MalaysianUpdates

Category: Technology

  • HONOR Strengthens Its AI Strategy at MWC 2026 with the Introduction of a Robot Phone, Humanoid Robot, and Magic V6

    HONOR Strengthens Its AI Strategy at MWC 2026 with the Introduction of a Robot Phone, Humanoid Robot, and Magic V6

    At Mobile World Congress 2026 in Barcelona, HONOR unveiled a sweeping expansion of its artificial intelligence strategy, advancing its Augmented Human Intelligence (AHI) vision and accelerating its ambitious ALPHA PLAN. Anchored around three connected pillars — Alpha Phone, Alpha Store and Alpha Lab — the brand presented a future where intelligent hardware and software converge seamlessly around real human needs.

    Central to the announcement was the preview of the Robot Phone, described as a new species of smartphone that reimagines how AI devices could integrate motion, spatial awareness and embodied interaction. Moving beyond static screens and voice commands, the Robot Phone introduces robot-grade motion control, cinematic imaging and multimodal perception. Equipped with a self-developed micro motor and an ultra-compact 4DoF gimbal system, the device delivers three-axis stabilization, AI Object Tracking and intelligent rotational movement for cinematic transitions. Built around a 200MP sensor, it aims to close the gap between smartphone videography and professional storytelling, while enabling expressive body language gestures such as nodding, head-shaking and even dancing to music.

    Alongside this futuristic concept, HONOR officially introduced the HONOR Magic V6, its most refined foldable smartphone to date. The Magic V6 integrates silicon-carbon battery technology, advanced display engineering and AI-enhanced productivity features within a sleek foldable design. Complementing the flagship device are the HONOR MagicPad 4 and HONOR MagicBook Pro 14, strengthening the brand’s ecosystem approach and reinforcing its roadmap to unify devices through intelligent integration.

    In a bold extension of its AI ambitions, HONOR also debuted its first humanoid robot, signaling a strategic expansion into consumer-grade robotics. Designed to support scenarios such as shopping assistance, workplace inspections and companionship, the robot reflects HONOR’s intention to bridge digital intelligence with physical interaction. Leveraging insights gathered from its smartphone ecosystem, the company aims to create embodied AI devices capable of recognizing users, understanding behavioral patterns and delivering personalized assistance from the outset.

    According to CEO James Li, HONOR’s human-centric philosophy serves as the “lighthouse” guiding AI growth through the dual beams of IQ and EQ. Through the three waves of the ALPHA PLAN, the company believes it now has the essential components in place to accelerate its transformation.

    From experimental robotics to next-generation foldables and AI-powered productivity devices, HONOR’s showcase at MWC 2026 marks a decisive step toward integrating embodied intelligence into everyday technology. The convergence of motion, perception and adaptive computing signals a new chapter in the evolution of mobile devices — one where smartphones may no longer remain static tools, but active, responsive companions in the AI era.

  • HONOR Celebrates Five Years of Success, Attributing Market Leadership to Its Loyal Consumers

    HONOR Celebrates Five Years of Success, Attributing Market Leadership to Its Loyal Consumers

    KUALA LUMPUR, 4 February 2026 – Global leading AI device ecosystem company HONOR marked a significant milestone with the celebration of its fifth anniversary in Malaysia, honouring the consumers who have been instrumental in driving the brand to the top of the local smartphone and tablet market. The occasion was commemorated at the HONOR of Malaysia 5th Anniversary Gala in Kuala Lumpur, which gathered loyal consumers, fans, partners, photographers, students and members of the HONOR ecosystem. The event reflected HONOR’s belief that its market leadership was achieved hand in hand with Malaysian consumers in a highly competitive technology landscape.

    The gala recognised outstanding individuals whose long-standing support and active engagement have shaped HONOR’s journey since its early days in Malaysia. Consumers were celebrated across eight award categories, highlighting their contributions to product development, ecosystem enhancement and positive community impact. This consumer-centric approach has culminated in HONOR achieving the No.1 smartphone and tablet sell-out market share in Q4 2025, marking the peak of a five-year growth journey built on resilience, innovation and trust.

