MalaysianUpdates

Tag: #VisitMalaysia2026

  • Kuala Lumpur Strengthens Its Position as a Major Hub for Asia’s Live Music Tours

    Kuala Lumpur Strengthens Its Position as a Major Hub for Asia’s Live Music Tours

    May 25, 2026, Kuala Lumpur: Kuala Lumpur is reinforcing its reputation as one of Asia’s rising hotspots for international live music tours with the launch of KL Headline Season 2026, an ambitious initiative led by Live Nation Malaysia. Developed in collaboration with PR Worldwide, Tourism Malaysia and CelcomDigi, the campaign reflects a strategic effort to elevate the capital city’s status as a premier destination for world-class live entertainment. Throughout 2026, Kuala Lumpur is set to host 25 international music performances across six major venues, with an estimated 500,000 fans expected to attend from Malaysia and across the wider region.

    The season will feature one of the city’s most extensive line-ups of international acts to date, bringing together arena, theatre and stadium-scale performances by globally renowned artists. Fans can look forward to shows by names such as LANY, Laufey, Bryan Adams, DAY6, TREASURE and Daniel Caesar, while large-scale concerts by Post Malone, The Weeknd and BTS are also expected to headline the calendar. The impressive roster highlights Kuala Lumpur’s growing capability to accommodate large-format touring productions and positions the city as a consistent stop on major Asian tour circuits.

    Beyond entertainment, KL Headline Season 2026 is closely aligned with the national aspirations of Visit Malaysia 2026, which aims to attract 47 million international visitors while strengthening tourism revenue through premium, experience-driven travel. As global travel trends increasingly revolve around events and immersive experiences, live music is emerging as a powerful driver of tourism, encouraging fans to travel internationally, extend their stays and engage more deeply with destination cultures.

    Through this initiative, concert experiences are designed to go beyond the performance venue. In collaboration with tourism, hospitality and lifestyle partners, visitors will be introduced to curated experiences that highlight Malaysia’s rich cultural identity, renowned culinary scene, iconic landmarks and dynamic urban lifestyle. Each event is envisioned not only as a concert but as a gateway for audiences to discover the wider appeal of Kuala Lumpur.

    The economic impact of KL Headline Season is also expected to be significant. Beyond ticket revenue, the initiative is projected to create positive spillover effects across multiple industries including hospitality, aviation, retail, food and beverage, while opening new opportunities for local businesses and communities throughout the city. Kuala Lumpur’s strategic geographic location further strengthens its appeal as a touring destination, sitting within a four-hour flight radius of major Asian cities, making it both logistically efficient for artists and easily accessible for regional audiences.

    Federal Territories Minister Hannah Yeoh highlighted the importance of live entertainment in supporting Malaysia’s tourism ambitions, noting that major concerts and international events contribute meaningfully to the wider tourism ecosystem, from hospitality services to local enterprises. Meanwhile, Live Nation Malaysia Managing Director Paramananthan Rajagopal emphasised that live music creates powerful moments of connection between artists and fans, and that KL Headline Season aims to establish a sustainable rhythm of live events that audiences can consistently anticipate.

    CelcomDigi also underscored the growing role of live music in Malaysian culture, describing it as an avenue for people to connect, celebrate passions and create lasting memories. Through its involvement in KL Headline Season 2026, the telecommunications company aims to leverage its broad customer base and network capabilities to make world-class live performances more accessible to audiences nationwide.

    With an expanding concert calendar, strong industry collaboration and increasing international interest, KL Headline Season 2026 marks a significant milestone in Kuala Lumpur’s journey toward becoming one of Asia’s leading live entertainment and music tourism destinations.

    Here is the line up for the rest of 2026 (more to be announced soon):
    19 May : BUS – Zepp KL
    23 May : Vir Das – Plenary Hall, KL Convention Centre
    24 – 26 May : Daniel Ceaser – Idea Live Arena
    30 May : Treasure – Unifi Arena
    31 May : Anson Sebra – Zepp KL
    2 June : Laufey – Unifi Arena
    26 August : Kodaline – Idea Live Arena
    27 September : Post Malone – TM Stadium Nasional
    1 November : Lany – Unifi Arena
    4 November : The Weeknd – TM Stadium Nasional
    5 November : The Weeknd – TM Stadium Nasional
    12 December : BTS – TM Stadium Nasional
    13 December : BTS – TM Stadium Nasional
    For ticket sales information, please visit https://www.livenation.my/

  • KL Headline Season 2026: Kuala Lumpur Jadi Hab Utama Jelajah Muzik LIVE Asia

    KL Headline Season 2026: Kuala Lumpur Jadi Hab Utama Jelajah Muzik LIVE Asia

    Live Nation Malaysia hari ini mengetengahkan perkembangan pesat Kuala Lumpur yang semakin kukuh sebagai salah satu destinasi utama Asia untuk jelajah muzik LIVE antarabangsa, menerusi pelancaran KL Headline Season 2026.

