
JLL believes that strong tourism momentum and growth in trading performance amongst domestic and foreign investors in Thailand’s hotel market were exceptional events. This surge in investor appetite led to a record-breaking volume of hotel transactions in 2024 of THB22 billion (approximately USD650 million), reaffirming Thailand’s status as a core investment market in the region.
Performance in higher-end hotel segments is likely to stabilise, whilst economy to midscale hotels will continue showcasing substantial improvement in 2025. However, the pace of investment, more in line with historical levels, is expected to open new conversations with investors and operators on debt and green financing as trading volumes tighten this year.
“The fundamentals of Thailand’s hotel market are extremely appealing to investors, further exemplified by the expected diversification of investment patterns and the mainstreaming of more innovative and flexible approaches to debt. Financing mechanisms play a critical role in facilitating growth, renovations, and new developments within the economically important Thailand tourism industry, but we see greater optionality emerging with non-bank financial institutions complementing traditional bank lenders to support anticipated tourism demand,” says JLL Hotels & Hospitality Group, Asia PacificExecutive Vice President, Investment Sales Pimpanga Orn Yomchinda.
According to JLL, commercial banks extend substantial long-term credit facilities at competitive interest rates, operating under the stringent regulatory framework overseen by the Bank of Thailand. They focus on large-scale, established hotel projects supported by comprehensive due diligence processes. To proceed, long-term credit facilities generally emphasise collateral, predominantly the hotel property itself, coupled with financial covenants.
Conversely, non-bank financial institutions — leasing companies, finance corporations and specialised lenders — are playing a far more active role in meeting financing demands and flexibility. Investors increasingly treat this segment as more adaptable and innovative in providing financing solutions, effectively addressing market segments underserved by traditional banking channels. Although interest rates are generally higher, reflecting increased risk exposure, these institutions often structure bespoke financing packages, coupled with expedited approval processes and flexible terms, that accommodate the cyclical nature of hotel revenues.
Furthermore, as global awareness of environmental issues grows, governments, lenders, and borrowers have been placing more weight on the environmental impact of hotel operations and developments. This shift has led to the introduction of sustainable financing options offered by some major Thai banks and international lenders in the Thai market. The evolution reflects changing investor priorities while anticipating future regulatory changes and evolving consumer preferences in the hospitality sector.
“Sustainability has never been more critical to both owners and operators of Thailand’s hotels and their broader stakeholders. The contractual commitments made with lenders and broader stakeholders through sustainable financing, facilitated by the Thailand Taxonomy and issued by the Bank of Thailand, serve as a public demonstration of these stakeholders’ dedication to sustainability, which has been highlighted as a key benefit for corporate reputation and stakeholder trust. Both bank and non-financial institutions will play a critical role in this ongoing financing transition in Thailand,” says JLL Hotels & Hospitality Group, Asia Pacific Vice President, Strategic Advisory & Asset Management, You Ree Park. Read more here: https://www.jll.co.th/en/trends-and-insights/research/thailand-hospitality-financing-guide-2025.
KUALA LUMPUR, 7 MAY 2025: The Malaysian Association of Tour and Travel Agents (MATTA) celebrates its 50 golden years as an Association this year.
In 1975, when Malaysia was still a young and rapidly developing nation, a small but determined group of Malaysian travel professionals came together with a shared purpose — to form a unified voice for the travel and tour industry in Malaysia. Through this ambition, MATTA was born and has since grown into a national force that shaped the Malaysian tourism landscape for half a century.
Esteemed Past Presidents Of MATTA (From Left) • Datuk Tan Kok Liang • Datuk Haji Hamzah Rahmat • Dato’ Mohd Khalid Harun • Nigel Wong, Current President Of MATTA • Dato’ Ngiam Foon • Mokhti Abas • Ym Tunku Iskandar Tunku Abdullah
With a mission to unite the industry, MATTA brought tour and travel agents together under a single banner. It continues to advocate and stand at the forefront of policy engagement and industry empowerment.
