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Airline and Travel News Updates: September 2025

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Stay up to date with the latest in the travel and hospitality industry, from airline launches and route expansions to new trends and transportation developments shaping the way we explore the world.

This is the September 2025 edition of Airline and Travel News.

BATIK AIR RELAUNCHES OSAKA FLIGHTS WITH ITS A330-300 FLEET

Batik Air’s A330 Business Class

From December 15, Malaysian carrier Batik Air will relaunch nonstop flights between its Kuala Lumpur base and Osaka’s Kansai airport with its widebody Airbus A330-300 aircraft.

The comeback marks Batik Air’s renewed commitment to Japan following the suspension of its previous Kuala Lumpur – Osaka connection via Taipei in December 2024, which was operated with the regional Boeing 737 fleet.

Now, with the deployment of the widebody A330-300, travellers can enjoy a superior long-haul experience with 12 angled-flat business class seats and 365 economy class seats. The service will operate three times weekly.

“Japan continues to be a dream destination for many Malaysians, and Osaka holds a unique charm with its rich history, vibrant urban culture, and extraordinary food scene. By reintroducing this route on the A330, we are not only reconnecting two dynamic cities but also elevating the journey with added comfort and convenience,” said Batik Air CEO, Chandran Rama Muthy.

“Alongside our existing daily Kuala Lumpur–Tokyo (Narita) flights, travellers now have more flexibility, flying into Osaka and returning from Tokyo, or vice versa—both with direct connections to Kuala Lumpur. With the introduction of the larger Airbus A330, we look forward to welcoming even more travellers in the years ahead,” he added.

Batik Air’s fleet includes six widebody A330-300 aircraft and 46 Boeing 737-800 and Max 8 aircraft. With a network of 1,400 weekly flights, Batik Air offers connections to more than 60 destinations across 20 countries.

For details, visit batikair.com.my.

HYATT REGENCY RETURNS TO KUALA LUMPUR WITH LATEST OPENING AT KL MIDTOWN

Hyatt Regency lobby

The Hyatt Regency brand has returned to Malaysia’s capital with the debut of Hyatt Regency Kuala Lumpur at KL Midtown (feature photo), which officially opened on August 26 with a fantastic gala ribbon-cutting event. Located between Dutamas and Mont Kiara, which the developers have seemingly named “KL Midtown,” the new hotel anchors one of the city’s most prestigious addresses, offering seamless access to business hubs, shopping, cultural landmarks, and the Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre (MITEC). The opening marks the third Hyatt property debuting in Kuala Lumpur in less than a year, following the opening of Hyatt Centric and Park Hyatt, the latter atop the landmark Merdeka 118 tower.

The extraordinary development is led by KL Midtown Sdn Bhd, a partnership between Hap Seng Land Sdn Bhd (Hap Seng Consolidated Bhd) and TTDI KL Metropolis Sdn Bhd (Naza TTDI Sdn Bhd). Designed by acclaimed Japanese architect Kengo Kuma, the property blends natural materials with modern sophistication, creating a serene yet contemporary atmosphere. General Manager Till Martin said the new hotel is set to “redefine urban hospitality through exceptional design, thoughtful amenities, and an unparalleled location.”

Hap Seng Consolidated Group Chairman Thomas Karl Rapp (left) hands over the symbolic master key to General Manager Till Martin (centre) and Hyatt Hotels Asia-Pacific Group President David Udell (right)

The hotel features 410 keys, comprising 306 guestrooms and suites alongside 104 fully serviced residences. Options range from Regency Club Rooms and Diplomatic Suites to extended-stay apartments with private lobbies, full kitchens, and dedicated guest services. Guests booking Regency Club access can enjoy breakfast, refreshments, and evening cocktails in a dedicated lounge space.

Food and drink take centre stage with four distinct dining venues. Midtown Brasserie delivers all-day dining, while Midtown Lounge elevates afternoon tea. China House, led by three master chefs, celebrates regional Chinese cuisine with dishes such as wood-fired Peking Duck roasted over rambutan wood. Meanwhile, ENSŌ Izakaya & Bar offers Edomae sushi, sashimi air-flown from Tokyo, and one of Kuala Lumpur’s largest sake selections, transforming into a lively cocktail bar and nightlife venue after dark.

For business and events, the hotel offers 16 flexible function rooms, including a pillarless ballroom and a zen-inspired outdoor courtyard. Leisure facilities include two infinity pools, a dedicated Kidz Club, a 24-hour Core Fitness Center, and a private residents’ lounge.

With its strategic location, design pedigree, and wide-ranging facilities, Hyatt Regency Kuala Lumpur at KL Midtown positions itself as a premier new destination for business and leisure alike.

To learn more or to book your stay, visit hyattregencyklmidtown.com.

LANGKAWI UNVEILS SPECIAL DEALS TO BOOST TOURISM AHEAD OF VISIT MALAYSIA YEAR 2026

Image Credit: Jom Melancong

The Langkawi Development Authority (LADA) and Malaysia Aviation Group (MAG) have launched the ‘Naturally Langkawi Special Deals 2025’ campaign, offering travellers discounts of up to 70 percent from October 1 to December 31.

Deputy Finance Minister Lim Hui Ying said the initiative is strategically timed to draw visitors during off-peak months while building momentum ahead of Visit Malaysia Year 2026. The campaign spans hotels, attractions, transport, dining, shopping, and duty-free outlets.

“Langkawi consistently records 3 to 3.2 million tourists annually, generating more than RM7 billion in economic impact,” Lim noted. “With this campaign, we aim for a 15 to 20 percent rise in visitor arrivals, which could bring an additional RM150 million into the local economy.”

LADA tourism division manager Dr Azmil Munif Mohd Bukhari said the island typically receives 150,000 tourists monthly, with this year’s target set at 3.5 million visitors and RM8 billion in revenue. By July 2025, Langkawi had already welcomed 1.7 million tourists, just over half the year’s goal.

“We want Langkawi to be livelier, especially with Visit Kedah Year 2025 and as we gear up for Visit Malaysia Year 2026,” Azmil Munif added.

To mark the launch, LADA and MAG signed a Memorandum of Understanding, with MHholidays rolling out exclusive flight and hotel packages.

Established in 1990, LADA operates under the Finance Ministry and plays a central role in developing Langkawi as a world-class tourist destination.

Visit holidays.malaysiaairlines.com for more information and current deals.

CHINA AIRLINES ANNOUNCES PARTNERSHIP WITH SOUTHWEST AIRLINES

Taiwanese carrier China Airlines (CAL) has announced the launch of its new collaboration with Southwest Airlines in the United States to establish a transpacific transfer network.

Interline tickets are now on sale, offering travellers seamless connections to more than 100 cities across the United States starting January 2026.

On August 20, China Airlines president Kevin Chen and Southwest Airlines vice chairman of the board, president and CEO Bob Jordan signed a memorandum of understanding at Southwest Airlines’ headquarters in Dallas to strengthen and expand cooperation between the airlines.

CAL says the MoU will serve as a blueprint for future collaborations on frequent flyer mileage and points accrual, code-sharing, and co-branding that will generate new synergies.

China Airlines offers nonstop flights to five US gateways, comprising Los Angeles, Ontario, San Francisco, Seattle, and most recently, Phoenix (starting on December 3). From these cities, transpacific travellers can catch connecting Southwest Airlines flights to Chicago, Houston, Dallas, Washington, Orlando, Las Vegas, Denver, San Diego, and Austin.

China Airlines president Kevin Chen said that Southwest Airlines is one of the most trusted airline brands among US travellers and a key partner in China Airlines’ North American network.

China Airlines has joined forces with Southwest Airlines to support its expansion into the Asian market. This partnership presents a significant milestone in the Taiwan-US interline strategy. The connection services are just the beginning, with future plans including mutual membership rewards programs, code-shared flights and potential initiatives of co-branding to fully leverage the synergies between the two airlines.

CAL says it remains optimistic about demand for travel between Taiwan and the United States as well as demand from transit passengers. In addition to the five West Coast destinations, CAL also flies to New York’s JFK airport, as well as Vancouver in Canada.

To learn more, visit china-airlines.com.

MALAYSIA AIRLINES’ NEW A330NEO LANDS AT SYDNEY AIRPORT

Malaysia Airlines’ Airbus A330neo in Sydney

In mid-August, Malaysia Airlines’ new Airbus A330neo touched down at Sydney Airport for the very first time as the oneworld airline prepares to significantly expand its services on the Sydney–Kuala Lumpur route.

The next-generation aircraft offers greater passenger comfort, lower emissions, quieter engines, and is 25% more fuel efficient than earlier models, according to the airline.

The airline’s new A330neo features 28 business class seats, offering fully-flat beds, direct aisle access, and 17.3-inch high-definition entertainment screens. The economy class cabin, meanwhile, features 269 ergonomically designed seats equipped with 13.3-inch HD entertainment systems with 4K content capabilities.

The new A330neo was deployed on the airline’s existing twice-daily services before a third daily flight launched on August 30, increasing annual capacity to over 630,000 seats – the highest for any Australian airport.

“This new A330neo service comes as Australia and Malaysia expand air traffic rights for the first time in years – lifting the cap from 36,000 to 50,000 seats a week and going unlimited in 2026. It means more choice and better connections for passengers, and more opportunities for tourism, trade and investment,” said Sydney Airport CEO, Scott Charlton.

“With a third daily flight and a brand-new aircraft, we’re unlocking record capacity on the Kuala Lumpur route to meet strong demand. Malaysia Airlines has been a great partner for more than 50 years, and this is another big step in that journey,” the airport chief added.

The third daily Malaysia Airlines service now contributes to over two million additional international seats introduced at Sydney Airport over the past 12 months across 20 airlines – a 30% increase since February 2024.

For more information, head to malaysiaairlines.com.

Categories
Travel Malaysia

Tanjung Bungah: Penang’s Sweet Spot for a Relaxing Stay by the Sea

A short drive north of George Town, Tanjung Bungah offers beach calm with city access, and M Social Resort Penang gives you a stylish, good-value base right on the sea… and within easy reach of some great local eats, too.

Think of Penang and your mind likely goes straight to George Town’s mural trails, heritage shophouses, and hawker centre chaos. Head about 15 minutes north, though, and the rhythm softens in Tanjung Bungah – a laid-back seaside neighbourhood with enough local life to feel authentic, and enough breathing room to hear waves instead of motorbikes. That balance is exactly what M Social Resort Penang leans into. Reimagined and relaunched in mid-2025, the 318-room beachfront property takes the bones of a familiar address and dresses them with playful Peranakan hints, contemporary comfort, and low-key tech that actually helps.

