Tuesday, December 25, 2018
Friday, December 14, 2018
Firefly may not be able to return to Changi
Firefly may not be able to return to Changi
Firefly suspended operations to Singapore from Dec 1, 2018, as it did not have approval from the Civil Aviation Authority of Malaysia to make the move.
Malaysian carrier Firefly may not be able to return to operating flights from Changi Airport.
The Malaysia Airlines subsidiary had applied for airport slots in Seletar Airport, hence its slots at Changi have been given up and redistributed to other airlines, said Transport Minister Khaw Boon Wan yesterday.
Firefly suspended operations to Singapore from Dec 1, as it did not have approval from the Civil Aviation Authority of Malaysia to make the move. CAAM had said that regulatory issues need to be resolved between the civil aviation authorities of both countries over the proposed move, as well as outstanding airspace issues.
Malaysia has protested against new flight procedures that will be implemented at Seletar next year, claiming the flight paths will stunt the development of the Pasir Gudang area.
Mr Ignatius Ong, Firefly's chief executive, has said in news reports that he is appealing to the Malaysian government for help to get back Firefly's slots at Changi Airport.
Firefly has incurred significant losses due to the suspension of flights to Singapore, its second largest destination from Subang after Penang, Malaysian daily New Straits Times reported.
Firefly had in 2014 agreed to shift operations from Changi to a new passenger terminal in Seletar Airport, that would handle turboprop flights, which Firefly operates. Mr Khaw said it had inspected Seletar and was pleased with it.
~Courtesy of Straits Times~
Firefly suspended operations to Singapore from Dec 1, 2018, as it did not have approval from the Civil Aviation Authority of Malaysia to make the move.
Malaysian carrier Firefly may not be able to return to operating flights from Changi Airport.
The Malaysia Airlines subsidiary had applied for airport slots in Seletar Airport, hence its slots at Changi have been given up and redistributed to other airlines, said Transport Minister Khaw Boon Wan yesterday.
Firefly suspended operations to Singapore from Dec 1, as it did not have approval from the Civil Aviation Authority of Malaysia to make the move. CAAM had said that regulatory issues need to be resolved between the civil aviation authorities of both countries over the proposed move, as well as outstanding airspace issues.
Malaysia has protested against new flight procedures that will be implemented at Seletar next year, claiming the flight paths will stunt the development of the Pasir Gudang area.
Mr Ignatius Ong, Firefly's chief executive, has said in news reports that he is appealing to the Malaysian government for help to get back Firefly's slots at Changi Airport.
Firefly has incurred significant losses due to the suspension of flights to Singapore, its second largest destination from Subang after Penang, Malaysian daily New Straits Times reported.
Firefly had in 2014 agreed to shift operations from Changi to a new passenger terminal in Seletar Airport, that would handle turboprop flights, which Firefly operates. Mr Khaw said it had inspected Seletar and was pleased with it.
~Courtesy of Straits Times~
Tuesday, November 13, 2018
Multi-biometrics screening at Singapore checkpoints from April 2019
ICA to introduce multi-biometrics screening at checkpoints from April 2019
Travellers with faded fingerprints will soon not have to worry about getting stuck during immigration clearance.
From April 2019, the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) will progressively deploy a new screening system which uses three biometric identifiers - fingerprints, facial and iris - to complement fingerprint matching for immigration clearance. ICA said this is more accurate and is useful for travellers with deteriorated fingerprints due to ageing, scarring or genetics.
The new system will be available at all checkpoints.
"With the BioScreen-Multi Modal Biometric Screening System, travellers can be authenticated using any of the three biometric identifiers," the agency said in a statement on Monday (Nov 12).
"This will enable more efficient immigration clearance for travellers who may face difficulties using their fingerprints."
After handing over their passports, travellers put two thumbs on a fingerprint scanner and concurrently look at a camera which scans their faces and eyes. A green tick on a screen indicates the process is completed.
When asked if the process will take the same amount of time as current procedures, ICA said: “As part of the trial, we will try to fine-tune the final outcome to achieve a more effective clearance process.”
The system is being trialled at manual and automated counters at Woodlands, Tuas and Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal checkpoints.
"A robust biometrics database of travellers, comprising facial images, fingerprint and iris, will be useful for post-incident investigation and data analytics purposes in the event of a security incident," ICA added.
FACIAL RECOGNITION
Meanwhile, the ICA has also been beefing up security at Singapore's borders with the use of facial recognition cameras, which have been deployed at Woodlands Checkpoint since 2012.
The cameras, found at strategic locations like entrances, queue lines and immigration counters, are used to identify wanted persons, including during post-incident investigations.
Since 2012, the system has identified persons wanted for offences like possessing multiple identities and previously overstaying in Singapore, although ICA declined to reveal exact figures due to operational security.
"More than 280,000 travellers pass through Woodlands Checkpoint every day," Deputy Assistant Commissioner (DAC) Lian Lee Siong from ICA told reporters on Monday.
"With this facial recognition technology, we will be able to process large volumes of passengers more efficiently and securely."
The cameras have also been used during stepped-up checks in the lead-up to the ongoing ASEAN Summit, and other major events like the Trump-Kim summit. ICA is also in the midst of deploying the cameras at other checkpoints like Changi Airport.
HOW IT WORKS
ICA works with other security agencies like the police to upload pictures of wanted persons into its database, which currently contains a few hundred thousand images.
The system can simultaneously compare faces of multiple travellers to those in the database and automatically flag wanted persons to officers in the command centre. These officers make a final identification before alerting their colleagues on the ground.
Officials said this process takes three to five seconds, which means suspects trying to flee the country will be nabbed even before reaching the immigration counter.
"If someone commits a crime inland and attempts to depart Singapore through our checkpoints, all we need is just a photograph of him and our system will be able to sieve him out from the crowd," DAC Lian said.
The system is smart enough to identify suspects using old photos, or if their features were altered or obstructed. For example, officials showed a real-life example of a wanted person being identified despite dying her hair a different colour.
It can also detect objects based on physical features like colour, size and dimension, meaning officers can identify suspects based on the colour of his T-shirt, or other security risks like unattended baggage.
"This provides you ways of identifying and verifying a person-of-interest even without an image," said Dr Naresh Kumar, a director at the Office of the Chief Science and Technology Officer, which helped produce the system.
"With the attributes and descriptors, we are able to nail down the person. This keeps our checkpoints safe and secure."
If officers need to look back in time, the system can trawl up to a year of old footage and automatically show instances of the suspect passing through.
As far as privacy is concerned, ICA said in a statement that only authorised officers are allowed to enter the command centre and operate the cameras.
"In addition, the user access rights are restricted such that users only have access to perform their assigned duties," it added. "Any officer found to have abused the system will be investigated and dealt with in accordance with the law."
MOBILE AND BODY-WORN CAMERAS
Besides the fixed cameras, ICA has also deployed mobile and body-worn cameras equipped with facial recognition technology.
The mobile cameras, which have been used for several Home Team operations since July 2017, are usually for large-scale events like festive celebrations, when prior intelligence has indicated the possible appearance of a wanted person.
These cameras can be set up within 10 minutes and is useful when it is not practical for officers to patrol the ground for long hours. They can send alerts to officers' mobile phones through a secure wireless network.
Another option is the body-worn cameras, which officers can use in low-light conditions or when faced with infrastructural challenges, like on board a cruise or inside a vehicle.
These cameras are also connected to officers' mobile phones and can automatically match faces to a remote database.
"The body-worn cameras allow roving officers on patrol within the checkpoints to accurately and swiftly detect persons-of-interest before they reach the immigration counters," ICA said.
Source: CNA/hz(ra)
Travellers with faded fingerprints will soon not have to worry about getting stuck during immigration clearance.
From April 2019, the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) will progressively deploy a new screening system which uses three biometric identifiers - fingerprints, facial and iris - to complement fingerprint matching for immigration clearance. ICA said this is more accurate and is useful for travellers with deteriorated fingerprints due to ageing, scarring or genetics.
The new system will be available at all checkpoints.
"With the BioScreen-Multi Modal Biometric Screening System, travellers can be authenticated using any of the three biometric identifiers," the agency said in a statement on Monday (Nov 12).
"This will enable more efficient immigration clearance for travellers who may face difficulties using their fingerprints."
After handing over their passports, travellers put two thumbs on a fingerprint scanner and concurrently look at a camera which scans their faces and eyes. A green tick on a screen indicates the process is completed.
When asked if the process will take the same amount of time as current procedures, ICA said: “As part of the trial, we will try to fine-tune the final outcome to achieve a more effective clearance process.”
The system is being trialled at manual and automated counters at Woodlands, Tuas and Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal checkpoints.
"A robust biometrics database of travellers, comprising facial images, fingerprint and iris, will be useful for post-incident investigation and data analytics purposes in the event of a security incident," ICA added.
FACIAL RECOGNITION
Meanwhile, the ICA has also been beefing up security at Singapore's borders with the use of facial recognition cameras, which have been deployed at Woodlands Checkpoint since 2012.
The cameras, found at strategic locations like entrances, queue lines and immigration counters, are used to identify wanted persons, including during post-incident investigations.
Since 2012, the system has identified persons wanted for offences like possessing multiple identities and previously overstaying in Singapore, although ICA declined to reveal exact figures due to operational security.