    HONOR of Malaysia Awards Project officiated by Deputy Minister of Communications and Digital, Teo Nie Ching, and President of HONOR South Pacific, Justin Li

    President of HONOR South Pacific, Justin Li, shared that the brand’s success was driven by its unwavering focus on consumers, noting that HONOR had achieved what felt like a decade of progress in just five years. He emphasised that HONOR’s stability and durability were co-created with Malaysians through real-world testing and feedback from local beta users, photographers and students, ensuring that its technology continues to meet the unique needs of the local market.

    During the gala, HONOR also launched the HONOR of Malaysia Awards Project, a long-term corporate social responsibility initiative aimed at recognising ordinary Malaysians who dedicate their lives to serving society. The project was officiated by Teo Nie Ching alongside Justin Li, underscoring HONOR’s commitment to contributing meaningfully to the nation beyond technology innovation. In its inaugural phase, three individuals were honoured for their extraordinary contributions to society, with awards presented by Abdul Majid Ahmad Khan.

    Winners of Next Talent Awards-Special Awards

    The recipients included Mohd Adli Yahya, founder of the Autism Cafe Project, who has empowered more than 100 autistic individuals through inclusive employment; Prakash Surriyamurthy, widely known as Cikgu Prakash, whose dedication to education continues to inspire despite his visual impairment; and Siti Normala Adrus, affectionately called Mak Jah, who provides affordable and free meals to students and low-income communities out of compassion and service.

    Looking ahead, HONOR also announced initiatives supporting the Visit Malaysia 2026 campaign, including a National Photography Tour and a Global Exhibition in 2026 to showcase Malaysia’s landscapes, culture and stories through mobile photography. As HONOR enters its next chapter in Malaysia, the brand remains committed to building meaningful technology experiences together with consumers while uplifting the communities it serves.

  • HONOR Breaks New Ground as the First Smartphone Brand to Launch Consumer Appreciation Awards

    HONOR Breaks New Ground as the First Smartphone Brand to Launch Consumer Appreciation Awards

    Global leading AI device ecosystem company HONOR is turning the spotlight away from products and onto the people who made its success possible — Malaysian consumers. In celebration of five remarkable years of growth and leadership in the smartphone and tablet markets, HONOR will be hosting a Consumer Appreciation Awards ceremony on 4 February 2026. Held in conjunction with the brand’s fifth anniversary, this milestone event marks the first time a smartphone brand has dedicated an awards ceremony exclusively to honour its consumers, recognizing the trust, loyalty and support that have driven HONOR’s rise to the top.

    Since establishing itself as an independent brand in 2020, HONOR has navigated an intensely competitive market dominated by long-established players. Guided by its philosophy of “You talked, we listened,” HONOR adopted a consumer-first approach that focused not merely on technical specifications, but on understanding the real lifestyles and needs of Malaysians. This strategy proved instrumental in propelling the brand to strong market leadership within just five years, as HONOR prioritized durability, premium experiences at accessible prices, and long-term consumer trust.

    Responding directly to consumer feedback, HONOR continuously enhanced its ultra-durable X Series to address common concerns such as screen damage and device longevity. The latest HONOR X9d 5G exemplifies this commitment, featuring improved resistance against drops and scratches, alongside upgraded water resistance. At the same time, HONOR answered the demand for premium devices at affordable prices by equipping its smartphones with flagship-level features, including advanced AI photography, without compromising accessibility.

    Beyond product innovation, HONOR has strengthened consumer trust through its robust nationwide presence. With over 100 HONOR Experience Stores and 25 official service centers across Malaysia, consumers enjoy convenient access to hands-on product experiences and reliable after-sales support, reinforcing HONOR’s promise of quality and care at every stage of ownership.

    Inspired by the unwavering dedication of its consumers, the HONOR Consumer Appreciation Awards will celebrate individuals who have played a meaningful role in the brand’s journey. The ceremony will feature eight award categories recognizing loyal supporters, tech advocates, emerging talents and community contributors. The highlight of the evening will be the prestigious HONOR of Malaysia Award, presented to three exceptional Malaysians whose selflessness and sacrifices have made a positive impact on the lives of others.

