Malaysia Aviation Group (MAG) has appointed Nasaruddin A Bakar as president and group chief executive officer, effective February 1, 2026. He succeeds Izham Ismail, who will retire as group managing director after more than four decades with the company.
Nasaruddin brings over 30 years of experience in flight operations, management, and strategic leadership within MAG. He most recently served as chief operating officer of Malaysia Airlines, where he led key transformation initiatives including the turnaround of MASwings in 2022 and the roll-out of profit-driven structures under MAG’s Long-Term Business Plan 2.0.
In his new role, Nasaruddin will lead the execution of MAG’s strategic priorities, focusing on operational excellence, customer experience, and sustainable growth across its airline and non-airline businesses as the group advances its LTBP3.0.
His appointment ensures continuity in leadership and supports MAG’s commitment to building a future-ready aviation group, backed by a strong management team across its three profit centres: Airline Business, Loyalty and Travel Services, and Aviation Services.
Minor Hotels has appointed Christoph Dueker as cluster general manager for Anantara Kalutara Resort and Avani Kalutara Resort.
Dueker brings over 20 years of international hospitality experience, most recently serving in senior roles with Marina Bay Sands in Singapore. His career includes leadership positions at Four Seasons, Park Hyatt, and Shangri-La across Europe, the Americas, and Asia.
In his new role, Dueker will oversee operations at both Kalutara resorts, focusing on enhancing their distinct identities and deepening their connection to the destination.
Agoda has partnered with Archipelago International to expand traveller choice and strengthen both brands’ presence in the region.
Through the collaboration, 193 of Archipelago International’s properties, spanning urban business hotels, leisure resorts, and boutique stays, are now available on Agoda via the newly launched Archipelago Flagship Store. The dedicated hub allows travellers to easily discover and book trusted Indonesian properties, including Aston Anyer Beach Hotel, Harper Malioboro, Royal Kamuela Ubud, and The Alana Hotel and Conference.
The collaboration between Agoda and Archipelago International aims to connect more guests with Indonesia’s top urban, resort, and boutique stays
Indonesia has been growing in popularity, ranking as the third most searched market on Agoda in 2025. Agoda data shows a 21 per cent year-on-year rise in searches for travel to Indonesia, led by travellers from South Korea with 36 per cent growth, followed by Malaysia, Singapore, Australia, and Japan.
While Bali, Jakarta, and Batam remain top destinations, emerging hotspots like Labuan Bajo and Medan are seeing rapid growth, recording 66 per cent and 47 per cent increases in searches respectively.
Archipelago’s Flagship Store goes beyond standard listings, showcasing its diverse portfolio to travellers from leading source markets. The collaboration also leverages Agoda’s multichannel marketing solutions to increase visibility and engagement for the group’s properties.
This marks the first collaboration between Agoda and Archipelago International, uniting Agoda’s data-driven distribution capabilities with Archipelago’s regional brand strength. The partnership aims to accelerate demand generation, improve conversion across multiple markets, and give partners more effective ways to engage travellers and boost revenue.
Andrew Smith, senior vice president of supply at Agoda, said: “Indonesia remains an important focus for Agoda’s growth, and this partnership with Archipelago International aligns with that direction. We value this collaboration as it reinforces our local offerings and supports our collective success in this dynamic market.”
Chris Legaspi, chief commercial officer at Archipelago International, added: “Agoda’s Flagship Store provides an innovative platform to share our brand story and engage travellers more meaningfully while leveraging Agoda’s scale and marketing expertise to drive growth and revenue.”
Oriental Holdings and its subsidiaries plan to acquire Bayview Beach Resort Penang, Bayview Hotel Georgetown and Bayview Hotel Langkawi as part of a strategy to strengthen their hospitality portfolio. The hotels will be repositioned under the management of Ascott, appointed by the current owners.
The proposed acquisition of Bayview Hotel Georgetown also includes Wisma Boon Siew, an adjoining 15-storey building comprising an office tower, two showrooms and car parking bays.
