TTG Asia
Asia/Singapore Friday, 6th February 2026
Page 158

Discover ultimate sleep rejuvenation at Oasia

0

In celebration of World Sleep Day, Oasia by Far East Hospitality and Woosa Sleep have partnered to launch a year-long sleep-focused experience in 12 suites and apartments across Oasia properties in Singapore and Malaysia, offering wellness-conscious travellers a tailored rest-to-rise experience that blends Woosa’s sleep innovations with Oasia’s holistic wellness approach.

As part of the campaign, selected suites and apartments at Oasia Hotel Downtown, Oasia Hotel Novena, Oasia Resort Sentosa, Oasia Residence Singapore, and Oasia Suites Kuala Lumpur are fitted with Woosa’s premium products, including the Original PLUSH King mattress with Sonocore Latex and European-made Memory Foams, an adjustable bed base with customised settings, a curated pillow menu with Talalay Latex and Dunlop Latex foam pillows, and a custom silk duvet made from 100 per cent grade 6A silk.

Experience restful luxury with the Oasia x Woosa Exclusive package

Curated by Oasia and Woosa, a complimentary Essential Sleep Kit, featuring a silk eye mask, earplugs, and Woosa Midnight Rain essential oil roller, enhances the rest experience. Exclusively in the Oasia x Woosa suites and apartments, guests will find a 100% natural bamboo bathrobe. To complete their nightly wind-down, guests can enjoy a warm, non-alcoholic nightcap of hot cocoa or caffeine-free tea. Additionally, guests can enjoy stay privileges such as complimentary breakfast, Club access, wellness activities, and more, for a fully restorative experience. Pet-friendly stays are available at Oasia Residence Singapore.

The Oasia x Woosa Exclusive package is available from now to June 30. A minimum stay of two and eight nights is applicable to Oasia hotels and Oasia serviced residence respectively for the Oasia x Woosa Exclusive Package.

For more information, visit Oasia x Woosa Exclusive.

Fusion Hotel Group appoints new regional director for South-east Asia

0

Fusion Hotel Group has named Markus Gloor as the new regional director for South-East Asia. In this role, Gloor will be responsible for the opening and management of new properties outside Thailand and Vietnam.

With three decades of experience in the hospitality sector in Switzerland and Thailand, Gloor previously served as the director of operations in Thailand, where he played a key role in expanding the brand.

Ta’aktana names new GM

0

Ta’aktana, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, Labuan Bajo in Indonesia has appointed Peter-Paul Kleiss as the new general manager.

With a distinguished career across Europe, the Middle East, and Asia-Pacific, he joined Ta’aktana in 2023 as director of operations. His dedication to operational excellence and improving guest experiences led to his promotion to general manager.

Switzerland woos Muslim travellers with thoughtful services, influencer collaborations

0

Imagine snow-capped mountains but printed on a headscarf that you can wear. Switzerland Tourism’s latest campaign saw it partner Buttonscarves, an Indonesian premium scarf and headscarf brand, as part of efforts to reach out to Muslim travellers.

The campaign featured influencers from Indonesia showcasing Switzerland’s landscapes and wearing headscarves from the brand’s specially created Switzerland series adorning prints of the country’s natural scenery.

Switzerland Tourism enhances Muslim-friendly offerings, including halal dining and prayer spaces, to attract more Muslim travellers from South-east Asia; Geneva Lake in Switzerland, pictured

It resonated well with Indonesian Muslim audiences, according to Batiste Pilet, director, Southeast Asia, Switzerland Tourism.

This is part of Switzerland Tourism’s efforts to reach out to the Muslim market in South-east Asia, with key markets for halal tourism coming from Indonesia, Malaysia, and Singapore.

“Switzerland Tourism in South-east Asia recognises the growing importance of halal tourism and is committed to making Switzerland a welcoming destination for Muslim travellers,” said Pilet.

In particular, there is “strong potential for growth” in the upscale and luxury travel segment. When it comes to halal tourism growth, Pilet added that Indonesia stood out as the key market with the largest potential, while for Malaysia, the independent Muslim traveller segment has the greatest growth potential.