Contemporary, chic, and chill – and an easygoing good time!

Arrival sets the tone. Upon entry, the breezy, open lobby feels more like a coworking salon than a check-in hall, with communal tables, open seating, a social media photo spot, and a welcoming social bar. If you are the sort who clears email before chasing a sunset, this is the sort of place that makes the work-holiday balance feel effortless.

Rooms span two wings and several categories, from compact Social Cosy rooms to expansive sea-facing suites. In the entry category, which is where we stayed, you still get the essentials done right: a firm queen bed with real loft in the pillows, a small seating nook that doubles as a desk, and a balcony that opens to sea breezes and horizon views. (We only wish there were a small table and chairs or stools on the barren balconies, but alas, you can’t have it all.)

Image Credit: M Social Resort
With a view this nice, a little place to sit would have been great

Bathrooms are compact and spotless, and we loved the full-water-pressure shower, for sure. Traditional landline phones give way to a simple AI in-room voice assistant for calling the front desk or setting alarms, which sounds gimmicky on paper, yet proves handy when you are sandy-footed and mid-sunblock. We had hit-or-miss results with the Alexa-like AI assistant, depending on the questions we asked. Nevertheless, guests can expect fast Wi-Fi, a large smart TV, and sensible touches such as refillable water bottles, and efficient lighting – the sort of quiet sustainability that does not nag.

Your in-room AI assistant – fully voice-activated
We liked that the bedside outlets featured both Type-A and Type-C USB ports

Onsite dining covers the bases. Beast & Butterflies handles the breakfast rush with local staples like kaya toast and nasi lemak alongside a rather impressive international spread. (We’d be remiss to not also mention that beautiful morning view looking to the mainland and the impressive Gunung Jerai in Kedah.) The Social Hub is your pause point for coffee, light snacks, and an easy afternoon tea. Heading poolside, Breezy Bites is the pit stop for cold drinks, adult beverages, and finger food.

Breezy Bites has indoor space and a poolside bar | Image Credit: M Social Resort
Inside Breezy Bites

The pool itself, which is undeniably the heart of the resort, runs a satisfying 25 metres and tends to collect a flotilla of hot pink floaties, which says everything you need to know about the resort’s tone: relaxed, a bit playful, and family-friendly without being chaotic. Beyond the deck, a quiet strip of beach shared with neighbours offers soft sand and the allure of the Andaman.

The pool is easily the heart of the resort

The real culinary headline, at least for us, sits a short stroll or quick ride away at Viva Local Food Haven. Set along Jalan C. M. Hashim in adjoining Tanjung Tokong, this lively, open-air food court is a favourite for Penangites and repeat visitors alike. It pulls a broad cross-section of the island’s flavours into one place – a respectable Penang char kuey teow from a wok that breathes fire, laksa with that unmistakable tamarind sparkle, a full complement of noodle dishes, grilled fresh seafood, and pretty much everything from satay to shawarma, and even a smattering of quality Japanese bentos and some very passable attempts at Western comfort food.

Japanese food at a Penang food court?? Yep, Viva has it!

Prices are friendly (though they’ve risen in the last couple of years), tables turn quickly, and the atmosphere is wonderfully Penang. Beverages run the gamut, from buckets of beers to fresh fruit juices or chilled young coconuts! If you are posted up at M Social for a few nights, Viva becomes the easy default dinner plan – wander over, graze, and head back along the coast. (Or take a Grab… it should only set you back about RM5 or RM6 at most times.)

Viva Local Food Haven in Tanjung Bungah
Image Credit: Foodveler

Location is the clincher here. Tanjung Bungah gives you the space that George Town often cannot, while keeping the best of the island within easy reach. Gurney Drive’s seafront and mall cluster sit not far down the road; George Town’s heritage core is roughly 10 kilometres away by car, depending on your route; and Penang International Airport is about an hour’s drive in regular traffic. Rideshares are plentiful, and Rapid Penang buses connect the corridor if you are inclined to go local. The result is a base that feels restful between forays – morning museum and kopi in town, late lunch at a kopitiam, back to the beach for golden hour.

If you are travelling with kids, the formula makes even more sense. Rooms are not overly generous when it comes to size, but are plenty spacious by city-hotel standards, the pool is genuinely swim-worthy, and the beach is close enough that a quick post-nap paddle (or just a seaside walk) is an everyday luxury. If you are working on the road, the lobby’s open layout and steady Wi-Fi mean you can clear the deckchairs of tasks before claiming an actual deck chair.

Couples or groups of friends get the best of both worlds: small-hours street food and late-night ais kacang at Viva, then moonlit waves and a quiet lift back to the room. And the beach by day, while not exactly world-class (it’s Penang, after all), is still pretty good for a soul-soothing stroll.

Beaches along Tanjung Bungah’s stretch are small but inviting

Tanjung Bungah itself is easy to like. Despite the busy main road cutting through it, joining George Town to Batu Ferringhi, Tanjung Bungah still feels like a neighbourhood – morning market runs, school traffic, aunties chatting by the curb – and the pace slows just enough to make space for small rituals. Coffee on the balcony before breakfast, if you don’t mind standing. A mid-afternoon swim when the pool is quiet. A slow walk to dinner with the smell of wok hei carrying over the road. That is the appeal: if you’re so inclined, you can sample George Town’s heritage, murals, and museums, then come “home” to a seaside pocket that does not insist on filling every minute. Think of it as “suburban Penang”!

M Social adds a few extras that broaden its appeal. There is a compact but capable gym for anyone who needs a quick sweat session between meals. A grand ballroom and a spread of meeting rooms give the property proper event muscle for weddings, corporate off-sites, or an ambitious family reunion. Service sits in that sweet spot between relaxed and responsive. Staff will point you to their favourite kopitiam for breakfast number two, or the best place to catch a breezy evening stroll. Rooms don’t come stocked with wine glasses, but when we found we needed some, a request to the voice-activated in-room AI did the trick and we were having a toast just a few minutes later.

We liked the comfy, straightforward rooms

Why choose Tanjung Bungah – and M Social – over Batu Ferringhi or a heritage stay in town? It comes down to balance; or if like us, if you’ve been to Penang a million times, maybe it’s just the chance to try something a little different. Batu Ferringhi is a classic beach strip with the buzz to match. And of course the heritage core of George Town is magnetic, but can be intense, and don’t even get us started on weekend traffic jams.

It might be safe to say that Tanjung Bungah splits the difference with a softer soundtrack, a real neighbourhood underfoot, and quick access to both. It shouldn’t come as much surprise as the area is fairly equidistant to both George Town and Batu Ferringhi — it’s right in the middle, both literally and figuratively. M Social Resort then layers in contemporary design, at-hand tech, a fun and laid-back vibe, and a price-to-experience ratio that feels pretty fair, especially for Penang, whose accommodating prices have, as regular visitors may have noticed, gotten rather robust.

Great times at M Social’s sprawling pool

Add the proximity to Viva Local Food Haven – a ready answer to the eternal “what’s for dinner” question – and you have a practical, personality-rich base for a Penang break that is as much about flavour as it is about the sea.

If Penang is your regular travel ritual, this corner will feel like a new chapter that still reads like the island you love. If it is your first time, Tanjung Bungah offers a soft landing that keeps the highlights close, and the horizon closer.

Image Credit: M Social Resort
Categories
Food & Drink

Raising a Glass: 10 Bars in Ipoh You Should Know

Beyond its Old Town kopitiams and famous limestone hills and cave temples, Ipoh has quietly cultivated a lively drinking scene. From century-old watering holes to neon-lit cocktail lounges, the city’s bars are as eclectic and surprising as its food culture. Here are 10 standouts worth your time.

In a country that seems to see most of its cultural trends understandably centred around its outsize capital city of Kuala Lumpur and its environs, the ‘secondary cities’ of Malaysia are having their moment in the sun, too.

For example, Penang Cocktail Week is fast approaching. In a city that’s beloved for its amazing street food, Malaysia’s favourite island has really seen its cocktail scene grow rather dramatically in the last several years.

Similarly, Ipoh has long been a magnet for food lovers, and while some say it rivals but still comes in second to Penang, others say Ipoh is a solid winner when it comes to street food. And equally similarly to the improvement seen in Penang’s cocktail bars, when night falls in Ipoh, the city also offers an increasingly rich and varied bar culture. Beer may still be the most common pour (after all, Ipoh is famed for its ‘snow beer’), but cocktail culture and wine sophistication have found their place here, too. Some bars lean on heritage and nostalgia, others on mixology and modern flair — and together they form a scene that’s both unpretentious and engaging.

Step inside any of these 10 venues that are currently trending (both on social media and in more mainstream titles), and you’ll find not just drinks, but stories: of old trades, hidden doors, cinematic moods, and inventive twists on tradition. Raise your glass and say cheers to Ipoh!

