TTG Asia
Asia/Singapore Tuesday, 10th March 2026
Sister Publications
TTG Asia TTGmice TTG India TTGssociations TTG Asia Luxury
TTG Asia | Mekong Tourism reappoints Suvimol Thanasarakij as executive director
TTG Asia | Song Saa Private Island welcomes new GM
TTG Asia | TTG Conversations: Five Questions with Rohan Bhalla, Collinson International
Page 82

Scoot links Singapore to Europe and Indonesia via new platform

By TTG Asia
0

Scoot, the low-cost subsidiary of Singapore Airlines, has launched a virtual interline platform developed with travel technology company Dohop. Dohop’s interline technology allows airlines to form flexible partnerships quickly, complementing traditional interline and codeshare agreements.

With this integration, customers starting their search on Scoot’s website can connect to the platform and book self-connect itineraries, where one leg of the journey is operated by Scoot and the other by a partner airline.

The new platform allows seamless self-connect bookings protected by ConnectSure, linking Singapore to over 30 additional destinations

In addition to the convenience of a seamless booking experience, journeys booked through Scoot’s new platform are protected by ConnectSure. This service protects passengers in the event of flight delays or cancellations, ensuring peace of mind on connected journeys.

Through initial partners easyJet and Citilink, customers can now book flights from Singapore to more than 30 additional destinations across Europe and Indonesia, supplementing Scoot’s network of 70 international destinations.

For example, users can book flights from Singapore to European destinations including Milan, Paris and Geneva, or Indonesian destinations such as Kendari, Solo and Ambon.

Sarah Hanan, chief commercial officer at Dohop, said: “This partnership exemplifies the growing trend in the airline industry towards flexible, passenger-centric connectivity. Scoot has been a valuable partner, and we’re excited to see them take this step towards expanding their footprint even further.”

Calvin Chan, chief commercial officer of Scoot, added: “This launch represents an exciting step forward for Scoot as we continue to enhance the travel experience for our customers. This collaboration with Dohop enables our customers to explore a wider range of destinations with ease, and we look forward to building on this momentum and working with additional airline partners to unlock even more travel opportunities for our customers, at the same great value.”

Borneo Wildlife Cruise showcases eco-luxury travel at Jewel Changi

By TTG Asia
0

Borneo Wildlife Cruise, Sabah’s first premium liveaboard wildlife cruise, will debut its showcase at Jewel Changi Airport from September 10 to 16, 2025.

The week-long event will feature conservation films, wellness sessions, and cultural storytelling, reflecting the brand’s focus on eco-luxury travel along the Kinabatangan River.

A week-long event introduces Sabah’s river wildlife, culture, and wellness experiences

Additionally, guests who book during the promotion period from September 17 to 30, 2025, will receive a complimentary Samsonite luggage.

Supported by the Sabah Trade & Tourism Office Singapore, the showcase aims to position Sabah as a leading eco-tourism destination.

For more information, visit Borneo Wildlife Cruise.

Golden Palm Tree Malaysia strengthens management team

By TTG Asia
0

Golden Palm Tree Malaysia has made three new appointments to its management team, covering operations, sales and marketing, and communications.

Azmil Kessler is the new resort manager, overseeing daily operations. He was previously executive assistant manager at Thistle Port Dickson.

From left: Azmil Kessler, Amigo Law and Kattie Hoo

Amigo Law is the director of sales and marketing, responsible for sales strategies and market development. He was most recently director of sales at Lexis Hotels and Resorts.

Kattie Hoo now leads the marketing and communications division, handling branding and communications. She was previously with Dorsett Hospitality International.

Marriott International welcomes new SVP for South Asia

By TTG Asia
0

Marriott International has promoted Kiran Andicot to senior vice president, South Asia. In his new role, he will oversee operations and development across the region, align growth with operating performance, strengthen owner partnerships, accelerate conversions and openings, and build the leadership bench.