    Members of the public are invited to be part of this historic celebration by tuning in to the livestream of HONOR’s very first consumer appreciation awards ceremony. The event will be broadcast live on HONOR Malaysia’s official Facebook page and YouTube channel on 4 February 2026, starting from 7.00 PM, marking a new chapter in how technology brands honour the communities behind their success.

    For more information and updates, follow HONOR Malaysia’s official Facebook page.

  • HONOR Clinches First No. 1 Market Share in Malaysia’s Smartphone and Tablet Markets

    HONOR Clinches First No. 1 Market Share in Malaysia’s Smartphone and Tablet Markets

    HONOR has achieved a major milestone in Malaysia’s highly competitive mobile market after securing the No. 1 position in overall smartphone market share for the first time in Q4 2025. This landmark achievement underscores the brand’s rapid growth and strong acceptance among Malaysian consumers, further reinforcing HONOR’s position as a leading technology brand in the country. In the same quarter, HONOR also ranked No. 1 by value within the Android segment, driven by robust demand for its mid to premium devices.

    The brand attributed its success to the strong performance of its flagship lineup, particularly the HONOR Magic Series. The HONOR Magic8 Pro, which sold out during its pre-order phase in November and December, played a pivotal role in driving unit shipments and value leadership. At the same time, HONOR’s industry-leading foldable device strengthened its appeal among professionals and early adopters seeking innovation, durability and performance without compromise.

    Beyond smartphones, HONOR extended its leadership by capturing the No. 1 position in Malaysia’s tablet market with a 30% market share in Q4 2025. This achievement reflects the growing adoption of HONOR’s All-Scenario ecosystem, which enables seamless connectivity across smartphones, tablets, laptops and other devices. Features such as HONOR Connect allow effortless file transfers across platforms, while the inclusion of keyboards and pencils with every tablet reinforces the brand’s commitment to delivering complete value to users.

    HONOR’s rise has also been supported by strong local engagement and partnerships that resonate with Malaysians’ everyday needs. The brand strengthened its presence through collaborations with national institutions, including appreciation initiatives with the Malaysian Fire and Rescue Department, while highlighting the durability and toughness of devices such as the HONOR X9d 5G. HONOR also became the first smartphone brand to pre-install MyDigital ID across its devices, supporting Malaysia’s digitalization efforts through secure and convenient digital access.

    In the premium segment, HONOR’s Magic Series continues to propel the brand’s value leadership. The HONOR Magic V5 set new benchmarks in the foldable category with its ultra-slim design, enhanced durability and AI-powered multitasking, while maintaining competitive pricing. Meanwhile, the HONOR Magic8 Pro stands out with its advanced camera system, long battery life, stable network performance and superior display quality, earning recognition as the Selected Photography Equipment for Visit Malaysia 2026.

    HONOR’s success further extends into the laptop segment, where its MagicBook series ranks among the top three in Malaysia’s premium laptop market. Devices such as the HONOR MagicBook Art 14, featuring an ultra-slim profile and innovative detachable magnetic camera, highlight the brand’s focus on privacy, design excellence and functional innovation. Looking ahead, HONOR continues to push the boundaries of next-generation technology, including showcasing concepts such as the Robot Phone at Mobile World Congress 2026, reaffirming its long-term commitment to innovation.

    With industry-leading advancements in AI, hardware and a seamless device ecosystem, supported by strong multichannel availability and strategic local partnerships, HONOR’s achievements in 2025 lay a solid foundation for continued growth across smartphones, tablets, laptops and multi-device ecosystems in Malaysia.

  • HONOR Launches Phased Rollout of MagicOS 10 for Malaysian Smartphones Starting January

    HONOR Launches Phased Rollout of MagicOS 10 for Malaysian Smartphones Starting January

    HONOR has officially kicked off the phased rollout of its latest operating system, MagicOS 10, for users in Malaysia starting this month. The update will gradually reach a wide range of HONOR smartphone models, delivering noticeable improvements in performance, a refreshed visual design, and advanced AI-powered features. Leading the rollout is the flagship HONOR Magic8 Pro, with additional compatible devices set to receive the update in stages throughout 2026.