From its earliest days, MATTA has backed grassroots travel agents, becoming their voice and ensuring their interests are heard. The Association has evolved as it navigates global evolution and economic challenges.
In 1991, MATTA pioneered the first MATTA Fair, originally known as the Malaysia International Travel Fair (MITF) – held in Kuala Lumpur.
The goal was simple yet impactful: to connect Malaysians with travel agents and travel opportunities under one roof. This became the go-to travel hub for locals seeking new adventures, and rather quickly, the fair cemented its popularity. By the year 2001, the MATTA Fair transitioned into a bi-annual fair. Over time, MATTA has expanded across the country and established MATTA Chapters nationwide.
Today, the renowned Fair is recognised as Malaysia’s largest international travel fair, attracting hundreds of thousands of visitors and generating millions in sales. It remains a point of pride for MATTA – a testament to achieving astonishing milestones through shared vision, collaboration, and commitment to industry excellence.
In 2011, MATTA stepped into a new era by opening its own headquarters in Kuala Lumpur. A significant milestone that marked the Association’s growth and maturity. The headquarters became more than just a one-stop centre, symbolising MATTA’s permanence, leadership, and long-term commitment to the Malaysian travel industry.
Photo credit: MATTA.
Throughout this remarkable journey, MATTA has been guided by a dedicated line of Presidents – each of whom brought vision, integrity, and leadership to their term of service:
1975–1976: Loh Yit Lock 1977–1979: Fahmy Mubarak 1980–1982: Kamalruzaman Bahadun 1983–1988: YM Tunku Dato’ Seri (Dr) Iskandar Tunku Abdullah 1989–1992: Mokhti Abas 1993–1998: Ahmad Kamil Abdullah 1998–2005: YM Tunku Dato’ Seri (Dr) Iskandar Tunku Abdullah (second term) 2005–2009: Dato’ Ngiam Foon 2010–2013: Dato’ Mohd Khalid Harun 2013–2017: Datuk Haji Hamzah Rahmat 2017–2023: Datuk Tan Kok Liang 2023–2026: Nigel Wong (Current)
Each of these leaders has left a lasting mark on MATTA’s legacy, from expanding membership to modernising and digitalising operations, strengthening strategic partnerships, and continuously driving the inbound and outbound sectors.
“We have faced challenges together, including the devastating impact of the pandemic, but we have recovered and emerged stronger, more united and more prepared to face what lies ahead. We’ve embraced new verticals in tourism, including digitalisation, sustainability, sports tourism, and educational travel, all with a people-first, community-centric approach. The MATTA’s Eco & Sustainable Tourism Initiative (MESTI) exemplifies our continued commitment towards building a sustainable and long-lasting tourism business,” said MATTA president Nigel Wong,
As MATTA marks its Golden Jubilee, the Association looks back with pride on its journey. It extends its heartfelt gratitude to the members, partners, stakeholders and secretariats who have contributed to its success. Each of them – founding members, national tourism organisations and strategic partners – played an essential role in the evolution of a united travel and tour industry. The story of MATTA continues to unfold, driven by those who believe in the power of tourism and its ability to connect, uplift, and transform as the Association looks ahead to the next 50 years of excellence.
DUBAI, 6 MAY 2025: Emirates and flydubai are setting the gold standard in airline partnerships, hitting a milestone of 5 million travellers* flying on their joint networks in the past year, reflecting an outstanding 36% positive growth in joint passengers carried compared to the previous year.
This latest milestone represents the culmination of more than seven years of close coordination and a shared objective to streamline travel and enhance Dubai’s connectivity. Supporting Dubai’s D33 vision to become a major economic hub, Emirates and flydubai are also poised to make Dubai one of the most connected cities in the world by adding 400 destinations to its foreign trade and tourism map.
His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman and Chief Executive of Emirates Group and Chairman of flydubai, said: “The Emirates and flydubai partnership has been a game-changer for both carriers. It is a testament to collaborative excellence that has delivered more flight options and a better experience for travellers, underpinned by a vast network that connects every corner of the globe. I’m immensely proud of what has been achieved so far. I look forward to the next phase of growth and impact that Emirates and flydubai will have on enhancing Dubai’s connectivity and shaping the future of air travel across regions.”