    Inisiatif ini dibangunkan dengan kerjasama PR Worldwide, Tourism Malaysia dan CelcomDigi, sebagai usaha strategik untuk membawa lebih banyak hiburan langsung bertaraf dunia ke Kuala Lumpur. Dianjurkan oleh Live Nation Malaysia, bandar raya ini dijangka menjadi tuan rumah kepada 25 persembahan muzik antarabangsa sepanjang tahun 2026 di enam lokasi utama, dengan jangkaan kehadiran sekitar 500,000 peminat dari dalam dan luar negara.

    Antara barisan artis yang bakal membuat persembahan termasuk LANY dan Laufey, serta nama besar lain seperti Bryan Adams, DAY6, TREASURE dan Daniel Caesar. Turut dijadualkan adalah persembahan berskala stadium oleh Post Malone, The Weeknd dan BTS, yang jelas menunjukkan kemampuan Kuala Lumpur untuk mengendalikan produksi konsert berskala besar bertaraf global.

    KL Headline Season ini selari dengan aspirasi Tahun Melawat Malaysia 2026, iaitu kempen nasional yang menyasarkan 47 juta pelancong antarabangsa serta peningkatan hasil pelancongan melalui pengalaman premium. Dalam landskap pelancongan global yang semakin tertumpu kepada pengalaman dan acara, hiburan LIVE kini menjadi antara faktor utama yang mempengaruhi pilihan destinasi pelancong.

    Konsert hari ini bukan sekadar hiburan, tetapi juga pemacu pelancongan yang kuat. Ia menarik peminat dari pelbagai negara, memanjangkan tempoh penginapan mereka, dan memberi peluang untuk mereka menikmati pengalaman lebih menyeluruh di destinasi yang dikunjungi. Melalui KL Headline Season, pengalaman ini diperluaskan bukan hanya di venue konsert, tetapi turut merangkumi perjalanan gaya hidup dan budaya di Kuala Lumpur.

    Dengan sokongan rakan strategik dalam sektor pelancongan, hospitaliti dan gaya hidup, pengunjung akan dapat menikmati pelbagai pengalaman yang menonjolkan keunikan Malaysia, daripada makanan, tarikan ikonik hingga ke tenaga bandar yang hidup. Setiap konsert bukan lagi sekadar persembahan, tetapi jadi pintu masuk untuk merasai sendiri Kuala Lumpur.

    Selain jualan tiket, inisiatif ini juga dijangka memberi kesan ekonomi kepada pelbagai sektor termasuk hotel, syarikat penerbangan, peruncitan serta makanan dan minuman, selain membuka lebih banyak peluang kepada perniagaan tempatan.

    Lokasi strategik Kuala Lumpur yang hanya sekitar empat jam penerbangan dari bandar utama Asia turut menambah daya tarikannya. Ini menjadikan ibu negara sebagai hab ideal untuk jelajah muzik antarabangsa yang merentasi pelbagai pasaran.

    YB Hannah Yeoh berkata Tahun Melawat Malaysia 2026 memberi fokus kepada usaha mengukuhkan Malaysia sebagai destinasi pelancongan bernilai tinggi, dan hiburan langsung memainkan peranan penting dalam perkara ini. Menurut beliau, konsert dan acara berskala besar bukan sahaja tarik pelancong antarabangsa, tetapi juga beri impak kepada keseluruhan ekosistem pelancongan termasuk hospitaliti dan perniagaan tempatan. Kuala Lumpur berada dalam kedudukan yang sangat baik untuk menyokong pertumbuhan ini, dan kerjasama seperti bersama Live Nation amat dialu-alukan untuk terus kembangkan industri hiburan langsung negara.