"More than 280,000 travellers pass through Woodlands Checkpoint every day," Deputy Assistant Commissioner (DAC) Lian Lee Siong from ICA told reporters on Monday.
"With this facial recognition technology, we will be able to process large volumes of passengers more efficiently and securely."
The cameras have also been used during stepped-up checks in the lead-up to the ongoing ASEAN Summit, and other major events like the Trump-Kim summit. ICA is also in the midst of deploying the cameras at other checkpoints like Changi Airport.
HOW IT WORKS
ICA works with other security agencies like the police to upload pictures of wanted persons into its database, which currently contains a few hundred thousand images.
The system can simultaneously compare faces of multiple travellers to those in the database and automatically flag wanted persons to officers in the command centre. These officers make a final identification before alerting their colleagues on the ground.
Officials said this process takes three to five seconds, which means suspects trying to flee the country will be nabbed even before reaching the immigration counter.
"If someone commits a crime inland and attempts to depart Singapore through our checkpoints, all we need is just a photograph of him and our system will be able to sieve him out from the crowd," DAC Lian said.
The system is smart enough to identify suspects using old photos, or if their features were altered or obstructed. For example, officials showed a real-life example of a wanted person being identified despite dying her hair a different colour.
It can also detect objects based on physical features like colour, size and dimension, meaning officers can identify suspects based on the colour of his T-shirt, or other security risks like unattended baggage.
"This provides you ways of identifying and verifying a person-of-interest even without an image," said Dr Naresh Kumar, a director at the Office of the Chief Science and Technology Officer, which helped produce the system.
"With the attributes and descriptors, we are able to nail down the person. This keeps our checkpoints safe and secure."
If officers need to look back in time, the system can trawl up to a year of old footage and automatically show instances of the suspect passing through.
As far as privacy is concerned, ICA said in a statement that only authorised officers are allowed to enter the command centre and operate the cameras.
"In addition, the user access rights are restricted such that users only have access to perform their assigned duties," it added. "Any officer found to have abused the system will be investigated and dealt with in accordance with the law."
MOBILE AND BODY-WORN CAMERAS
Besides the fixed cameras, ICA has also deployed mobile and body-worn cameras equipped with facial recognition technology.
The mobile cameras, which have been used for several Home Team operations since July 2017, are usually for large-scale events like festive celebrations, when prior intelligence has indicated the possible appearance of a wanted person.
These cameras can be set up within 10 minutes and is useful when it is not practical for officers to patrol the ground for long hours. They can send alerts to officers' mobile phones through a secure wireless network.
Another option is the body-worn cameras, which officers can use in low-light conditions or when faced with infrastructural challenges, like on board a cruise or inside a vehicle.
These cameras are also connected to officers' mobile phones and can automatically match faces to a remote database.
"The body-worn cameras allow roving officers on patrol within the checkpoints to accurately and swiftly detect persons-of-interest before they reach the immigration counters," ICA said.
Source: CNA/hz(ra)
Saturday, November 3, 2018
Departure levy at Malaysian airports
Travel, departure levy at airports
AVID traveller Shahida Sakeri will think twice about going overseas for her holiday next year when the departure levy on travellers leaving Malaysian airports is introduced on June 1.
The government has proposed a fee of RM20 per head for those departing for Asean countries and RM40 for other countries.
Shahida said since she was used to travelling solo, it might not affect her as badly as those travelling in a large group.
“For my aunts and uncles with many children, they will now have to bear the additional costs,” she said.
“I want to see more facilities for the disabled at our tourist attractions, such as increasing accessibility at museums and parks,” she added.
Malaysian Association of Tour and Travel Agents president Datuk Tan Kok Liang, on the other hand, described the move as “disappointing”.
“It will not have any significant impact on domestic tourism as leisure travellers are on extreme budget constraints and very price sensitive.
“Domestic tourism can be improved by providing healthier tourism fundamentals, better tourism packages and capping on domestic airfares,” he said.
However, Tan welcomed the RM100mil grant for private companies to boost international tourist arrivals through marketing efforts, which he called a “good surprise”.
Malaysian Inbound Tourism Association president Uzaidi Udanis said the money collected from the departure levy could be used to promote inbound travel.
However, he also warned that the move might deter airlines from increasing connectivity from the country.
“If there is lower demand for outbound travel, airlines might not be interested in introducing new routes from the country,” said Uzaidi.
Malaysia Airlines in a statement said that any funds generated and channelled back to the development of the aviation industry in general would only be positive for the sector.
Budget 2019 also allocated RM20mil to the Malaysia Healthcare Tourism Council (MHTC) to promote the country’s medical tourism industry.
MHTC chief executive officer Sherene Azli said this would further propel Malaysia’s profile as a leading global destination for healthcare tourism.
“This will go a long way in bringing Malaysia’s healthcare tourism to new heights while making a significant positive economic impact on the nation,” she said.
~Courtesy of The Star~
AVID traveller Shahida Sakeri will think twice about going overseas for her holiday next year when the departure levy on travellers leaving Malaysian airports is introduced on June 1.
The government has proposed a fee of RM20 per head for those departing for Asean countries and RM40 for other countries.
Shahida said since she was used to travelling solo, it might not affect her as badly as those travelling in a large group.
“For my aunts and uncles with many children, they will now have to bear the additional costs,” she said.
“I want to see more facilities for the disabled at our tourist attractions, such as increasing accessibility at museums and parks,” she added.
Malaysian Association of Tour and Travel Agents president Datuk Tan Kok Liang, on the other hand, described the move as “disappointing”.
“It will not have any significant impact on domestic tourism as leisure travellers are on extreme budget constraints and very price sensitive.
“Domestic tourism can be improved by providing healthier tourism fundamentals, better tourism packages and capping on domestic airfares,” he said.
However, Tan welcomed the RM100mil grant for private companies to boost international tourist arrivals through marketing efforts, which he called a “good surprise”.
Malaysian Inbound Tourism Association president Uzaidi Udanis said the money collected from the departure levy could be used to promote inbound travel.
However, he also warned that the move might deter airlines from increasing connectivity from the country.
“If there is lower demand for outbound travel, airlines might not be interested in introducing new routes from the country,” said Uzaidi.
Malaysia Airlines in a statement said that any funds generated and channelled back to the development of the aviation industry in general would only be positive for the sector.
Budget 2019 also allocated RM20mil to the Malaysia Healthcare Tourism Council (MHTC) to promote the country’s medical tourism industry.
MHTC chief executive officer Sherene Azli said this would further propel Malaysia’s profile as a leading global destination for healthcare tourism.
“This will go a long way in bringing Malaysia’s healthcare tourism to new heights while making a significant positive economic impact on the nation,” she said.
~Courtesy of The Star~
S'pore Airlines to begin non-stop flights to Seattle next September
Singapore Airlines to begin non-stop flights to Seattle next September
Singapore Airlines (SIA) will begin non-stop flights to Seattle on Sep 3 next year, its fourth non-stop destination in the United States.
The move comes amid efforts by SIA to expand its operations and network reach in the US, where it already flies non-stop to San Francisco and New York, the airline said in a press release on Thursday (Nov 1). SIA will begin non-stop flights to Los Angeles on Friday.
“Our new non-stop flights to Seattle are another demonstration of our commitment to expand our operations in the important US market and grow our network reach," said SIA CEO Goh Choon Phong.
"The new services will also further strengthen the Singapore hub by providing customers faster and more convenient connectivity from key markets such as Southeast Asia, South Asia and Australasia to North America,” Mr Goh said.
The non-stop Singapore-Seattle flights will operate three times a week after it is launched in September next year, before increasing to four times per week the following month.
The Airbus A350-900 aircraft will be used on the route, fitted with 42 business class, 24 premium economy class and 187 economy class seats.
SIA will operate 53 flights per week to the US by December 2018, including 27 non-stop Singapore-US services. With the introduction of the new Seattle flights next year, the total frequency will increase to 57 flights per week.
The Singapore-Seattle tickets will be made available for sale progressively from Nov 7 through the various distribution channels, it added.
SIA resumed the world's longest commercial flight after five years last month, with a near-19 hour non-stop from Singapore to New York.
Singapore Airlines had abandoned the marathon Newark and Los Angeles routes in 2013 when high fuel prices made the use of four-engine Airbus A340-500 jets uneconomic.
Source: CNA/ic(aj)
Singapore Airlines (SIA) will begin non-stop flights to Seattle on Sep 3 next year, its fourth non-stop destination in the United States.
The move comes amid efforts by SIA to expand its operations and network reach in the US, where it already flies non-stop to San Francisco and New York, the airline said in a press release on Thursday (Nov 1). SIA will begin non-stop flights to Los Angeles on Friday.
“Our new non-stop flights to Seattle are another demonstration of our commitment to expand our operations in the important US market and grow our network reach," said SIA CEO Goh Choon Phong.
"The new services will also further strengthen the Singapore hub by providing customers faster and more convenient connectivity from key markets such as Southeast Asia, South Asia and Australasia to North America,” Mr Goh said.
The non-stop Singapore-Seattle flights will operate three times a week after it is launched in September next year, before increasing to four times per week the following month.
The Airbus A350-900 aircraft will be used on the route, fitted with 42 business class, 24 premium economy class and 187 economy class seats.
SIA will operate 53 flights per week to the US by December 2018, including 27 non-stop Singapore-US services. With the introduction of the new Seattle flights next year, the total frequency will increase to 57 flights per week.