Since 2017, the partnership has delivered many benefits to more than 22 million customers who have travelled across the joint network of both carriers. By combining the strength of their networks, Emirates and flydubai have created a robust schedule that offers unrivalled choice and convenience and one integrated loyalty programme that continues to deliver fantastic benefits.
Starting with just 29 cities in 2017, today, the Emirates and flydubai joint network has expanded to a staggering 240 destinations in more than 100 countries, complemented by seamless on-ground experiences, a smooth check-in process, efficient baggage transfers, optimised flight schedules and enhanced connectivity at Dubai Airport with access to Terminal 3.
On average, customers can choose from 295 codeshare flights each day, which means expanded schedules and more flexibility when choosing departure times. More than 330 weekly flights operated by flydubai depart Terminal 3 to popular destinations, including Zanzibar, Kathmandu, Krabi, Riyadh, and Naples. Emirates customers can explore more than 132 flydubai destinations, while flydubai passengers can access more than 142 Emirates destinations.
Both carriers continue to offer world-class travel experiences with robust passenger demand for premium cabins, which have grown by 31%, which speaks to the strength of Emirates’ and flydubai’s product propositions.
Last year, Emirates launched flights to Bogota, Colombia, and Antananarivo in Madagascar, and it plans to connect to Da Nang, Siem Reap, and Shenzhen this summer. flydubai also announced 10 new cities, including popular destinations Antalya, Basel and Al Alamein for the summer season.
The award-winning loyalty programme of Emirates and flydubai, Emirates Skywards, continues to offer members one loyalty currency and fantastic rewards. Over 35 million members worldwide continue to earn and redeem Miles on all flights operated by Emirates and flydubai.
Tickets can be booked on emirates.com and flydubai.com, the Emirates App, Emirates Retail stores, Emirates and flydubai contact centres, or via travel agents.
Tickets can be booked on emirates.com and flydubai.com, the Emirates App, Emirates Retail stores, Emirates and flydubai contact centres, or via travel agents.
HUA HIN, 6 MAY 2025: Thailand’s sun-drenched fairways and luxury hospitality await once more as the Centara World Masters Golf Championship, Asia’s most illustrious amateur golf event, prepares to celebrate its tenth anniversary in grand style from 8th to 14th June 2025.
Set against the scenic backdrop of Hua Hin, a coastal haven renowned for its blend of old-world charm and modern refinement, this year’s tournament is poised to welcome over 450 golfers worldwide. Competitors will tee off across three of Thailand’s most revered courses: Black Mountain Golf Club, Pineapple Valley, and Springfield Royal Country Club – each a jewel in the region’s golfing crown.
Over the past decade, the Centara World Masters has evolved into more than just a tournament — it’s a global celebration of the sport. Since its inception, it has attracted 3,700 players from 25 nations, transforming Hua Hin into a melting pot of cultures, camaraderie, and competitive spirit.
“The Centara World Masters isn’t just about trophies,” says tournament co-organiser Golfasian’s Managing Director Mark Siegel: “It’s about lifelong friendships, unforgettable experiences, and celebrating golf’s universal language.”
That sentiment is echoed by Peter McCarthy, founder of Australia-based Go Golfing, who notes: “Seeing golfers reconnect year after year at the Centara World Masters proves that great events don’t just happen – they’re lived, cherished and passed down.”
With Centara Hotels & Resorts’ support and Thailand’s growing investment in luxury tourism and championship-calibre golf infrastructure, the 2025 event promises to be the most vibrant edition yet.
Whether it’s the thrill of the competition, the elegance of the gala dinners, or the sheer joy of exploring Thailand’s royal resort town, one thing is sure: the Centara World Masters continues to raise the bar for amateur golf festivals and its 10th year is shaping up to be a celebration unlike any other.
