Malaysia foresees surge in Chinese tourist numbers as airlines launch new routes

Manoharan said that airlines from China have also shown interest in establishing direct flights to other major Malaysian cities such as Penang, Johor Bahru and Kuching.

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“Sichuan Airlines is planning to operate flights [from China] to Kuching,” he said. “We welcome airlines from China to operate direct flights to Kuala Lumpur, in addition to charter flights.”

“This is also in line with the ministry’s goal to further increase direct flights in conjunction with the Visit Malaysia Year 2026,” Manoharan said, adding that Tourism Malaysia will collaborate with airlines and tourism operators in Malaysia and China to increase flight frequencies to the country.