BRICKS & BARRELS

Image Credit: VMO Rocks

A familiar import from Kuala Lumpur, Bricks & Barrels brings its exposed-brick pub style to Ipoh. It’s one of the city’s most popular spots for beer, bolstered by a menu that swings from hearty local bites to Western comfort food.
📍 28, Jalan Lau Ek Ching, Kampung Jawa | T: 05-253 8558

HEALY MAC’S IRISH BAR

The Irish know their pubs, and Healy Mac’s proves it in Ipoh with Guinness and Kilkenny on tap. A firm favourite among expats, it’s a convivial setting for sports, stout, and long conversations.
📍 2, Persiaran Greentown 4, Greentown Avenue | T: 016-553 1092

KAFE YOON WAH

Image Credit: Tripadvisor

Not a bar in the strict sense, but the birthplace of Ipoh’s famous ‘snow beer’ — a frosty, slushy pint that’s been cooling locals since 1998. Pair it with their stuffed chicken wings and you’ll understand the appeal.
📍 7, Jalan Bijeh Timah | T: 012-512 9980

ATAS SPEAKEASY

Hidden above a shoplot in Taman Jubilee, Atas is a small, dimly lit bar that takes its cocktails seriously. With visiting guest bartenders and carefully curated drinks, it’s one of Ipoh’s must-visit cocktail spots.
📍 37, Jalan Theatre, Taman Jubilee | T: 017-407 2664

TIGA

Styled like a Wong Kar Wai film set, Tiga layers atmosphere with mixology. It’s cinematic, moody, and just the right balance of intimate and lively — a perfect backdrop for a night of thoughtful cocktails.
📍 26, Jalan Bijeh Timah (entrance in alley by 99 Speedmart) | T: 019-396 1931

KIKI LALAT

Image Credit: Tatler Asia

With retro décor, rattan chairs, and a buzz that peaks on open-mic nights (and even spills into the street, mamak-style), Kiki Lalat is pure vintage charm. Expect beers from around the world, natural wines, and a relaxed community spirit.
📍 27, Jalan Bijeh Timah | T: 019-396 1931

ASIP

Just upstairs from Kiki Lalat is Asip, its polished sibling. This intimate wine lounge is known for boutique vintages, seasonal pairings, and chef collaborations. It’s a refined retreat for those who take their wine seriously.
📍 27, Jalan Bijeh Timah | T: 019-396 1931

SINHALESE BAR

Dating back to 1931, this may be Malaysia’s oldest surviving bar. Time seems to stand still here, with marble tabletops, patterned tiles, and a sense of heritage carefully preserved by its long-standing proprietor.
📍 2, Jalan Bijeh Timah | T: 05-241 2235

LUMI COCKTAIL BAR

Image Credit: Facebook

Hidden away and glowing with neon, Lumi embraces modern mixology with flair. Whether you want a signature creation or a drink tailored to your mood, the bartenders here make it a personalised experience.
📍 D-1-7, Soho Ipoh, Jalan Sultan Idris Shah | T: 010-275 3226

TIN CORNER 39

A quirky hideaway above the old town streets, Tin Corner 39 features vintage sewing-machine tables and an extensive range of local and imported brews. The casual self-service setup keeps the vibe relaxed and sociable.
📍 39, Jalan Bijeh Timah | T: 017-357 3939

Whether you’re chasing heritage in a century-old bar, cooling off with snow beer, or sipping neon-lit cocktails crafted with flair, Ipoh’s bar scene is slowly but surely maturing into something distinctive. Of course, it may not rival Kuala Lumpur’s nightlife for sheer scale, but what it lacks in volume, it makes up for in charm and character — a fitting reflection of Ipoh itself.

Categories
Asia Pacific News

A Mount Fuji Eruption? Japan’s AI Disaster Video Sparks Debate

Japan’s release of AI-generated videos depicting a dramatic eruption of Mount Fuji has stirred mixed reactions. Is this forward-thinking disaster preparedness — or unnecessary alarm that risks eroding public trust?

For the first time in more than 300 years, Mount Fuji is “erupting” — not in reality, but on screens across Japan. As part of Volcanic Disaster Preparedness Day, the Tokyo Metropolitan Government has released AI-generated videos simulating a violent eruption of Japan’s most iconic peak, a mountain that last erupted in 1707.

Screenshots from the AI videos released by Japan | Image Credit: Sky News

The videos, produced with computer modelling and artificial intelligence, show an unsettling scenario: ash clouds spreading over Tokyo within hours, blanketing roads, paralysing trains and planes, cutting off food and power, and leaving residents with long-term respiratory problems. The message at the end is stark: “We need to arm ourselves with facts and prepare for disaster in our daily lives.” Viewers are reminded to keep pantries stocked with canned food, water, and first-aid supplies.

Officials insist there are no signs at all that Fuji is stirring. “The simulation is designed to equip residents with accurate knowledge and preparedness measures,” the Tokyo government explained. But the videos, vivid and cinematic, have unsettled some viewers. One Tokyo resident asked pointedly: “Are there actually any signs of eruption? Why are we suddenly hearing about ashfall in Tokyo?” Another said the frightening images pushed her to stock up on emergency supplies — which may well have been the intended effect.

Video Courtesy of CNA

So is this smart public safety messaging, or unnecessary fearmongering? Experts note that Japan is no stranger to disaster simulations, given its location on the seismically volatile Ring of Fire. Risk communication professor Naoya Sekiya of the University of Tokyo stressed that Fuji is not showing signs of imminent eruption, adding, “There’s no particular significance to the timing.” Yet, with memories of earthquakes, typhoons, and tsunamis never far away, Japanese authorities see preparedness as a national duty.

What’s less clear is whether AI-driven hyper-realistic disaster “trailers” help citizens calmly prepare, or simply add another layer of anxiety. Disaster planning is vital — but some wonder if Mount Fuji’s imagined eruption risks crossing the line into disaster-porn.

Ultimately, the debate raises a bigger question: is this the best use of AI by governments? Used wisely, AI can help educate, simulate, and even save lives. But if the technology tips into spectacle, it risks undermining the very trust and calm that effective disaster preparedness requires.

Categories
Travel

Siem Reap: Cambodia’s Ancient Past and Hopeful Present

Offering visitors a journey of both history and hope, Siem Reap has emerged as Cambodia’s beating heart of tourism, where ancient temples, a vibrant food scene, and the extraordinary resilience of its people converge.

Travel often has a way of rewarding curiosity, but few places stir the soul quite like Cambodia, a country I first visited in 2016. This year marked my third trip, and as was the case before, my most recent visit only left me wanting to return yet again.

For many, the name Cambodia itself is synonymous with the sandstone spires of Angkor Wat rising out of the mist, a monumental relic of the Khmer Empire’s brilliance. Visitors come from around the world to marvel at the ancient ruins of Angkor – crumbling yet, etched with both timeless artistry and a sort of defiant beauty as they nevertheless succumb in slow motion to the passage of centuries.

Side view of Angkor Wat | Image Credit: Jean-Pierre Dalbéra via Wikimedia Commons

Although I didn’t visit Angkor Wat this time, this unmissable stop was of course at the very top of my itinerary on my first trip to Siem Reap, and I spent large chunks of three days exploring the expansive grounds and quite a few of the many surrounding temples, as well. As that trip in 2016 was my first visit to Cambodia, the time spent at the Angkorian ruins left an indelible impression.

Built in 1186, Ta Prohm is the more modern name for this ancient temple that was once called Rajavihara

For me, as for so many others, by day, the temples of Angkor dominated my travel time, while by night, the small city’s legendary Pub Street beckoned with cheap beer, delectable lok lak, amok, and other Khmer dishes, surprisingly good takes on Mexican and Greek food (of all things), and the giddy hum of travellers swapping stories and chatting with locals.

Yet beneath the surface pleasures of temple exploration and tourist nightlife lies another, far deeper story – one of resilience, survival, and the sheer will to reclaim joy and hope after unimaginable suffering.

In a photo snapped during my first visit to Siem Reap, a finely carved Devata figure inside Bayon Temple at Angkor Thom exhibits remarkable preservation considering its nearly 900-year lifetime

Although this is a travel article and not a history lesson, no one can properly understand and appreciate Cambodia today without acknowledging the pain of its past. Less than 50 years ago, this was a country broken apart by civil war and subsequently consumed by one of the most brutal and ruthless genocidal crusades in modern history, a campaign that led to the violent purge of nearly a quarter of Cambodia’s entire population at the time.

The Khmer Rouge years (1975–1979) left a scar that has not yet fully faded: some two million lives lost, families shattered, and a generation traumatised. Entire institutions were dismantled, from schools to theatres to monasteries – and artists, writers, and performers were among those most brutally targeted, along with monks, the educated, and all manner of minorities. Going beyond even ethnic cleansing, it was a calculated attempt to erase culture itself, to strip away the soul of a nation.

Earlier this year, the annual “Day of Remembrance” in Cambodia marked 50 years since the Khmer Rouge launched its reign of terror and genocide | Image Credit: AP

RESILIENT AND REBORN

And yet, Cambodia endures. In the aftermath of such unfathomable horrors, the very fact that Siem Reap is once again alive with colour, music, and laughter is nothing short of extraordinary. Every motorbike buzzing down Sivutha Boulevard, every crowded night market stall, every volleyball match played on improvised streetside pitches, every tuk-tuk weaving through traffic is part of a wider story of revival, a testament to Cambodian resilience. If you know anything of Cambodia’s recent past, you cannot help but marvel at its ability to rise again, to create something vibrant out of unimaginable loss.

The performing artists of Phare: The Cambodian Circus in a defiant, poignant moment during the show

No experience in Siem Reap captures this spirit better than Phare: The Cambodian Circus. On the surface, it’s an evening show – acrobatics, live music, theatre, all performed under a big top tent. But Phare is more than entertainment; it is healing put into motion. The troupe is the public face of Phare Ponleu Selpak, an NGO founded by a group of Cambodian refugees in the early 1990s. Having fled across the border to escape the horrors at home, they found solace in drawing classes offered in the camps. Those classes became a lifeline, a way to process trauma and reclaim dignity. When they eventually returned to Cambodia, they brought that gift back with them. What began as a small arts school for disadvantaged youth in the town of Battambang has over time grown into an organization that transforms young lives through creativity.

The name Phare Ponleu Selpak, which translates to “The Brightness of the Arts,” reflects the organization’s mission: using art, performance, and creativity to bring hope, education, and opportunity to disadvantaged Cambodian youth in the aftermath of the traumatic Khmer Rouge era.

The feats of acrobatics and athleticism are always an impressive part of any Phare performance
Strength, balance, live music, and real-time painting… all a part of Phare’s Sokha performance | Image Credit: Rathany Than

Watching a Phare performance in Siem Reap is to witness not just skill and artistry, but purposeful defiance. Every flip, every beat of the drum, every burst of laughter from the audience is a statement: Cambodia refuses to be silenced, and its people will not be defined solely by the tragedy of its past. The young performers are often the children of poverty, some carrying the legacy of their parents’ staggering trauma, all now channelling that hardship into something astonishing. They juggle, they amaze with feats of strength and balance, they act out stories of daily life and folklore, often with humour and wit, sometimes with searing intensity. It is entertainment with purpose – and for the traveller, it offers a deeper connection to the country than almost anything else that you could do in Siem Reap.

In the show Sokha, Phare’s artists deliver a story of survival and resilience based on the lives of Phare’s original founders

I’ve been to this charming city three times, and every time, I make it a point to attend a Phare performance. Nine years after my first visit, having watched and met some of the young student artists during the show back in 2016, some of those students are still performing… but they’re no longer students. They are now the masters, training and teaching the next generation of Phare artists. After the performances, audience members are invited to come down and meet the artists, and I did so this time, finding those photos from 2016 to show to the same incredible performers, who were amazed to see photos of themselves from a show some nine years ago!