The three hotels will be repositioned under Ascott management, with renovations starting in 2026 and relaunch planned for 2028; Bayview Hotel Penang, pictured
Once the transaction is complete, Oriental Holdings will assume ownership of all three properties, with Ascott continuing as operator and manager. The acquisitions require shareholder approval at an Extraordinary General Meeting scheduled for 1Q2026, followed by completion of the transaction.
The hotels will be aligned with distinct brands within Ascott’s portfolio, each targeting specific traveller segments. Renovations are scheduled to start in 2026, with a relaunch planned for 1Q2028. Improvements to design, facilities and guest experiences will be supported by Ascott’s technical services team and its established distribution channels, including the Ascott Star Rewards loyalty programme with over seven million members worldwide.
Under the plan, the 365-room Bayview Beach Resort Penang will be rebranded as Ascott Batu Ferringhi Penang, marking the debut of Ascott’s flagship brand in a Malaysian beachfront setting. The 340-room Bayview Hotel Georgetown will become Oakwood Georgetown Penang, serving business-leisure travellers in George Town’s UNESCO World Heritage district. The 282-room Bayview Hotel Langkawi will be rebranded as Fox Hotel Langkawi, expanding Ascott’s Fox brand in Malaysia.
Adrian Wong, chief financial officer at Oriental Holdings, said: “Subject to shareholder approval, this proposed acquisition represents a meaningful step in strengthening (the group’s) presence in Malaysia’s hospitality sector. If completed, it will expand our hotel portfolio in the country from one to four properties and grow our overall portfolio from seven to 10.”
Wong Kar Ling, chief strategy officer and managing director, Southeast Asia, Ascott, said: “These three distinctive properties reflect the strength and flexibility of Ascott’s multi-typology brand strategy. With their addition, our presence in Malaysia now spans over 50 properties, including both operational and pipeline developments. We look forward to welcoming guests to the refreshed spaces that reflect each brand’s unique design approach and guest experience.”
Abu Dhabi has launched the first vertiport network to support advanced air mobility across the emirate, offering a new way for travellers to move between key urban, business and tourism hubs.
The initiative, led by the Abu Dhabi Investment Office (ADIO) in collaboration with the General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA), the Integrated Transport Centre (Abu Dhabi Mobility), and Abu Dhabi Airports, is part of the emirate’s push to integrate sustainable and low-emission transport solutions.
The initiative integrates next-generation air mobility into the city’s transport system, linking airports, islands, and business districts
The network will include more than 10 vertiports, with Zayed International Airport and Al Bateen Executive Airport confirmed as key locations, connecting destinations such as Yas Island, Saadiyat and Abu Dhabi Island. Each vertiport will link with existing ground transport systems, providing seamless connections for passengers.
The vertiport network positions Abu Dhabi as a global pioneer in advanced urban mobility, offering travellers faster, cleaner and more efficient access across the emirate’s key destinations.
“This strategic initiative places Abu Dhabi at the forefront of next-generation mobility, exemplifying the power of partnerships between government and the private sector,” shared Badr Al-Olama, director-general of ADIO. “The launch of Abu Dhabi’s vertiport network marks a strategic step forward in building a future-ready transport system that integrates advanced air mobility solutions.”
Saif Mohammed Al Suwaidi, director-general of the GCAA, added: “What we are witnessing today marks the beginning of a new era, reflecting a qualitative leap in aviation infrastructure and reaffirming the UAE’s commitment to leading the global shift towards smarter and more sustainable mobility.”
Elena Sorlini, managing director and CEO of Abu Dhabi Airports, said: “As the anchor delivery partner, Abu Dhabi Airports will be critical in shaping the infrastructure, operations and commercial readiness of advanced air mobility in the emirate… (cementing) Abu Dhabi’s position at the forefront of advanced air mobility.”
Oceania Cruises is offering its first full winter season of Mediterranean sailings aboard Oceania Allura in 2027-28, inviting travellers to explore Europe’s destinations at a slower pace.
The 17 itineraries, ranging from nine to 26 days, cover ports from Barcelona in the west to Istanbul in the east, combining cultural highlights with seasonal experiences such as Christmas markets, artisan bazaars, and local culinary offerings.