    Built on Android 16, MagicOS 10 introduces a cleaner and more intuitive interface highlighted by transparent design elements that create a lighter visual experience while optimizing power efficiency. Performance-focused enhancements also benefit mobile gamers, including a unique feature that allows games to remain active and connected even when the screen is turned off, helping to preserve battery life without compromising gameplay continuity.

    Photography and creativity take center stage in MagicOS 10 with the introduction of innovative AI tools. The industry-first Magic Pose feature acts as a real-time photography assistant, offering pose suggestions to help users look more natural and confident in front of the camera. Meanwhile, Magic Color enables users to instantly apply cinematic, film-inspired tones to their photos, transforming everyday shots into polished, professional-looking visuals suitable for social media or personal keepsakes.

    MagicOS 10 also strengthens productivity, safety, and communication. The new OneTap feature allows seamless, one-touch file transfers between HONOR smartphones and iPhones, simplifying cross-platform sharing. On the security front, enhanced AI Deepfake Detection can now identify digitally altered faces involving multiple people during live video calls, adding an extra layer of protection against scams. In addition, real-time call translation breaks language barriers by enabling instant translation during phone conversations, making global communication more effortless than ever. Users seeking assistance with the update can visit any HONOR Experience Store for hands-on support, while more details are available on HONOR’s official website.

  • Racing Towards Singularity: CGS International Sets the Course for an AI-Smart, High-Value Capital Market

    Racing Towards Singularity: CGS International Sets the Course for an AI-Smart, High-Value Capital Market

    CGS International Securities Malaysia Sdn. Bhd. (CGS MY) officially launched its 18th Annual Malaysia Corporate Day 2026 under the theme “Racing Towards Singularity”, convening corporate leaders, capital market participants, fund managers and government representatives to examine the structural reforms shaping Malaysia’s economic and investment future. The conference took place against the backdrop of ASEAN’s accelerating energy transition and the rapid adoption of artificial intelligence (AI), positioning the event as a key platform for dialogue on how technology and policy are reshaping capital allocation and competitiveness.

    As Malaysia enters a pivotal transition year following its ASEAN chairmanship in 2025, discussions centered on the idea of an “economic singularity” — a stage where technological advancement, particularly AI, becomes an irreversible driver of productivity and growth. With 2026 marking the execution phase of several national strategies under the Thirteenth Malaysia Plan (13MP) 2026–2030, the conference highlighted how Malaysia’s AI Nation framework is moving from policy design to real-world implementation, signaling new opportunities for investors and businesses alike.

    A keynote address titled “Racing Towards Singularity, Investing in Future Intelligence” was delivered by Yang Berbahagia (YBhg.) Tan Sri Shahril Ridza Ridzuan, Chairman of Axiata Group Berhad and Independent Non-Executive Director of CGS MY. He emphasised that AI is fundamentally redefining how value is created, with capital markets increasingly rewarding future-ready organisations that demonstrate scalable intelligence, digital resilience and long-term innovation capabilities. He also stressed that AI should be viewed as a tool to augment human potential, create new competencies and strengthen participation in a fast-evolving economy, rather than replace the workforce.

    The conference featured panel discussions and presentations covering key themes such as the Ringgit outlook, carbon tax implementation, data center development, and Carbon Capture, Utilization and Storage (CCUS). These sessions were led by CGS MY’s award-winning research team alongside listed companies and industry experts from the technology, energy and services sectors, offering market insights into how structural reforms and sustainability initiatives are influencing investment strategies.

    CGS MY’s Chief Executive Officer, Khairi Shahrin Arief bin Baki, noted that the theme reflects not only changes in the broader economy but also CGS MY’s own transformation. He highlighted the firm’s evolution from a traditional stockbroking model into an integrated financial services provider encompassing investment banking, private wealth and asset management. Leveraging its China-ASEAN heritage and extensive regional networks, CGS MY aims to connect capital with high-growth opportunities while supporting government, corporate and retail stakeholders navigating shifts in technology, sustainability and high-value industries.

