by NURUL SUHAIDI / pic source: Matta Fair KL FB

THE Malaysia Aviation Group (MAG) has come on board as a partner for the upcoming Malaysian Association of Tour & Travel Agents (Matta) Fair happening on Sept 2 to 4, 2022, at the World Trade Centre, Kuala Lumpur (KL).

Matta honorary treasurer Nigel Wong said this partnership is crucial as air connectivity is a key component of the tourism ecosystem.

“We are certain that this partnership will lead the industry not just for the recovery but also the strengthening of the travel economy,” he said at a press conference today.

Meanwhile, MAG chief marketing and customer experience officer Lau Yin May said during the first half of this year, MAG has surpassed the initial target in terms of number of passengers for domestic travel alone. 

Due to the high demand, she added that in May, MAG introduced its first direct flight from KL to Doha as the third Middle East destination apart from Jeddah and Madinah.

“Malaysia Airlines Bhd is also increasing the frequency from time to time, especially to popular destinations such as Australia, London, India, Turkey and domestic Langkawi, Kedah,” she said.

As part of its sustainability commitment, MAG is undergoing a total refurbishment of 39 planes under 738 engines that will contribute to fuel efficiency.

“We refurbish everything inside, from curtain to carpet. The seats are much lighter, which can lower fuel consumption per passenger by 8%,” Lau added.

On the other hand, for travellers who prefer a flexible travel plan and expecting changes on their journey, Wong suggested opting for flexible tickets which have become more affordable due to the pandemic.

Among the highlights for Matta Fair are various promotions and offers from its official airlines Malaysia Airlines, Firefly and MASwings, as well as products from 150 participating tourism companies.

Malaysia Airlines will be offering up to 45% discounts, while Firefly will offer 31% discounts on airfares to all destinations in Malaysia and selected international destinations within the Malaysia Airlines and Firefly network.

The public can enjoy up to 40% discount form Malaysia Airlines tour-operator MHholidays, on flight and three-day, two-night hotel packages from RM362 for domestic holidays and RM1,021 per person for four-day, three-night international holidays.

These holiday packages can be booked on the MHholidays website from Aug 31 until Sept 11, 2022, for immediate travel until April 12, 2023.

Matta Fair 2022 is targeting 25,000 physical visitors.

“We are ambitious but also conservative with the new target. However, due to the eased travel requirement and border reopening, we have seen a surge in demand and good traction not only for the inbound tourism but also international visit to the country.

“This reflects travellers’ confidence and when more countries open up, that will widen the travel destination for Malaysians,” Wong said.

He added that the sentiments of industry players are extremely positive. 

“The number of participating companies has overbooked and some have to be put on a waiting list,” he said.

Matta Fair admission is free and it is open from 10am to 9pm.