    Pengarah Urusan Live Nation Malaysia, Paramananthan Rajagopal berkata muzik LIVE pada asasnya adalah tentang hubungan antara artis dan peminat yang mencipta momen yang kekal lama selepas konsert berakhir. Katanya, melalui KL Headline Season, pihaknya mahu bawa lebih banyak artis global ke Malaysia dan jadikan Kuala Lumpur sebagai destinasi tetap dalam jelajah Asia, sekali gus mewujudkan momentum berterusan untuk industri hiburan dan pelancongan.

    Sementara itu, Chan May Ling, Ketua Perkhidmatan Jenama & Pemasaran CelcomDigi berkata muzik LIVE sudah menjadi medium penting untuk rakyat Malaysia berhubung, berkongsi minat dan cipta kenangan bersama. Melalui kerjasama ini, CelcomDigi memanfaatkan kekuatan rangkaian untuk mendekatkan lebih 20 juta pelanggan kepada pengalaman hiburan bertaraf dunia, sekali gus menjadikan akses kepada konsert lebih mudah dan inklusif untuk semua.

  • ZERO Healthcare Brings “Recharge Your Journey” Concept to Malaysian Tourism

    ZERO Healthcare Brings “Recharge Your Journey” Concept to Malaysian Tourism

    In a move set to reshape Malaysia’s tourism experience, Malaysian brand ZERO Healthcare has launched the Visit Malaysia 2026 concept of ZERO Power Station, reimagining how travellers rest and recharge through accessible wellness touchpoints across the country.

    First introduced in 2022, ZERO Power Station has grown steadily to more than 800 locations nationwide, offering over 2,000 shared massage chairs. In conjunction with Visit Malaysia 2026, ZERO Healthcare is now targeting an expansion to 5,000 wellness touchpoints by the end of 2026.

    The launch was officiated by Mr. Samuel Lee Thai Hung, Deputy Director General of Tourism Malaysia, marking ZERO Healthcare as a strategic partner supporting the Visit Malaysia 2026 (VM2026) campaign.

    Mr. Samuel Lee said that during Visit Malaysia 2026, the focus is not only on attracting visitors, but also on improving the overall travel experience. He noted that initiatives like ZERO Power Station bring practical innovation by improving comfort and convenience for travellers, while also strengthening Malaysia’s position as a modern and visitor-friendly destination.

    As Malaysia moves closer to VM2026, the focus is shifting beyond attracting tourists to enhancing the quality of their journey. ZERO Power Station offers an app-based shared massage chair experience designed to solve a common travel issue, where long hours of walking, waiting and commuting often leave travellers needing quick and convenient rest options. It provides accessible wellness points in high-traffic areas such as shopping malls, transport hubs and tourist attractions.

    According to Tommy Tham, Founder and Managing Director of ZERO Healthcare, today’s travellers are not just looking for destinations, but for better experiences along the way. He said ZERO Power Station is a simple but meaningful solution that brings wellness into everyday travel moments. He also added that as a Malaysian brand, ZERO Healthcare is proud to support Visit Malaysia 2026 by improving how people experience the country on the ground.

    The official mascots of Visit Malaysia 2026, Wira and Manja, together with ZERO Healthcare’s mascot Captain Roro Paws, will also be featured at ZERO Power Station locations, creating fun and engaging touchpoints that highlight Malaysia as a progressive and wellness-focused tourism destination.

    Under the theme “Recharge Along Your Journey”, ZERO Power Station integrates wellness into everyday travel experiences in a seamless way.

    Users can simply download the ZERO app, receive complimentary first-time credits, and enjoy instant access to massage chair services within minutes. Four different Power Station concepts were introduced to show how the system can adapt across various environments.

    These concepts highlight the flexibility and scalability of the platform, making it suitable for deployment across Malaysia’s diverse tourism landscape.

    With plans to expand further across Malaysia and the region, ZERO Healthcare aims to build a nationwide wellness network that supports a “zero-stress, zero-illness” lifestyle, while contributing to Malaysia’s ambition of becoming a leading global tourism destination.

  • HONOR Drives Tourism Promotion with Magic Stories Awards 2026 and Nationwide Photography Workshop Tour

    HONOR Drives Tourism Promotion with Magic Stories Awards 2026 and Nationwide Photography Workshop Tour

    HONOR Malaysia has announced the inaugural Magic Stories Awards 2026 alongside a nationwide photography workshop tour designed to showcase the country’s rich cultural heritage, scenic landscapes and vibrant everyday moments to a global audience. The initiative aims to empower photographers to capture the essence of Malaysia using HONOR smartphones, while supporting the Visit Malaysia 2026 campaign through a combination of content creation, community engagement and advanced mobile imaging technology to position Malaysia as a leading travel destination.

