The agreement between Malaysia and China to prolong their reciprocal visa-free travel arrangement for a further five years is a major boost to bilateral relations and tourism.  Following the signing of 31 memoranda of understanding (MOUs), including the agreement exempting China from visa requirements, during Chinese President Xi Jinping’s state visit to Malaysia, this decision was made public. Key Details of the Extension Impact on Tourism and Economy The visa-free policy has already shown positive results. In the first quarter of 2025, nearly one million Chinese tourists visited Malaysia, reflecting the success of the initiative. The continued visa exemption is expected to further boost tourism, enhance people-to-people exchanges, and strengthen…

At its 137th session, China Import and Export Fair (Canton Fair) continues to demonstrate its capacity to respond swiftly to evolving global consumer trends. With its broad product range and competent pool of suppliers, the Fair offers overseas buyers an efficient, one-stop platform to source tailored solutions for emerging lifestyle demands, such as the growing glamping economy in North America and Europe. Glamping, short for “glamorous camping,” caters to younger generations who value outdoor escapes without compromising comfort. This market is evolving beyond tents and sleeping bags to a large, fancy tent with additional items that blend luxury with nature. Whether for portable appliances or smart outdoor gear, the Canton Fair connects trend-driven buyers…

The Labour Day holiday continues to be a peak travel period for many destinations in the Asia-Pacific region, with holiday-makers from Japan, Vietnam and the Chinese mainland seizing longer holiday public breaks for domestic or overseas getaways. Meanwhile, travellers from South Korea, Hong Kong SAR, Singapore and Thailand can enjoy a long weekend by combining the public holiday with annual leave. Asia Tops the Charts, with Evolving Taste for Nature-based Alternative Accommodation According to Trip.com Group’s latest booking data, Asia-Pacific travellers are exhibiting a stronger interest in travelling closer to home this Labour Day holiday—be it domestically or regionally. The top five cross-border destinations include Japan, China, South Korea, Thailand and Malaysia. Overall, Asia-Pacific key markets have seen close to triple-digit growth for domestic travel, and strong double-digit growth in cross-border travel this…

Setting the stage for a spectacular Visit Malaysia Year 2026, ALIFE Malaysia, short for Malaysian Association for Arts, Live Events, Concerts and Festivals and the Ministry of Communications are working to boost the nation’s live events industry in a bold attempt to solidify Malaysia’s standing as a top global entertainment destination. At the heart of this, is the launch of the Concert and Event in Malaysia Incentives (CEMI), a powerful new financial support programme unveiled by Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil recently. The announcement, made during ALIFE’s flagship ‘Eid Synergy’ event, underscores the shared commitment of both parties to elevate Malaysia as a regional hub for world-class concerts and festivals.…

Building on over 30 years of cruising excellence across Asia and beyond, the newly revitalized StarCruises brand proudly celebrates its inaugural sailing from Thailand with the arrival of the Star Voyager at Laem Chabang Port, the gateway to Bangkok. This momentous occasion signals a bold new chapter for both StarCruises and Thailand, reinforcing the country’s growing status as a key cruise hub and destination in Southeast Asia. The Star Voyager, fresh from a US$50 million refurbishment, now offers Thai travellers and international guests an elevated cruising experience, conveniently starting from their own doorstep. The ship’s special maiden 5 Night itinerary from Bangkok begins today with an additional departure on 7…