Audience members meet the artists after the show: At least three of the artists seen in this 2016 photo are still performing with Phare today!

If you visit Siem Reap, you quite simply must attend a Phare performance. To sit under that tent is to get a sense of Cambodia’s spirit today. It’s not a slick, polished performance, but rather one that’s authentic, raw, youthful, occasionally imperfect, and wonderfully hopeful. It’s the kind of experience that makes you rethink the role of travel itself – not just consuming sights and posting on social media, but really engaging with stories, sharing in victories both small and profound, and genuinely feeling the pulse of your destination. In the case of Phare, it’s an explosion of Cambodian culture, history, and art – all shared in an intimate, breathtaking performance that will leave you feeling exhilarated and moved in equal measure.

Intimate and engaging, the “theatre-in-the-round” presentation style of Phare’s performances leave audiences exhilarated and impressed

A COMFORTABLE HOME BASE

On this visit, I stayed at Shinta Mani Angkor, a place I had stayed before, but in the years since the pandemic, quite a few things had changed. Previously, there had been two rather distinct properties on opposite sides of a quiet street near the river. They were both appealing, but in different ways. Now, the funky Shinta Mani Shack of old – which was a testament to celebrated architect and designer Bill Bensley’s amazing creative quirkiness – has given way to a stunning collection of 10 private pool villas. They still carry that signature Bensley vibe, but the concept has been tilted more towards what could be called artistic elegance, now favouring indulgence over whimsy.

Shinta Main Angkor, Siem Reap

I had booked a standard room, but as I was visiting in the low season (which is brilliantly called “green season” in Siem Reap), and perhaps in consideration of my previous stay, the Shinta Mani team were gracious enough to extend an upgrade. I still checked the going rate online, of course, and was shocked: these villas, in actual fact, are an incredible value-for-money proposition if you travel during the green season. What’s more, staying at Shinta Mani contributes to the Shinta Mani Foundation, which funds a number of commendable initiatives for the betterment of Cambodia. (Read more under ‘Travel Tips’ at the end.)

An evening dip in the villa’s pool

Each villa offers a spacious layout with its own private swimming pool and lush garden courtyard, ensuring complete seclusion for guests. Interiors are playful yet refined, showcasing Bensley’s signature flair for contrast, eclectic furnishings, and Khmer-inspired accents. Think oversized outdoor bathtubs, hand-crafted details, an abundance of plant life, and bold artwork that mixes sophistication with a dash of quirkiness. There’s even an upstairs garden terrace for relaxing amid the villa’s prolific landscaping.

A lush garden terrace occupies the villa’s upstairs floor

And that’s not all. Guests staying in these villas enjoy personalized butler service (a shout-out here to my friendly and efficient butler, named Son), curated in-villa dining, and exclusive access to Shinta Mani’s upscale facilities, all while being just minutes away from Angkor Wat and a short walk from central Siem Reap. It was always a complete delight returning to the comforts of the villa, and I made use of the lap pool several times. On one occasion, a brief but torrential afternoon rainstorm chased me inside from the comfy sitting area by the pool, but apart from that, I routinely enjoyed the numerous outdoor spaces of the villa.

Bensley Pool Villa at Shinta Mani Angkor | Image Credit: Bensley Collection

I didn’t take advantage of the in-villa dining option, but rather ate at the property’s incredible restaurant, Kroya, under the guiding hand of Executive Chef Chanrith, who in addition to his talents with traditional Khmer cuisine, also specialises in fine French and Italian dining. The tasting menu I savoured at Kroya was nothing short of exemplary, and as with so many things in Siem Reap, offers considerable value for money – especially when taking into account the quality cuisine and meticulous preparation, gracious service, and beautiful designer ambiance of the restaurant. My stay at Shinta Mani was an absolute delight, and I spent a fair bit of time just strolling around the property, taking in the various sights and eclectic design ethos as I talked with staff, listening to their fascinating tales.

Kroya’s 26-day butter-aged tenderloin, prepared “Lok Lak” style and served with a sous vide egg and an amazing Kampot pepper-lime sauce

And beyond the engaging people, travel in Cambodia often presents other, equally unexpected stories. Take Kampot pepper, for example. Long acclaimed as the finest peppercorn in the world, it was nearly wiped out complete during the Khmer Rouge era when farms were destroyed and farmers were displaced or killed. For decades, the world forgot about Kampot’s pepper fields. Yet today, those glossy green vines are thriving once again in the red earth of southern Cambodia.

The spice has earned coveted Protected Geographical Indication (PGI) status in the EU, and discerning chefs from Paris to Tokyo prize its complex heat and subtle citrusy notes. Particularly when made into the incredible local pepper lime sauce (which I couldn’t get enough of upon discovering it at my Kroya dinner), the Kampot pepper could quite literally be considered the taste of Cambodia’s comeback.

Kampot peppercorns, both fresh and dried, at the morning market | Image Credit: Wild ‘n’ Free Diary

As a tourist, to trace these threads – from something as under-the-radar as the rebirth of Kampot pepper, to the vibrant energy of Phare’s performers, and the global magnetism of Angkor Wat – is to understand Cambodia not as a postcard of temples, but as a living, breathing country. It is a place that has suffered through unimaginable darkness, and yet offers travellers both beauty and truth: the grandeur of ancient stone, the hopeful resilience of a nation rebuilding itself, and the simple joy of a peppercorn bursting with unique flavour.

So yes, Siem Reap is a magnet for tourism in many respects. The Angkor ruins inspire awe, the food and nightlife of Pub Street deliver fun, but it’s the stories behind the surface – of endurance, of artistry, of sombre stories told and joyful performances staged – that will linger in your memory long after your flight home.

Lush green fields seen on the tuk-tuk ride to town from Siem Reap’s airport

TRAVEL TIPS

Getting There

Though Siem Reap draws tourists from near and far, it still hasn’t quite rebounded to its pre-pandemic numbers, and it’s a small city (about 140,000 in the city proper), so flight choices are not numerous. In fact, for now, AirAsia is the only game in town if you want to fly direct. For travellers in Kuala Lumpur, this is of course great news. Book your seat on AirAsia, and enjoy the short two-hour flight to Siem Reap’s new international airport. You can always take connecting flights through Bangkok or Phnom Penh, but we prefer the direct route, so were pleased to learn AirAsia still offered this option. (https://www.airasia.com/en/gb)

Fly AirAsia direct from KL to Siem Reap

Arrival

Malaysian nationals are welcomed visa-free to Cambodia as fellow ASEAN members. Most other nationals will need a visa. The easiest way is to pre-purchase the visa online at www.evisa.gov.kh. This is the official government site, and we feel it’s the best and most secure. Getting through immigration at Siem Reap is generally quite smooth and efficient.

Siem Reap’s new international airport (SAI) is about 45 km from the city itself, much further away than the old airport, but boasting plenty of room for future expansion, both in physical size and capacity. (The previous airport was also just 5–7 km from Angkor Wat. Aircraft noise, vibrations, and air pollution were seen as risks to the temples’ long-term preservation. UNESCO had recommended relocation to safeguard the site.)

The new Siem Reap airport | Image Credit: Asian Aviation

Transfer options, if not covered by your hotel, include an airport shuttle bus to a central drop-off point (about RM35), tuk-tuk (about RM70), or private car (RM140). You can use your local Grab account to summon a ride and check prices, or you can negotiate with a taxi driver at the airport and sometimes get a better fare. The journey takes about an hour. I took an enclosed tuk-tuk to town, which was enjoyable and quite scenic in parts, then used the airport shuttle bus to get back. (https://english.sai-airport.com)

Stay and Do

Shinta Mani Angkor, with just over 100 rooms and suites, is conveniently located on a quiet street in the Royal District near the Siem Reap River. The location is ideal, lying between the town’s centre, which is within easy walking or cycling distance (about 1 km to Pub Street or the Art Centre Night Market), and the temples of Angkor themselves, with Angkor Wat about 6 km to the north.

The many dining and drinking options of Pub Street are just a 10-minute walk from Shinta Mani Angkor

A true oasis in the city, the resort features a gorgeous pool, dining options, a fine spa, and an art gallery, with proceeds supporting the Shinta Mani Foundation. This foundation was founded by Bill Bensley and Sokoun Chanpreda with a mission of uplifting individuals and making a positive impact through a variety of initiatives. When guests stay at any Shinta Mani property in Cambodia, they fund – both directly and indirectly – this foundation, thus making a real and meaningful difference for the people, communities, and ecosystems of Cambodia. (https://shintamani.com/angkor)

Shinta Mani’s art gallery, with proceeds helping to fund the Shinta Mani Foundation

Phare The Cambodian Circus is a must-do experience to put on any Siem Reap itinerary. A quick check of Tripadvisor will affirm that nobody leaves this incredible show feeling they didn’t get their money’s worth. Any of the four currently running productions will be riveting, but for a programme that’s as moving and inspiring as it is amazing, choose Sokha, which tells a powerful and emotional story. It’s based on the true-life experience of Phare Ponleu Selpak’s founders – from when they were young students in a thriving Cambodia, their survival of the Khmer Rouge era, and through to their vision and creation of a school using art to help heal and educate other children. (https://pharecircus.org/calendar-productions/#productions)

Phare: The Cambodian Circus | Image Credit: Tripadvisor
Performance of Khmer Angkor Village at Phare | Image Credit: PPSE

Shopping and Dining

The entire area around Pub Street (Street 08) in the heart of Siem Reap is filled with options for dining, drinking, and shopping. Prices are usually clearly stated and may be in USD, the local currency (KHR), or both. Credit and debit cards are accepted in many, but not all, outlets. ATMs are widely available, but a US$5 fee is imposed for cash withdrawals. Moneychangers are available here and there, as well, but it’s recommended to just do your cash exchanges before leaving Malaysia. When paying with US dollars, you’ll almost always get any change returned in Cambodian riel.

Part of Siem Reap’s beloved Pub Street area
Cold beers are widely available for either 50¢ or 75¢ in and around Pub Street

Even in the off season, Pub Street is a hive of activity, but much more so at night. Cold draught beers are available nearly everywhere for 75¢ (about RM3), although some places off the main street still serve up beers at the ‘old’ price of 50¢. Local Khmer cuisine is offered all over the place (be sure to wander down the narrow alleyways between streets), but if you want to sample some very respectable Mexican food, head to Viva Mexican Restaurant – there are two outlets in the Pub Street district.