Oceania Allura explores the Mediterranean, including a scenic winter sail through Montenegro’s Bay of Kotor; photo by Oceania Cruises
Guests can explore historic cities, stroll cobbled streets, and enjoy the quieter side of the Mediterranean. In Montenegro’s Bay of Kotor, limestone cliffs surround the medieval old town, while Cagliari in Sardinia offers coastal charm with cooler sunlit beaches. Onboard, travellers can join cooking classes, art workshops, or digital skills sessions in the LYNC Digital Center.
Highlights include a 10-day voyage from Trieste to Barcelona departing November 7, 2027, which visits Koper, Dubrovnik, Greek islands, Athens and Catania, and a 14-day sailing from Barcelona to Rome departing December 20, 2027, passing through Valencia, Casablanca and Tangier. A nine-day Istanbul to Rome voyage departing February 19, 2028, begins with an overnight in Istanbul and visits Greek ports before tracing the Italian coastline to Rome.
Other itineraries range from nine to 26 days, connecting Athens, Rome, Barcelona, Istanbul and beyond, with opportunities for extended stays in port, overnight calls and immersive local experiences.
From November 8 to December 29, Marina Bay Sands (MBS) will transform into a festive wonderland inspired by The Nutcracker butler, blending Christmas tradition with modern storytelling.
The resort will feature 88 nutcracker butlers and nearly 190 Christmas trees, beginning at the Porte Cochere where 2.1-metre-tall figures greet guests at The Nutcracker Station.
The Levitating Fir Forest at Marina Bay Sands, pictured, transforms the mall into a festive wonderland; photo by Marina Bay Sands
In the Hotel Lobby, a multi-tiered Great Glistening Tree sits beneath a carousel-inspired dome, topped by a nutcracker placing the final star. At The Shoppes, nutcracker butlers appear throughout a Levitating Fir Forest and the Midnight Toy Factory, where they prepare gifts. Twice nightly at 19.30 and 20.30, The Nutcracker Butler’s Concerto will animate the mall with twinkling lights, visuals and music. From November 7 to 21, the building’s façade will light up in champagne gold, while projections at the ArtScience Museum will spread festive cheer around the bay.
From now to November 30, every adult ticket to ArtScience Museum exhibitions, Sampan Rides or Digital Light Canvas by teamLab includes two free child tickets, while in December, a Christmas package at S$20 (US$14.70) per person or S$80 per family includes both festive Sampan Rides through The Shoppes or interactive displays at Digital Light Canvas, plus festive gifts.
Additionally, to welcome 2026, Countdown in the Sky returns to the SkyPark Observation Deck on December 31 from 22.30 to 02.00, featuring fireworks, live music, and a complimentary drink and snack. Tickets start from S$188.
Sri Lankan hotels, frustrated by the prolonged delay in a national tourism branding campaign, have jointly launched their own digital marketing initiative targeting travellers from the Middle East and East Asia.
The campaign, which began end October, is aimed at attracting visitors from Saudi Arabia, Jordan, Oman, Thailand, Malaysia and Singapore.
Sri Lanka’s private sector drives new digital push to attract travellers from the Middle East and East Asia
According to Dmitri Cooray, managing director at Jetwing Hotels, the initiative targets high-spending travellers from shorthaul destinations and markets with year-round outbound travel, unlike Western markets where travel is largely seasonal.
The Truly Sri Lanka digital destination campaign is led by The Hotels Association of Sri Lanka (THASL). Launching the campaign, THASL President M Shanthikumar said the private sector initiative “goes a long way in promoting Sri Lanka’s diverse tourism prospects to the markets that come under this programme”.
Krishan Balendra, chairman of Cinnamon Hotels and Resorts, shared: “This small value campaign is something better than nothing as the authorities are taking a long time to launch a campaign to attract tourists to a country that has won a lot of accolades in recent times from the global leisure industry.”
The three- to six-month campaign, initially supported by 60 of THASL’s 300 member hotels, is expected to attract more participants as it gains momentum. The current investment in the campaign totals 25 million rupees (US$82,000).
Türkiye is positioning itself as a major global destination through a new strategic partnership between Trip.com Group and the Türkiye Tourism Promotion and Development Agency (TGA).
