Batik Air launches first direct flights between KL and Timor-Leste

New Straits Times

7 hours ago

KUALA LUMPUR: Batik Air has launched a new direct air link between Kuala Lumpur and Dili, becoming the first Malaysian airline to operate scheduled commercial flights to Timor-Leste.
The airline said its entry into the emerging Timor-Leste market is a timely and forward-looking move that supports the growth of Malaysia's tourism sector by attracting new travellers from one of Asean's youngest nations.
Operated by a Boeing 737 aircraft, the direct flight between Dili and Kuala Lumpur takes approximately four hours and 15 minutes.
The twice-weekly service reflects Batik Air's commitment to enhancing regional connectivity through strategic market expansion.
With Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA T1) serving as a central hub, passengers from Dili now enjoy convenient onward connections to over 60 destinations across 20 countries, spanning Asia, the Middle East and Australia.
Chief executive officer Datuk Chandran Rama Muthy said the airline see enormous potential in this new route, not just in terms of passenger movement, but in the wider opportunity to invite Timorese travellers to discover Malaysia's diverse tourism offerings.
"As Timor-Leste expands its global outlook, we are honoured to offer a gateway to Malaysia and beyond, through KLIA's extensive connectivity and Batik Air's growing international network.
"Batik Air is proud to play a role in making Malaysia more accessible and attractive to new markets, while contributing to the region's tourism revival and long-term development," he said in a statement.
Tourism Malaysia director general Datuk Manoharan Periasamy said the launch of this direct route between Kuala Lumpur and Dili is a timely and strategic effort in strengthening bilateral tourism cooperation.
"With Malaysia having welcomed 38 million international visitor arrivals in 2024, we are optimistic that this new connectivity will further enhance visitor numbers and contribute positively to the success of our Visit Malaysia 2026 campaign.
"Malaysia's diverse tourism offerings, ranging from world-renowned gastronomy and rich cultural heritage to premium shopping experiences, make it an ideal destination for Timorese travellers seeking quality leisure and business experiences," he said.