“Additionally, Switzerland’s reputation for safety, cleanliness, and efficient public transport makes it an attractive destination for families and solo travellers alike. The availability of halal dining options, prayer spaces, and Muslim-friendly accommodation further enhances the travel experience for Muslim visitors,” said Pilet.

The organisation is ramping up efforts to promote Muslim-friendly travel services such as halal restaurants, prayer facilities, and accommodation that cater to Muslim needs.

It recently collaborated with media company Have Halal, Will Travel to launch a travel guidebook for Muslim travellers, and has contributed articles and self-guided itineraries.

Switzerland Tourism has also organised fam trips for some Muslim travel agencies.

Depending on the market, Switzerland Tourism will tailor the messaging to suit local consumer behaviour, shared Pilet. It will continue to strengthen its engagement in South-east Asia by implementing targeted marketing campaigns, partnerships with local travel agencies, media and influencer collaborations.

It is also promoting more travel in the off-season as part of its Travel Better strategy that encourages visitors to explore lesser-known destinations and experience Switzerland’s diverse landscapes year-round. This includes taking public transport, staying for longer, and going to lesser-known destinations.

Added Pilet: “Switzerland Tourism remains committed to enhancing the experience of Muslim travellers by continuously improving accessibility to Muslim travel services. We look forward to welcoming more Muslim travellers to Switzerland and showcasing the country’s diverse offerings in an inclusive and memorable way.”

World Sustainable Hospitality Alliance unites with environmental partners for net-positive hospitality solutions

0

The World Sustainable Hospitality Alliance (WSHA) has teamed up with OceanShot and Deborah Brosnan & Associates to highlight their shared commitment to integrating nature-based solutions into the hospitality industry.

The collaboration aims to achieve Net Positive Hospitality through practical, science-driven solutions that benefit both the environment and the sector. Over three years, it will focus on developing a comprehensive framework, implementing pilot programs, and evaluating progress.

Deborah Brosnan and Glenn Mandziuk signing the MoU during the Hospitality and Tourism Panel at the Sustainable Markets Initiative CEO Summit in London

The three parties will collaborate on initiatives such as creating guidelines and metrics for integrating nature-based solutions into hospitality projects, aligning with WSHA’s Universal Sustainability KPIs. They will also launch high-impact pilot projects under WSHA’s Impact Fund to turn strategy into action and benefit communities and the environment.

The collaboration will also focus on knowledge sharing to promote industry-wide adoption of best practices and advocate for nature-based solutions through thought leadership and engagement.

Leveraging its powerful network, WSHA will push for the adoption of these initiatives across the hospitality industry, ensuring alignment with industry standards. The alliance represents 66,000 hotels and eight million rooms worldwide and is committed to accelerating sustainability within the sector.

Deborah Brosnan, an ocean and resilience scientist, has worked with leaders and institutions to leverage ecosystem services for the planet. OceanShot, launched with John Paul DeJoria, is a reef restoration project off Antigua and Barbuda, using reef modules to restore ecosystems, protect coastal communities, and support local economies. Its latest expansion includes an Innovation Learning Lab in Antigua and Barbuda, opening in 2025.

For the hospitality industry, biodiversity, economic returns, and resilience are key metrics that showcase the benefits of nature-based solutions. This collaboration leverages Brosnan’s expertise to bring science-based solutions, develop best practices for integrating ecosystem services, create scalable regenerative models, and implement pilot programmes that demonstrate the effectiveness of nature-based solutions in hospitality.

WSHA CEO Glenn Mandziuk stated: “The hospitality industry has a unique opportunity to lead in environmental stewardship while also creating long-term value. By collaborating with OceanShot and Deborah Brosnan & Associates, we are taking a bold step toward embedding regenerative solutions into hospitality design and operations.

“This partnership exemplifies the power of collaboration in driving meaningful environmental change. By harmonising sustainability metrics and fostering innovation, we are paving the way for a more resilient and responsible hospitality sector.”

WWF Earth Hour Festival 2025 at Sentosa to promote climate and nature-positive habits

0

WWF-Singapore’s Earth Hour Festival 2025, taking place on March 22 at Sentosa Sensoryscape, will celebrate Singapore’s natural heritage for SG60 and inspire individuals to contribute to a healthier, more resilient planet.