The Singapore-Seattle tickets will be made available for sale progressively from Nov 7 through the various distribution channels, it added.
SIA resumed the world's longest commercial flight after five years last month, with a near-19 hour non-stop from Singapore to New York.
Singapore Airlines had abandoned the marathon Newark and Los Angeles routes in 2013 when high fuel prices made the use of four-engine Airbus A340-500 jets uneconomic.
Source: CNA/ic(aj)
Friday, October 12, 2018
Passengers ready for world's longest flight on S'pore Airlines
Passengers ready for world's longest flight on Singapore Airlines
The plane's interior features higher ceilings, larger windows and an extra-wide cabin. (Photo: AFP/Remy Gabalda)
Passengers were getting ready to board the world's longest flight on Thursday (Oct 11) - a marathon 19 hours in the air between Singapore and New York.
Two pilots, a special "wellness" menu and more than seven weeks' worth of film and television entertainment were expected to accompany travellers on the 16,700km journey to the Big Apple.
Singapore Airlines Flight SQ22 will use the long-range Airbus A350-900ULR, configured to carry 161 passengers - 67 in business class and 94 in premium economy.
For the flight crew - which also includes two first officers and a 13-strong cabin contingent - the work load will be broken up, the airline said, with each pilot having a minimum eight hours' rest during the flight.
But for passengers, the challenge will be what to do with all that down time up in the air.
For those not packing a weighty novel (or two), there will be 1,200 hours of audio-visual entertainment to choose from.
Dining options will include dishes the airline says have been selected to promote well-being in the skies, with organic dishes on the menu.
The cabin has higher-than-normal ceilings, larger windows and lighting designed to reduce jet lag - all part of an effort to lessen the stresses that can accompany almost a day on a plane.
"Research has shown that hydration and food intake are important factors (to consider), such as avoiding foods that cause gas or bloating as well as excessive alcohol," Rhenu Bhuller, a healthcare expert at consultancy Frost & Sullivan, told AFP.
"The biggest concern is Deep Vein Thrombosis from a combination of sitting for too long and also from dehydration," said Gail Cross, an associate consultant at the National University Hospital in Singapore.
"RACE BETWEEN AIRLINES"
The twin-engine plane that will make the journey uses a modified system that burns 25 per cent less fuel compared to other aircraft of a similar size, Airbus said.
The flight from the city-state to Newark Airport can take up to 18 hours and 45 minutes under normal weather conditions, but the pilots will have something in reserve in an aircraft capable of flying more than 20 hours non-stop.
Singapore Airlines originally flew the route for nine years using the gas-guzzling, four-engine A340-500 before abandoning it in 2013 because high oil prices made the service unprofitable.
But the carrier is hoping that the introduction of more fuel-efficient planes will set cash registers ringing even as crude prices soar above S$80.
Thursday's flight will top the current longest direct link between cities - Qatar Airways Flight 921 from Auckland to Doha, which takes 17 hours 40 minutes.
"It's turning out to be a race between a few airlines eyeing the longest routes inter-continentally," said Shukor Yusof of aviation consultancy Endau Analytics.
"They are hoping to capitalise and exploit a very niche market," he told AFP.
Facing increasingly strong competition in recent years, Singapore Airlines has consolidated its low-fare subsidiaries and is strengthening its premium segment.
"Ultra-long haul services comprise an important component of that strategy," an airline spokesman told AFP.
The company is the first airline in the world to operate the A350-900ULR plane. It received the first aircraft in September. Six more are due for delivery by the end of the year.
"We are optimistic about the demand for non-stop services to the US," the spokesman said.
Analyst Shukor, however, said it remained to be seen whether the airline and other operators of marathon flights can withstand the pressure from rising oil prices.
Source: AFP/zl
The plane's interior features higher ceilings, larger windows and an extra-wide cabin. (Photo: AFP/Remy Gabalda)
Passengers were getting ready to board the world's longest flight on Thursday (Oct 11) - a marathon 19 hours in the air between Singapore and New York.
Two pilots, a special "wellness" menu and more than seven weeks' worth of film and television entertainment were expected to accompany travellers on the 16,700km journey to the Big Apple.
Singapore Airlines Flight SQ22 will use the long-range Airbus A350-900ULR, configured to carry 161 passengers - 67 in business class and 94 in premium economy.
For the flight crew - which also includes two first officers and a 13-strong cabin contingent - the work load will be broken up, the airline said, with each pilot having a minimum eight hours' rest during the flight.
But for passengers, the challenge will be what to do with all that down time up in the air.
For those not packing a weighty novel (or two), there will be 1,200 hours of audio-visual entertainment to choose from.
Dining options will include dishes the airline says have been selected to promote well-being in the skies, with organic dishes on the menu.
The cabin has higher-than-normal ceilings, larger windows and lighting designed to reduce jet lag - all part of an effort to lessen the stresses that can accompany almost a day on a plane.
"Research has shown that hydration and food intake are important factors (to consider), such as avoiding foods that cause gas or bloating as well as excessive alcohol," Rhenu Bhuller, a healthcare expert at consultancy Frost & Sullivan, told AFP.
"The biggest concern is Deep Vein Thrombosis from a combination of sitting for too long and also from dehydration," said Gail Cross, an associate consultant at the National University Hospital in Singapore.
"RACE BETWEEN AIRLINES"
The twin-engine plane that will make the journey uses a modified system that burns 25 per cent less fuel compared to other aircraft of a similar size, Airbus said.
The flight from the city-state to Newark Airport can take up to 18 hours and 45 minutes under normal weather conditions, but the pilots will have something in reserve in an aircraft capable of flying more than 20 hours non-stop.
Singapore Airlines originally flew the route for nine years using the gas-guzzling, four-engine A340-500 before abandoning it in 2013 because high oil prices made the service unprofitable.
But the carrier is hoping that the introduction of more fuel-efficient planes will set cash registers ringing even as crude prices soar above S$80.
Thursday's flight will top the current longest direct link between cities - Qatar Airways Flight 921 from Auckland to Doha, which takes 17 hours 40 minutes.
"It's turning out to be a race between a few airlines eyeing the longest routes inter-continentally," said Shukor Yusof of aviation consultancy Endau Analytics.
"They are hoping to capitalise and exploit a very niche market," he told AFP.
Facing increasingly strong competition in recent years, Singapore Airlines has consolidated its low-fare subsidiaries and is strengthening its premium segment.
"Ultra-long haul services comprise an important component of that strategy," an airline spokesman told AFP.
The company is the first airline in the world to operate the A350-900ULR plane. It received the first aircraft in September. Six more are due for delivery by the end of the year.
"We are optimistic about the demand for non-stop services to the US," the spokesman said.
Analyst Shukor, however, said it remained to be seen whether the airline and other operators of marathon flights can withstand the pressure from rising oil prices.
Source: AFP/zl
Singapore Jewel Changi Airport tenants to include A&W, Pokemon, Shaw Theatres
Jewel Changi Airport tenants to include A&W, Pokemon, Shaw Theatres
The return of fast food chain A&W, an 11-screen cineplex, a Pokemon merchandise store and other new-to-Singapore brands will be what travellers and local consumers can expect when Changi Airport’s mega retail and lifestyle development, Jewel, opens in the first half of next year.
A S$1.7 billion project, the 10-storey complex – consisting of five storeys above ground and five basement floors – will be home to more than 280 shops and food and beverage (F&B) outlets.
Jewel Changi Airport Development said on Thursday (Oct 11) that nearly 90 per cent of the sprawling 53,800 sq m leasable space has been taken up thus far.
Among those unveiled at a media briefing include A&W, which is returning to Singapore after more than 10 years. Its menu will be “the first of its kind in Asia” combining best-selling items from its restaurants around the world, including coney dogs, curly fries and a cream cheese burger from Japan.
Fans of Pokemon can also look forward to the game franchise's only permanent retail store outside of Japan. Apart from merchandise sold in Japan, the Pokemon Center Singapore will also be stocked with exclusive toys, stationery, trading cards and video games created just for Jewel.
F&B brands that are setting up shop in Singapore, and the region, for the first time also include Swiss artisanal chocolatier Laderach, Norwegian casual seafood restaurant Pink Fish and American fast food chain Shake Shack.
In addition, cinema-goers will be delighted as Shaw Theatres is set to open a cineplex with 11 screens, including a digital Imax theatre, Jewel Changi Airport Development’s head of leasing, Tan Mui Neo, confirmed at the media briefing.
Jewel will also be home to a long list of homegrown brands, including design retailer Naiise, gallery store Supermama and Tiger Beer which will be launching a first-in-the-world Tiger Street Lab at level 5 offering exclusive seasonal brews.
Local chef Violet Oon will open her largest restaurant to date – more than 350 sq m – offering local delicacies, such as dry laksa.
Meanwhile, Nike is planning its largest store in Southeast Asia spanning 1,000 sq m. The sporting giant will take up one of the 11 duplex, large-format stores in Jewel, together with Naiise and Shake Shack.
To be sure, Jewel, which began construction more than three years ago, is positioning itself as more than just a mall with shopping and dining options.
Apart from a distinctive dome-shaped facade made of glass and steel, other highlights include a sprawling 14,000 sq m rooftop park featuring play attractions, gardens and walking trails.