The collaboration seeks to highlight the country’s cultural depth, natural landscapes, and range of experiences to new audiences, particularly in Asia.
From left: Trip.com Group’s Amanda Wang and Türkiye Tourism Promotion and Development Agency’s Sinan Seha Türkseven at Trip.com Group’s Global Partner Summit in Istanbul
Trip.com Group data shows a 38 per cent year-on-year increase in inbound flight bookings to Türkiye in 1H2025, with hotel bookings rising 16 per cent. Top source markets include the UK, Germany, and China, while Indonesia recorded a 178 per cent rise in bookings.
The partnership will focus on improving airline connectivity, expanding accommodation options, and enhancing in-destination experiences such as attractions and tours. Co-branded campaigns will showcase Türkiye’s diverse destinations, from Istanbul and Cappadocia to Antalya, Izmir, and the country’s regional cuisines.
Trip.com Group plans to use its marketing and technology platforms to reach travellers across the Asia-Pacific region, including China, Hong Kong, Japan, Malaysia, and Indonesia. The initiative aims to strengthen Asia–Europe travel flows and deepen Türkiye’s ties with key markets.
Trip.com Group’s presence in Türkiye, including its Istanbul office, signals a long-term commitment to supporting local partners and the wider tourism sector. The company is also helping travellers identify GSTC-certified hotels on its platforms, reinforcing its support for sustainable and responsible travel.
Amanda Wang, vice president of global strategic partnership & projects at Trip.com Group, said: “Türkiye is one of those destinations that truly has everything: beauty, culture, history, and an incredible story to tell. This partnership with TGA is about turning that story into meaningful travel experiences. To pursue this vision, we are curating high-end journeys that blend cultural authenticity with digital innovation.
“We’re excited to help more travellers, especially from Asia, discover the magic of Türkiye and to work closely with local partners to drive sustainable growth for the industry.”
Sinan Seha Türkseven, the general manager of TGA, stated: “Türkiye’s tourism destinations provide memorable travel experiences to all visitors. Given our extensive shared history spanning thousands of years, we are particularly enthusiastic about welcoming more Chinese travellers, as we are confident in our ability to offer them the distinctive, exceptional experiences they deserve.”
Singapore will introduce a Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) Levy for all flights departing from the country starting October 1, 2026, with the levy applying to tickets and services sold from April 1, 2026.
The Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore (CAAS) said the levy will apply to all Origin-Destination passengers, as well as general and business aviation flights.
Passengers on flights departing Singapore will pay a new levy from October 2026 to support the nation’s goal of achieving net zero aviation emissions by 2050
The levy supports Singapore’s goal of achieving a one per cent SAF blend by 2026 and three to five per cent by 2030, as part of efforts to reach net zero aviation emissions by 2050.
Set according to flight distance, the levy is grouped into four geographical bands. Economy class passengers will pay S$1.00 (US$0.74) to Bangkok, S$2.80 to Tokyo, S$6.40 to London, and S$10.40 to New York.
Premium cabin passengers will pay four times the economy rate. Airlines must list the levy as a separate line item on tickets.
General and business aviation flights will be charged per aircraft, with rates from S$40 for a Cessna 404 Titan flying within South-east Asia to S$6,500 for an A380 travelling to the Americas.
CAAS said the lower-than-expected levy amounts reflect reduced SAF costs compared to earlier estimates. Funds collected will go into a statutory SAF Fund managed by CAAS and administered by the newly established Singapore Sustainable Aviation Fuel Company for SAF procurement and related costs.
CAAS director-general Han Kok Juan said: “The introduction of the SAF Levy marks a major step forward in Singapore’s effort to build a more sustainable and competitive air hub. It provides a mechanism for all aviation users to do their part to contribute to sustainability at a cost which is manageable for the air hub.”
In his new role, Nasaruddin will lead the execution of MAG’s strategic priorities, focusing on operational excellence, customer experience, and sustainable growth across its airline and non-airline businesses as the group advances its LTBP3.0.
In his new role, Dueker will oversee operations at both Kalutara resorts, focusing on enhancing their distinct identities and deepening their connection to the destination.