Under the theme The Biggest Hour for Earth, the festival will highlight the power of collective action, encouraging individuals to take steps that foster a deeper connection to nature and their community.

Festivities at Sentosa Sensoryscape will immerse visitors in nature with vibrant gardens, light and sound displays, and community-driven initiatives, games, and performances

WWF’s 2024 Living Planet Report reveals a 60 per cent decline in wildlife populations in Asia-Pacific over the past 50 years, while global temperatures continue to rise, with January 2025 recorded as the hottest on record. The Earth Hour Festival 2025 will demonstrate how individual actions, from consumer choices to community-driven solutions, can drive meaningful change for a greener future.

At Sentosa Sensoryscape, visitors can explore a 30,000m² oasis that blends nature, design, and technology for an immersive, multi-sensory journey featuring over 250 plant species. As the festival’s backdrop, it offers spaces for discovery, conversation, and hands-on experiences that connect people to the natural world.

This year, WWF-Singapore is reintroducing the Hour Bank, an online tool that encourages sustainable activities, from citizen science projects to eco-friendly food choices and personal environmental initiatives. The 2025 edition will feature sustainability-focused activities for all ages, including exploring food’s environmental impact, nature’s role in climate resilience, and WWF-Singapore’s ecosystem protection efforts. Visitors can enjoy hands-on activities like assembling solar lights, attending a planet-friendly meal workshop, and making a World Water Day-inspired craft.

For the first time, visitors can explore the Sustainable Sentosa booth, highlighting the island’s sustainability initiatives. The booth features an interactive 3D installation where participants can pledge their commitment to sustainability on repurposed banners, along with an environmental showcase of Sentosa’s flora, fauna, and conservation efforts.

The evening will feature the Switch Off performance at 19.30, with local performances, leading up to the symbolic Switch Off at 20.30, when Singapore’s landmarks, businesses, and communities power down in solidarity. Over 26 businesses on Sentosa will join by turning off non-essential lights in support of this global movement.

Vivek Kumar, CEO, WWF-Singapore, said: “Safeguarding our planet for future generations requires action rooted in data, evidence and real-world impact. As a science-practice organisation, WWF works on the ground to protect nature and support the communities that depend on it.

“This SG60, we hope to work together with fellow Singaporeans to take meaningful steps toward a future where both people and nature thrive.”

AirAsia MOVE joins WTTC

0

WTTC welcomes digital travel platform AirAsia MOVE as its newest member, with AirAsia MOVE CEO Nadia Omer representing the company. Through this partnership, AirAsia MOVE is poised to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of travel, making it smarter, more connected, and accessible to millions.

The app is an all-in-one ecosystem for flights, hotels, airport transfers, travel insurance, duty-free shopping, and more encapsulated by the AirAsia Rewards loyalty programme.

AirAsia MOVE partners with WTTC to shape the future of smarter, connected travel

AirAsia MOVE will take part in high-level discussions, global conferences, and industry events, bringing its expertise in digital innovation, value-driven travel, and customer engagement to the table.

With access to over 700 airlines and over a million hotels worldwide, AirAsia MOVE has been recognised as Asia’s Leading Online Travel Agency 2023 by the World Travel Awards, as well as Asia’s Best Travel Booking App for two years in a row (2023, 2024) by World Travel Tech Awards.

Joining WTTC puts AirAsia MOVE at the forefront of global tourism innovation, working alongside industry giants such as Google, IBM, VISA, Marriott, Hilton, Airbnb, Hyatt, Royal Caribbean, Expedia Group, and more.

WTTC president and CEO, Julia Simpson, said: “We are delighted to welcome AirAsia MOVE as our newest member. Travel and tourism is evolving rapidly, and digital innovation is at the heart of shaping its future. AirAsia MOVE is not just redefining how travellers book flights and hotels – it’s creating a fully integrated experience that enhances convenience, affordability, and engagement.

“We look forward to collaborating with AirAsia MOVE as we continue to push boundaries and elevate the global travel experience.”

Nadia Omer, CEO of AirAsia MOVE commented: “AirAsia MOVE is a travel company that focuses on value conscious travellers offering flights, hotels, online duty-free shopping, events tickets and airport pick and drop-off. (South-east Asia) is our home and making travel more affordable, inclusive and delightful for all is our mission. We believe in creating shared value for the ecosystem by understanding our traveller needs and creating new partnerships to unlock value and create memorable journeys for all.”