Kiran joined Marriott in 2006 and has since played a key role in driving growth across India, Sri Lanka, Bhutan, Nepal, and Bangladesh, signing more than 220 hotels. He previously worked in real estate and hospitality consultancy with EY and HVS, and in hotel operations with IHCL and the Oberoi Group.

Mount Rinjani reopens with stricter safety rules for climbers

By Dhini Oktavianti
0

New and stricter standard operating procedures (SOPs) have been introduced for climbers of Mount Rinjani in Lombok as Mount Rinjani National Park reopens.

The park was closed following a series of accidents last month that resulted in one casualty and several injuries.

Climbers at Mount Rinjani must now follow updated safety procedures and be accompanied by certified guides

Under the new regulations, all climbers must provide a health certificate and insurance information. Those under 17 or without prior climbing experience are required to be accompanied by a certified guide. A strict guide-to-climber ratio has been set, with one guide permitted for every five climbers, and porters provided for every two to three climbers. All visitors must attend a safety briefing before beginning their trek.

Tour operators are responsible for ensuring climbers carry essential equipment, including warm clothing, sleeping bags, and first aid kits. To protect the natural environment, disruptive devices such as active speakers are prohibited.

Vicky Gosal, founder of Karash Adventure Indonesia, said: “The climbing routes on Rinjani have been upgraded. Many previously dangerous routes have been improved, especially in the Torean section that cross cliff edges. Safety measures have been added at vulnerable points, although it’s certainly not possible to fence all routes.”

He added that a rescue post has now been established in Pelawangan, equipped with ropes and other emergency gear.

Dewantoro Umbu Joka, chairman of the ASITA West Nusa Tenggara Chapter, highlighted that all bookings must now be made through the park’s official app. While welcoming the new regulations, he emphasised the need to continually review and improve them to prevent serious accidents in the future.

Vicky noted that the more detailed SOPs have led to longer waiting times for climbers. He suggested streamlining the administrative process and accepting health certificates issued in a climber’s place of origin to reduce delays.

Both Vicky and Dewantoro agreed on the importance of professional and competent guides to ensure safety and quality during the climb.

Nepal courts Gen Z and millennials with social media and wellness focus

By S Puvaneswary
0

The Nepal Tourism Board is ramping up its destination marketing initiatives to attract more millennials and Gen Z travellers.

Suman Ghimire, Nepal Tourism Board’s senior manager, tourism marketing and promotion department, told TTG Asia that for this younger demographic, marketing and promotional activities will be spread across social media channels.

From TikTok takeovers to wellness retreats, Nepal is reimagining tourism for a new generation of travellers; Namche Bazar, Khumbu in Nepal, pictured

He shared that the board has also signed an agreement with TikTok, where the initiative will highlight the country’s hidden gems and iconic destinations.

Ghimire added that more collaborations with other popular social media platforms will be announced in due course.

Another market that Nepal is tapping into is the growing demand for wellness tourism, particularly among urban professionals and younger travellers seeking balance, restoration, and meaningful escapes.

Ghimire explained that this will leverage key destinations, from Lumbini, the birthplace of Buddha, and the tranquil hill regions to the Kathmandu and Pokhara valleys. These areas are uniquely suited for wellness-focused properties, offering travellers opportunities for spiritual and physical rejuvenation.

In July 2025, the Nepal Tourism Board approved a budget of 1.6 billion rupees (US$11.4 million) for the fiscal year 2025/2026 with a focus on international promotions and sustainable tourism development.

During this fiscal year, Nepal Tourism Board will also establish its first overseas marketing office which will be located in India, its top source market for inbound tourism.

JHL Collection marks fifth anniversary with regional expansion plans

By Mimi Hudoyo
0

JHL Collection, a home-grown hospitality management company, marked its fifth anniversary by unveiling expansion plans under its 5teps To The Future strategy.