Shredded beef taco and a frozen margarita at Viva
Maybe Later’s owners hail from Los Angeles, we’re told… hence the cheeky roadside sign

True Tex-Mex aficionados can also seek out Maybe Later Mexican Bar & Grill, just nearby on Street 14. (Try the excellent birria tacos, three for $7,50. www.maybelatertaco.com) For Greek food, check out Elia Greek Kitchen (https://eliathegreekkitchen.com), which offers tasty Mediterranean fare in a lovely, expansive restaurant with plenty of live plants.

For an early evening drink with a view before venturing out to dinner, visitors can head to The Aviary Hotel, just a short stroll from Pub Street. Go upstairs to Glide Bar to enjoy its open-air setting, and value-for-money beverages and bar snacks served by enthusiastic staff. The cozy bar has comfortable lounges and tables and chairs in its interior and benchtop tables on the exterior overlooking the hotel pool. Happy hour runs from 5 to 6pm daily, and boasts 50% discounts on beers and cocktails. Visit www.theaviaryhotel.com for info.

Poolside vibes at The Aviary Hotel’s top-floor Glide Bar
Enjoy 2-for-1 cocktails during happy hour at Glide Bar

Along the Siem Reap River, another fine choice is the Sky Bar @ La Riviere d’Angkor. Note that you’re only one floor up, so “Sky Bar” is a bit of a stretch, but there’s loads of charm to be found here with a 3 to 6pm happy hour featuring 2 for 1 cocktails. Light snacks and even meals are also available. (www.larivieredangkorsiemreap.com/skybar)

For a posh dinner of authentic local cuisine that will certainly impress, either dine at Shinta Mani’s Kroya (https://kroya.restaurant/) or walk down the river to Malis Siem Reap, a beautiful restaurant that serves impressively prepared Cambodian dishes in an upscale setting. (www.malis.thalias.com.kh/malis-siem-reap)

The grand entrance to Malis Siem Reap

For something less extravagant, but no less delicious or authentic, consider Amok by Chef Kimsan, in the Pub Street area. In addition to fabulous meals, Amok also offers regular cooking classes, which seem to be enthusiastically attended and well-received. (https://amokrestaurant.com)

Colourful dining at Amok Restaurant

Getting Around

Depending on how far you want to wander, Siem Reap is very walkable. Many hotels and resorts also have bicycles available for guest use. Of course, tuk-tuks are ubiquitous, and you can either flag these down on the street, or use your Grab app to summon them. Fares are incredibly cheap because the distances are often fairly short. Buy a roaming package for Cambodia before you travel to make life with your phone much easier while in Siem Reap.

Siem Reap’s fleet of tuk-tuks can be easily ordered via Grab or flagged down on the street
Wat Preah Prom Rath, Central Siem Reap, a short stroll from Pub Street
Categories
ASEAN News

Typhoon Kajiki Leaves Trail of Destruction and Flooding in Vietnam

Tens of thousands evacuated as storm lashes central provinces with destructive winds and floods

Typhoon Kajiki slammed into Vietnam’s central coast on Monday, killing three people, injuring at least 13 others, and forcing the evacuation of more than 44,000 residents before weakening into a tropical storm.

The storm made landfall in Nghe An and Ha Tinh provinces at about 3 p.m. local time, with maximum sustained winds of 133 kph, according to Vietnam’s national weather forecast agency. Though Kajiki has since weakened, its impact across the country has been severe.

A period of rapid intensification before Typhoon Kajiki’s landfall (pictured) had observers fearing an impact like that of last year’s Typhoon Yagi | Image Credit: Tuoi Tre News

STATE DAMAGE AND EVACUATIONS

Strong gusts tore through homes, toppled lampposts, and uprooted trees. State media reported that over 6,800 houses were damaged, while flooding swamped some 28,000 hectares of rice paddies.

Seven provinces in central and northern Vietnam were affected by the storm’s winds and rain. In Hanoi, about 350 km north of the landfall site, flash floods inundated roads and homes, leaving parts of the capital paralysed.

Major flooding in some parts of Vietnam from Typhoon Kajiki; Nghe An province seen here | Image Credit: Vietnamplus.vn

Local authorities ordered schools to close, suspended flights at two provincial airports and carried out widespread evacuations. Many coastal residents boarded up windows and reinforced buildings with sandbags ahead of the storm’s arrival.

According to the Vietnam News Agency (VNA), more than 44,000 people were moved from low-lying areas in preparation. Eyewitnesses described dramatic scenes along the coast as surging waves up to two metres high pushed seawater into towns and villages.

“It’s terrifying,” said Dang Xuan Phuong, 48, from the tourism town of Cua Lao in Nghe An. “From higher floors, I could see waves as tall as two metres, and the water flooded the roads around us.”

Flooding in Hưng Yên Province on August 25 | Image Credit: Vietnamnews.vn

WIDESPREAD IMPACT

In Ha Tinh, large areas lost power and mobile networks faltered as torrential rain pounded the province. Thanh Hoa was also hit by tidal surges that left coastal communities under water.

Though the storm was gradually weakening as it moved inland, the weather forecast agency warned that strong winds and heavy rainfall still posed risks.

On Sunday, before landfall, authorities in central provinces had already activated emergency measures. Plans were drawn up to evacuate more than half a million people across Thanh Hoa, Quang Tri, Hue and Danang provinces. Fishing boats were ordered to remain in port, and efforts were made to secure dams and flood defences.

The military mobilised more than 300,000 personnel, with naval, coast guard and air force units placed on standby for potential rescue missions.

Government officials drew comparisons to Typhoon Yagi, the most destructive storm to hit the region last year. Yagi killed some 300 people in northern Vietnam and devastated factories, farmland and infrastructure. While Kajiki was weaker than Yagi, its destructive winds and extensive flooding underscored the region’s vulnerability.

Flooding in Hanoi on August 26 | Image Credit: AP via Al Jazeera

RAINS TO CONTINUE

Kajiki is expected to continue inland toward Laos and Thailand, with the risk of flash floods and landslides rising sharply. Meteorologists forecast between 200–400 mm of rain in many areas of central Vietnam, with some isolated locations likely to receive more than 600 mm.

The storm also battered southern China before reaching Vietnam. On Sunday evening, it swept past Hainan island and parts of Guangdong province. In Sanya, a resort city on Hainan, authorities closed beaches, suspended transport services and shut tourist attractions. By Monday morning, Sanya downgraded its typhoon alert, but continued to warn residents of heavy rain and localised flooding.

Localised flooding in Sanya, Hainan Province of China, as the remnants of Typhoon Kajiki delivered strong winds and heavy rain | Image Credit: VCG/Getty Images

CLIMATE CHANGE WARNINGS

Scientists have stressed that the worsening impacts of tropical cyclones in the region are closely linked to human-driven climate change.

Benjamin Horton, professor of earth science at City University of Hong Kong, told the Associated Press: “It’s frightening to see our projections from just last year already materialising. We are no longer predicting the future – we are living it.”

While developed countries bear the largest historical responsibility for greenhouse gas emissions, it is developing nations in Southeast Asia that continue to suffer the heaviest consequences from stronger, wetter and slower-moving storms.

Downed trees in Sanya, South China’s Hainan Province on August 25, in the wake of Typhoon Kajiki | Image Credit: GlobalTimes.cn

Reporting from CNN, Vietnam News Agency, and Associated Press contributed to this article.

Categories
Airline News Local News

KLIA Airspace Closure To Disrupt Flights During Merdeka Holiday Period

Malaysia Airlines announced that it will retime flights from August 26 to 31 as KLIA’s airspace closes for daily Merdeka celebrations, with delays and diversions expected to affect multiple carriers.

Malaysia Airlines will adjust its flight schedules from August 26 to 31, 2025, as the airspace surrounding Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) closes daily from 8am to noon for the 68th Merdeka celebrations.

Editor's note: The timing of the airspace closure was later clarified to be from 11am to 12pm from August 26 to 28, and then from 8:45am to 9:45am on August 29 and 31, rather different to what was originally announced. There will be no airspace closure on August 30.

In its advisory, the airline stated that both departures and arrivals at KLIA are affected. Passengers are urged to arrive four hours before their newly confirmed departure times to allow for check-in and document verification. Although a list of affected flights by date has been published, Malaysia Airlines has not disclosed the total number of services impacted.

The airline also reminded passengers to ensure they carry all required travel documents and to verify entry and exit requirements through official channels before travelling.

REASON FOR THE AIRSPACE CLOSURE

The restriction is linked to preparations for the Merdeka Day flypast, a highly visible aerial display. According to the Civil Aviation Authority of Malaysia, sections of Kuala Lumpur’s Terminal Control Area will be closed to fixed-wing operations during the period, covering both rehearsals and the main event.

To maintain safety, airlines are advised to schedule arrivals and departures outside the closure hours, with carriers instructed to carry sufficient extra fuel for potential holding patterns. Subang Airport will remain open as a diversion point, though some delays are still expected.

IMPACT ON OTHER AIRLINES

While Malaysia Airlines has issued the primary advisory, other operators such as AirAsia, Batik Air, and international carriers will likely implement schedule adjustments, as well. Specific announcements from these airlines had not yet been released at the time of this article’s publication, but disruptions are anticipated across the board.

This type of airspace restriction is not new to the aviation industry. Earlier this year, Malaysia Airlines rerouted flights to Europe after Pakistan closed its airspace, while Batik Air suspended its Amritsar service altogether. AirAsia X also altered routes to Jeddah and Medina during temporary Middle Eastern airspace closures. International carriers including Singapore Airlines, Air France-KLM, and British Airways have faced similar diversions in recent months.

These examples illustrate how airspace closures, whether for security, geopolitical reasons, or national events, can cause significant ripple effects on scheduling, operating costs, and passenger convenience.

All airlines operating within KLIA airspace should be affected by the daily four-hour closure | Image Credit: KLIA

ADVICE FOR TRAVELLERS

Passengers travelling during this period should:

  • Arrive at KLIA four hours before rescheduled flights
  • Check flight status frequently via official airline channels
  • Be prepared for possible delays or diversions
  • Note that Subang Airport may be used as a diversion point
  • Understand that even non-Malaysia Airlines flights may experience delays due to overlapping airspace coordination

Sources

  • Civil Aviation Authority of Malaysia (AIP Supplement 37/25)
  • Malaysia Airlines official advisory
  • Malay Mail, Bernama, Business Today, The Star, Scoop.my
Categories
Events

WhiskyPLUS Marks Its 10th Edition with a Spectacular Celebration at Crowne Plaza KLCC

WhiskyPLUS notched its 10th edition in grand style at the new Crowne Plaza KLCC on August 16, 2025, with hundreds of enthusiasts gathering for Malaysia’s premier whisky and spirits tasting event.

