Latest news with #AirAsia
Daily Express
2 hours ago
- Business
- Daily Express
AirAsia to develop talents with Sabah institutions
Published on: Wednesday, June 04, 2025 Published on: Wed, Jun 04, 2025 Text Size: Tony pointed out AirAsia's existing Sabahan hires in cabin crew, engineering and pilot roles, stressing the programme's goal to expand local opportunities. Kota Kinabalu: AirAsia intends to collaborate with Sabah's higher learning institutions to launch training programmes for aspiring pilots, aircraft engineers and aviation technical staff, said its Group Chief Executive Officer Tan Sri Tony Fernandes. The initiative aims to develop local talent, particularly among B40 youths, as part of the airline's commitment to Sabah's workforce growth. 'While tourism remains Sabah's economic driver, we want to contribute further by nurturing skilled professionals in aviation,' Tony said on Tuesday. Programme details and expansion plans include initial focus on pilot training with applications expected to open by year-end, while future expansion involves aircraft engineering, artificial intelligence (AI) and other technical fields, aligning with AirAsia's tech investments. Additionally, preparations include syllabus, establishment of committee and funding pending for rollout. Tony pointed out AirAsia's existing Sabahan hires in cabin crew, engineering and pilot roles, stressing the programme's goal to expand local opportunities. The curriculum will include AI applications used in flight scheduling, fuel efficiency and baggage management, ensuring trainees are industry-ready. 'We want Sabah's youths to be part of aviation's technological evolution,' he added. * Follow us on our official WhatsApp channel and Telegram for breaking news alerts and key updates! * Do you have access to the Daily Express e-paper and online exclusive news? Check out subscription plans available. Stay up-to-date by following Daily Express's Telegram channel. Daily Express Malaysia
The Star
3 hours ago
- Business
- The Star
AirAsia adds another milestone with KK-Fukuoka flights
KOTA KINABALU: AirAsia Malaysia continues to expand routes to and from Sabah through Kota Kinabalu International Airport, with the latest to Fukuoka, Japan, via Taipei. This launch of their brand new fifth-freedom route from the airline's second-largest hub of Kota Kinabalu will start flying daily from Aug 15, further underscoring AirAsia's commitment to expand its Kota Kinabalu hub. AirAsia Malaysia chief executive officer Datuk Captain Fareh Mazputra said this launch marked another significant milestone as the airline continues to explore new opportunities from the Kota Kinabalu hub. He added since reinstating the Kota Kinabalu-Taipei route three years ago, AirAsia has flown more than 130,000 passengers, and the numbers continue to grow. This launch aligns with their vision of connecting people across Asia, enhancing regional connectivity and boosting tourism opportunities, he added. 'With this new route, Sabahans now have more choices and flexibility when travelling to their preferred destinations, while supporting the state government's vision of positioning Sabah as a top tourism destination,' said Fareh. In conjunction with the launch, AirAsia is offering special promotional fares for flights from Kota Kinabalu to Fukuoka starting from RM609 all-in one way, whereas flights from Fukuoka to Kota Kinabalu are also available from ¥21,390 (about RM635) all-in one way. Customers can book their flights from today until June 8, 2025, for travelling between Aug 15, 2025 and March 29, 2026, available on the AirAsia MOVE app and Taipei is one of AirAsia's key virtual hubs within its extensive network. The new route provides more flexibility for Malaysians looking to explore more destinations in Japan, offering an alternative to fly from Kuala Lumpur to Fukuoka via Don Mueang (Thailand), operated by Thai AirAsia (flight code FD). From Aug 15, AirAsia will operate flights to 13 international destinations across Asia from the Kota Kinabalu hub, with a total of 79 flights weekly, further solidifying the hub's position as Malaysia's second-largest hub. According to AirAsia, all-in fares are quoted for one-way travel only, including passenger service charge, regulatory service charges, fuel surcharges, and other applicable fees with terms and conditions applied.
