MOTAC Hails Strong Indonesia-Malaysia Tourism Links After AirAsia Luncheon

2 May 2026

JAKARTA, Indonesia: Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Datuk Tiong King Sing emphasised the robust potential for deeper collaboration with AirAsia Indonesia following a productive working luncheon during his Indonesia visit.

During the event, flight connectivity, market trends, and future tourism strategies were spotlighted.

AirAsia Indonesia operates about 650 weekly return flights to Malaysia with an 82.1% load factor, underscoring high demand. In 2025, around 2 million Indonesians visited Malaysia, making up 75.4% of total arrivals and proving Malaysia's enduring appeal.

Tiong highlighted regional opportunities amid global challenges, like 60% flight cancellations from the Middle East due to tensions.

"The evolving landscape stresses Southeast Asia's importance," he said.

"Malaysia will bolster its presence here to stabilize and grow arrivals."

AirAsia Indonesia runs 12 routes to Malaysia with a 27-aircraft fleet and plans to prioritize regional hubs for better passenger flows from Indonesian cities.

Both sides explored festival-themed tourism, such as water festivals and sports, to drive cross-border travel through joint promotions.

The minister welcomed industry feedback to address gaps, noting the Visit Malaysia 2026 campaign's extension to 2027 for better planning.

AirAsia expressed confidence in Malaysia's market, citing cultural ties and short flights as growth drivers with targeted promotions and routes.