Founded in 2020, the company currently manages seven properties across six brands in Indonesia and Cambodia and is now seeking to act as a management partner for other hotel owners and investors. Its portfolio includes JHL Solitaire Gading Serpong, Episode Gading Serpong, and Herloom Hotel & Residence BSD in Banten, as well as Episode Kuta Bali and JSI Resort Megamendung in West Java.

JHL Collection celebrates five years in operation and outlines its future expansion strategy

As part of its Steps of Excellence vision, JHL Collection launched two new design hotel brands this year – Noema and Arjuna – with properties in Bali and Cambodia. The company plans to expand to destinations including Lombok and other locations in Indonesia and the region.

Under its Steps of Possibilities initiative, the group is embracing technology and design, including a new website and investments in platforms to enhance the booking and guest experience. Corporate director of marketing Kay Tadjoedin highlighted the introduction of an augmented reality breakfast experience at JHL Solitaire Gading Serpong, which allows guests to visualise dishes before ordering and explore the origin of ingredients through interactive storytelling connecting dining with culture, nature, and community.

Looking ahead, JHL Collection plans to launch a facilitator-led wellness programme at Kencana Valley, Megamendung, as part of its Steps of Mindfulness initiative.

During the anniversary celebration in Jakarta, executive director Satria Wei said the first five years had focused on building and managing the company’s own properties to establish a foundation in service, innovation, and design. He added that with six brands and seven properties across Indonesia and Cambodia, JHL Collection is now preparing to expand beyond its own group to act as a management partner for investors and hotel owners across the region.

Addressing industry challenges, Satria shared: “This year has not been without its challenges. But with resilience and commitment, we have overcome them, and in doing so, we are better prepared to look ahead with strength and confidence. The lessons of today shape the vision of tomorrow.”

Satria also told TTG Asia that his target was to add 10 properties within two years, whether newly built or rebranded, but added: “Our future is not only about more properties; it’s about hospitality that matters.”

Riyaz International, Jin Jiang Hotels launch RJJ Hotels to expand across South-east Asia

By TTG Asia
0

Malaysian-owned hospitality group Riyaz International has formed a strategic partnership with Jin Jiang Hotels China Region to launch RJJ Hotels and expand across South-east Asia and the Asia-Pacific.

The partnership was marked at a signing and launch ceremony at the Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre (MITEC), which was attended by more than 400 industry stakeholders.

The partnership will launch RJJ Hotels, expanding hospitality operations across South-east Asia with Malaysia as the regional hub

The programme included remarks from Sri Shaheen, group managing director of Riyaz International and RJJ Hotels, and Zhou Wei, vice president of Jin Jiang International.

Agreements signed included a Management License Agreement between RJJ Hotels and Jin Jiang Hotels China Region; a joint venture between Riyaz International and Permodalan Satok for the Metropolo Jinjiang Hotels Sarawak project; and 11 hotel management agreements and memoranda of understanding across Malaysia.

These agreements mark the launch of RJJ Hotels as a platform to accelerate regional growth and investment, strengthening hospitality beyond Malaysia and China.

Founded in 2008, Riyaz International operates properties including The Riyaz, Dash, The Pure and AQVA. Jin Jiang Hotels China Region is part of Shanghai Jin Jiang International Hotels Co., which has more than 17,000 hotels and 1.6 million rooms in 55 countries. Five of its brands – Metropolo Jinjiang Hotels, Lavande Hotels, Jinjiang Inn, Ginco Hotel and Renjoy Hotel – will be introduced to South-east Asia.

Riyaz International and Jin Jiang Hotels China Region aim to grow hospitality sustainably, with Malaysia as the base and South-east Asia as the next focus.

In his keynote speech at the launch ceremony, Hairil Yahri Yaacob, secretary general, Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry, stated: “The partnership between Riyaz Group and Jinjiang Hotels (China) demonstrates investors’ strong confidence in Malaysia’s economic resilience. It also underscores the importance of global collaboration in solidifying Malaysia’s position as a regional hub for trade, tourism, and sustainable development.