Sinar Daily
3 hours ago
- General
- Sinar Daily
Hidden Hue: Vietnam's best-kept historical gem you need to explore
Uncover the imperial secrets, ancient tombs, and cultural treasures of Hue — Vietnam's most underrated heritage city. By WAN AZFAROZZA 31 May 2025 11:30am This place that felt like stepping into a movie — complete with ancient tombs, imperial palaces, and statues that reminded me of China's Terracotta Army. Photo: Wan Azfarozza VIETNAM has always been a favourite getaway for Malaysians. Some travel for the food, others for the beaches — and let's not forget the ladies who go just for the shopping! I've visited Vietnam a number of times, so I was on the lookout for something different, something less touristy yet still rich in culture. That's when I stumbled across a place that felt like stepping into a movie — complete with ancient tombs, imperial palaces, and statues that reminded me of China's Terracotta Army. My next adventure was clear: Huế, Vietnam. I packed my bags, booked my flight (AirAsia flies to Da Nang three times a day, so don't worry), and off I went — and let me tell you, it was one of the most fascinating trips I've had. Before heading to Huế, I made a quick stop in Da Nang and spent a relaxing night at Furama Resort — a beachfront haven perfect for recharging before my little adventure. A luxurious beachfront retreat that effortlessly blends tropical charm with colonial elegance, the resort's tranquil atmosphere, stunning ocean views, and impeccable service made it the perfect prelude to my cultural journey. Furama Resort — a beachfront haven to relax and recharge before setting off to the next adventure. Photo: Wan Azfarozza The next morning, feeling well-rested and ready, I boarded the train to Huế for one of the most fascinating trips I've ever had. Here's a list of must-see spots and experiences you don't want to miss when in Huế: 1) The Hải Vân Pass Train – A Journey Like No Other Sure, you could take a car or van from Da Nang to Huế, and yes, it would be faster. But where's the fun in that? The train ride takes about three hours and is a scenic adventure in itself. Make sure to book the tourist coach — it's more comfortable and even features traditional Vietnamese music performances and snacks. But the real showstopper? The views. As the train snakes along the coastline and cliffs, you're treated to breathtaking ocean panoramas that are hard to put into words. It's like riding through a painting. 2) Khải Định Tomb – Vietnam's Own Stone Army Climbing into history — the grand staircase leading to Khai Dinh's Tomb. Photo: Wan Azfarozza If you've always wanted to see China's Terracotta Army but haven't had the chance, this might be the next best thing. Located just 10 km from Huế, Khải Định Tomb is an architectural marvel completed in 1931. After climbing 127 steep steps that took my breath away, you're greeted by an array of 24 stone statues — mandarins, guards, animals, and more — lined up in dramatic formation. The blend of Hindu, Buddhist, Roman, and Gothic styles makes this UNESCO World Heritage Site truly one of a kind. Exhausting? Yes. Worth it? Absolutely. 3) Huế Imperial City – A Walk Through Royal History The throne room of Hue Imperial City, where gold-gilded splendour and intricate craftsmanship echo the grandeur of Vietnam's Nguyen dynasty. Photo: Wan Azfarozza Once known as the Forbidden City of Vietnam, this historic site was strictly off-limits to commoners back in the day. Today, it's open to all visitors. Surrounded by a 2.5-kilometre-long wall, the Imperial City houses royal palaces, shrines, gardens, and even a Purple Forbidden City — the Vietnamese version of Beijing's famed Forbidden City. Walking through its grand gates feels like stepping back in time. History lovers, this is your playground. 4) Azerai La Residence – Sleep Inside a Story This hotel offers an immersive cultural experience — adorned with portraits of 13 Vietnamese emperors, curated artworks, and interiors that echo the grandeur of a bygone era. Photo: Wan Azfarozza You might wonder why a hotel makes it into this list — but Azerai La Residence is no ordinary stay. Built in the 1930s, this former French colonial governor's residence is now a luxury resort that oozes history. Just a 10-minute walk from Huế Train Station, it's more than a place to sleep; it's an experience. Inside, you'll find portraits of 13 Vietnamese kings, along with historic artworks and elegant interiors that feel like a living museum. If you can't make it to every monument in town, this hotel itself is a cultural destination. Hue is more than a travel destination — it's a beautiful blend of adventure, culture, and history. From stunning train rides to majestic tombs and royal palaces, every corner of Hue has a story to tell. And when your day winds down, there's no better place to reflect than in a resort that echoes the elegance of Vietnam's imperial past. If you're looking for a trip that's off the beaten path but rich with discovery, Hue should be next on your list. Trust me — it's the kind of place that stays with you long after you've left.
