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Tourism

Sarawak's Tourism Reach Expands Globally with Malaysia Airlines' Bonus Side Trip Programme

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

Sarawak's tourism industry is set to experience a significant boost as Kuching is listed as the eighth destination under Malaysia Airlines' Bonus Side Trip (BST) programme. This move reflects the successful partnership between Sarawak Tourism Board (STB) and Malaysia Aviation Group (MAG), formalized in 2024, to enhance air connectivity and joint tourism promotion. With the BST programme, international travelers can explore more of Malaysia by adding an extra domestic destination at no additional fare, further expanding Sarawak's reach beyond Peninsular Malaysia.

Key Takeaways:

  • Sarawak's tourism reach is expanding globally with Kuching being listed as the eighth destination under Malaysia Airlines' Bonus Side Trip (BST) programme.
  • The BST programme, offered exclusively by Malaysia Airlines, allows international travelers to add an extra domestic destination at no additional fare, encouraging them to explore more of Malaysia.
  • Kuching's inclusion in the BST programme marks the first time a Bornean city has been featured in the programme, demonstrating Sarawak's commitment to sustainable tourism growth.
  • The partnership between Sarawak Tourism Board (STB) and Malaysia Aviation Group (MAG), formalized in 2024, has led to the enhancement of air connectivity and joint tourism promotion.
  • The launch of the BST programme will take place at the MAG Arena of Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre (MITEC) with a handshake ceremony between STB CEO Sharzede Salleh Askor and MAG's Dersenish Aresandiran.
  • Sarawak will showcase its diverse attractions through 19 exhibitors, cultural performances, live demonstrations, and exclusive travel deals at the MATTA Fair KL from today until Sunday.
  • The partnership reflects Sarawak's commitment to Visit Malaysia 2026 and its goal to reinforce itself as a key player in the tourism industry.

Statistics:

  • Kuching is the first and only Bornean destination in the Malaysia Airlines' Bonus Side Trip (BST) programme.
  • The partnership between STB and MAG was formalized in 2024 to enhance air connectivity and joint tourism promotion.
  • The BST programme will allow international travelers to explore more of Malaysia by adding an extra domestic destination at no additional fare.
  • Sarawak will feature 19 exhibitors at the MATTA Fair KL.

Sources:

  • BERNAMA News Agency, 05 Sep 2025
  • Sarawak Tourism Board (STB) statement

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