    Despite ongoing global uncertainties, CGS MY reaffirmed that Malaysia’s outlook remains supported by structural reforms, improving investment quality and a clear policy direction toward innovation-led growth. As the nation races toward economic singularity, closer collaboration between government, businesses and capital markets will be critical to translating technological progress into sustainable, long-term value creation.

  • The PayNet Fintech Hub Fuels the Next Phase of Malaysia’s Ecosystem Growth

    The PayNet Fintech Hub Fuels the Next Phase of Malaysia’s Ecosystem Growth

    Payments Network Malaysia Sdn Bhd (PayNet) is accelerating the growth of Malaysia’s fintech ecosystem through the PayNet Fintech Hub, a structured, impact-driven initiative designed to help local fintech startups build, test and scale innovative solutions. Launched in May 2025, the Hub has strengthened the visibility of Malaysian fintechs both locally and internationally by providing direct access to industry partners, capital support and hands-on mentorship, positioning it as a key enabler of sustainable fintech growth in the country.

    In less than a year, the PayNet Fintech Hub has delivered measurable impact to 50 fintech startups, supported by an extensive network of 50 ecosystem partners spanning banking, technology, investment and shared services. Collectively, participating fintechs have received more than RM5 million in value-added support, including RM3 million in cloud credits and over 450 hours of mentorship. These startups have also raised more than US$1 million in funding, with solutions that have the potential to benefit over eight million underserved Malaysians and approximately 800,000 micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs).

    According to PayNet Chief Marketing Officer Gary Yeoh, the Hub is designed to translate innovation into real-world outcomes. Through proof-of-concepts developed alongside industry partners, fintech solutions are already addressing everyday financial challenges, from smart contracts that improve trust and operational efficiency, to cashback programmes on essential items and buy now, pay later services tailored for convenience stores. These initiatives reflect the Hub’s focus on advancing financial inclusion for MSMEs while enhancing access to practical, consumer-centric financial services.

    The Hub has facilitated 11 collaboration opportunities involving 26 fintechs, including seven fintech-corporate pilots and four fintech-to-fintech partnerships. Among the initiatives supported through the RM1 million PayNet Credit Fund are Buzz’s optical character recognition-powered cashback engine developed with Touch ’n Go, as well as Fluid’s payment digitalization project in collaboration with a global fast-moving consumer goods brand. These pilots underscore the Hub’s role as a bridge between innovation and industry adoption.

    Community engagement remains a cornerstone of the Hub’s strategy. Its flagship TGI Friday (TGIF) event held in October 2025 attracted more than 200 founders, investors, financial institutions and ecosystem partners, highlighting the growing momentum and collaborative spirit within Malaysia’s fintech landscape. Such platforms have reinforced the Hub’s position as a convenor for meaningful dialogue, partnership-building and ecosystem development.

    Operating across three core tracks—Community, Catalyst and Collaboration—the PayNet Fintech Hub supports startups at different stages of growth, from scaling and global exposure to real-world deployment. A major milestone in its evolution is the launch of the Catalyst phase on 1 December 2025 through a bespoke immersive programme at Imperial College London. Under the PayNet x Imperial Catalyst Programme, 10 Malaysian fintechs are currently participating in a first-of-its-kind, 10-week curriculum tailored specifically for Hub founders.

    The programme offers hands-on exposure to global best practices, market insights and mentorship, while ensuring relevance to Malaysia’s fintech, regulatory and banking environment. Participants completed a week-long series of curated lectures and mentorship sessions at Imperial’s London campus, followed by nine weeks of virtual sessions focused on translating global learnings into Malaysian use cases. The programme will culminate in a Demo Day in March 2026, marking a significant step in preparing Malaysian fintechs to scale and compete on the global stage.

    As a not-for-profit initiative under PayNet, which serves as the backbone of Malaysia’s national payments infrastructure, the Fintech Hub reflects PayNet’s broader mission to enable secure, efficient and inclusive financial services for the rakyat. By applying this purpose to the fintech ecosystem, the Hub aims to strengthen the national fintech pipeline while supporting Malaysia’s long-term goals in digital finance and financial inclusion.