BANGKOK, 6 MAY 2025: Outrigger Hospitality Group has acquired Zeavola Resort, a beachfront Resort located on the northern tip of Thailand’s famed Phi Phi Island.
When it reopens on 1 October 2025, the property will have completed renovations and changed its name to Outrigger Phi Phi Island Resort. It will feature 63 suites and villas.
Photo credit: Outrigger. Beachfront Zeavola Resort is now an Outrigger.
It is the group’s fourth property in Thailand. Outrigger operates in Samui Island, Khao Lak (100 km north of Phuket Island and Surin Beach, Phuket.
KUALA LUMPUR, 6 MAY 2025: Capital A Berhad is confident in completing its Proposed Regularisation and Restructuring Plan by June 2025, citing continued progress across key regulatory, financial, and operational milestones.
The MYR1 billion private placement for AirAsia X is close to completion, with a sovereign wealth fund as the lead investor currently finalising its internal clearance. A letter from another investor confirming interest in participating in the private placement has also been received.
Photo credit AirAsia. Aviation Group will reactivate all its 250 aircraft by July.
The decision letter from the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), Thailand, is expected to be received by the first week of May.
Most lenders’ approvals have been secured, with the remaining two expected soon.
The aviation business disposal, a key condition of the restructuring, is moving towards a conclusion.
The Extraordinary General Meetings to obtain approval from shareholders and RCUIDS holders for the Proposed Regularisation Plan will be held on 7 May 2025.
The financial audit for the Financial Year, which ended December 2024, has been completed, while the first quarter of the financial year 2025 delivered a strong performance, driven by robust demand, weakening fuel prices and strengthening key ASEAN member country currencies.
The Aviation Group targets to reactivate all its 250 aircraft by July, marking a major recovery milestone.
The group remains steadfast and positive on its outlook despite the inclusion of a Material Uncertainty Related to Going Concern (MUGC) paragraph in the company’s latest audited consolidated financial statements – which the group views as a procedural outcome tied to timing and not a reflection of deterioration in its business fundamentals.
Capital A CEO Tony Fernandes said: “I’m very proud that after five challenging years of Covid-19, we’ve once again received a true and fair view of our accounts from Ernst & Young. While EY draws attention to the timing of our restructuring — particularly the MYR1 billion placement for AirAsia X — this reflects the scale and significance of the plan, not any weakness in our fundamentals.”
He added, “We want to assure our shareholders that the inclusion of the MUGC paragraph is an audit requirement when certain milestones remain pending at the date of issuance of audit report — even when they are well on track. It does not reflect any concern about the strength of our business. Meaningful progress is being made across all fronts, and we remain confident in completing all components of our restructuring plan successfully.”
Group-wide momentum continues
AirAsia X, Capital A’s related party, has exited PN17 and is now profitable.
Capital A’s non-aviation businesses posted a 29.7% increase in revenue year-on-year, returning to profitability in FY2024.
Favourable conditions and strategic partnerships are also supporting growth:
Engine provider GE partnership is progressing well; all 16 remaining aircraft are expected to be operational by July.
A new partnership with Malaysia Airports under its new ownership structure is expected to enhance margins.
Macroeconomic tailwinds are aiding recovery, including lower oil prices and favourable currency movements.
High load factors above pre-pandemic levels and high-yield ancillary income contribute to a stronger margin outlook.
The MUGC paragraph reflects standard audit caution amid pending restructuring steps and does not indicate operational weakness.
The group remains committed to updating stakeholders as it advances toward exiting PN17 and charting a new chapter of sustainable growth.
SINGAPORE, 6 MAY 2025: Vietjet has launched a direct daily service between Hanoi and Shanghai, marking a significant milestone in the airline’s expanding international flight network.
The new daily service strengthens Vietjet’s growing footprint in China, adding to the recent launch of four other routes connecting Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City to Beijing and Guangzhou, enhancing travel options for Singaporeans visiting Vietnam, China, and beyond.
Photo credit: Vietjet.
Vietjet Vice President Nguyen Duc Thinh said: “This new service reflects our continued commitment to providing travellers with more convenient and affordable flight options to Vietnam from key destinations around the world.”