The mixed development, located in front of and directly connected to Changi Airport’s Terminal 1, will also be home to Forest Valley, Singapore’s largest indoor garden, and a 40m-tall indoor waterfall that will transform into a light and sound show at night.
Dining at Canopy Park. (Photo: Jewel Changi Airport Devt)
This aims to create a unique retail experience where shoppers can enjoy a seamless experience of nature and retail all under one roof, according to Jewel Changi Airport Development.
With travellers being more discerning about their destinations and their choice of airports for stopovers, there is a need to position Jewel as a “one-of-a-kind, multi-dimensional destination”, said its chief executive Hung Jean.
“We hope to showcase Singapore to the world, positioning it as the platform where local brands will be exposed to an international audience, while simultaneously bringing new and familiar global brands to Singapore.”
Ms Hung said Jewel, which will also be linked to Terminal 2 and 3 via air-conditioned pedestrian bridges, aims to welcome 40 to 50 million visitors a year. Of which, 60 per cent will likely be locals, and the rest made up of tourists.
Source: CNA/mn
The return of fast food chain A&W, an 11-screen cineplex, a Pokemon merchandise store and other new-to-Singapore brands will be what travellers and local consumers can expect when Changi Airport’s mega retail and lifestyle development, Jewel, opens in the first half of next year.
A S$1.7 billion project, the 10-storey complex – consisting of five storeys above ground and five basement floors – will be home to more than 280 shops and food and beverage (F&B) outlets.
Jewel Changi Airport Development said on Thursday (Oct 11) that nearly 90 per cent of the sprawling 53,800 sq m leasable space has been taken up thus far.
Among those unveiled at a media briefing include A&W, which is returning to Singapore after more than 10 years. Its menu will be “the first of its kind in Asia” combining best-selling items from its restaurants around the world, including coney dogs, curly fries and a cream cheese burger from Japan.
Fans of Pokemon can also look forward to the game franchise's only permanent retail store outside of Japan. Apart from merchandise sold in Japan, the Pokemon Center Singapore will also be stocked with exclusive toys, stationery, trading cards and video games created just for Jewel.
F&B brands that are setting up shop in Singapore, and the region, for the first time also include Swiss artisanal chocolatier Laderach, Norwegian casual seafood restaurant Pink Fish and American fast food chain Shake Shack.
In addition, cinema-goers will be delighted as Shaw Theatres is set to open a cineplex with 11 screens, including a digital Imax theatre, Jewel Changi Airport Development’s head of leasing, Tan Mui Neo, confirmed at the media briefing.
Jewel will also be home to a long list of homegrown brands, including design retailer Naiise, gallery store Supermama and Tiger Beer which will be launching a first-in-the-world Tiger Street Lab at level 5 offering exclusive seasonal brews.
Local chef Violet Oon will open her largest restaurant to date – more than 350 sq m – offering local delicacies, such as dry laksa.
Meanwhile, Nike is planning its largest store in Southeast Asia spanning 1,000 sq m. The sporting giant will take up one of the 11 duplex, large-format stores in Jewel, together with Naiise and Shake Shack.
To be sure, Jewel, which began construction more than three years ago, is positioning itself as more than just a mall with shopping and dining options.
Apart from a distinctive dome-shaped facade made of glass and steel, other highlights include a sprawling 14,000 sq m rooftop park featuring play attractions, gardens and walking trails.
The mixed development, located in front of and directly connected to Changi Airport’s Terminal 1, will also be home to Forest Valley, Singapore’s largest indoor garden, and a 40m-tall indoor waterfall that will transform into a light and sound show at night.
Dining at Canopy Park. (Photo: Jewel Changi Airport Devt)
This aims to create a unique retail experience where shoppers can enjoy a seamless experience of nature and retail all under one roof, according to Jewel Changi Airport Development.
With travellers being more discerning about their destinations and their choice of airports for stopovers, there is a need to position Jewel as a “one-of-a-kind, multi-dimensional destination”, said its chief executive Hung Jean.
“We hope to showcase Singapore to the world, positioning it as the platform where local brands will be exposed to an international audience, while simultaneously bringing new and familiar global brands to Singapore.”
Ms Hung said Jewel, which will also be linked to Terminal 2 and 3 via air-conditioned pedestrian bridges, aims to welcome 40 to 50 million visitors a year. Of which, 60 per cent will likely be locals, and the rest made up of tourists.
Source: CNA/mn
Thursday, October 11, 2018
AirAsia announces direct flights between KL and Tianjin from Dec 2
AirAsia announces direct flights between KL and Tianjin from Dec 2
AirAsia is expanding its footprint in China with an exclusive direct service between Kuala Lumpur and Tianjin, a coastal city in China.
Beginning Dec 2, the new route will connect more than 15 million people in Tianjin with South-East Asia and beyond.
AirAsia’s long haul affiliate, AirAsia X, will not only provide direct services between the two cities, but also stimulate regional demand through great value airfares, enabling more people to travel.
AirAsia will also beef up its direct route between Kuala Lumpur and Changsha, doubling the current number of seats on the popular route in response to demand, by operating its fleet of larger wide-body Airbus A330 aircraft commencing Oct 29.
He said this will significantly boost tourism, trade and economic growth while paving the way towards China’s Year of Tourism and Culture 2020, envisioned by the leaders of both Malaysia and China.
“Together with our existing routes into China, today’s announcement means we are further strengthening our foothold in Northern China and increasing our overall capacity to China - one of our fastest growing markets.
“We will continue to look for expansion opportunities that not only maintain AirAsia Group’s dominance as the largest foreign carrier to China by capacity, but also enable us to remain committed in our quest to making air travel affordable for everyone,” said Benyamin.
With the launch of Tianjin as its latest destination, AirAsia will fly to 20 cities in China with 550 weekly direct flights from hubs in Malaysia, Thailand and the Philippines.
~News courtesy of The Star~
AirAsia is expanding its footprint in China with an exclusive direct service between Kuala Lumpur and Tianjin, a coastal city in China.
Beginning Dec 2, the new route will connect more than 15 million people in Tianjin with South-East Asia and beyond.
AirAsia’s long haul affiliate, AirAsia X, will not only provide direct services between the two cities, but also stimulate regional demand through great value airfares, enabling more people to travel.
AirAsia will also beef up its direct route between Kuala Lumpur and Changsha, doubling the current number of seats on the popular route in response to demand, by operating its fleet of larger wide-body Airbus A330 aircraft commencing Oct 29.
He said this will significantly boost tourism, trade and economic growth while paving the way towards China’s Year of Tourism and Culture 2020, envisioned by the leaders of both Malaysia and China.
“Together with our existing routes into China, today’s announcement means we are further strengthening our foothold in Northern China and increasing our overall capacity to China - one of our fastest growing markets.
“We will continue to look for expansion opportunities that not only maintain AirAsia Group’s dominance as the largest foreign carrier to China by capacity, but also enable us to remain committed in our quest to making air travel affordable for everyone,” said Benyamin.
With the launch of Tianjin as its latest destination, AirAsia will fly to 20 cities in China with 550 weekly direct flights from hubs in Malaysia, Thailand and the Philippines.
