Sneak Preview: Centara Life Namba Hotel Osaka

By

-

March 18, 2026

BANGKOK 18 March 2026: Centara Hotels & Resorts, Thailand’s leading hotel operator, is unveiling an exclusive first look at its second property in Japan, Centara Life Namba Hotel Osaka, ahead of its highly anticipated debut in April 2026, when it will welcome its first guests.

Revealed for the first time, the hotel’s completed interiors and guest spaces showcase a contemporary lifestyle concept designed for today’s urban explorers. Located in Osaka’s vibrant Namba district, the 300‑room hotel blends modern design with the city’s energetic spirit, featuring warm tones, inviting textures, and Osaka-inspired artwork. Open, versatile common areas throughout the property offer comfortable places to work, relax, or socialise after a day discovering the city.

*Spacious public areas and dining spaces are designed to welcome travellers for every purpose.*

Guest rooms are crafted with modern simplicity and practical comfort in mind. Standard, Superior, Deluxe, and Family room types cater to every kind of traveller — whether solo adventurers, couples, or families. Larger Family rooms offer playful bunk beds that younger guests will adore. All rooms are non‑smoking and equipped with essential contemporary amenities, including high-speed Wi-Fi, a work desk, and a flat-screen TV. Wheelchair accessible rooms are also available.

*A variety of family room options stands out as one of the hotel’s key highlights.*

Local flavour and social experiences are central to the hotel’s offering. DINING, the hotel’s main restaurant, serves a breakfast featuring both international favourites and much‑loved Japanese specialities. By evening, SORA Bar, the rooftop lounge, transforms into a destination in its own right—inviting guests to unwind with panoramic views of Osaka’s skyline, including iconic landmarks such as Tsutenkaku Tower and Abeno Harukas.

Perfectly positioned just steps from Nankai Shin-Imamiya and Namba Stations, Centara Life Namba Hotel Osaka places travellers at the heart of one of the city’s most dynamic neighbourhoods. Guests can easily explore the bright lights of Dotonbori, the culinary delights of inner‑Namba’s hidden alleys, the fresh flavours of Kizu Wholesale Market, and the many shopping malls of Namba and Shinsaibashi, with convenient access to major attractions including the historic icon Osaka Castle.

*Ideally located just a few minutes’ walk from many of Osaka’s most iconic attractions.*

To celebrate its opening, the hotel is offering an exclusive promotion for CentaraThe1 members.
Bookings made from now until 31 May 2026 for stays between 6 April and 31 August 2026 will receive a 25% member discount on eligible rates, plus triple CentaraThe1 points.

For more details about Centara Life Namba Hotel Osaka and to take advantage of the opening offer, visit:
www.centarahotelsresorts.com/centara-life/cloj/opening-offer

(Source: Your Stories — Centara Hotels & Resorts)

Celebrate the Year of the Detour

By

Your Stories

-

March 18, 2026

BANGKOK, 18 March 2026: As travellers strive to escape the crowds and enjoy authentic local experiences, 2026 is the “Year of the Detour — when journeys uncover less-crowded destinations and hidden gems with a deeply rooted sense of place.

While travellers continue to venture to globally popular destinations, many are now adding stops to lesser-known locales. Recent data shows that 63% of travellers will likely explore a “Detour Destination” on their next getaway.

Whether it’s an inspiring upcountry retreat away from Bali’s beaches or an urban escape to Bangkok’s lively neighbourhoods, BWH Hotels, the global hospitality enterprise comprising WorldHotels, Best Western Hotels & Resorts and SureStayHotels, offers more than just a place to sleep; it offers fresh perspectives and opportunities for discovery.

With 18 distinct brands that cater to every type of traveller, BWH Hotels invites travellers to explore its world-class resorts and hotels in six “Detour Destinations” across the Asia Pacific.

Sama Sama Hotel KLIA, WorldHotels Elite

Kuala Lumpur is an exciting city with an iconic skyline, crowned by the famous Petronas Towers and Merdeka 118 skyscraper. For those who want to discover a different side of Malaysia’s capital region, however, Putrajaya – the country’s administrative capital – is an ideal place to visit. This city is a hidden gem with lakes, gardens, and exquisite architecture, including the pink Putra Mosque.

Departure Detour: Many rooms offer views of Kuala Lumpur International Airport’s runways, which make them great for plane-spotting, while also being fully soundproofed for complete relaxation.