To celebrate the summer travel season, Vietjet offers eco-class fares starting from SGD86(*) for one-way flights on all Singapore-Vietnam routes (Hanoi, Danang, Ho Chi Minh City, and Phu Quoc).
The promotional fares are available every Friday on the airline’s website and the Vietjet Air mobile app.
Flights on the Hanoi—Shanghai Pu Dong route started on 29 April, using A320s with 180 seats in a single-class configuration.
Flight schedule
VJ7238 departs Hanoi (HAN) at 2115 and arrives in Shanghai (PVG) at 0115 plus a day. VJ7239 departs Shanghai (PVG) at 0215 and arrives in Hanoi (HAN) at 0445.
Competition is tough on the Hanoi -Shanghai route with six airlines flying daily or double daily flights — Vietnam Airlines (daily), China Eastern (double daily), Air China (double daily), Juneyao Airlines (daily) and Vietjet (daily). The average roundtrip fare on the route is USD 420.
GEORGE TOWN, PENANG, 6 MAY 2025: The Malaysian Association of Tour and Travel Agents (MATTA) Penang Chapter confirms RHB Bank as the Exclusive Platinum Sponsor of the MATTA Fair Penang 2025, which will take place on 24 to 25 May 2025 at the Setia SPICE Arena.
The event should welcome over 85,000 visitors and generate an estimated MYR78 million in total sales, making it the leading travel fair in Northern Malaysia, MATTA reports.
As the exclusive Platinum Sponsor, RHB Bank will unveil a comprehensive suite of travel-focused financial offerings, including exclusive travel perks tailored for today’s increasingly mobile and experience-driven consumers.
“RHB Bank’s strong presence and commitment to customer-centric financial solutions make them the ideal partner for MATTA Fair Penang 2025,” said MATTA Fair Penang 2025 Organising Chairman Datuk Hamzah Rahmat.
“The MATTA Fair Penang has always been more than a travel exhibition — it’s a platform for growth, innovation, and opportunity. With RHB Bank as our Exclusive Platinum Sponsor, we’re empowering our exhibitors and giving travellers practical tools to make their journeys more affordable, seamless, and rewarding. RHB’s exclusive offerings add real value to the travel planning process, making their cards a must-have for anyone serious about travel.”
With exclusive deals, financial flexibility, and travel-enhancing perks, RHB cards are fast becoming the preferred choice for savvy travellers and industry professionals alike. Visitors to MATTA Fair Penang 2025 can apply for RHB cards on the spot to immediately benefit from the fair’s attractive holiday deals.
As the exclusive Platinum Sponsor, RHB aims to support travellers and travel industry players in unlocking exciting journeys through smart, accessible, and rewarding financial solutions. Penang was chosen as the ideal location for this year’s MATTA Fair due to its strategic position, strong connectivity via the Penang International Airport, and global appeal as a tourism hub.
The state is also home to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of George Town, drawing interest in both the fair and inviting visitors to explore the rich heritage, culture, and charm of the destination itself.
Visitors can look forward to offers, including discounts of up to MYR1,500 when purchasing flight tickets and hotel accommodation with RHB Visa Cards/-i through RHB’s dedicated travel partner.
Additionally, visitors who open an RHB Multi Currency Account/-i and Multi Currency Visa Debit Card/-i can win up to MYR20,000 in cash prizes.
RHB Managing Director of Group Community Banking Jeffrey Ng Eow Oo commented: “We’re thrilled to be part of the MATTA Fair, bringing Malaysians exclusive travel deals and tailored financial solutions to help turn travel dreams into reality. Whether it’s a weekend getaway or an international adventure, we’re here to help Malaysians explore more, making every step of the journey more convenient, secure and rewarding.”
Admission to the MATTA Fair Penang is free, and all are welcome to attend to take advantage of incredible offers and find inspiration for their next journey.
For more information and updates on the event, visit the MATTA Fair’s website and social media platforms on the Facebook page MATTA Fair Penang.Website: MATTA Fair
