Latest news with #MattaFair
Borneo Post
27-05-2025
- Business
- Borneo Post
Malaysia Airlines, Google expand strategic partnership with AI-powered solutions
Powered by Google Gemini's advanced AI capabilities, Malaysia Airlines aims to deliver next-level personalisation across multiple customer touchpoints. — Bernama photo KUALA LUMPUR (May 27): Malaysia Airlines and Google have announced the expansion of their strategic commercial partnership, reinforcing a shared vision to redefine the future of travel through artificial intelligence (AI), data-driven marketing, and cutting-edge digital innovation. The renewed collaboration builds on a successful partnership established in 2024 and marks a significant milestone in Malaysia Airlines' ongoing digital transformation. The partnership will now deepen its focus on integrating AI-powered solutions across the airline's operations and enhancing the overall travel experience. Among the recent highlights of the partnership was an interactive AI showcase unveiled at the Matta Fair, which brought to life Malaysia Airlines' 'Time For' campaign. The showcase featured a pilot of Google's latest image-to-video generation technology, Veo, allowing visitors to transform personal travel photos into dynamic, shareable video content. The activation exemplified both companies' commitment to creating immersive, personalised travel experiences. At the heart of this strategic alignment is a mutual goal to elevate the traveller journey from start to finish. Powered by Google Gemini's advanced AI capabilities, Malaysia Airlines aims to deliver next-level personalisation across multiple customer touchpoints by supporting its ambition to become Asia's premier travel gateway and complementing national efforts in tourism development under the upcoming Visit Malaysia 2026 campaign. 'This is about transforming how we connect with our customers from inspiration to booking, to every interaction across the journey,' said Malaysia Aviation Group (MAG) chief commercial officer of airlines Dersenish Aresandiran. 'By leveraging Google's advanced technology and global expertise, we're unlocking new opportunities, enhancing the travel experience, and reinforcing Malaysia's appeal as a world-class tourism destination.' The expanded collaboration between Malaysia Airlines and Google is formalised under a new Joint Business Plan that aligns with the airline's commercial growth strategy and brand aspirations. Central to this plan are several strategic pillars, including the use of AI-powered performance marketing through Google's Performance Max and AI-enhanced search tools to drive smarter, data-driven outcomes. The partnership also focuses on global brand building via YouTube, with targeted campaigns in key international markets such as the UK, Australia-New Zealand, Japan, and across Asean to strengthen brand visibility. Additionally, both companies are fostering an agile innovation culture by adopting a 'test and learn' mindset to accelerate digital transformation across the customer journey. Another key area is first-party data activation, aimed at unlocking deeper customer insights to enhance loyalty programmes like Enrich and improve premium cabin offerings. Google Malaysia country director Farhan Qureshi said the partnership exemplifies the potential of AI and creativity in revolutionising the travel industry. 'Our collaboration with Malaysia Airlines showcases how technology and creativity can converge to transform travel at scale. Together, we're pushing boundaries to deliver more relevant, intuitive, and engaging experiences for travellers worldwide.' This strategic expansion reflects Malaysia Airlines' commitment to digital excellence and its broader ambition to lead innovation within the aviation sector. By embracing AI to streamline operations and personalise services, the airline is positioning itself as a customer-centric, future-ready brand while supporting Malaysia's tourism goals on the global stage. Dersenish Aresandiran Farhan Qureshi Google Google Gemini Malaysia Airlines
Barnama
24-05-2025
- Business
- Barnama
Penang Airport Handles Nearly Two Million Passengers In Q1 2025, 69.5 Per Cent Surge
GEORGE TOWN, May 24 (Bernama) -- Penang is strengthening its position as a growing regional travel hub, with Penang International Airport (LTAPP) recording nearly two million passenger movements in the first quarter of this year, marking a 69.55 per cent increase compared to the same period last year. State Tourism and Creative Economy Committee chairman Wong Hon Wai said during the same period, the international passengers rose by over 80 per cent, while domestic numbers grew by more than 57 per cent. 'Flight frequencies are also rising 20.53 per cent for international flights and 30.28 per cent for domestic routes. Visitor arrivals from international markets have shown strong growth, with China recording a 102.47 per cent increase. 'Meanwhile, arrivals from India recorded a 108.73 per cent rise, while arrivals from Japan increased by 24.7 per cent, followed by the United States at 17.35 per cent and the United Kingdom at 15.82 per cent,' he said at the opening of the Matta Fair Penang 2025 at Setia SPICE Arena, Bayan Lepas here today. He pointed out that over the past 18 months, Penang has made real progress in strengthening the international air connectivity with 14 new direct international flight routes. 'Direct flights reduce travel time, lower costs, and attract more international visitors. Our hotels are seeing higher occupancy, our food and retail industries are busier, and the overall energy in the city reflects this growth. These are signs of a healthy, active tourism economy,' he said. Touching on Matta Fair Penang 2025, Wong said an important new feature at this year's fair is the Domestic Tourism Zone, which is being introduced for the first time in Penang's edition of Matta Fair. He noted that it is a great initiative to help more Malaysians explore the beauty of the country and highlighted that local tourism has great potential and this zone gives it the space and attention it deserves. The two-day Matta Fair Penang 2025, which kicked off today, features 258 booths representing 90 organisations from various segments of the travel and tourism industry.