    For more information on the PayNet Fintech Hub, please visit: https://fintechhub.paynet.my/ 

  • HONOR Celebrates Malaysia’s Rich Cultural Diversity Through Smartphone Photography Exhibition at Visit Malaysia 2026 Arts & Culture Showcase

    HONOR Celebrates Malaysia’s Rich Cultural Diversity Through Smartphone Photography Exhibition at Visit Malaysia 2026 Arts & Culture Showcase

    HONOR invites the public to explore Malaysia’s rich and diverse cultural tapestry through a smartphone photography gallery exhibition held at Fahrenheit88, Bukit Bintang. Organised in conjunction with the Visit Malaysia 2026 Arts and Culture Showcase running from 27 to 31 December, the exhibition presents a visual celebration of the nation’s heritage, iconic landmarks, traditional cuisine, and native wildlife. Through carefully curated imagery, visitors are taken on a journey that reflects the colours, textures and vibrant spirit of Malaysia.

    All photographs on display are captured exclusively using the HONOR Magic8 Pro, showcasing the device’s powerful flagship camera capabilities. Viewed through the photographers’ unique artistic perspectives, the images highlight the smartphone’s advanced 200MP Ultra Night Telephoto Camera, delivering remarkable clarity, stability and creative flexibility. Enhanced by next-generation AI technology, the HONOR Magic8 Pro transforms smartphone photography into a compelling storytelling tool, elevating everyday moments into striking visual narratives.

    Adding an interactive element to the exhibition, members of the public are also invited to don traditional Malaysian costumes such as Chinese, Nyonya, Malay or Indian attire and capture their own memorable portraits using the HONOR Magic8 Pro. This hands-on experience allows visitors to explore the device’s advanced portrait mode, impressive low-light performance and exceptional image quality, creating a deeper appreciation of both cultural expression and mobile photography innovation.

    The exhibition culminates on 31 December 2025 with the Visit Malaysia 2026 New Year’s Eve Festival, taking place outside Pavilion Kuala Lumpur from 7:00 PM to 12:30 AM. As the countdown to the new year begins, the celebration marks a fitting close to an exhibition that blends culture, creativity and technology, while setting the tone for the Visit Malaysia 2026 campaign ahead.

  • PayNet Boosts Malaysia’s Financial Sector Workforce with Second Batch of Cloud-Skilled Graduates

    PayNet Boosts Malaysia’s Financial Sector Workforce with Second Batch of Cloud-Skilled Graduates

    Payments Network Malaysia Sdn. Bhd. (PayNet) recently celebrated a significant milestone with the graduation of 50 students from its Program Akar Powered by AWS re/Start, a digital upskilling initiative designed to cultivate cloud-ready talent for Malaysia’s financial services industry. Delivered through World Education Placement Services Sdn. Bhd. (WEPS), Program Akar represents PayNet’s first flagship national initiative aimed at bridging the country’s digital skills gap. The programme equips participants with globally recognized cloud technology and digital payments skills at no cost, preparing them to meet the evolving demands of Malaysia’s financial ecosystem.

    Aligned with the national agenda to strengthen digital talent, highlighted by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, Program Akar provides young Malaysians with practical skills beyond conventional academic learning, enabling them to thrive in technology-driven roles. Shafenaz Farouk, Chief People Officer of PayNet, emphasized that the programme is creating a robust pipeline of digital-ready talent for the financial sector, empowering participants with industry-relevant skills, hands-on experience, and confidence to contribute immediately to the workforce.

    The second cohort follows the successful pilot at Asia Pacific University of Technology & Innovation (APU), where financial institutions such as Bank Negara, Maybank, Public Bank, CIMB, and Bank Islam have expressed interest in internships and job placements for graduates. Participants underwent a 14-week intensive training programme, covering foundational cloud computing, digital payments, and a two-day on-site values-driven development workshop. Graduates received multiple certifications, including the AWS re/Start Certificate of Completion, AWS Cloud Practitioner, Digital Payments Certificate, and Values-Driven Enrichment Programme Certificate, signaling readiness for industry roles.

