Malaysia Airlines is ramping up strategic initiatives to enhance passenger and cargo connectivity between Malaysia and China, signalling renewed commitment to bolstering bilateral trade and tourism flows.
Dersenish Aresandiran, Chief Commercial Officer of Malaysia Aviation Group (MAG), affirmed the Group’s ambition to position Malaysia Airlines as the preferred carrier linking China with Malaysia and the broader global network. This commitment was underscored through the airline’s successful debut at ITB China 2025, held in Shanghai from 27 to 29 May.
“Our debut at ITB China strengthens our engagement with the Chinese tourism community and lays the foundation for our continued growth in this market,” Dersenish stated.
During the trade show, Malaysia Airlines conducted over 200 business meetings and participated in more than 30 executive-level discussions, reinforcing its role as a key facilitator of cross-border cooperation in travel and trade.
The airline also announced plans to roll out a new marketing campaign in collaboration with leading Chinese travel and trade partners. Additionally, it will launch a corporate training programme tailored to enhance its footprint in the Chinese market.
At the exhibition, Malaysia Airlines showcased its MHcorporate programme—offering customised travel solutions for business clients—and the MHexplorer initiative, which targets students aged 13 to 26, aiming to forge long-term engagement with China’s next generation of travellers.
Demonstrating its sustainability focus, the airline also introduced a virtual reality experience featuring its latest A330neo aircraft, highlighting fuel-efficient technology and enhanced passenger comfort.
Currently, Malaysia Airlines operates flights to major Chinese cities including Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Xiamen, Hong Kong and Taipei. It connects travellers to 69 destinations across Asia, Australia, West Asia and Europe. The airline is actively exploring opportunities to increase flight frequencies and expand its route network in response to rising demand for bilateral trade, tourism and cultural exchange.
ITB China 2025 saw a notable increase in participation, with more than 700 exhibitors from over 85 countries—representing a 30% year-on-year growth from 2024—signalling China’s continued prominence as a key global travel source market.
-Bernama