Malaysia’s biggest whisky and spirits tasting event reached a milestone this year, celebrating its 10th edition overall – and seventh in Kuala Lumpur – with a vibrant gathering at the beautiful new Crowne Plaza KLCC on August 16, 2025. Hundreds of enthusiasts turned out for WhiskyPLUS 2025, ready to explore a world of whisky and spirits under one roof, enjoy unlimited tastings, and connect with brand representatives and fellow aficionados in a lively, festive atmosphere.

See the event video from @ej_simewejin at the end of this article!

This year’s show brought nearly 120 whisky and spirit brands to the floor, making it one of the most wide-ranging editions to date. Scotland remained the dominant force, with both single malt and blended whiskies on offer, but guests also discovered an impressive variety from Australia, Ireland, Japan, India, the United States, South Africa, Thailand, and France. Beyond whisky, the event also showcased gins from across Europe and Asia – including England, Spain, France, Belgium, Italy, and Japan – while the rums represented a true Caribbean and Latin showcase, featuring labels from Barbados, Cuba, Jamaica, Guatemala, Venezuela, and beyond.

VIP guests were treated to an elevated experience in the Royal Salute VIP Lounge, where several premium expressions of the Scotch brand were available alongside indulgent oscietra caviar tastings from T’Lur Caviar. Adding to the luxury, Cohiba Atmosphere drew cigar enthusiasts to its booth, offering a chance to learn more about Cuban and New World cigars. Meanwhile, cocktail lovers enjoyed creative concoctions from Locker & Loft’s pop-up bar, with additional cocktails available at select exhibitor booths. For guests wanting a refreshing break, Monin’s range of alcohol-free creations offered a welcome alternative, as did bottles of ice-cold sparkling water from Spritzer.

Guests were also irresistibly drawn to the impressive display of Kerrygold cheeses, presented by Bidfood, where a generous spread of imported varieties was available for sampling. Much like the whiskies being poured, these premium cheeses could be purchased at super-attractive event-day prices, making the Kerrygold booth a popular stop on the tasting floor.

VIP ticket holders also enjoyed exclusive access to three masterclasses per session, giving them a deeper appreciation for the artistry behind the bottles. This year’s highlights included Black Bull Blended Scotch Whisky from Duncan Taylor, the debut of Prakaan Single Malt Thai Whisky, and a deep dive into Michter’s American Whiskey. At the ever-popular Collector’s Corner, rare and old whiskies could be purchased by the dram, providing a chance to sample truly unique pours.

WhiskyPLUS 2025 would not have been the same without its partners and supporters, and a debt of gratitude is owed to them all. Crowne Plaza KLCC and its outstanding team delivered an exceptional venue experience, while Bluestar AMG sponsored a lucky draw that saw one fortunate guest walk away with a prized bottle of Glenfiddich 21. Bolt provided discounted rides to and from the venue, and Mister Coffee and Spritzer kept guests fuelled and refreshed throughout the day. And of course, the enthusiasm of the exhibitors and attendees ensured the event’s success.

From rare whiskies to craft cocktails, premium cigars to gourmet caviar, WhiskyPLUS 2025 in Kuala Lumpur was a fitting celebration of the 10th edition of Malaysia’s premier whisky and spirits show.

The journey continues on October 4 at the Penang Marriott with WhiskyPLUS Penang 2025 – visit www.whiskyplus.my for details.

Categories
MM2H

Why Malaysia Keeps Making Global Shortlists for Retirement

Malaysia continues to draw international attention as one of Asia’s most attractive retirement destinations, and for good reason. With affordable living, excellent healthcare, modern infrastructure, and the long-running Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H) programme, the country is increasingly recognised by foreign observers as a place where lifestyle and value come together.

Here at ExpatGo, along with our sister publications, we write about MM2H and retiring in Malaysia rather frequently. But we are here, writing as seasoned expat residents who are admittedly quite fond of Malaysia and the favourable lifestyle we feel it offers. But what about “outsiders”? How do they see it?

When overseas publications turn their attention to Malaysia, it often provides a fresh perspective for those of us who already live here. Recently, Kiplinger’s Retirement Report carried a feature citing Malaysia as an “exceptional retirement destination,” highlighting not only the affordable cost of living, but also the breadth of experiences and conveniences available to expats.

Jean-Francois Harvey, founder and managing partner of Harvey Law Group, told Kiplinger’s that Malaysia allows retirees to live well on a modest budget. “The country offers a cost of living approximately 54% lower than in the U.S.,” he said. “A single retiree can enjoy a high quality of life on around $1,500 per month. Its tropical climate and breathtaking landscapes — from Penang’s beaches to Sabah’s jungles — create a vibrant lifestyle.”

That comment resonates strongly with many expats here who can attest to just how far their dollars, pounds, or euros stretch compared to their home countries. The appeal is compounded by Malaysia’s upper-middle-income economy, now larger than Denmark’s, and its world-class infrastructure, particularly in healthcare. English is widely spoken, crime rates are relatively low, and for those who like predictable weather, the climate is consistent year-round, if a bit heavy on rainfall.

STRONG REGIONAL ACCESS

Malaysia also scores highly on geography. Singapore is just a short drive away, Bangkok is two hours by air, and Bali can be reached in under three. It’s this enviable position — right at the crossroads of Southeast Asia — that makes the country such a convenient base not only for retirees, but for travellers and investors alike.

Kiplinger’s noted that thriving expat communities and political stability add to the country’s appeal. That rings true in Kuala Lumpur, Penang, and Johor Bahru, the three locations Harvey highlighted as top picks for retirees.

Image Credit: MyPropertyPlaces.com

WHERE RETIREES ARE SETTLING

Kuala Lumpur has the edge as the country’s largest city and its global brand. Though the city proper counts just over two million residents, the metro population is a sprawling 8.8 million. With its unmistakable skyline, KL makes a statement — from the once-world’s-tallest Petronas Twin Towers to the new Merdeka 118, now the second-tallest building in the world.

But beneath the skyscrapers, life is remarkably livable. The Economist Intelligence Unit recently ranked KL second only to Singapore among Southeast Asian cities for quality of life. Factors such as infrastructure, culture, healthcare, and food played key roles. The culinary scene in particular has long been a standout, combining the country’s three major cuisines — Malay, Chinese, and Indian — with an ever-expanding international roster.

Rent is also affordable compared to global standards. Even in KL city centre, a furnished apartment can often be found for under $1,000 a month. That sort of value is increasingly hard to match in other capital cities.

Penang, meanwhile, remains one of Malaysia’s brightest draws. Known as the “Pearl of the Orient,” Penang is celebrated for its blend of heritage and modern comforts. Its capital, George Town, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with colonial architecture and street food culture that’s recognised worldwide. For retirees, Penang delivers affordability, reliable health care, and a vibrant cultural life. Festivals and celebrations — from Chinese New Year to Oktoberfest — are an ingrained part of the island’s rhythm.

Johor Bahru rounds out the top three. Its proximity to Singapore has long shaped the city’s development, and retirees often view JB as a convenient and cost-effective alternative to the island republic next door.

Johor Bahru, with its proximity to Singapore, has surged in both international appeal and growth in recent years | Image Credit: Enjoy Travel

THE VISA LANDSCAPE

Of course, no discussion of retiring in Malaysia is complete without reference to MM2H. Kiplinger’s called it “highly appealing for American retirees” because of its long-term flexibility and tax advantages. The visa, available in Silver (five years), Gold (15 years), and Platinum (20 years) tiers, currently exempts foreign-sourced income from Malaysian tax, a feature that’s been especially attractive to retirees drawing pensions or investment income abroad.

But there’s a catch, and one familiar to expats already here: the financial thresholds. Applicants are required to show substantial fixed deposits and, depending on the tier, property investments as well. For example, the Gold tier calls for a $235,000 property purchase and a $500,000 deposit. For some, these requirements are comfortably within reach, but for others, they can be prohibitive.

Harvey told Kiplinger’s that MM2H “is a compelling choice for affluent retirees seeking stability and a high-quality lifestyle,” but cautioned that each individual’s resources will determine whether the programme makes sense. The approval process usually takes between two and four months, depending on documentation.

For those who qualify, the appeal is clear: renewable long-term residency, property ownership opportunities, and tax-exempt offshore income. When compared to many other retirement visas around the world, MM2H remains competitive.

HEALTHCARE AND DAILY LIFE

Beyond cost of living and visas, healthcare is often the decisive factor for retirees. Here again, Malaysia shines. The country has become a hub for medical tourism, with modern hospitals, internationally trained doctors, and relatively low costs. Private health insurance can be obtained for under $50 a month. For many retirees, the combination of quality, accessibility, and affordability is a decisive point in favour of Malaysia.

Day-to-day life also carries plenty of appeal. Expats regularly cite the warmth of local communities, the ease of travelling domestically — from island getaways like Langkawi and Tioman to mountain retreats in Cameron Highlands — and the sheer variety of dining and shopping options. Whether in KL’s modern malls, Penang’s hawker centres, or Johor’s café culture, retirees in Malaysia rarely complain of boredom.

Image Credit: Forever Vacation

THE BOTTOM LINE

Kiplinger’s conclusion was that retirees looking for a dynamic Asian destination with Western comforts and easy access to regional hotspots should put Malaysia on their shortlist. The country’s balance of affordability, modern infrastructure, and lifestyle offerings make it stand out in a competitive region.

From our vantage point as expats living here, it’s encouraging to see outside voices echo what many of us already know: Malaysia can be a superb place to call home, whether for a few years or for the long haul. Challenges remain — not least in navigating visa requirements and adapting to tropical living — but the rewards are substantial.

For those weighing up their options, Kiplinger’s assessment simply adds another layer of validation: Malaysia is no longer a hidden gem. It’s a destination increasingly recognised on the world stage for the quality of life it offers.

To read the original Kiplinger’s article in its entirety, click here.

Categories
ASEAN News Lifestyle

The Country That Dominates the Ranking of Hiking Trails in Southeast Asia Might Surprise You

From urban forest loops to rugged climbs, this ASEAN country claims nine of the region’s top 10 hiking routes in a new regional study.