    The HONOR Magic Stories Awards 2026 invites Malaysians to capture and share compelling visual stories across six themes: cityscapes, people and culture, nature, food, hidden gems and animals. A total of 21 winners will be recognised across various categories, celebrating creativity and storytelling through mobile photography. The top prize, Photographer of the Year, will receive a flagship foldable smartphone, while two winners in the Master of Photography category will each be awarded the HONOR Magic8 Pro. Three Prestigious Photographers will receive the HONOR 600 Pro, while 15 HONORable Photographers will each take home the HONOR 600. Submissions are open from 27 April to 15 September 2026, with winners to be announced in October 2026. All entries must be captured using HONOR smartphones, reinforcing the brand’s commitment to advancing mobile photography as a powerful creative medium. Winning entries will be showcased at HONOR exhibitions, selected shopping malls nationwide and across the brand’s official social media platforms. Selected winners will also be fast-tracked to the finalist stage of the global HONOR Magic Stories Awards 2026, offering an opportunity for international recognition.

    Complementing the awards programme, the HONOR Magic Stories Photography Workshop will be held across multiple locations nationwide, offering participants hands-on opportunities to capture Malaysia’s diverse landscapes, cultures and communities. Running from 9 May to 11 July 2026, the workshop series will cover seven locations across six states, beginning at The Habitat Penang Hill with a focus on architecture and cityscape photography, followed by Rumah Singgora in Kota Bharu, Kelantan, Taman Negara in Pahang, Eufloria Gardens and Sculpture Park in Genting Highlands, Sosodikon Hill and Desa Dairy Farm in Sabah, Wang Kelian View Point in Perlis, and Sarawak Cultural Village in Kuching. Participants will explore themes such as culture, nature and portrait photography while experiencing the flagship camera capabilities of the HONOR 600 Pro, enabling them to interpret and share uniquely Malaysian stories through their own creative perspectives.

    The HONOR Magic Stories Photography Workshop is supported by CelcomDigi as the Official Connectivity Partner, ensuring participants benefit from reliable high-speed connectivity to create and share content seamlessly throughout the campaign. More information on the HONOR Magic Stories Awards 2026 and workshop registration is available on HONOR Malaysia’s official website.

  • Enhanced Race Experience Unveiled for Special Commemorative Edition, Featuring RM20,000 Prize Pool and Limited Collectibles

    Enhanced Race Experience Unveiled for Special Commemorative Edition, Featuring RM20,000 Prize Pool and Limited Collectibles

    Alliance Bank Malaysia Berhad (“Alliance Bank”) has officially announced the return of its flagship community event, the Heritage Run 2026. This fourth edition is designated as a special commemorative event, strategically timed to coincide with Visit Malaysia Year 2026. Scheduled to take place on 12 July 2026 at the historic Padang Kota Lama, the event serves as a key initiative in the Bank’s ongoing commitment to community engagement, cultural preservation, and environmental sustainability.

    Building upon the momentum of the 2025 edition, which successfully engaged 5,500 participants, the 2026 Heritage Run has been evolved into a comprehensive cultural tourism showcase. By highlighting Penang’s unique landmarks and multicultural heritage, the event supports United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 11.4 regarding the protection of cultural and natural heritage. Group Chief Executive Officer of Alliance Bank, Kellee Kam, emphasized that the Run has transitioned into a meaningful tradition that fosters national unity and reinforces the Bank’s role as “The Bank for Life” within the communities it serves.

    In a move to integrate ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) values into the event’s core, Alliance Bank has introduced several sustainable initiatives. Finisher medals for the 2026 edition are manufactured from sustainably sourced bamboo, while event memorabilia—including batik-inspired lanyards and category-specific T-shirts—reflect Penang’s cultural identity through motifs such as the kebaya and manik shoes. Furthermore, the event continues to empower local entrepreneurs through the reimagined #SupportLokal bazaar, which provides a dedicated marketplace for small businesses to showcase artisanal products and traditional crafts.

    Technical Race Categories and Prize Structure

    The 2026 edition introduces a “level up” framework, offering diversified categories to accommodate various fitness levels while providing a competitive platform for professional runners. A total prize pool of RM20,000 in cash will be awarded to top performers in the competitive divisions.

