AIR connectivity between Malaysia and the Philippines is set to increase from next month, following a meeting between Malaysia’s tourism minister Ng Yen Yen and senior officials from five airlines in Manila last week.
“The airline representatives have agreed to increase the frequency of flights (from the Philippines) to Kuala Lumpur and Kota Kinabalu from March,” said Ng, who was on an official visit to launch the Luxury Malaysia brand as well as discuss bilateral collaboration in tourism.
“From March 25, Malaysia Airlines will increase its flights to three times a day; Southeast Asian Airlines will fly three times a week (from Clark International Airport, starting May 1) to Kota Kinabalu; Zest Air will likely start flights (to Kuala Lumpur) from mid-year; and AirAsia is looking at increasing flights.”
Malaysia is targeting 400,000 visitors from the Philippines this year, compared to 362,000 last year.
Ng added: “With the strengthening of collaboration between the travel trade, Malaysia has the opportunity to leverage on connectivity and tourism strengths of the Philippines in the US market. Likewise, the Philippines can also leverage on the connectivity and tourism strengths of Malaysia in the European, Middle Eastern and Indian markets.”
Reporting by N. Nithiyananthan