“Ultimately, the value of a partnership like this will be measured not just by rooms opened, but by the quality of opportunities it creates for Malaysians: by how many SMEs join the value chain; by how many young people receive world-class training, and by how effectively we embed sustainability – from energy efficiency to waste reduction – into daily operations.”

Shaheen added: “RJJ Hotels is more than a launch – it is Malaysia’s chance to lead a new era of cross-border hospitality. With Riyaz’s local strength and Jin Jiang’s reach, we are shaping growth that puts Malaysia at the centre of South-east Asia’s tourism story.”

Galaxy Entertainment Group sets up Singapore hub to boost Macau tourism

By TTG Asia
0

Galaxy Entertainment Group (GEG) has opened a new overseas office in Singapore as part of its strategy to strengthen regional ties and expand its international presence.

The office supports the promotion of Macau as the “World Centre of Tourism and Leisure” to audiences across South-east Asia.

Representatives from Galaxy Entertainment Group gathered at the gala dinner to celebrate the new office opening

Located in Singapore’s CBD, the office will connect with the local business community and present Macau’s tourism offerings, including its cultural heritage, hospitality, and leisure and entertainment options.

The move aligns with the Macao SAR Government’s strategy to diversify tourism and attract a wider visitor demographic. GEG aims to provide tailored travel experiences for Singaporean and regional travellers, facilitating the process from planning to arrival.

The office will also handle tourism and MICE enquiries, reflecting GEG’s focus on regional collaboration and customer engagement.

To mark the opening, GEG hosted a gala dinner at JW Marriott Singapore, attended by guests, business partners, and media representatives. Elmen Lee, director of integrated resort services at GEG, introduced the group’s three Macau properties: Galaxy Macau and Galaxy International Convention Center, Broadway Macau, and StarWorld Hotel.

GEG intends to maintain long-term relationships in Singapore and contribute to the growth and diversification of Macau’s tourism industry.

Lee remarked: “Singapore has always been an important source market for Macau. We firmly believe that Galaxy Entertainment Group’s diverse offerings will attract more Singaporean visitors to visit us and explore more.”

Kuramathi Maldives brings the fun with new fortnightly kids programme

By TTG Asia
0

Kuramathi Maldives has introduced a new Bageecha Kids Club fortnightly programme, designed for children aged 3 to 12. The two-week programme began on August 25, 2025, and runs daily from 08.30 to 18.30. For families with children under three, babysitting services are available at an additional charge.

The activities are arranged across two themed weeks. In the first week, children take part in art and nature days, scavenger hunts, pool games, and watercolour painting. Ocean-themed sessions include reef crafts and an underwater wildlife masterclass. Sports days offer yoga, mini-Olympics, and beach volleyball, while themed activities such as treasure hunts, superhero dress-up, kite flying, and cultural workshops are also included.

Families can plan a worry-free holiday while their children take part in a variety of themed activities at Bageecha Kids Club

The second week focuses on eco-friendly projects, ocean discovery, and outdoor adventures. Children design recycled art, learn about marine life at the Eco Centre, take part in hydroponic gardening, and join beach games and pool sessions. Activities also feature murals, nature journals, paper plane contests, pirate adventures, obstacle courses, and dance competitions.

Bageecha Kids Club runs on a fortnightly cycle, with opportunities for children to make friends, learn new skills, and enjoy varied activities in a supervised setting.

For more information, visit Kuramathi Maldives.

1...818283...2,896Page 82 of 2,896

Tried and Tested

What to Buy Now

 
Subscribe To
Advertise With Us
 
Asia-Pacific's Leading Travel Trade Business Resource Since 1974

  • All Rights Reserved

Copyright TTG Asia Media Pte Ltd © 2025-2026
Sister Publications
TTG Asia TTGmice TTG India TTGssociations TTG Asia Luxury
TTG Asia | TTG Conversations: Five Questions with Rohan Bhalla, Collinson International
TTG Asia | Mekong Tourism reappoints Suvimol Thanasarakij as executive director
TTG Asia | Song Saa Private Island welcomes new GM