Hangzhou Goethe Hotel, WorldHotels Distinctive

China’s Yangtze Delta is one of the most populous regions on Earth, home to approximately 250 million people, most notably in Shanghai. Just a short high-speed train ride away, Hangzhou blends China’s modern dynamism with a rich cultural heritage. West Lake, the picturesque UNESCO World Heritage-listed landscape, has attracted China’s poets and artists for centuries.

Idyllic Detour: Hangzhou Goethe Hotel is perfectly positioned on West Lake Avenue, just a five-minute drive from the serene shores and shady paths of West Lake.

Aiden Darling Harbour

One of Sydney’s most historic areas, Darling Harbour has been transformed from a railway goods yard and industrial port into a buzzing waterfront lifestyle district. The area’s rich history can still be discovered in revamped warehouses, brickwork lanes, and heritage buildings. The Australian National Maritime Museum lets visitors of all ages explore the city’s seafaring past in fun, interactive ways.

Downtown Detour: Aiden Darling Harbour is a stylish urban retreat offering guests easy access to the city’s heart, surrounded by lively markets and local attractions.

Best Western Premier Agung Resort Ubud

Temple in ubud sacred monkey forest sanctuary. Balinese traditional architecture, hindu temple in ubud city.

Nestled in the jungle‑clad hills of Bali, Indonesia’s “Island of the Gods,” the artistic town of Ubud connects guests with the spiritual heart of this idyllic destination. Visitors can escape the crowds of Bali’s southern beaches and reconnect with nature through exhilarating experiences, including a visit to the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary, white‑water rafting on the Ayung River, jungle treks, and photography tours of the lush rice terraces.

Dawn Detour: Wake up early and enjoy a moment of mindfulness with an outdoor yoga session on the rice field as the sun rises above the forest canopy and the dawn chorus fills the air.

SureStay by Best Western Iconic Ari-Jatujak

Bangkok is an inspiring city that bursts with life and colour, and visitors who make a detour from the popular downtown districts will be rewarded with authentic experiences. Easily accessible via the city’s BTS skytrain network, the youthful Ari district stimulates the senses with its trendy cafés and streetside eateries. Chatuchak Weekend Market, which features 15,000 stalls, is just a short distance away.

Red Dip Detour: After an immersive day of discovery in Bangkok, take a revitalising dip in the hotel’s bright, cherry red outdoor swimming pool!

Portopia Hotel, WorldHotels Elite

Kobe, Japan at the Great Buddha of Hyogo.

Japan’s Kansai region attracts millions of travellers every year, mostly to the charming heritage city of Kyoto or the vast metropolis of Osaka. But Kansai’s third major city, Kobe, is well worth a detour. Its lively waterfront district offers a wide range of attractions, from art museums to animal sanctuaries, and the Great Hanshin-Awaji Earthquake Memorial serves as an emotional reminder of the quake that devastated Kobe in 1995.

Diverse Dining Detour: Keen foodies can discover 12 restaurants and bars at Portopia Hotel, including specialist teppanyaki, kushiage and sushi venues.

(Source: Your Stories — BWH)

Thailand eases rules for charter yachts

By

Newsdesk

-

March 18, 2026

PHUKET, 18 March 2026: Thailand is moving closer to revising its laws governing chartered yachts and easing visa rules for crew members.

Championing the call for change is the Thai Yachting Business Association (TYBA), which is working to secure passage to a more user-friendly crew visa following the Ministry of Transport’s recent changes to the Thai Charter License for yachts regarding ‘length overall’.

*Photo credit: Asia Pacific Superyachts*

The ministry has issued an announcement concerning Superyacht Commercial Operation in Thai Water (BE 2568/2025), granting permission for yachts of 24 meters and larger, carrying no more than 12 passengers, to apply for the Thai Charter License to conduct commercial charter in Thailand. Previously, the rule applied to yachts 30 metres or more in length from bow to stern. (Length Overall — LOA).

The Association believes adopting a lower LOA could double the number of foreign-flagged yacht visits to Thailand for superyacht charters.

Charters on vessels over 24 metres have been a small part of that market, as few boats of this size register in Thailand due to the high VAT on a yacht worth millions of dollars. Now, foreign-flagged superyachts can apply for a license to operate commercially in Thai waters without paying the 7% VAT on the yacht’s book value.

The license is available for yachts 24 metres and above and is valid for one year. During this time, the yacht will be free to cruise and charter in Thai waters.

There will be a tax of 7% VAT and another 5% Corporate Income Tax or CIT to be paid on the charter fee only and not on the yacht’s value. To obtain the license applications, the Ministry of Transport must be filed through an appointed TYBA member agent.