Norwegian Cruise Line takes delivery of Norwegian Aqua, celebrates construction milestone for Norwegian Luna

0

Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) has taken delivery of Norwegian Aqua, the 20th ship in its fleet and the first in the next-generation Prima Plus Class, at the Fincantieri shipyard in Marghera, Italy.

As Norwegian Aqua prepares to enter service, NCL celebrates the float out of Norwegian Luna, marking the completion of its exterior work and its first contact with water. Norwegian Luna will then move to the floating dock previously used by Norwegian Aqua for interior construction in preparation for its launch in April 2026.

From left: NCL’s David J Herrera and Fincantieri’s Marco Lunardi

Building on the legacy of Norwegian Prima and Norwegian Viva, Norwegian Aqua is 10 per cent larger in size and capacity, offering new features while providing enhanced services to guests, including premium dining, entertainment, and exclusive onboard experiences.

After showcasing her innovations during a series of inaugural European sailings, Norwegian Aqua will embark on a transatlantic journey from Southampton (the UK) on March 28 this year. She will mark her much-anticipated arrival to the US on April 4, for two inaugural events in Boston and New York City. On April 13, the ship will be officially christened in Miami in a celebratory ceremony with NCL brand ambassador and Norwegian Aqua godfather, Eric Stonestreet.

During her first year of service, Norwegian Aqua will sail from Miami and Port Canaveral (Orlando), Florida, as well as New York City. Departing from Florida ports, Norwegian Aqua will offer short voyages to the Bahamas as well as seven-day Caribbean itineraries, visiting destinations such as Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic; St Thomas, US Virgin Islands, as well as Great Stirrup Cay, NCL’s private island paradise in the Bahamas. The island will become even more accessible to guests with the addition of a new pier later this year.

Sailing from New York City in August and September 2025, Norwegian Aqua will offer Bermuda cruises during the peak summer season. During her five- to seven-day Bermuda itineraries, guests will enjoy convenient overnight stays, allowing more time to explore the island’s golf courses, vibrant culture, and famous underground caves, all just a short voyage from the US East Coast.

David J Herrera, president of NCL, said: “We are deeply grateful to Fincantieri for its partnership and expertise in bringing Norwegian Aqua to life, paving the way for NCL’s continued growth and success. And with Norwegian Luna’s float out, we’re already looking ahead to the next chapter of our fleet expansion.”

Luigi Matarazzo, general manager merchant ships division of Fincantieri, added: “This ship embodies our shared commitment to technological innovation and excellence, marking another milestone in a thriving cruise industry where Fincantieri continues to lead the way. We are honoured to bring yet another ground-breaking vessel to life and look forward to continuing our partnership with all the exciting projects to come.”

Korean Air unveils new corporate identity and aircraft livery

0

Korean Air has introduced a new corporate identity featuring a modernised deep blue Taegeuk symbol that reflects the airline’s heritage while following minimalist design trends.

The reveal took place on March 11 at the airline’s headquarters in Seoul during the Rising Night event, with around 1,000 guests, including employees, industry leaders, and media.

Korean Air’s Walter Cho unveils Korean Air’s new corporate identity

The new logotype, Korean Air, next to the Taegeuk symbol, combines national prestige with a refined visual identity. It features brushstroke-inspired details, and open connections, offering a modern take on Korean elegance.

Korean Air also revealed its new aircraft livery, featuring a Boeing 787-10 with the updated design. Registered as HL8515, the aircraft includes the latest Prestige Suites 2.0 cabin interiors and began service on March 12, flying from Seoul Incheon to Tokyo Narita.

The new livery features a bold “Korean” logotype, highlighting its status as South Korea’s flagship carrier. The design includes an enlarged logo, metallic sky-blue paint, and a smooth curve across the fuselage, replacing the traditional cheatline for a more refined, modern look.

This is the first major brand update since 1984, when Korean Air introduced the Taegeuk symbol, which is globally recognised as a representation of both the airline and the nation. The new corporate identity will be gradually rolled out across aircraft liveries, in-flight services, and key customer touchpoints.