~News courtesy of The Star~
Friday, October 5, 2018
移民与关卡局推出 试验性电子入境卡
移民与关卡局推出 试验性电子入境卡
电子入境卡最终将取代现有的纸质入境卡，到时，“白卡”将正式走入历史。
移民与关卡局今天起推行为期三个月的试验性电子入境卡，试验地点包括兀兰和大士关卡、樟宜机场、新加坡游轮中心、丹那美拉渡轮码头、樟宜尾渡轮码头和樟宜渡轮码头。
电子入境卡（Electronic Arrival Card）最终将取代现有的纸质入境卡，到时，“白卡”将正式走入历史。至于什么时候会全面落实电子入境卡，移民与关卡局昨天发文告表示，详情会在试验计划结束后公布。
目前，所有入境新加坡的外国旅客都须在关卡填写俗称“白卡”的入境卡，卡上包含航班记录和住宿地址。收集旅客信息对于边境管制和当局的安全与保安措施十分关键，例如一旦发现传染病，能及时通报其他旅客。
一旦落实电子入境卡，当局预料将有助于提高入境手续效率，加快外国车辆通关时间，改善关卡阻塞情况，国人也将从中受益。
为确保电子入境卡能顺利推行，移民与关卡局从今天起，在本地海陆空入境关卡展开为期三个月的试用期。在试用期间，从这些关卡入境但还未填写纸质入境卡的旅客，可能会被在场的官员要求参与试验计划，填写电子入境卡，并提出意见。旅客的反馈，有助于让当局改善现有程序，提供更好的用户体验。
移民与关卡局指出，电子入境卡落实后，旅客将能在抵达新加坡前，通过官方网站或手机程序提交个人信息和旅程详情。“当他们抵达关卡时只需出示护照，入境系统就能自动提取他们之前提交的电子入境卡。”
另外，电子入境卡也将推出不同语言版本，并且让与家人或小团队一同出行的旅客能一次过提交团队申请。团队申请将自动复制航班详情、最后过境地点、预期的入境和出境日期，以及在新加坡的地址。
利用手机程序提出申请的旅客，个人资料也会获得保存，下次入境时会自动填写，为旅客提供便利。
当局在文告中强调，试验计划并不影响新加坡公民、永久居民，以及持有工作证和学生证者，因为他们回国时无需填写入境卡。
另外，当落实电子入境卡、入境通关走向无纸化后，也可为环保尽一分力。移民与关卡局表示，电子入境卡不仅能提高效率，也是走向无纸化入境程序的重要一环，预计每年能因此节省4800万张纸质入境卡。
住在新山、在本地工作的新加坡永久居民郑永强（38岁，销售主管）每天开车往返两地，他表示日后当启用电子入境卡时，将可提升效率和加快通关时间。他说，他曾试过开车通关时，因前方车辆的旅客忘记填白卡，导致他在后方多等了近10分钟。
不过，当局推行电子入境卡，也引起一些年长的外国旅客担心。住在柔佛东甲的林月娥（63岁）每月都会搭巴士前来新加坡探望儿孙。她说，虽然到时孩子会代为填写电子入境卡，但万一孩子出国或自己临时决定来新加坡时，她担心自己不会上网填写电子入境卡。
~联合早报~
电子入境卡最终将取代现有的纸质入境卡，到时，“白卡”将正式走入历史。
移民与关卡局今天起推行为期三个月的试验性电子入境卡，试验地点包括兀兰和大士关卡、樟宜机场、新加坡游轮中心、丹那美拉渡轮码头、樟宜尾渡轮码头和樟宜渡轮码头。
电子入境卡（Electronic Arrival Card）最终将取代现有的纸质入境卡，到时，“白卡”将正式走入历史。至于什么时候会全面落实电子入境卡，移民与关卡局昨天发文告表示，详情会在试验计划结束后公布。
目前，所有入境新加坡的外国旅客都须在关卡填写俗称“白卡”的入境卡，卡上包含航班记录和住宿地址。收集旅客信息对于边境管制和当局的安全与保安措施十分关键，例如一旦发现传染病，能及时通报其他旅客。
一旦落实电子入境卡，当局预料将有助于提高入境手续效率，加快外国车辆通关时间，改善关卡阻塞情况，国人也将从中受益。
为确保电子入境卡能顺利推行，移民与关卡局从今天起，在本地海陆空入境关卡展开为期三个月的试用期。在试用期间，从这些关卡入境但还未填写纸质入境卡的旅客，可能会被在场的官员要求参与试验计划，填写电子入境卡，并提出意见。旅客的反馈，有助于让当局改善现有程序，提供更好的用户体验。
移民与关卡局指出，电子入境卡落实后，旅客将能在抵达新加坡前，通过官方网站或手机程序提交个人信息和旅程详情。“当他们抵达关卡时只需出示护照，入境系统就能自动提取他们之前提交的电子入境卡。”
另外，电子入境卡也将推出不同语言版本，并且让与家人或小团队一同出行的旅客能一次过提交团队申请。团队申请将自动复制航班详情、最后过境地点、预期的入境和出境日期，以及在新加坡的地址。
利用手机程序提出申请的旅客，个人资料也会获得保存，下次入境时会自动填写，为旅客提供便利。
当局在文告中强调，试验计划并不影响新加坡公民、永久居民，以及持有工作证和学生证者，因为他们回国时无需填写入境卡。
另外，当落实电子入境卡、入境通关走向无纸化后，也可为环保尽一分力。移民与关卡局表示，电子入境卡不仅能提高效率，也是走向无纸化入境程序的重要一环，预计每年能因此节省4800万张纸质入境卡。
住在新山、在本地工作的新加坡永久居民郑永强（38岁，销售主管）每天开车往返两地，他表示日后当启用电子入境卡时，将可提升效率和加快通关时间。他说，他曾试过开车通关时，因前方车辆的旅客忘记填白卡，导致他在后方多等了近10分钟。
不过，当局推行电子入境卡，也引起一些年长的外国旅客担心。住在柔佛东甲的林月娥（63岁）每月都会搭巴士前来新加坡探望儿孙。她说，虽然到时孩子会代为填写电子入境卡，但万一孩子出国或自己临时决定来新加坡时，她担心自己不会上网填写电子入境卡。
~联合早报~
Trial electronic arrival card for foreign visitors to Singapore
ICA to launch electronic arrival card for foreign visitors to Singapore after three-month trial
The Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) will be launching an electronic arrival card that will eventually replace the paper-based disembarkation/embarkation card that foreign visitors are currently required to submit on arrival, said the authority in a statement on Wednesday (Oct 3).
To ensure smooth implementation of the new electronic arrival card, a trial will be conducted by the ICA for foreign visitors for three months from Thursday.
The trial will be conducted at most of the air, land and sea checkpoints such as the Woodlands and Tuas checkpoints, Changi Airport and the four cruise/ferry terminals.
During the trial period, foreign visitors who arrive at these checkpoints but have not yet completed the paper-based disembarkation/embarkation card may be approached by ICA officers to participate in the trial and provide feedback.
The trial will not affect Singaporeans, permanent residents and long-term pass holders (such as students and workers) returning to Singapore, as they do not need to submit any disembarkation/embarkation card.
More details of the implementation of the system will be announced at a later date, after the trial is completed.
When the electronic arrival card is fully implemented, travellers can submit their personal information and trip details through the ICA website or via a mobile application before arriving in Singapore.
The travellers will then need to produce only their passports for immigration clearance upon arrival.
Currently, the card contains information such as details of the traveller's flight to Singapore, his intended length of stay and where he will be staying. These details will still be required under the new electronic card.
The electronic arrival card will be available in various languages, and those travelling in families or small groups can choose to make a one-time group submission. Some information such as last port of embarkation as well as address in Singapore will be automatically replicated for all in the group.
The mobile app will also save information from previous trips for use during the next trip to Singapore.
"The electronic arrival card will enhance operational efficiency and is a significant step towards ICA's vision of paperless immigration clearance, and save up to 48 million paper-based disembarkation/embarkation cards a year," said the authority.
ICA said that it studied and took into consideration the practice and experience of countries that have implemented a similar model of the electronic arrival card, as part of the authority's conceptualisation and design process.
Mr Duong Dat, 23, a software engineer from Vietnam who visits Singapore once or twice a year to meet friends, said an electronic arrival card would be great, as it will reduce the waiting time at arrival.
He added that it will also remove the last-minute scramble for him to fill up the information. “Sometimes my itinerary information is not available if I have no Internet connection (on the plane) and I have to write it down at the airport.”
Bruneian Hana Latiff, 24, who visited Singapore twice this year for youth programmes, is happy that the paper use will be reduced.
She also noted that the data-saving feature will be handy as she would not have to fill the form every time.
But Ms Hana, an administrative staff, added: “I might be concerned (about going online), as I am not sure how secure my data will be.”
The move is part of a series of recent high-tech measures by ICA.
Earlier this year, X-ray imaging scanners were introduced at the Tuas Checkpoint to better detect components on buses and vans that have been modified or contain explosives.
A new Web portal called MyICA was also launched by the authority in June to make renewing and applying for a new Singapore passport easier.
In August this year, eye-scan trials were rolled out for Singaporeans and permanent residents at Woodlands and Tuas checkpoints, and Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal. The trial involves officers scanning travellers’ iris images in addition to fingerprint verification.
~News courtesy of The Straits Times~
The Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) will be launching an electronic arrival card that will eventually replace the paper-based disembarkation/embarkation card that foreign visitors are currently required to submit on arrival, said the authority in a statement on Wednesday (Oct 3).
To ensure smooth implementation of the new electronic arrival card, a trial will be conducted by the ICA for foreign visitors for three months from Thursday.
The trial will be conducted at most of the air, land and sea checkpoints such as the Woodlands and Tuas checkpoints, Changi Airport and the four cruise/ferry terminals.
During the trial period, foreign visitors who arrive at these checkpoints but have not yet completed the paper-based disembarkation/embarkation card may be approached by ICA officers to participate in the trial and provide feedback.
The trial will not affect Singaporeans, permanent residents and long-term pass holders (such as students and workers) returning to Singapore, as they do not need to submit any disembarkation/embarkation card.
More details of the implementation of the system will be announced at a later date, after the trial is completed.
When the electronic arrival card is fully implemented, travellers can submit their personal information and trip details through the ICA website or via a mobile application before arriving in Singapore.
The travellers will then need to produce only their passports for immigration clearance upon arrival.
Currently, the card contains information such as details of the traveller's flight to Singapore, his intended length of stay and where he will be staying. These details will still be required under the new electronic card.
The electronic arrival card will be available in various languages, and those travelling in families or small groups can choose to make a one-time group submission. Some information such as last port of embarkation as well as address in Singapore will be automatically replicated for all in the group.
The mobile app will also save information from previous trips for use during the next trip to Singapore.
"The electronic arrival card will enhance operational efficiency and is a significant step towards ICA's vision of paperless immigration clearance, and save up to 48 million paper-based disembarkation/embarkation cards a year," said the authority.
ICA said that it studied and took into consideration the practice and experience of countries that have implemented a similar model of the electronic arrival card, as part of the authority's conceptualisation and design process.
Mr Duong Dat, 23, a software engineer from Vietnam who visits Singapore once or twice a year to meet friends, said an electronic arrival card would be great, as it will reduce the waiting time at arrival.
He added that it will also remove the last-minute scramble for him to fill up the information. “Sometimes my itinerary information is not available if I have no Internet connection (on the plane) and I have to write it down at the airport.”
Bruneian Hana Latiff, 24, who visited Singapore twice this year for youth programmes, is happy that the paper use will be reduced.