    • 21 km Half Marathon: A premier category designed for seasoned marathoners and long-distance athletes.
    • 10 km Competitive Race: A newly introduced tier aimed at motivating intermediate runners to achieve new personal milestones.
    • 3 km Fun Run: A family-oriented category featuring the “Best Dressed Family” challenge, encouraging participants to compete in traditional Malaysian attire.

    Registration and Tiered Pricing Schedule

    Registration for the Heritage Run 2026 is open from 24 April until 30 June 2026, or until the participation quota is met. Alliance Bank cardholders are entitled to a 20% discount on registration fees beginning 1 May 2026.

    Launch Sale Phase (24 – 30 April 2026) The introductory rates are set at RM39 for the 3 km category, RM55 for the 10 km category, and RM85 for the 21 km category.

    Early Bird Phase (1 – 31 May 2026) During this period, fees are adjusted to RM55 for 3 km, RM75 for 10 km, and RM115 for 21 km.

    Standard Registration Phase (1 – 30 June 2026) The final registration tier is priced at RM65 for 3 km, RM85 for 10 km, and RM125 for 21 km.

    For official registration and further technical details, please visit the dedicated portal at www.alliancebank.com.my/Alliance-Heritage-Run.

  • Aaron Chia dan Chen Tang Jie Terajui Karnival “Malaysia on the Move”

    Aaron Chia dan Chen Tang Jie Terajui Karnival “Malaysia on the Move”

    Karnival pengalaman selama enam hari yang meraikan budaya, sukan dan gaya hidup Malaysia akan berlangsung di Sunway Velocity Mall dari 31 Mac hingga 5 April ini. Dikenali sebagai “Malaysia on the Move: Mana-mana pun ON!”, acara ini dianjurkan oleh theCOVER ASIA dengan kerjasama Sunway Velocity Mall serta disokong oleh Sunway Multicare Pharmacy sebagai penganjur bersama, manakala MY FM dan MELODY bertindak sebagai rakan radio rasmi. Karnival ini berlangsung setiap hari dari jam 10 pagi hingga 10 malam di pintu masuk Nanjing, aras 1, dan menampilkan gabungan elemen sukan, pelancongan, budaya serta jenama tempatan. Ia turut diterajui oleh juara dunia badminton Aaron Chia dan Chen Tang Jie bersama barisan atlet kebangsaan lain dalam usaha mempromosikan budaya kesukanan, pelancongan serta produk tempatan sempena kempen Visit Malaysia 2026.

    Menurut theCOVER ASIA, tema “Mana-mana pun ON!” mencerminkan semangat dinamik rakyat Malaysia di samping menggalakkan orang ramai untuk meneroka dan menyokong produk tempatan sambil menikmati gabungan sukan, gaya hidup dan budaya. Pengasas theCOVER ASIA, Stephen Wong berkata kerjasama ini merupakan kolaborasi pertama bersama pusat beli-belah tersebut dan diharapkan dapat mendekatkan semangat sukan kepada masyarakat melalui pengaruh atlet negara, selain mengetengahkan jenama ‘Buatan Malaysia’ yang berkualiti tinggi.

    Antara atlet yang dijangka hadir termasuk pasangan beregu campuran Goh Soon Huat dan Shevon Lai, perenang Welson Sim, pemain badminton Hoo Pang Ron dan Kong Zhou Swin, juara skuasy Sukan SEA Sanjay Jeeva serta juara luncur ais Fang Ze Zeng. Pengunjung juga berpeluang meneroka Malaysia Made Experience Zone yang menampilkan pelbagai aktiviti interaktif seperti pengalaman makanan tempatan, bengkel DIY serta pameran kesihatan, kecantikan dan gaya hidup. Selain itu, pelbagai permainan interaktif turut disediakan termasuk cabaran padanan produk, aktiviti meneka bau dan pertandingan media sosial, dengan lebih 500 sampel produk diagihkan setiap hari sepanjang karnival.

    Antara tarikan utama karnival ini ialah jualan barangan eksklusif atlet seperti aksesori NFC Touch ’n Go serta koleksi edisi terhad termasuk kad emas tulen 999, lanyard dan pelbagai barangan gaya hidup lain. Pengunjung yang berbelanja RM200 dan ke atas turut berpeluang menyertai cabutan bertuah dengan hadiah utama berupa 100 raket badminton bertandatangan pemain profesional.