In addition, Korean Air introduced its upgraded in-flight meals at Grand Hyatt Incheon, reflecting the airline’s new corporate identity and aiming to elevate the premium travel experience. Partnering with chef and owner of Seoul’s Cesta, Seakyeong Kim, the airline has created a refined menu featuring seasonal ingredients, innovative culinary techniques, and a focus on Korean culinary heritage.

Economy-class meals now include options like salmon bibimbap, spicy stir-fried octopus, tofu pad thai, and rosé pasta. For an elevated dining experience, first-class passengers will use Bernardaud china, Christofle cutlery, and Riedel glassware, while Prestige class features Armani/Casa dishware and glassware.

For added comfort, first-class bedding features premium Frette materials and an Air Coil mattress from Eco World, with passengers also receiving Frette loungewear. Premium-class amenity kits, created in collaboration with British brand Graff, include pouches with skincare products and perfume.

The upgraded in-flight dining and services began on March 12 across 10 major longhaul routes, including flights to New York, Paris, and London. These enhancements will be available on all longhaul routes by June and on all routes starting in September.

Walter Cho, chairman and CEO of Hanjin Group and Korean Air, shared his vision for the airline’s future: “As a unified Korean Air, we are committed to more than just transportation – we aim to connect people, cultures and the world through the skies. With this foundation, we will build an industry-leading safety system, elevate the customer experience and strengthen trust through open communication with all stakeholders. Together, we’ll create a more connected and better world.”

Malaysia’s travel trade unites for Selangor Super Savers 2025 campaign

0

The travel trade has come together in a united, strategic move to bolster Selangor’s tourism sector in line with its Visit Selangor Year 2025 campaign.

The Malaysian Association of Hotels Selangor Chapter (MAHSEL) and the Malaysian Association of Hotel Owners (MAHO) launched the Selangor Super Savers 2025 (SSS2025) campaign last month, with strong support and participation from the Malaysian Association of Theme Parks & Family Attractions and the Malaysia Shopping Malls Association.

Tourism Selangor’s Chua Yee Ling (fourth from left) joins Malaysian Association of Hotel Owners’ Shaharuddin M Saaid (third from left) and Malaysian Association of Hotels Selangor Chapter’s Jasmine Abdullah Heng (third from right) in the launch of Selangor Super Savers 2025

This initiative aligns with Tourism Selangor’s Visit Selangor Year (VSY) 2025 campaign under the theme, Surprising Selangor, which aims to attract eight million international and domestic visitors to Selangor and generate RM11.7 billion (US$2.6 billion) in tourism receipts.

Jasmine Abdullah Heng, chairman of the Malaysian Association of Hotels Selangor Chapter, said: “SSS2025 aims to position Selangor as a must-visit destination by fostering collaboration among key industry players, including hotel operators, theme parks, attractions, and shopping malls.

“The campaign offers exclusive promotions and benefits to visitors, enhancing their overall travel experience in the state.”

The campaign was officially launched by Chua Yee Ling, chief executive officer of Tourism Selangor, who also unveiled the campaign’s dedicated digital portal, selangorsupersavers.com. The platform enables travellers to access a range of stay packages, including a minimum of 10 per cent off Best Available Rates, F&B credits, and late check-outs until 15.00.

Additionally, the campaign extends up to 10 per cent discounts on meeting and wedding packages across more than 20 participating hotels in Selangor. Guests staying in any of the participating hotels can also enjoy perks and discounts at participating theme parks and shopping malls in Selangor.

All offers, packages, and discounts are valid for six months from March 1, unless otherwise stated and subject to partners’ terms and conditions.

Shaharuddin M Saaid, executive director of MAHO, shared that the listing on the website is not yet complete, as more participating hotels and malls in Selangor have registered their interest to join the campaign.

He added that both MAHSEL and MAHO are working on Phase 2 of SSS2025, which will see further support from industry players, including airlines. The campaign will run until the end of 2025.

Industry players are encouraged to participate in Phase 2 of the initiative, which is expected to attract additional stakeholders, including airlines, and extend benefits until the end of 2025. This campaign serves as a lead-up to Visit Malaysia Year 2026, which aims to welcome 26.1 million tourist arrivals and generate RM97.6 billion in domestic spending.