The TYBA is now working to align crew visa durations (currently 30 days) with the vessel’s permitted stay to support foreign operators better. That requires discussions with the Immigration authorities and the Ministry of Interior Affairs.

“Few yachts were chartering here as legalities meant you had to have a Thai flag, and this wasn’t really viable for most international superyacht owners”, explains Asia Pacific Superyachts co-founder & director Gordon Fernandes. “Now more and more locally owned yachts are obtaining a charter license, and this will fuel the growth in the charter market and the country’s extended seasonal window will support recurring annual basing and strengthen marina occupancy and associated services.”

(Source: Asia Pacific Superyachts)

The Philippines to cut aviation charges

By

Newsdesk

-

March 18, 2026

MANILA, 18 March 2026: The Philippines Department of Transport has ordered a reduction in Passenger Service Charges (PSC) and airport navigation charges to reduce the operating costs for airlines amid rising fuel prices

The move will ease the burden on airline passengers amid rising jet fuel costs worldwide due to the war in the Middle East.

*Photo credit: NAIA.* *New NAIA Passenger Guide*.

In a news release reported by the Philippine News Agency, Acting Transportation Secretary Giovanni Lopez said he had given the order to the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP), which will apply to all CAAP-operated airports in the country.

According to the Department of Transportation’s latest data, jet fuel costs have risen from USD90.87 per barrel on 19 February to USD188.2 per barrel on 9 March, PNA reported.

Since then, global jet fuel prices have surged to between USD190 and USD200 per barrel due to the escalating crisis in the Gulf (specifically involving Iran and its blockade of the Strait of Hormuz).

In the Philippines, fuel surcharges are regulated by the Civil Aeronautics Board (CAB).

The following airlines and regulatory bodies are currently addressing fuel surcharge adjustments in the Philippines.

Major Philippine carriers

While no airline can unilaterally raise surcharges without CAB approval, the “Big Three” have confirmed they are reviewing their pricing:

Cebu Pacific: Recently stated it is “closely reviewing pricing and network strategies.” The airline has already suspended flights to Riyadh due to safety concerns and warned that the doubling of jet fuel prices will inevitably pressure operations.
AirAsia Philippines: Has acknowledged the crisis’s potential impact and is monitoring market conditions. Its regional parent company has already begun adjusting surcharges in other Asian markets.
Philippine Airlines (PAL): While more resilient due to its long-haul hedging, PAL is subject to the same CAB-mandated surcharge levels as other domestic carriers and is expected to follow the industry-wide upward trend.

International airlines serving the Philippines

Several regional airlines with heavy traffic to and from Manila have already announced or implemented increases:

Firefly: Implementing a “Phase 2” surcharge adjustment specifically for the Philippines starting 25 March 2026.
Hong Kong Airlines: Raised surcharges on 12 March 12, 2026, for several regions, including the Philippines.
Air India / Air India Express: Introduced a phased increase on 12 March, affecting routes to Southeast Asia, including the Philippines.
Cathay Pacific: Confirmed surcharges will rise soon. Current fees range from HKD142 to HKD569 and are under review.

(Source: PNA with additional reporting)

Sabre appoints Niklas Andréen

By

Newsdesk

-

March 18, 2026

SINGAPORE, 16 March 2026: Sabre has appointed Niklas Andréen as Chief Commercial Officer, Airline Tech, a role intended to accelerate execution following the company’s once-in-a-generation technology rebuild.

Photo credit: Sabre. Niklas Andréen Chief Commercial Officer, Airline Tech.

In his role, Andréen will lead global airline sales, account management, commercial strategy, business development and customer support, helping airlines translate technology investment into measurable commercial outcomes.

He will work closely with airline partners to scale adoption, deepen strategic relationships and drive more agile, customer-centric retailing.

Andréen has held senior leadership roles at Carlson Wagonlit Travel (CWT), B&B Hotels, Dreamlake and Travelport.

Additional leadership update

Darren Rickey, a Sabre veteran with more than 25 years of experience, has been appointed Senior Vice President, Strategic Commercial Partnerships. This position will focus on advancing Sabre’s most critical growth initiatives and strategic partnerships.

(Source: Sabre)

IndiGo slaps a fuel surcharge on all fares

By

Newsdesk

-

March 18, 2026

NEW DELHI, 18 March 2026: IndiGo, an Indian low-cost airline, has introduced a fuel surcharge on domestic and international routes since 14 March 2026, following a surge in fuel prices amid military strikes in the Gulf.