    Dalam masa sama, atlet badminton kebangsaan Chen Tang Jie bakal melancarkan kad koleksi eksklusif emas tulen 999 sebagai satu inisiatif istimewa bagi menghargai sokongan peminat sepanjang perjalanan kariernya. Koleksi ini bukan sekadar produk memorabilia, malah melambangkan dedikasi, usaha berterusan serta semangat juang yang telah membawanya ke pentas antarabangsa. Setiap kad emas yang dihasilkan membawa nilai simbolik yang mendalam, mencerminkan perjalanan penuh cabaran serta sokongan padu daripada para penyokong. Menurut beliau, penghasilan kad emas ini merupakan langkah untuk tampil dengan sesuatu yang lebih berbeza dan bermakna berbanding produk peminat konvensional, selain menjadi permulaan kepada pembangunan jenama peribadi yang lebih meluas pada masa hadapan. Pelancaran rasmi koleksi ini dijangka mendapat sambutan hangat daripada peminat serta pengumpul, sekali gus mengukuhkan hubungan antara atlet dan penyokong.

    Pengasas Click Entertainment, Tan Yin Loo berkata pihaknya berbesar hati dapat menjalinkan kerjasama dengan theCOVER ASIA serta menyokong barisan atlet kebangsaan di bawah naungan mereka. Beliau turut menyifatkan Chen Tang Jie sebagai kebanggaan negara yang sentiasa mengharumkan nama Malaysia di pentas antarabangsa, selain menghargai kerjasama bersama golongan muda yang membawa tenaga baharu dan merupakan tonggak masa depan negara. Tambah beliau lagi, pihaknya akan terus meneroka saluran baharu serta pendekatan inovatif bagi memberikan pengalaman yang lebih menarik kepada para peminat, di samping mewujudkan hubungan yang lebih bermakna antara penyokong dan atlet kebangsaan.

    Siaran akhbar ini diterbitkan oleh Click Entertainment. Untuk sebarang pertanyaan, orang ramai boleh menghubungi Yin Loo di talian 012-632 6658 atau melalui emel yinloo@click-ent.com.

  • Disney’s The Lion King Live in Concert Premieres in Malaysia with a 72-Piece Orchestra

    Malaysia will host Disney’s The Lion King Live in Concert for the first time, marking a landmark collaboration with Istana Budaya’s National Symphony Orchestra in conjunction with Visit Malaysia 2026. The event is set to take place on 13 June 2026 at the KLCC Plenary Hall. Presented by Milestone Production, this spectacular showcase brings Disney’s beloved 1994 animated masterpiece to life through a breathtaking live-to-film concert experience.

    Audiences will relive the magic of the Pride Lands as the full film is screened on the big screen, accompanied by a 72-piece orchestra performing the iconic score live in perfect synchronization with the film, creating an immersive cinematic experience like no other. This world-class production will be performed by the National Symphony Orchestra Malaysia under the direction of Resident Conductor Eric Lee, who is recognised and approved by Disney Concerts for his technical precision, musical excellence and ability to meet international performance standards.

    The orchestra will bring to life the iconic score by a celebrated team of Oscar and Grammy-winning talents, including composer Hans Zimmer, songwriters Elton John and Tim Rice, as well as South African music producer and composer Lebo M, whose voice and musical influence have become synonymous with The Lion King. Since its original release in 1994 by Walt Disney Animation Studios, the film has captivated millions worldwide with its timeless story of courage, love and destiny. From the powerful opening of “Circle of Life” to the joyful “Hakuna Matata” and the romantic “Can You Feel the Love Tonight,” the unforgettable soundtrack performed live will transport audiences deep into the African savannah, making this a must-see experience for families, friends and Disney fans of all ages.

    Presented under license by Disney Concerts, all rights reserved, the production is staged in conjunction with Visit Malaysia Year 2026 and highlights Malaysia’s growing stature as a premier destination for world-class live entertainment and performing arts tourism. Tickets are now on sale with prices starting from RM168, and UOB cardmembers can enjoy up to 20 percent off on ticket purchases with applicable terms and conditions. Further information is available at www.milestone-entertainment.com.