    Program Akar graduates shared their experiences as cohort participants during the Akar Success Story session

    Hussein Mohd. Ali, Country Manager of AWS Malaysia, highlighted the importance of cloud skills as the backbone for the nation’s next phase of AI-driven transformation in financial services. Program Akar equips participants to contribute effectively in areas ranging from modern digital payments to emerging AI applications, while strengthening Malaysia’s position in the global fintech landscape. WEPS CEO Mughilen Rathakrishnan added that the initiative provides a clear pathway for young Malaysians to enter the workforce with in-demand, future-proof skills.

    With Cohort 2 achieving strong outcomes, PayNet continues to build momentum in nurturing Malaysia’s fintech talent. Through ongoing collaboration with industry partners, Program Akar ensures alignment with sector needs, addressing critical talent gaps and supporting the country’s digital finance ambitions. Globally, AWS re/Start operates in over 60 countries, with 98% of graduates securing interview opportunities, reflecting the programme’s proven impact on shaping a highly skilled, employable workforce.

    For more information on Program Akar, please visit https://www.paynet.my/beyond-payments/community-impact/paynet-akar.html

  • Trip.com Reveals Key Trends Shaping Travel in Southeast Asia

    Trip.com Reveals Key Trends Shaping Travel in Southeast Asia

    Trip.com Group, a leading global travel service provider, recently hosted its inaugural Trip.Best Roadshow: Southeast Asia Travel Trends Unpacked in Singapore, offering fresh insights into evolving travel behaviors across the region. Drawing on comprehensive data from Trip.Best, the company’s AI- and expert-driven collection of curated travel recommendations, the event highlighted emerging destinations, shifting traveller preferences, and key trends shaping regional travel demand. Southeast Asian travellers are increasingly drawn to East Asian cities such as Shanghai, Hong Kong, Tokyo, and Seoul, with experiential travel gaining prominence—searches for activities grew 808% year-on-year, while interest in “cool escape attractions” surged by an astonishing 1,941% year-on-year. China’s emerging cities, particularly Chongqing, are also seeing a spike in popularity, attracting Malaysian travellers with its futuristic architecture, scenic landscapes, historical sites, and rich culinary offerings, recording a 448% increase in Trip.Best views and a 599% rise in bookings.

    For Malaysia, Trip.Best data indicates the country remains a top destination for both domestic and regional travellers, especially as it prepares for Visit Malaysia Year 2026. Domestic tourism grew 28% year-on-year, with Kuala Lumpur, Sabah, Penang, Johor, and Sarawak emerging as favourite destinations. Family-oriented travel is on the rise, reflected in over 35% growth in searches for “family activities” and a 28% increase in weekend hotel bookings featuring children-friendly amenities. Aesthetic appeal also plays a key role in traveller choices, with family-friendly hotels leading the preferences, followed by scenic and Instagrammable accommodations. Notably, Malaysians make faster travel decisions, spending just four days researching before booking, compared to the Southeast Asian average of six days.

    Edmund Ong, Senior Regional Director, Southeast Asia, Trip.com

    Edmund Ong, Senior Regional Director for Southeast Asia at Trip.com, noted that travellers across the region are becoming increasingly experience-driven, seeking authentic and immersive journeys. Among Malaysians, short getaways are increasingly seen as an opportunity to reconnect with family, positioning Malaysia as a key growth market for Trip.com ahead of Visit Malaysia Year 2026. Trip.com continues to enhance its AI-powered tools, offering real-time, data-backed guidance through Trip.Best to help users discover top hotels, attractions, and eateries. Sunny Sun, Vice President of Trip.com Group, highlighted a 40% year-on-year increase in Net Promoter Scores in Malaysia and Singapore, attributing it to the combination of technology and human insights that simplify travel planning and inspire travellers to explore with confidence.

    This event underscores the dynamic shifts in travel behavior in Southeast Asia, emphasizing experiential travel, regional exploration, and family-centric experiences, while positioning Trip.com as a key player in guiding travellers through reliable, real-time, and personalized recommendations.