The airline quotes IATA’s Jet Fuel Monitor, which identified an 85+% increase in fuel prices for the region. Aviation Turbine Fuel represents a significant share of airlines’ operating costs.

“This sudden and steep increase will have a material impact on all airlines’ costs and networks, including IndiGo’s,” the airline noted.

While offsetting the entire impact of the fuel price surge requires a substantial adjustment to fares, IndiGo said it has introduced a relatively small fuel surcharge, mindful that the burden falls on customers.

Overall prices for all new bookings on IndiGo flights have included the following additional surcharges per sector since 14 March.

In view of the evolving situation in the Middle East, IndiGo will be operating 252 weekly flights to and from the Middle East, as it cautiously makes adjustments to its operations in the region from 16 March 2026 until 28 March 2026.

IndiGo is almost back to its regular schedule, with 126 weekly flights to/from Saudi Arabia and 28 weekly flights to/from Oman. Additionally, IndiGo will operate 98 weekly flights to and from the UAE.

Once its fleet of 400+ aircraft is fully operational again, the airline will fly around 2,200 daily flights, connecting 95 domestic and 40 international destinations.

Update: Flights to and from Dubai

Due to the evolving situation in the Middle East, flight operations in Dubai have been further restricted, leading to changes to flight schedules that will affect services through 18 March.

(Source: IndiGo)

PATA Foundation names new trustees

By

Newsdesk

-

March 18, 2026

BANGKOK, 18 March 2026: The PATA Foundation has appointed a new Board of Trustees to guide the organisation’s efforts to ensure that the next generation across Asia Pacific is equipped with the skills needed to build sustainable and thriving careers in tourism and hospitality.

Established as a charity organisation in the US in 1984, the PATA Foundation has donated over USD1.3 million to support human capital development in 38 destinations worldwide.

Photo credit: PATA. The new PATA Foundation Board of Trustees comprises Andrew Jones, FIH CHA, Guardian – Sanctuary Resorts; Simon Lloyd, Dean, Hospitality Management and Business Administration, Dusit Thani College; Hiran Cooray, Chairman, Jetwing Symphony/Lighthouse Hotel PLC; Sarah Mathews, CEO, e-Tourism Frontiers; and Stephen Pearce, Partner, Tourism and Leisure, Gaining Edge.

Andrew Jones, Guardian of Sanctuary Resorts, has been named Chair of the Foundation. A PATA Life Member, he has also served as Vice Chair and Trustee of the Foundation and Chair of the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA).

Upon his appointment, Jones said: “Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the PATA Foundation experienced a hiatus of activity. We are now fully operational and moving forward with renewed passion and purpose as our industry transitions from recovery to sustainable growth.”

He added, “Our vision and mission to safeguard the livelihoods of the underprivileged communities and support the responsible and sustainable environmental efforts of our industries remain as relevant as ever during this critical period. As the industry evolves, progress must be inclusive, and no one should be left behind.”

Alongside Jones, Simon Lloyd, Dean of Hospitality Management and Business Administration at Dusit Thani College, was appointed Vice Chair of the Foundation.

Three other members of the Board of Trustees comprise:

Hiran Cooray, Chairman, Jetwing Symphony/Lighthouse Hotel PLC;
Sarah Mathews, CEO, e-Tourism Frontiers;
Stephen Pearce, Partner, Tourism and Leisure, Gaining Edge.

Access the PATA Foundation webpage to learn more about its mission and impact: www.patafoundation.org.

(Source: PATA)

Gulf fuel crisis hurts Malaysian tour companies

By

Newsdesk

-

March 18, 2026

KUALA LUMPUR, 18 March 2026: The Malaysian Association of Tour and Travel Agents (MATTA) urges the government to consider introducing temporary fuel subsidies for tourism transport operators following the recent increase in fuel prices, which is expected to impact the tourism sector significantly.

Tourism transport operators across Malaysia play a crucial role in supporting both inbound and domestic tourism.

Many of these operators have already entered into contractual agreements with both local and overseas travel agencies months in advance to provide transportation services for tourists exploring Malaysia.

The prices quoted and agreed upon by both parties were based on the prevailing fuel prices at the time the contracts were signed.

With the recent hike in fuel prices, operators are now facing substantially higher operating costs. However, as these contracts have already been finalised, tourism transport providers are unable to revise their agreed rates. This situation places many operators under considerable financial pressure and may result in significant operational losses.