    Disney’s The Lion King Live in Concert in Kuala Lumpur will be held on 13 June 2026, with showtimes at 2:30pm and 8:00pm at the KLCC Plenary Hall. Ticket categories are priced at Premium RM638, VIP RM538, CAT A RM468, CAT B RM368, CAT C RM268 and CAT D RM168, with prices subject to a RM6 ticketing fee per ticket and 8 percent SST. For school bookings, corporate packages or purchases for persons with disabilities, enquiries may be directed to Ms. Sha at +6012 332 3024 or via email at sha@milestone-entertainment.com.

  • New Direct Flight Connects Chongqing to Kota Kinabalu

    New Direct Flight Connects Chongqing to Kota Kinabalu

    Tourism Malaysia recently welcomed the inaugural direct service by Chongqing Airlines, linking Chongqing Jiangbei International Airport with Kota Kinabalu International Airport on 19 March 2026. The milestone marks a significant step forward in strengthening air connectivity between China and Sabah.

    Operating flight OQ2193, the new route connects Chongqing and Kota Kinabalu using a modern Airbus A320neo with a capacity of up to 195 passengers. The service runs three times weekly on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays, departing Chongqing at 19:00 and arriving in Kota Kinabalu at approximately 23:15. This development enhances travel convenience from China, one of Malaysia’s key tourism markets, while supporting continued growth in visitor arrivals.

    The introduction of this service highlights increasing interest among Chinese airlines in expanding their presence in Sabah, driven by rising demand for the state’s unique tourism offerings. The route improves accessibility for travellers from Western China, offering easier access to Sabah’s natural beauty, rich cultural heritage and renowned Malaysian hospitality. Currently, Sabah is connected to 10 cities in China via major gateways such as Kota Kinabalu International Airport and Tawau Airport, with a total of 112 weekly flights.

    According to Director General of Tourism Malaysia, Mr Mohd Amirul Rizal Abdul Rahim, the launch reflects growing demand for Sabah as a preferred destination. He noted that the collaboration with Chongqing Airlines plays an important role in strengthening Malaysia’s position as an accessible destination for nature, culture and premium travel experiences, while supporting inbound tourism from China under the Visit Malaysia 2026 (VM2026) campaign.

    The inaugural flight arrival was marked by a welcoming ceremony attended by representatives from Tourism Malaysia, led by Sabah Director Ms Haryanty Abu Bakar, together with officials from the Sabah Tourism Board, Chongqing Airlines and Malaysia Airports Holdings Berhad. The event commemorated the successful launch of the new route and its importance to the tourism sector.

    This new Chongqing–Kota Kinabalu connection reflects ongoing collaboration between tourism authorities, airport operators and airline partners to enhance Malaysia’s air connectivity. It provides seamless travel options for leisure, business and group travellers, while reinforcing Kota Kinabalu’s role as a key gateway to East Malaysia.

    China continues to play a vital role in Malaysia’s tourism growth. In 2025, Malaysia recorded 4.7 million arrivals from China, marking a 25.1 per cent increase compared to the previous year and highlighting the strong demand from the market.

    In line with the goals of Visit Malaysia 2026 (VM2026), the new route is expected to further improve international access and strengthen Kota Kinabalu’s standing as a regional hub alongside Kuala Lumpur. It is also anticipated to drive repeat visits, boost tourism spending and enhance Malaysia’s appeal as a destination for leisure, culture, food and shopping experiences.

    Tourism Malaysia also expressed its appreciation to Chongqing Airlines and Malaysia Airports Holdings Berhad for their continued support and collaboration, and looks forward to further joint efforts in promoting Malaysia’s diverse tourism offerings to travellers from Chongqing and across China in conjunction with Visit Malaysia 2026 (VM2026).

  • Juneyao Airlines Launches Direct Flights Between Wuxi and Kuala Lumpur

    Juneyao Airlines Launches Direct Flights Between Wuxi and Kuala Lumpur

    Tourism Malaysia is celebrating the launch of Juneyao Airlines’ inaugural direct flight connecting Sunan Shuofang International Airport in Wuxi to Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) on 20 March 2026, marking a significant step in enhancing air connectivity between Malaysia and emerging Chinese cities.

    The new HO1563 flight, operated with a state-of-the-art Airbus A320neo, will operate three times weekly on Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday. Commencing on 19 March 2026, the service departs Wuxi at 22:55 and arrives in Kuala Lumpur at approximately 02:50.