Daily Express
09-05-2025
- Business
- Daily Express
Matta Fair Sabah back with over 140 booths
Published on: Friday, May 09, 2025 Published on: Fri, May 09, 2025 By: Sisca Humphrey Text Size: Rocky (centre) posing together with SYB Chief Executive Officer Julinus Jeffery Jimit (fifth left) and Phua (fourth left), Sabah Chapter Chairman Mohd Azlan Saleh (fifth right) and others at SICC. Kota Kinabalu: The 25th edition of the Matta Fair from May 9 to 11 is expected to be the largest yet with over 140 booths. 'With an extensive range of travel options and the reliability of trusted Matta members, visitors can confidently plan both local escapes and long-haul adventures,' said organising chairman Rocky Kho, Thursday. The Malaysian Association of Tour and Travel Agents (Matta) Chapter, is holding the event at Kinabatangan Hall 2 and 3, Sabah International Convention Centre (SICC). The three-day event would be launched by State Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister Datuk Seri Christina Liew. The fair would span 3,495 square meters across two halls, showcasing 51 participants, including tour agencies, airlines, hotels and tourism offices. All participants are licensed travel agents registered with the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture (Motac), ensuring consumers' safety and satisfaction. A major draw of the event is the Buyers' Contest, where visitors who spend a minimum of RM100 would be eligible to participate. 'The grand prize offers two round-trip economy class tickets from Kota Kinabalu (BKI) to Paris, valued at over RM9,000,' Rocky said. Other incredible prizes, sponsored by Malaysia Aviation Group (MAG), include round-trip tickets to Beijing, Kerala, Chiang Mai, Da Nang and business class tickets to Kuala Lumpur. In addition, Royal Brunei Airlines is contributing two international prizes, which is a round-trip economy class tickets from BKI to Beijing and from BKI to Incheon, Korea. 'With over RM61,000 worth of prizes, the Buyers' Contest is a fantastic reason to start planning your next travel adventure at this fair,' said Phua Tai Neng, the Honorary Secretary-General of Matta. Following a successful Matta Fair Sabah 2024, which recorded RM21 million in sales, the organisers are projecting RM26 million in sales for 2025, reflecting a strong rebound in consumer confidence and a growing demand for travel. 'This year's fair is set to build on that momentum, with more booths and exciting offerings to better serve our visitors,' Rocky said. The fair also aligns with the Visit Malaysia 2026 initiative, which Matta serves as a strategic partner. Sabah remains one of Malaysia's top tourist destinations, known for its rich flora and fauna, natural wonders and iconic sites such as Mount Kinabalu, Maliau Basin and the Kinabatangan River. This event is supported by RHB Bank as the official bank partner, Malaysia Aviation Group (MAG) as the official airline partner and premier sponsor, Sabah Tourism Board (STB), State Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Environment and Visit Malaysia 2026. For further details and the latest updates on Matta Fair Sabah 2025, visit the official Matta Fair website at and follow Matta Fair Sabah on Facebook (@MATTA Sabah) and Instagram (@mattafairsabah) for real-time information and announcements. * Follow us on Instagram and join our Telegram and/or WhatsApp channel(s) for the latest news you don't want to miss. * 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
New Straits Times
04-05-2025
- Business
- New Straits Times
Sabah posts 46pct more sales at Matta Fair in KL
KUALA LUMPUR: Sabah recorded higher sales at the first edition of the Matta Fair Kuala Lumpur, raking in RM4.5 million for a 46 per cent increase over the same period last year. Sabah Tourism Board (STB), which spearheaded the state's presence at the fair, said 43 travel agents took part under its coordination to promote the destination within the Sabah zone. "These encouraging responses affirmed Sabah's continued status as a preferred domestic travel destination, providing a diverse array of tourism offerings ranging from adventure, culture and nature to community-based tourism. "STB debuted two local brands from Sabah; Chanteek Borneo showcased various clothing and textile designs with traditional Sabah motifs, while Uinah introduced the health benefits of its refreshing