For example, the cost of fuel for a standard tour bus has increased significantly. Before the fuel price hike, a full tank cost approximately MYR747 per bus.

Following the recent increase, the cost has risen to MYR969 per bus per tank, representing an estimated 35% to 38% increase.

If the government does not intervene to cushion this impact, tourism transport operators may have no choice but to increase transportation charges by at least 30% over current rates to remain financially sustainable.

MATTA President, Nigel Wong, said the situation warrants timely intervention to ensure tourism transport operators can continue operating sustainably and support the broader tourism ecosystem.

“Tourism transport operators are a vital part of Malaysia’s tourism value chain, providing essential services that ensure smooth and reliable travel experiences for visitors. Many operators have already committed to fixed contract rates with travel agencies based on earlier fuel prices. The sudden increase in fuel costs means they are now absorbing these additional expenses, which could lead to significant financial strain,” said Wong.

He noted that the industry had previously demonstrated resilience when tourism vehicles were excluded from the diesel subsidy rationalisation, stating:

“Previously, when tourism transport vehicles were excluded from the diesel subsidy programme, operators accepted the policy decision and continued to operate despite the challenges of maintaining competitive pricing.

However, the latest fuel price hike places an even heavier burden on the sector and could hurt businesses if no mitigating measures are introduced.”

He stressed that targeted and temporary assistance would help cushion the impact while safeguarding the sustainability of the tourism supply chain.

MATTA respectfully calls on the government to consider providing temporary and targeted fuel subsidies specifically for tourism transport vehicles. Such support would help operators manage the sudden increase in operating costs and ensure they are not forced to operate at a loss.

“Ensuring the sustainability of tourism transport services is critical as Malaysia prepares to welcome more international and domestic visitors in the lead-up to Visit Malaysia 2026. Timely support for this sector will help preserve service quality, maintain industry stability, and enhance Malaysia’s competitiveness as a preferred tourism destination,” Wong said.

MATTA remains committed to working closely with the government and industry stakeholders to ensure the continued resilience and growth of Malaysia’s tourism industry.

For more information on MATTA, visit www.matta.org.my.

(Source: MATTA)

Gulf hostilities magnify risks for airlines

By

Newsdesk

-

March 18, 2026

KUALA LUMPUR, 18 March 2026: An escalation in global conflicts in recent years has reduced the availability of safe airspace for airline operations, AAPA warns in a press statement released on Tuesday.

AAPA identifies increasing potential safety risks to civil aircraft operating in or near conflict-affected airspace and, in some cases, contributing to interference with satellite navigation systems.

The escalation in hostilities since 28 February 2026 has further increased operational risks and costs for airlines. Safe pathways along the Asia–Europe air corridor are further constrained by conflicts not only in the Middle East but also over Russia, Ukraine, Afghanistan and Pakistan, AAPA explains.

Higher jet fuel prices and insurance premiums, together with increased operating costs from longer flight routings, are placing additional strain on the airline industry. Flight crews and operators rely on timely intelligence, robust risk assessments and clear, state-issued airspace information when operating near conflict-affected regions.

If the hostilities persist, governments should consider measures to support the industry in mitigating operational challenges and maintaining global air connectivity, which remains vital to economic activity and social well-being.

Governments can support airlines by providing timely threat information, maintaining clear and responsive airspace restrictions, facilitating coordinated repatriation arrangements, and considering measures to alleviate extraordinary operational costs if the situation is prolonged.

Government–industry collaboration and mutual support were crucial in managing airline operations during previous crises, such as the 11 September attacks and the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Asia-Pacific airlines remain committed to maintaining the highest levels of safety and operational resilience and will continue working closely with governments and industry partners to sustain global air connectivity during this challenging period,” AAPA concludes.

(Source: AAPA)

Rainforest World Music Festival 2026

By

Your Stories

-

March 17, 2026

KUCHING, 17 March 2026: The sounds of the rainforest are set to echo once again as the 29^th edition of the Rainforest World Music Festival (RWMF) 2026 returns to the iconic Sarawak Cultural Village from 26 to 28 June 2026.

Recognised as one of the world’s leading music festivals and recently ranked No. 8 in the Top 10 Festivals globally by the Transglobal World Music Chart, the internationally acclaimed festival will once again bring together artists, cultures, and audiences from around the world against the breathtaking backdrop of Mount Santubong.

The Honourable Dato Sri Haji Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, Minister for Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Sarawak officiates the launch of Rainforest World Music Festival 2026.