The Star
18 hours ago
- Business
- The Star
AirAsia plans to train Sabah youth in aviation roles
KOTA KINABALU: AirAsia intends to collaborate with higher learning institutions in Sabah to train new generations of pilots, engineers, and flight technicians. AirAsia Group CEO Tan Sri Tony Fernandes said this is part of the airline's initiative to develop local human capital, focusing on B40 youth. He noted that while tourism remains Sabah's main economic contributor, AirAsia aims to enhance its contributions through local talent and skilled resource development. "We already have many cabin crew, engineers, and pilots. We wish to help create more pilots, engineers, and technical crews from Sabah youths," he said. Fernandes made these remarks during a courtesy visit to Sabah Head of State Tun Musa Aman on Tuesday (June 3). He mentioned they are ready with the syllabus and programme structures and will establish a working committee for implementation soon. Applications will open once programme funding is sufficient, he added. "We aim to start this programme before the end of the year, beginning with pilot training," said Fernandes. He said that the programme will eventually cover other areas like engineering, technical roles, and artificial intelligence (AI), in line with the company's investment in the latest technology. "In the flight industry, AirAsia is moving towards AI for network scheduling, fuel saving, and luggage management," he said. AirAsia wants Sabahans to be part of this technological advancement, Fernandes added.
Independent Singapore
18 hours ago
- Business
- Independent Singapore
Philippines orders shutdown of AirAsia Move site for excessively high ticket prices
INTERNATIONAL: AirAsia Move, the booking arm of Malaysia-based budget carrier AirAsia, has come under scrutiny in the Philippines, with authorities requesting that the police shut down the booking website due to allegations of unlawfully charging high fares. A cease-and-desist order has been issued by the country's Civil Aeronautics Board (CAB), according to Vince Dizon, the Secretary of Transportation, on Monday (Jun 2). Mr. Dizon has asked the CAB to file criminal charges against AirAsia Move due to the excessively high prices it has charged for plane tickets for local carriers to travel to Eastern Visayas, a region in the Philippines currently experiencing a transport crisis. A congressman from the region, along with his wife, a Mayor, had purchased a pair of Philippine Airlines tickets to the capital, Manila, and were charged Php77,704 (S$1,796). The Philippine News Agency (PNA) quoted Mr Dizon as saying that the two tickets were priced at about three times the price they cost on the airline's website, where they had been offered at Php12,000 (S$277.30) each. See also Apple iPad Air 2022 review - "Device is too cool for school" 'Clearly, this is just absurd, and actually criminal. I have asked the Philippine National Police Anti-Cybercrime Group to take this website down today, so this AirAsia Move can no longer scam others,' he said, adding that he was certain that the congressman and his wife were not the only ones who had been charged excessively high prices. AirAsia Move's executives have been summoned to a hearing on Jun 5. Mr Dizon has also ordered a 'criminal economic sabotage case' to be charged against AirAsia Move, given the circumstances. He explained that the crisis affecting the region is due to the partial closure of a bridge connecting two provinces. 'They are taking advantage of the situation,' he added, and has asked the CAB to look into other booking sites if they are similarly charging high fees not only to the affected region but to other areas as well. 'We will really put the full force of the law on these unscrupulous online platforms who are taking advantage of our people,' Mr Dizon said. See also Suicide bomber killed at Philippine army base Meanwhile, AirAsia Move has stated that it will comply with the cease and desist order, but added that the CAB's jurisdiction applies to air carriers, not to foreign-based travel agencies. In a statement, Nadia Omer, the chief executive officer for AirAsia Move, said that the company 'also clarifies that it does not manually set or manipulate airfares in light of the fare discrepancy issues.' The price discrepancy has been attributed to 'temporary data synchronization issues with flight pricing partners,' according to the statement. Ms Omer said that the technical discrepancy caused by the third-party provider also affected booking platforms, including Agoda, and Traveloka, and added that the company took 'immediate steps' with the third-party pricing provider for immediate resolution.' /TISG Read also: Street artist to sue AirAsia after carrier used his mural without his knowledge