She also noted that the data-saving feature will be handy as she would not have to fill the form every time.
But Ms Hana, an administrative staff, added: “I might be concerned (about going online), as I am not sure how secure my data will be.”
The move is part of a series of recent high-tech measures by ICA.
Earlier this year, X-ray imaging scanners were introduced at the Tuas Checkpoint to better detect components on buses and vans that have been modified or contain explosives.
A new Web portal called MyICA was also launched by the authority in June to make renewing and applying for a new Singapore passport easier.
In August this year, eye-scan trials were rolled out for Singaporeans and permanent residents at Woodlands and Tuas checkpoints, and Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal. The trial involves officers scanning travellers’ iris images in addition to fingerprint verification.
~News courtesy of The Straits Times~
Tuesday, October 2, 2018
Mandarin-speaking officials start duty at KLIA/KLIA2
Mandarin-speaking officials start duty at KLIA/KLIA2 to woo China tourists
Ready to assist: A MAHB officer attending to enquiries from a couple from Hong Kong at KLIA2.
Malaysia Airports Holdings Bhd (MAHB) has deployed Mandarin-speaking officials at the KL International Airport and KLIA2.
Transport Minister Anthony Loke said two fluent and four basic Mandarin-speaking officials had been placed at strategic spots such as the satellite building, contact pier, immigration arrival and baggage reclaim areas, effective from yesterday.
The daily morning shift starts from 8am to 3pm with the late shift lasting till 10pm, which is the peak hours for arrival flights from China and Hong Kong.
Loke also said MAHB was also communicating with the Han Cultural Centre Malaysia, Inti College and Linton University College to recruit more part-timers to work as such officials in both KLIA and KLIA2.
He said other airport managements in the region were also spending a lot to woo the Chinese.
MAHB acting group CEO Raja Azmi Raja Nazuddin said besides the Mandarin-speaking personnel, a special guidebook in that language would also be published.
Malaysia and China have set 2020 as the Year of Culture and Tourism between the two countries to promote greater people-to-people contact and sustainable socio-economic growth.
China tourist arrivals in Malaysia is booming with a 10.2% growth rate over the past year.
It was revealed that there were 1.009 million tourists from China to Malaysia from January to April 2018, which was a 37.2% increase compared to the same period last year.
~News courtesy of The Star~
Ready to assist: A MAHB officer attending to enquiries from a couple from Hong Kong at KLIA2.
Malaysia Airports Holdings Bhd (MAHB) has deployed Mandarin-speaking officials at the KL International Airport and KLIA2.
Transport Minister Anthony Loke said two fluent and four basic Mandarin-speaking officials had been placed at strategic spots such as the satellite building, contact pier, immigration arrival and baggage reclaim areas, effective from yesterday.
The daily morning shift starts from 8am to 3pm with the late shift lasting till 10pm, which is the peak hours for arrival flights from China and Hong Kong.
Loke also said MAHB was also communicating with the Han Cultural Centre Malaysia, Inti College and Linton University College to recruit more part-timers to work as such officials in both KLIA and KLIA2.
He said other airport managements in the region were also spending a lot to woo the Chinese.
MAHB acting group CEO Raja Azmi Raja Nazuddin said besides the Mandarin-speaking personnel, a special guidebook in that language would also be published.
Malaysia and China have set 2020 as the Year of Culture and Tourism between the two countries to promote greater people-to-people contact and sustainable socio-economic growth.
China tourist arrivals in Malaysia is booming with a 10.2% growth rate over the past year.
It was revealed that there were 1.009 million tourists from China to Malaysia from January to April 2018, which was a 37.2% increase compared to the same period last year.
~News courtesy of The Star~
Malaysia eyes 30 million tourist arrivals by 2020
Malaysia eyes 30 million tourist arrivals by 2020
The Tourism, Arts and Culture Ministry is targeting 30 million tourist arrivals by 2020.
Deputy Minister Muhammad Bakhtiar Wan Chik said this would increase the contribution of tourism to the Gross Domestic Product from 14.9 per cent last year, when there were 26.1 million tourist arrivals, to 15.1 per cent.
He said the increase in tourist arrivals proved that tourism promotions had been successful.
“We are now asking for a bigger budget for tourism promotion because it is key to the sustainability of the tourism industry,” he told reporters after flagging off the 2018 Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride Penang, here, today.
He said there was a need to go all out to promote the country’s tourism industry as there was stiff competition from neighbouring countries.
He urged tourism organisations to use the tagline, Malaysia Truly Asia, in their promotions as it had proved to be effective in wooing tourists.
Bakhtiar said the ministry was working with the Education Ministry to introduce staggered school holiday breaks according to states to distribute the domestic tourist load.
~News courtesy of New Straits Times~
The Tourism, Arts and Culture Ministry is targeting 30 million tourist arrivals by 2020.
Deputy Minister Muhammad Bakhtiar Wan Chik said this would increase the contribution of tourism to the Gross Domestic Product from 14.9 per cent last year, when there were 26.1 million tourist arrivals, to 15.1 per cent.
He said the increase in tourist arrivals proved that tourism promotions had been successful.
“We are now asking for a bigger budget for tourism promotion because it is key to the sustainability of the tourism industry,” he told reporters after flagging off the 2018 Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride Penang, here, today.
He said there was a need to go all out to promote the country’s tourism industry as there was stiff competition from neighbouring countries.
He urged tourism organisations to use the tagline, Malaysia Truly Asia, in their promotions as it had proved to be effective in wooing tourists.
Bakhtiar said the ministry was working with the Education Ministry to introduce staggered school holiday breaks according to states to distribute the domestic tourist load.
~News courtesy of New Straits Times~
Tuesday, September 11, 2018
Malaysia aims to be in world's top 10 tourist destinations by 2019
Malaysia aims to be in world's top 10 tourist destinations by 2019
Malaysia aims to be among the world’s top 10 tourist destinations in 2019, said Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Mohamaddin Ketapi today. Photo credit: Hafiz Sohaimi
Malaysia aims to be among the world’s top 10 tourist destinations in 2019, said Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Mohamaddin Ketapi today.
He said the ministry has undertaken several efforts to promote Malaysia as a must-visit destination and will set new strategic directions to provide a conducive environment for industry players to drive and boost tourism growth.
“It is our aim to improve the country’s position after being ranked number 12 last year. We must be more competitive internationally.
“We will have good cooperation between federal and state governments to promote Malaysia and discuss with local airlines companies to have more direct flights to Malaysia,” he told a press conference after launching the Matta Fair 2018 at Putra World Trade Centre (PWTC) here today.
Mohamaddin said with resilience, innovation, product quality and excellent service standards, the tourism sector should be able to drive the nation forward, making Malaysia a preferred travel destination for tourists.
He said the tourism industry in Malaysia had grown significantly and is targeting a foreign tourist arrival goal of 26.4 million with a total expenditure of RM84.9 billion this year.
From January to April 2018, Malaysia recorded 8.4 million international tourists, an increase of 37.2 per cent from China, India (21.2 per cent, South Korea (26.5 per cent, Canada (28 per cent) and United States of America (23 per cent).
The 46th edition of the Matta Fair being held from Sept 7 to 9 features 1,336 booths offering international and domestic travel promotions and discounts, including 86 booths offering umrah packages. – BERNAMA
Malaysia aims to be among the world’s top 10 tourist destinations in 2019, said Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Mohamaddin Ketapi today. Photo credit: Hafiz Sohaimi
Malaysia aims to be among the world’s top 10 tourist destinations in 2019, said Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Mohamaddin Ketapi today.
He said the ministry has undertaken several efforts to promote Malaysia as a must-visit destination and will set new strategic directions to provide a conducive environment for industry players to drive and boost tourism growth.
“It is our aim to improve the country’s position after being ranked number 12 last year. We must be more competitive internationally.
“We will have good cooperation between federal and state governments to promote Malaysia and discuss with local airlines companies to have more direct flights to Malaysia,” he told a press conference after launching the Matta Fair 2018 at Putra World Trade Centre (PWTC) here today.
Mohamaddin said with resilience, innovation, product quality and excellent service standards, the tourism sector should be able to drive the nation forward, making Malaysia a preferred travel destination for tourists.
He said the tourism industry in Malaysia had grown significantly and is targeting a foreign tourist arrival goal of 26.4 million with a total expenditure of RM84.9 billion this year.
From January to April 2018, Malaysia recorded 8.4 million international tourists, an increase of 37.2 per cent from China, India (21.2 per cent, South Korea (26.5 per cent, Canada (28 per cent) and United States of America (23 per cent).
The 46th edition of the Matta Fair being held from Sept 7 to 9 features 1,336 booths offering international and domestic travel promotions and discounts, including 86 booths offering umrah packages. – BERNAMA
Saturday, September 8, 2018
Sunday, September 2, 2018
SST: Not much difference for service sector
SST: Not much difference for service sector
The implementation of the Sales and Services Tax (SST) beginning this Saturday is not expected to make a major difference in the price of services.
According to tax expert Norsa’adah Ahmad, this was because the six per cent tax imposed on services such as those provided by hotels, insurance, and food catering companies was the same as that imposed by the Goods and Services Tax (GST) before this.
“There should not be much difference with the previous price...most (prices) will remain the same.