When Asia’s great outdoors are mentioned, the mind often jumps to Thailand’s pristine beaches, Japan’s historic Kumano Kodo trail, or Bhutan’s soaring Himalayan peaks. Yet, according to a new study, Malaysia is fast emerging as the region’s premier hiking destination, boasting a remarkable nine of the top 10 trails in Southeast Asia.

The findings come from online tour operator Exoticca.com, which analysed AllTrails data across 11 countries including Thailand, Vietnam, Indonesia, and the Philippines. Trails were scored on user ratings, popularity, and the number of positive reviews. The results placed Malaysia firmly at the top.

“Malaysia proves particularly popular,” an Exoticca.com spokesperson said. “The data shows that hikers value trails that combine accessibility with natural beauty.”

Bukit Gasing, a popular hiking trail in Greater Kuala Lumpur | Image Credit: TheSmartLocalMalaysia

At the summit of the list is the Bukit Gasing Circular, located in Petaling Jaya between Kuala Lumpur and its suburbs. The leafy 2.4-mile (3.84-km) loop, which takes one to 1.5 hours to complete, earned a near-perfect score of 98.4 out of 100. Reviews highlighted the “killer stairs,” hidden hanging bridges, and elevated wooden platforms scattered through the forest reserve.

Second place went to Bukit Kiara via Changkat Abang Haji Openg (96.7 points), a 2.8-mile (4.5-km) trail that links several green spaces on Kuala Lumpur’s fringe. Third place was awarded to the interconnected Twin Peaks–Quill Killer–Rock Garden–Lower Carnival trails, another popular network near the capital.

Even shorter city hikes performed strongly. The 1.4-mile (2.24-km) Ketumbar Hill trail in Cheras ranked fourth thanks to its easy access and panoramic city views, making it a favourite for early risers.

Ketumbar Hill | Image Credit: Traworld on X

Thailand finally broke Malaysia’s streak with the Monk’s Trail in Chiang Mai, a 4.5-mile (7.2-km) path leading to the sacred Wat Pha Lat temple and Doi Suthep mountain, which placed fifth.

The rest of the list was once again dominated by Malaysian entries, from Sri Bintang Hill’s sunrise views to the challenging rock scrambles of Mount Datuk (Gunung Datuk) in Negeri Sembilan. Other highlights included the Bukit Gasing Fence Trail, Tiga Puteri Peak in Selangor, and the restored forest park trails of Taman Tugu in Kuala Lumpur.

Gunung Datuk, Negeri Sembilan | Image Credit: Awanmulan

The study underscores Malaysia’s strength as a hiking destination, offering everything from quick city escapes to strenuous climbs, all within easy reach of urban centres. With such variety and accessibility, Malaysia may soon rival its neighbours not only for beaches and food, but also as Southeast Asia’s top destination for nature lovers.

Categories
Local News Tourism

Malaysia Sees Surge in ASEAN Tourist Arrivals in First Half of 2025

Tourist arrivals from ASEAN countries have jumped 15.5% in the first six months of 2025, with Malaysia’s role as ASEAN Chair credited for boosting the nation’s regional appeal.

Malaysia has recorded a sharp increase in visitors from neighbouring ASEAN nations, with arrivals rising 15.5% from January to June this year compared to the same period in 2024, according to Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing.

In a Parliamentary reply, Tiong said the numbers reflected both Malaysia’s targeted promotional efforts and the country’s elevated profile as ASEAN Chair for 2025.

“Tourism from our neighbouring ASEAN countries remains a major contributor to Malaysia’s international tourist arrivals. ASEAN visitors accounted for 74.3% of Malaysia’s total international tourism in 2024. The number of visitors increased to 15.09 million in the first half of 2025, up from 13.06 million in the same period last year,” he said, responding to a query from Datuk Seri Dr Wee Jeck Seng (BN–Tanjung Piai).

Fast facts

ASEAN tourist arrivals to Malaysia – H1 2025 vs H1 2024

H1 2025 arrivals
15.09 million
H1 2024 arrivals
13.06 million
Year-on-year change
+15.5%
  • ASEAN share of international arrivals (2024): 74.3%
  • Malaysia is the ASEAN Chair in 2025, boosting regional visibility
  • Ongoing push for infrastructure and state-level collaboration to sustain growth

Tiong noted that Malaysia’s role in hosting ASEAN-level meetings has further strengthened its visibility and appeal among regional travellers. “Our role as ASEAN Chair contributes to this surge, with meetings attracting delegates from across the region,” he added.

When asked by Wee about challenges in promoting Malaysia’s tourism sector, Tiong acknowledged that budget limitations remain an issue. However, he stressed that his ministry is working closely with the Finance Ministry to secure the necessary resources.

“We are exploring partnerships and optimising our promotional efforts even with limited funds,” he said.

In response to Dr Ahmad Fakhruddin Sheikh Fakhrurazi (PN–Kuala Kedah) on the potential of cross-border tourism, Tiong highlighted the need for better infrastructure and closer collaboration with state governments. He singled out Kelantan as a state that could do more to participate in international promotions alongside the ministry.

“Kelantan often misses these opportunities. I urge them to participate more actively,” Tiong said, making a pointed remark about the state’s limited involvement.

Tiong also addressed a question from Deputy Speaker Datuk Dr Ramli Mohd Nor (BN–Cameron Highlands) on whether Cameron Highlands would feature prominently in the promotional push for Visit Malaysia Year 2026.

“We will assist wherever we can to promote Cameron Highlands,” he assured.

With tourism being a major driver of Malaysia’s economy, the current upswing in ASEAN arrivals provides momentum for the nation’s plans leading up to 2026. The challenge, as Tiong indicated, will be to maintain this growth through sustained marketing, improved infrastructure, and stronger state-level cooperation.

Categories
Airline News

Airline and Travel News Updates: August 2025

Stay up to date with the latest in the travel and hospitality industry, from airline launches and route expansions to new trends and transportation developments shaping the way we explore the world.

This is the August 2025 edition of Airline and Travel News.

THE MILLEN PENANG NAMED BEST LUXURY HOTEL IN GOLD LIST 2025

The Millen Penang, Autograph Collection, has been named Best Luxury Hotel in the 5th edition of the Gold List 2025, unveiled by IM FIRST CLASS to celebrate excellence in luxury travel.

“The Millen has redefined luxury hospitality with its exquisite design, impeccable service, and unwavering dedication to creating unforgettable guest experiences,” said Oo Lean Hooi, Managing Editor of IM FIRST CLASS. “More than just a place to stay, it is a refined journey of elegance — truly deserving of the title ‘Best Luxury Hotel.’”

General Manager Catherine Townsend echoed the sentiment, noting the award reflects the commitment of the entire team. “We are deeply honoured by this recognition,” she said. “It underscores our passion to deliver exceptional service and create remarkable experiences that help position Penang as a world-class tourism destination.”

Situated along George Town’s historic Millionaire’s Row, The Millen Penang combines colonial charm with contemporary design across 146 rooms and suites, many with panoramic views of the city and the Andaman Sea.

Dining is a highlight, with options that include Lili, which showcases inventive Contemporary Malaysian cuisine; Good Society, a stylish coffee salon by day and bar by night; and Blacklinen, offering premium charcoal-grilled meats and seafood. Guests can also unwind at Nut&Meg Spa, inspired by local traditions, or enjoy leisure facilities ranging from a saltwater infinity pool with sweeping sea views to a fully equipped gym, sauna, and steam room.

With its enviable location near George Town’s UNESCO World Heritage core, famed street food, and cultural landmarks, The Millen Penang offers both refined luxury and easy access to exploration.

For more information and reservations, visit themillenhotel.com.

FIREFLY SHIFTS JET OPERATIONS FROM SUBANG TO KLIA

Malaysia Aviation Group (MAG) recently announced the relocation of its regional airline Firefly’s jet operations from Sultan Abdul Aziz Shah Airport (SZB), the capital’s downtown airport (Subang), to Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA/KUL) Terminal 1, effective August 19, 2025.

Firefly will continue to operate its turboprop services from Subang, ensuring ongoing connectivity to key regional destinations.

Malaysia Airlines parent MAG says the move is part of its long-term network optimisation plan to enhance operational efficiency and ensure sustainable operations for Firefly’s jet services. Relocating to KUL allows greater scalability for jet operations and reflects MAG’s intent to strengthen network connectivity across the group, MAG adds.

Firefly will commence its Boeing 737-800 jet services from KUL beginning August 19, 2025 with its first flight to Tawau (TWU), followed by a phased rollout to key domestic and regional destinations.

Flights to Kuching (KCH) and Kota Kinabalu (BKI) will commence on August 21; Singapore (SIN) on August 22; Johor Bahru (JHB) on August 23; Kota Bharu (KBR) and Terengganu (TGG) on August 30; and Sibu (SBW) on September 3.

The airline will also increase its existing services from KUL to Penang from two times weekly to six times weekly beginning August 23, 2025, before increasing to 10 times weekly in November 2025.

The routes will be operated by Firefly’s single-class Boeing 737-800 aircraft. Travellers may enjoy complimentary 10kg checked baggage, a 7kg carry-on allowance, and in-flight refreshments.

To learn more, visit fireflyz.com.my.

MILLENNIUM HOTELS AND RESORTS NAMED SINGAPORE’S MOST VALUABLE HOTEL BRAND

Millennium Hotels and Resorts (MHR) has once again been crowned Singapore’s most valuable hotel brand, securing its place in the Brand Finance Hotels 50 2025 global ranking. Valued at USD 421 million, MHR climbed three places to 31st worldwide, marking its second consecutive year in the top 50 and reinforcing its position as a leading force in international hospitality.

Together with sister brand Copthorne, valued at USD 223 million, the combined portfolio now stands at USD 644 million. The recognition reflects the strength of the group’s strategic brand focus and the momentum behind its ongoing transformation.

Over the past year, MHR has invested heavily in innovation and guest-focused growth. Initiatives include the launch of AI-powered assistants AVA and Ask Millie, full GSTC certification across its Singapore hotels, and a revitalised MyMillennium loyalty programme. The group also expanded its lifestyle portfolio with the opening of M Social Resort Penang in July, with further debuts in New York and Florida scheduled in the coming months.

“While growing the number of hotels is important, it’s the strength of the brand that drives sustainable growth and sets us apart,” said Kwek Leng Beng, Executive Chairman of City Developments Limited.