    This route represents Juneyao Airlines’ expansion beyond its Shanghai network, improving travel links between the two countries and providing easier access for travellers connecting to other Malaysian destinations, including Tawau and Penang. By February 2026, Malaysia is connected to 30 cities in China, with major airports such as KLIA, Penang International Airport, and Kota Kinabalu International Airport collectively operating 871 weekly flights.

    “The introduction of this direct flight from Wuxi to Kuala Lumpur demonstrates the growing momentum in Malaysia–China tourism. This route not only strengthens air travel between the two nations but also opens opportunities for more visitors from Wuxi and surrounding areas to experience Malaysia’s rich culture, vibrant attractions, and unique travel offerings,” said Mr. Mohd Amirul Rizal Abdul Rahim, Director General of Tourism Malaysia.

    The inaugural passengers were warmly sent off at Sunan Shuofang International Airport, in a ceremony led by Mr. Aaron Gan, Director of Tourism Malaysia Shanghai, alongside Juneyao Airlines representatives. Upon arrival in Malaysia, they were greeted by Ms. Noriah Jaafar, Senior Deputy Director of Tourism Malaysia, together with the airline team.

    China remains one of Malaysia’s top source markets. In 2025, the country welcomed 4.7 million Chinese visitors, a 25.1 per cent increase from the previous year, highlighting strong recovery and sustained demand for travel. With this direct connection, tourists, business travellers, and organised tour groups now enjoy more convenient access, reinforcing Kuala Lumpur as a key gateway for aviation and tourism.

    This new service aligns with the goals of Visit Malaysia 2026 (VM2026), expanding international access and strengthening Kuala Lumpur’s position as a regional hub. The improved connectivity is expected to encourage repeat visits, boost tourism spending, and further highlight Malaysia as a destination renowned for its diverse culture, cuisine, shopping, and experiences.

    Tourism Malaysia also extends its gratitude to Juneyao Airlines for their continued support and partnership, looking forward to closer collaboration to promote Malaysia’s attractions to travellers from Wuxi and across China in support of VM2026.

  • Discover Malaysia’s Culinary Heritage with Visit Malaysia 2026 and Inside Scoop’s “Rasa-Rasa Malaysia” Campaign

    Discover Malaysia’s Culinary Heritage with Visit Malaysia 2026 and Inside Scoop’s “Rasa-Rasa Malaysia” Campaign

    In conjunction with the nationwide Visit Malaysia 2026 (VM2026) campaign, Tourism Malaysia is proud to support the launch of Inside Scoop’s “Rasa-Rasa Malaysia” collection. This innovative initiative showcases Malaysia’s rich cultural diversity through a series of locally inspired ice cream flavours. The campaign was officially launched by Mr. Wizani Rosmin, Senior Director of Management at Tourism Malaysia, at the Inside Scoop outlet in Taman Tun Dr Ismail.

    This collaboration reflects Tourism Malaysia’s ongoing commitment to highlighting authentic Malaysian experiences and promoting domestic tourism in the lead-up to VM2026. It also underscores the importance of strong partnerships between the public and private sectors in advancing the nation’s tourism agenda.

    Strategically, the initiative aligns with VM2026’s objective of positioning Malaysia as a culturally rich destination where food serves as a powerful storytelling medium. By translating state identities into enjoyable treats, the campaign encourages both domestic and international tourists to explore Malaysia’s regions through their unique local flavours.

    The “Rasa-Rasa Malaysia” collection features six limited-edition flavours, each inspired by the heritage and identity of different Malaysian states. This sensory journey includes bold Liberica coffee from Johor, rich dark chocolate from Kelantan, and the iconic dodol durian from Melaka. It also highlights the distinctive gula apong of Sarawak, the nostalgic “Kaw Dinosaur” representing Kuala Lumpur and Selangor, and the refreshing strawberries of Cameron Highlands in Pahang.

    To further engage visitors, the campaign introduces interactive elements such as a limited-edition “Ice Cream Passport” and a stamp rally. This concept mirrors the spirit of discovery, encouraging guests to explore multiple Inside Scoop outlets nationwide while reinforcing the VM2026 message of travel and exploration.

    The collection will be available at all Inside Scoop outlets nationwide from 6 April to 11 May 2026. Tourism Malaysia welcomes further collaboration from industry stakeholders to create unique, experience-driven campaigns that strengthen Malaysia’s position as a must-visit global destination. For more information on the VM2026 campaign, please visit the official Tourism Malaysia website at www.tourism.gov.my.