“Compared to the effect (of SST) on the price of other goods where the public is watching to see if prices increase or not, the price of services is not expected to show much difference,” she told Bernama today.
However, Norsa’adah who is also a member of the Malaysian Institute of Accountants (MIA) did not discount the possibility of double taxation on the price of food and drinks sold in food outlets.
She said a 10 per cent sales tax is imposed on certain products like canned drinks at the production stage and it was not impossible that restaurants would increase their prices to cover the service tax.
Among the services on which the SST is imposed are those provided by night clubs, private clubs, golf clubs, casinos, lotteries, telecommunications, paid television, legal services, accounting services, forwarding agents, architects, engineers, valuers, security, parking, car rentals, advertising, domestic services, information technology services, credit cards and electrical services.
Meanwhile, hoteliers also do not expect an increase in room rates with the SST except for the usual increase during peak periods such as school holidays due to high demand.
However, executive director of the Malaysian Association of Hotel Owners Shaharudin M.Saaid said if the mechanism for the tax was the same as the previous SST, the room rates are expected to decrease.
“If the mechanism is the same as SST 1.0 before the GST was imposed, then room rates should be cheaper as the SST 1.0 did not impose a six per cent tax on service charges,” he said.
He said under the GST, a six per cent tax was imposed on service charges, resulting in an increase in the price of rooms and other services.
However Shaharudin hoped the mechanism for the implementation of the new SST is explained to the hotels quickly to avoid any confusion.
“We are waiting for clarification from the Royal Malaysian Customs Department,” he said. - Bernama
The implementation of the Sales and Services Tax (SST) beginning this Saturday is not expected to make a major difference in the price of services.
According to tax expert Norsa’adah Ahmad, this was because the six per cent tax imposed on services such as those provided by hotels, insurance, and food catering companies was the same as that imposed by the Goods and Services Tax (GST) before this.
“There should not be much difference with the previous price...most (prices) will remain the same.
“Compared to the effect (of SST) on the price of other goods where the public is watching to see if prices increase or not, the price of services is not expected to show much difference,” she told Bernama today.
However, Norsa’adah who is also a member of the Malaysian Institute of Accountants (MIA) did not discount the possibility of double taxation on the price of food and drinks sold in food outlets.
She said a 10 per cent sales tax is imposed on certain products like canned drinks at the production stage and it was not impossible that restaurants would increase their prices to cover the service tax.
Among the services on which the SST is imposed are those provided by night clubs, private clubs, golf clubs, casinos, lotteries, telecommunications, paid television, legal services, accounting services, forwarding agents, architects, engineers, valuers, security, parking, car rentals, advertising, domestic services, information technology services, credit cards and electrical services.
Meanwhile, hoteliers also do not expect an increase in room rates with the SST except for the usual increase during peak periods such as school holidays due to high demand.
However, executive director of the Malaysian Association of Hotel Owners Shaharudin M.Saaid said if the mechanism for the tax was the same as the previous SST, the room rates are expected to decrease.
“If the mechanism is the same as SST 1.0 before the GST was imposed, then room rates should be cheaper as the SST 1.0 did not impose a six per cent tax on service charges,” he said.
He said under the GST, a six per cent tax was imposed on service charges, resulting in an increase in the price of rooms and other services.
However Shaharudin hoped the mechanism for the implementation of the new SST is explained to the hotels quickly to avoid any confusion.
“We are waiting for clarification from the Royal Malaysian Customs Department,” he said. - Bernama
Thursday, August 30, 2018
Malaysia welcomes tourists from all over the world
Malaysia welcomes tourists from all over the world
Malaysia continues to welcome tourists from all over the world, including China, without any restriction.
A statement from the Prime Minister’s office today said other than the usual immigration requirements for all foreign tourists, there are no other restrictions for anyone including visitors from China.
“Tourists from China will still be given a single-entry visa for up to 30-days stay in the country and are eligible to take up other programmes organised by the government as well,” it said.
The statement said property purchases by foreigners were also allowed irrespective of nationality but there were certain conditions imposed by the government.
“Purchase of property, however, does not guarantee automatic residency in the country. But for foreigners who wish to make Malaysia their permanent residence, they could consider the ‘ Malaysia, My Second Home (MM2H)’ programme.
”Malaysian government also welcomes foreign direct investment that contributes to the transfer of technology, provides employment for locals and the setting up of industries locally,” the statement read.
It added that last year Malaysia received 2.3 million Chinese tourists from China and it now aims to multiply the number to 10 million visitors in time to come.
Information on these programmes and conditions are available.
~News courtesy of New Straits Times~
Malaysia continues to welcome tourists from all over the world, including China, without any restriction.
A statement from the Prime Minister’s office today said other than the usual immigration requirements for all foreign tourists, there are no other restrictions for anyone including visitors from China.
“Tourists from China will still be given a single-entry visa for up to 30-days stay in the country and are eligible to take up other programmes organised by the government as well,” it said.
The statement said property purchases by foreigners were also allowed irrespective of nationality but there were certain conditions imposed by the government.
“Purchase of property, however, does not guarantee automatic residency in the country. But for foreigners who wish to make Malaysia their permanent residence, they could consider the ‘ Malaysia, My Second Home (MM2H)’ programme.
”Malaysian government also welcomes foreign direct investment that contributes to the transfer of technology, provides employment for locals and the setting up of industries locally,” the statement read.
It added that last year Malaysia received 2.3 million Chinese tourists from China and it now aims to multiply the number to 10 million visitors in time to come.
Information on these programmes and conditions are available.
~News courtesy of New Straits Times~
Wednesday, August 15, 2018
Malaysia seeks KL-Singapore HSR delay pending review
Malaysia seeks KL-Singapore HSR delay pending review
A file picture of a KL-Singapore HSR station concept design.
SINGAPORE (The Straits Times/Asia News Network): Months after the Malaysia signalled that it was rethinking the Kuala Lumpur-Singapore High Speed Rail (HSR) link, Malaysian Economic Affairs Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Azmin Ali, who is in charge of the project held an official meeting with his Singapore counterpart last Saturday.
Azmin told The Straits Times that his meeting with Singapore's Coordinating Minister for Infrastructure and Transport Minister Khaw Boon Wan in the Republic was "official... good and productive".
"I explained Malaysia's position on the project. The Minister for Infrastructure will have to bring it to Singapore's Cabinet," Azmin said.
A spokesman for Singapore's Ministry of Transport confirmed the meeting was held. "The ministers discussed the HSR project and agreed to continue discussions in the coming weeks," she said.
Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad's administration had initially expressed its desire to scrap the HSR project due to cost concerns after claiming that it had inherited more than RM1 trillion in debt from the previous Barisan Nasional government.
However, it later softened its stance, saying it would first have to negotiate with Singapore as there were penalties for cancelling the deal inked in December 2016.
Kuala Lumpur most recently said it would seek a deferment of the project it estimates will cost RM110bil and was originally slated to be completed in 2026.
But it had yet to convey this request formally to Singapore.
Khaw said last month that Singapore has spent more than S$250mil (RM743mil) on the project, and is likely to pour in another S$40mil (RM118mil) by the year end.
It had written officially to Malaysia in a diplomatic note on June 1 asking for clarity and a meeting to be held by July 31.
Azmin, charged with handling negotiations for Malaysia, had said he would try to meet the deadline but was busy with duties at the ongoing Parliament sitting.
In a letter to the Singapore government dated July 23, Azmin stated that the Malaysia was studying the details of the HSR project and will commence discussions with the Republic soon.
Singapore had welcomed Malaysia's suggestion to commence discussions on the project that will shorten travelling time between Kuala Lumpur and Singapore to only 90 minutes.
On Aug 6, Azmin said he had met "senior officials" in Singapore the previous weekend when he visited Malaysian Home Minister Muhyiddin Yassin, who was then hospitalised in the Republic. He said that "the official meeting will take place some time in August".
However, Singapore's Ministry of Transport said on Aug 7 that no meeting had taken place or had been scheduled between Azmin and Singapore officials overseeing the HSR. – The Straits Times/Asia News Network
A file picture of a KL-Singapore HSR station concept design.
SINGAPORE (The Straits Times/Asia News Network): Months after the Malaysia signalled that it was rethinking the Kuala Lumpur-Singapore High Speed Rail (HSR) link, Malaysian Economic Affairs Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Azmin Ali, who is in charge of the project held an official meeting with his Singapore counterpart last Saturday.
Azmin told The Straits Times that his meeting with Singapore's Coordinating Minister for Infrastructure and Transport Minister Khaw Boon Wan in the Republic was "official... good and productive".
"I explained Malaysia's position on the project. The Minister for Infrastructure will have to bring it to Singapore's Cabinet," Azmin said.
A spokesman for Singapore's Ministry of Transport confirmed the meeting was held. "The ministers discussed the HSR project and agreed to continue discussions in the coming weeks," she said.
Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad's administration had initially expressed its desire to scrap the HSR project due to cost concerns after claiming that it had inherited more than RM1 trillion in debt from the previous Barisan Nasional government.
However, it later softened its stance, saying it would first have to negotiate with Singapore as there were penalties for cancelling the deal inked in December 2016.
Kuala Lumpur most recently said it would seek a deferment of the project it estimates will cost RM110bil and was originally slated to be completed in 2026.
But it had yet to convey this request formally to Singapore.
Khaw said last month that Singapore has spent more than S$250mil (RM743mil) on the project, and is likely to pour in another S$40mil (RM118mil) by the year end.