Alex Haigh, Managing Director Asia Pacific at Brand Finance, added: “MHR’s position as one of only two Southeast Asian brands in the global top 50 speaks volumes about its strength. Its focus on innovation, sustainability, and guest-centric experiences has made it a standout in the regional landscape.”

With more than 145 hotels in over 80 destinations, MHR remains firmly on track to expand its global presence, with ambitions to scale to 500 hotels through partnerships, market-driven growth, and brand-led innovation.

For more details, visit millenniumhotels.com.

AIRASIA X TO LAUNCH NON-STOP KL-ISTANBUL FLIGHTS

AirAsia X will begin non-stop flights from Kuala Lumpur to Istanbul this November, marking the long-haul budget carrier’s return to Europe and a renewed push toward building a global low-cost network.

The Kuala Lumpur–Istanbul route will operate four times weekly, serving Sabiha Gökçen International Airport on the city’s Asian side. According to AeroRoutes, flight scheduling data confirms the new service, though the airline has yet to issue an official statement.

The move follows AirAsia’s tentative deal to acquire up to 70 extended-range Airbus jets, announced during Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s recent visit to France. The new aircraft form part of CEO Tan Sri Tony Fernandes’s broader strategy to reconnect with European destinations and eventually expand into North America.

AirAsia X previously flew to London and Paris between 2009 and 2012 before shelving those routes amid falling demand and the introduction of a carbon emissions levy. In recent years, the carrier has cautiously rebuilt its network, adding destinations such as Almaty, Kazakhstan. However, not all launches have stuck — its Nairobi service, introduced as its first African route, will be discontinued from September 1 due to low demand.

For details and bookings, visit airasia.com.

PARK HYATT OPENS IN KUALA LUMPUR’S MERDEKA 118

Hyatt recently announced the opening of Park Hyatt Kuala Lumpur, marking the luxury brand’s entry into Malaysia. (Feature photo shows the hotel’s reception area.) Located between levels 75 and 114 of the iconic Merdeka 118 – the tallest skyscraper in Asia Pacific, the hotel promises to provide discerning travellers a refined home in the sky with unparalleled views of the Malaysian capital’s skyline.

Each of the 252 guestrooms and suites has floor-to-ceiling windows offering sweeping views of the city, with the suites featuring expansive living areas, a full bath with a separate rain shower and aromatherapy shower steamer, double vanity, a walk-in dressing room, personal study area, and in select rooms, private dining spaces overlooking the cityscape.

“We are proud to be part of the new Merdeka 118 precinct, with its rich, historical significance and its proximity to the vibrant Petaling Street Chinatown,” said Herman Kemp, general manager of Park Hyatt Kuala Lumpur. “From locally inspired art and design to purposeful wellness and elevated culinary concepts rooted in Malaysian culture, our guests will discover enriching experiences from this unique vantage point and through the Park Hyatt brand’s distinctive take on understated luxury.”

For curated culinary experiences, guests may choose between three venues – Merdeka Grill, Cacao Mixology & Chocolate, and Park Lounge.

Merdeka Grill reimagines a modern grill experience with premium cuts, sustainable seafood, and locally sourced produce, complete with a curated beverage programme.

Park Lounge invites guests to rediscover heritage flavours through all-day dining, including Malaysian traditional signature dishes such as Botok Ikan and Gulai Taucu Minang, or afternoon tea experiences.

Meanwhile, Cacao Mixology & Chocolate — the city’s first chocolate-themed bar — celebrates the richness of cacao with chocolate themed cocktails, small batch distilleries spirits and zero proof specialities.

Located on the 99th floor, Park Hyatt Kuala Lumpur has a light-filled yoga movement studio, a state-of-the-art fitness centre featuring the Integrity+ Series premium cardio equipment from Life Fitness, private treatment suites with ensuite dressing rooms, and a 30-metre infinity pool overlooking the city.

Discover more at hyatt.com.

MIAT MONGOLIAN AIRLINES TO LAUNCH SINGAPORE ROUTE

Beginning November 4, 2025, MIAT Mongolian Airlines will be flying twice weekly between Singapore and the Mongolian capital of Ulaanbaatar, making it easier for travellers to explore the city and the natural beauty of Mongolia. The new service will be the only nonstop passenger link between the Mongolian capital and Singapore.

MIAT will deploy its two-class widebody Boeing 767-300ER aircraft between its Ulaanbaatar base and Singapore’s Changi Airport. These aircraft feature 15 angled-flat business class seats in a 2-1-2 configuration, as well as 237 economy class seats in a 2-3-2 configuration.

MIAT has just a single Boeing 767-300ER remaining in its fleet after taking delivery of two Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners, which currently fly to destinations including Frankfurt and Istanbul.

The flag carrier also has four smaller Boeing 737 aircraft, with more 737 Max jets on order, which predominantly operate on shorter regional flights including to Hong Kong, Tokyo, Seoul, and Bangkok.

In the future, MIAT plans to launch long-haul service to Australia and the U.S. West Coast with its 787-9 Dreamliners.

For details, visit miat.com.

PHILIPPINE AIRLINES TO INCREASE SEATTLE SERVICE

Philippine Airlines (PAL) will increase services between Manila and Seattle to five weekly flights from the current thrice-weekly service starting November 25.

Coming one year after the inaugural launch in October 2024, the nonstop route offers the only direct air link between the Philippines and the U.S. Pacific Northwest.

PAL will introduce new Tuesday and Thursday departures from Manila and Seattle from November 25, for an overall five times weekly service operating each Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, and Sunday. These flights offer connections to numerous U.S. destinations via Alaska Airlines, PAL’s frequent flyer partner.

PAL operates the Seattle services with Boeing 777-300ER widebody aircraft that accommodate 370 passengers, with 42 seats in 2-3-2 business class and 328 in 3-4-3 economy class.

With Seattle, PAL now serves eight destinations in the U.S. and Canada, offering nonstop flights to New York, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Vancouver, Toronto, Honolulu, and Guam.

“Our decision to increase frequencies to Seattle highlights the importance of the U.S. market to the Philippine Airlines global network, and in particular the great value of Seattle as a gateway, not just to the Washington and Oregon areas, but to cities across the United States that we can now serve through our ongoing partnership with Alaska Airlines,” said PAL president, Richard Nuttall.

Learn more at philippineairlines.com.

BATIK AIR MARKS FIRST INTERNATIONAL ROUTE FROM SUBANG WITH BANGKOK SERVICE

Batik Air has launched a milestone non-stop service linking Subang’s Sultan Abdul Aziz Shah Airport (SZB) with Bangkok, Thailand, marking the airport’s first-ever international route. The inaugural Subang–Bangkok flight on July 28, 2025, strengthens regional connectivity and underscores plans to position SZB as a key travel hub for the Klang Valley.

The new route, operated by a Boeing 737, connects SZB with Bangkok’s Don Mueang International Airport (DMK) under flight number OD533. It represents a significant step in expanding Malaysia–Thailand travel links while offering passengers greater convenience by bypassing Kuala Lumpur International Airport.

Batik Air also launched direct Subang–Kuching flights the same day, enhancing access to East Malaysia. Together, the new services expand the airline’s footprint from Subang and give travellers more choice for both regional and domestic journeys.

“With these new routes, we are not only deepening our presence in Subang but also bringing travellers closer to the destinations they love – whether it’s exploring Bangkok’s vibrant streets or experiencing Kuching’s rich cultural charm,” said Batik Air CEO Datuk Chandran Rama Muthy.

For information and booking, visit batikair.com.my.

ISTANBUL AIRPORT BREAKS ONE-DAY PASSENGER RECORD IN EUROPE

Türkiye’s Istanbul Airport (IST), one of two airports in the city, has announced it has overtaken London Heathrow as the European airport to handle the most passengers on one given day.

The airport recorded 134,893 arrivals and 137,239 departures on July 27, 2025 (a total of 272,132), topping Heathrow’s 268,000 figure recorded on June 30, 2024.

It says the achievement underscores its “growing significance in global aviation”, which is backed by its official title of “the world’s most connected airport” as recognized in the ACI Europe 2025 Airport Industry Connectivity Report.

Travel data provider OAG also recently named Istanbul Airport as the busiest airport in Europe, with Heathrow ranked second. Its rankings are based on the number of available seats, determined by the frequency of international and domestic flights.

The airport began operating three runways in April this year, which enables it to accommodate 148 aircraft movements an hour (up from 120 before the launch of the third runway). It currently offers connections to over 330 destinations worldwide, while Reuters reported in March that Heathrow serves 230 destinations.

New routes to the Turkish hub include Japanese carrier All Nippon Airways’ service from Tokyo, Air Europa’s service from Madrid, and most recently, KM Malta Airlines’ flights between the city and Malta. Icelandair is also set to begin a service from Reykjavik to Istanbul in September.

The airport is undergoing a four-phase construction project, due to be completed in 2028, as part of a strategic effort to drive growth and become the largest airport in Europe.

Learn more by visiting istairport.com.

AIRASIA X TO LAUNCH TO LAUNCH DIRECT TASHKENT-KL FLIGHTS IN OCTOBER

AirAsia X will expand its Central Asian network this year with the launch of direct flights between Tashkent and Kuala Lumpur, beginning October 15, 2025. The new service marks a milestone for the airline as it builds on its growing presence in the region, following its successful entry into Almaty.

The route will operate three times a week, every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday. Flight D7123 will depart Tashkent at 7:30pm and arrive in Kuala Lumpur at 6:10am the following morning. The return service, D7122, will leave Kuala Lumpur at 1:25pm and touch down in Tashkent at 6:15pm.

AirAsia X chief executive officer Benyamin Ismail said forward bookings for the route are already encouraging. “This service not only strengthens our footprint in Central Asia but also supports key initiatives such as Visit Malaysia Year 2026,” he said. Uzbekistan, meanwhile, has set an ambitious goal of welcoming 15.8 million international visitors in 2025, with Malaysia expected to contribute significantly to that target.

Officials in Tashkent have also welcomed the launch, noting the economic and cultural benefits the service is expected to bring. The route will allow Uzbek travellers seamless Fly-Thru connections via Kuala Lumpur International Airport to over 130 destinations across Southeast Asia, East Asia, and Australia.

Beyond tourism, the new flights highlight deepening ties between Malaysia and Uzbekistan in trade, education, and cultural exchange. With fares starting from USD199 one-way, the service underscores AirAsia X’s mission to make medium-haul travel more accessible.

For details and bookings, visit airasia.com.