Tickets for RWMF 2026 have been on sale since 13 March 2026, with Early Bird one-day passes priced at MYR235 and three-day passes at MYR635, available until 31 March 2026.

Festivalgoers can secure their tickets through the official festival website at rwmf.net or via the official ticketing platform Ticketmelon https://www.ticketmelon.com/sarawaktourismboard/rwmf.

For added convenience, Buy Now Pay Later (BNPL) options are also available through digital platforms such as Atome, Grab PayLater and Shopee PayLater, making it easier for festivalgoers to plan their visit.

With Early Bird passes expected to sell out quickly, visitors are encouraged to purchase their tickets early to avoid missing out on one of the region’s most celebrated music festivals.

“The Rainforest World Music Festival has, for many years, stood as one of Sarawak’s most distinctive cultural celebrations. It is more than a music festival; it is a gathering of cultures, a meeting of artistic traditions, and a platform where musicians from around the world come together to share stories through rhythm, melody, and heritage,” said YB Dato Sri Haji Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry & Performing Arts, Sarawak.

Among the headliners is Dato’ M. Nasir, who will take the stage on 26 June 2026. A singer, songwriter, composer and producer with more than four decades of influence in the creative arts industry, Dato’ M. Nasir is known for his poetic lyrics and philosophical themes.

His works blend traditional Malay elements with contemporary sounds and have played a defining role in shaping the Malaysian music landscape.

Taking the stage on 27 June 2026 is The Commodores, featuring Thomas McClary, one of the defining bands of the funk and soul era, whose enduring hits such as Easy, Three Times a Lady, and Brick House continue to resonate with audiences across generations.

Completing the trio of headliners on 28 June 2026 is Incognito, the internationally renowned band led by founder Jean-Paul “Bluey” Maunick.

Known for their groove-based, rhythm-driven sound that blends soul, funk and world rhythms, the band is widely recognised for timeless hits such as Always There and Still a Friend of Mine.

More artists will be announced in the coming weeks, with the festival set to feature over 200 performers from 12 countries.

Beyond its spectacular evening concerts, RWMF is renowned for its immersive daytime experiences, with over 50 workshops, cultural demonstrations, and intimate mini sessions taking place across the festival grounds.

Festivalgoers can take part in interactive sessions where musicians share the stories behind their instruments and traditions while engaging audiences in spontaneous collaborations.

RWMF 2026 will also introduce a special BIMP-EAGA gastronomy showcase, highlighting the rich and diverse culinary traditions of the Borneo sub-region. Featuring flavours from Brunei Darussalam, Indonesia, Malaysia, and the Philippines, the initiative brings together culinary partners from across the BIMP-EAGA region to present traditional dishes and regional specialities to festivalgoers.

The programme celebrates the region’s shared food heritage while offering visitors the opportunity to experience a wider range of authentic Borneo and regional flavours during the festival.

Sustainability remains a central pillar of the festival. Initiatives such as Green Ruai, Green Warriors, and the EcoGreen Planet tree-planting programme highlight the festival’s commitment to environmental responsibility and conservation.

Since 2023, more than 6,000 trees have been planted in conservation areas, including Samunsam Wildlife Sanctuary, Bukit Lima Nature Reserve, and Piasau Nature Reserve, with the initiative set to reach 10,000 trees this year, ahead of the original 2027 target, in support of long-term environmental restoration efforts.

With its unique blend of world-class music, rainforest immersion, cultural authenticity, and sustainability initiatives, the Rainforest World Music Festival continues to strengthen Sarawak’s reputation as a leading destination for international festivals and cultural tourism.

For more information on Sarawak’s tourism and attractions, check the website: Sarawak.

(Source: Your Stories — Sarawak Tourism Board)

Sneak Preview: Centara Life Namba Hotel Osaka

Celebrate the Year of the Detour

Thailand eases rules for charter yachts

The Philippines to cut aviation charges

Major Philippine carriers

International airlines serving the Philippines

Sabre appoints Niklas Andréen

IndiGo slaps a fuel surcharge on all fares

PATA Foundation names new trustees

Gulf fuel crisis hurts Malaysian tour companies

Gulf hostilities magnify risks for airlines

Rainforest World Music Festival 2026

Stay ahead with the
latest travel news
on Southeast Asia.

Subscribe now

Major Philippine carriers

International airlines serving the Philippines

Stay ahead with the latest travel news on Southeast Asia.

Subscribe now

Stay ahead with the
latest travel news
on Southeast Asia.