It had written officially to Malaysia in a diplomatic note on June 1 asking for clarity and a meeting to be held by July 31.
Azmin, charged with handling negotiations for Malaysia, had said he would try to meet the deadline but was busy with duties at the ongoing Parliament sitting.
In a letter to the Singapore government dated July 23, Azmin stated that the Malaysia was studying the details of the HSR project and will commence discussions with the Republic soon.
Singapore had welcomed Malaysia's suggestion to commence discussions on the project that will shorten travelling time between Kuala Lumpur and Singapore to only 90 minutes.
On Aug 6, Azmin said he had met "senior officials" in Singapore the previous weekend when he visited Malaysian Home Minister Muhyiddin Yassin, who was then hospitalised in the Republic. He said that "the official meeting will take place some time in August".
However, Singapore's Ministry of Transport said on Aug 7 that no meeting had taken place or had been scheduled between Azmin and Singapore officials overseeing the HSR. – The Straits Times/Asia News Network
Tuesday, August 14, 2018
Thursday, August 2, 2018
Scoot to increase fares by 5% as fuel costs rise
Scoot to increase fares by 5% as fuel costs rise
Scoot, the low-cost arm of Singapore Airlines Group, said it will raise fares across its network by an average of 5 per cent in response to a surge in jet fuel prices that had pushed up costs.
The fare hike, effective Sep 1, will add S$5 to S$30 to the cost of each one-way journey depending on the flight duration, the airline said in a news release on Thursday (Aug 2).
Jet fuel prices have surged almost 40 per cent year-on-year and are now close to US$90 (S$123) per barrel on average, Scoot said.
The International Air Transport Association in June forecast average passenger yields, a proxy for air fares, would rise by 3.2 per cent this year, in the first annual gain since 2011 but lowered its annual profit estimate due to the rising cost of fuel and labour.
Air New Zealand in May announced a 5 per cent increase in domestic fares due to rising costs, while regulators in Japan and Taiwan have allowed airlines to put in place fuel surcharges to help compensate for the higher oil price.
Singapore Airlines last week reported a 3.2 per cent decline in passenger yields for the quarter ended Jun 30, including a 1.8 per cent fall at Scoot, disappointing investors who had hoped for fare increases.
Scoot on Thursday said it would look to cut costs in addition to raising fares, by exploring ways to reduce fuel burn, reviewing supplier contracts, using measures to increase productivity and keeping manpower resources lean.
The airline said fuel comprised an average of 32 per cent of its operating costs and its fuel costs had risen by 31 per cent compared to a year earlier.
Scoot reported a S$1 million profit in the June quarter, down from S$3 million a year earlier.
Singapore Airlines said there were no plans for the parent airline and its regional arm SilkAir to follow Scoot's lead and announce specific fare rises in response to higher oil prices.
"Our airfare pricing is dynamic based on supply and demand," a Singapore Airlines representative said.
Source: Channel News Asia
Scoot, the low-cost arm of Singapore Airlines Group, said it will raise fares across its network by an average of 5 per cent in response to a surge in jet fuel prices that had pushed up costs.
The fare hike, effective Sep 1, will add S$5 to S$30 to the cost of each one-way journey depending on the flight duration, the airline said in a news release on Thursday (Aug 2).
Jet fuel prices have surged almost 40 per cent year-on-year and are now close to US$90 (S$123) per barrel on average, Scoot said.
The International Air Transport Association in June forecast average passenger yields, a proxy for air fares, would rise by 3.2 per cent this year, in the first annual gain since 2011 but lowered its annual profit estimate due to the rising cost of fuel and labour.
Air New Zealand in May announced a 5 per cent increase in domestic fares due to rising costs, while regulators in Japan and Taiwan have allowed airlines to put in place fuel surcharges to help compensate for the higher oil price.
Singapore Airlines last week reported a 3.2 per cent decline in passenger yields for the quarter ended Jun 30, including a 1.8 per cent fall at Scoot, disappointing investors who had hoped for fare increases.
Scoot on Thursday said it would look to cut costs in addition to raising fares, by exploring ways to reduce fuel burn, reviewing supplier contracts, using measures to increase productivity and keeping manpower resources lean.
The airline said fuel comprised an average of 32 per cent of its operating costs and its fuel costs had risen by 31 per cent compared to a year earlier.
Scoot reported a S$1 million profit in the June quarter, down from S$3 million a year earlier.
Singapore Airlines said there were no plans for the parent airline and its regional arm SilkAir to follow Scoot's lead and announce specific fare rises in response to higher oil prices.
"Our airfare pricing is dynamic based on supply and demand," a Singapore Airlines representative said.
Source: Channel News Asia
Tuesday, July 31, 2018
Malaysia RM10 tourism tax to be maintained
RM10 tourism tax to be maintained
THE flat rate of RM10 per room per night on foreign tourists will be maintained, says Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Mohamaddin Ketapi.
“Under the new government, the Tourism, Arts and Culture Ministry has reviewed implementation of the tourism tax.
“From the review, the implementation of the tax by countries such as the United States, the Netherlands, Italy, Singapore and Thailand, proved that the tax has brought positive growth to the tourism sector in the long term,” he said in a written reply to Datuk Danyal Balagopal Abdullah (PH-Port Dickson).
Mohamaddin noted that Japan and Saudi Arabia had recently implemented the tourism tax.
He said the tax is expected to bring positive impact to the tourism industry through the financing of infrastructure, arts and culture. It is only applicable to foreign tourists.
~News courtesy of The Star~
THE flat rate of RM10 per room per night on foreign tourists will be maintained, says Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Mohamaddin Ketapi.
“Under the new government, the Tourism, Arts and Culture Ministry has reviewed implementation of the tourism tax.
“From the review, the implementation of the tax by countries such as the United States, the Netherlands, Italy, Singapore and Thailand, proved that the tax has brought positive growth to the tourism sector in the long term,” he said in a written reply to Datuk Danyal Balagopal Abdullah (PH-Port Dickson).
Mohamaddin noted that Japan and Saudi Arabia had recently implemented the tourism tax.
He said the tax is expected to bring positive impact to the tourism industry through the financing of infrastructure, arts and culture. It is only applicable to foreign tourists.
~News courtesy of The Star~
Thursday, July 19, 2018
AirAsia's Ipoh-Johor Baru flights take off on Oct 1
AirAsia's Ipoh-Johor Baru flights set to take off on Oct 1
AirAsia's much awaited Ipoh-Johor Baru flights are expected to begin on Oct 1 this year.
Perak Tourism, Arts and Culture Committee chairman Tan Kar Hing said there would be four flights weekly and hoped that more tourists from the south can visit Perak.
"We also hope that tourists from Singapore can come to Ipoh via the airline," he told reporters when met at Weil Hotel here on Wednesday (July 18).
He said this after launching a Singapore-based "Cao Parties: Eat, Stay, Play" tourism promotional programme on Ipoh.
It was reported recently that AirAsia would be setting up shop at the Sultan Azlan Shah Airport with an announced flight to Johor.
AirAsia Group Bhd CEO Tan Sri Tony Fernandes had also on June 18 tweeted: "We opening Ipoh soon, and also looking to restart Kuantan. Would mean we would fly to all local destinations."
The Ipoh-Johor Baru route was not new, having been launched in early 2006 before it was suspended later in September.
One of the reasons Fernandes had cited then was that the runway at the airport in Ipoh had not been extended.
The airport has since been refurbished between April 2011 and November 2012, including the extension of its 1,789m-long runway by another 200m to accommodate larger aircrafts.
Tan also said he hoped to get more airline companies to fly to Ipoh.
"I will hold talks with two companies next month and I hope to get positive feedbacks.
"I will meet with Malaysia Airports Holdings Bhd to look into the facilities at the airport, including the current setting there, the information centre and its basic infrastructure," he said.
~News courtesy of The Star~
AirAsia's much awaited Ipoh-Johor Baru flights are expected to begin on Oct 1 this year.
Perak Tourism, Arts and Culture Committee chairman Tan Kar Hing said there would be four flights weekly and hoped that more tourists from the south can visit Perak.
"We also hope that tourists from Singapore can come to Ipoh via the airline," he told reporters when met at Weil Hotel here on Wednesday (July 18).
He said this after launching a Singapore-based "Cao Parties: Eat, Stay, Play" tourism promotional programme on Ipoh.
It was reported recently that AirAsia would be setting up shop at the Sultan Azlan Shah Airport with an announced flight to Johor.
AirAsia Group Bhd CEO Tan Sri Tony Fernandes had also on June 18 tweeted: "We opening Ipoh soon, and also looking to restart Kuantan. Would mean we would fly to all local destinations."
The Ipoh-Johor Baru route was not new, having been launched in early 2006 before it was suspended later in September.
One of the reasons Fernandes had cited then was that the runway at the airport in Ipoh had not been extended.
The airport has since been refurbished between April 2011 and November 2012, including the extension of its 1,789m-long runway by another 200m to accommodate larger aircrafts.
Tan also said he hoped to get more airline companies to fly to Ipoh.
"I will hold talks with two companies next month and I hope to get positive feedbacks.
"I will meet with Malaysia Airports Holdings Bhd to look into the facilities at the airport, including the current setting there, the information centre and its basic infrastructure," he said.
~News courtesy of The Star~
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