locally crafted drink made from locally sourced ingredients harvested sustainably in Sabah. "Both brands received favourable responses from the Matta Fair attendees," it said. STB chief executive officer Julinus Jeffery Jimit said the strong results were driven by the commitment and active involvement of Sabah's tour and travel agencies, highlighting the spirit of unity among Sabahans in working alongside the agency to promote the state's tourism industry. STB said it remains dedicated to strengthening Sabah's destination marketing both locally and internationally, with active involvement in key travel events such as the Matta Fair. This aligns with its ongoing 'Explore Sabah' campaign in the lead-up to Visit Malaysia Year 2026. To enhance visitor engagement, the booth offered virtual reality experiences and daily interactive activities, alongside a consumer survey aimed at gaining insights into domestic travel preferences, it said.
Daily Express
26-04-2025
- Business
- Daily Express
Matta: Sabah nets RM4.5 million sales
Published on: Saturday, April 26, 2025 Published on: Sat, Apr 26, 2025 Text Size: Matta Fair crowds at the Sabah Tourism booth. Kuala Lumpur: Sabah's strong presence at the 2025 first edition of Matta Fair Kuala Lumpur from April 18 to 20 shows a significant increase in sales, with the highest amount recorded at RM4.5 million, a positive increase of 46 per cent from the same period last year. Some 43 Sabah travel agents participated in the fair, which was led by the Sabah Tourism Board (STB) as the anchor for promoting the destination in the Sabah zone. These encouraging responses affirmed Sabah's continued status as a preferred domestic travel destination, providing a diverse array of tourism offerings ranging from adventure, culture and nature to community-based tourism. STB also debuted two local brands from Sabah; Chanteek Borneo showcased various clothing and textile designs with traditional Sabah motifs, while Uinah introduced the health benefits of its refreshing locally crafted drink made from locally sourced ingredients harvested sustainably in Sabah. Both brands received favourable responses from the Matta Fair attendees. STB Chief Executive Officer, Julinus Jeffery Jimit, attributed the success to the dedication and active participation of Sabah's tour and travel agencies, which reflects the Sabahan camaraderie in promoting the state's tourism industry together with STB. Sabah Tourism continued its strong commitment to enhancing its destination promotional efforts for Sabah in the domestic and international markets, including active participation in major travel events like the Matta Fair. This effort echoes the STB 'Explore Sabah' campaign leading up to Visit Malaysia Year 2026. STB's booth theme, 'Explore Sabah Dulu Bah', encourages visitors to redeem travel rebate vouchers up to RM100 with every purchase requiring a minimum RM600 deposit in a single receipt. To encourage visitors to choose community-based tourism (CBT) products, RM50 travel rebate vouchers per pax as opposed to per package were offered to CBT product buyers. STB kept the booth exciting with a virtual reality (VR) experience and daily booth activities to attract visitors and increase retention in the booth. A survey was also conducted to study domestic consumer behaviour. Julinus also launched Sabah Tourism's new Augmented Reality Map (AR Map), available for both the Sabah Map and Kota Kinabalu City Map. Users can scan a barcode on the maps to unlock more information about key attractions. The maps offer an interactive experience, complete with helpful guidelines and animations. This latest promotional material is part of STB's initiatives to make exploring Sabah a more immersive, engaging and accessible experience. Physical copies of the map were distributed to attendees at the Matta Fair and are also currently available for download from the STB's official website. Earlier on, in August last year, Sabah Tourism launched a digital careline chatbot, called Avantang, which provides round-the-clock access to essential travel information and assistance. This facility is accessible from the Sabah Tourism website, WeChat account or WhatsApp number +6019-9392121. * Follow us on Instagram and join our Telegram and/or WhatsApp channel(s) for the latest news you don't want to miss. * 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
