A breathtaking perspective from the Level 3 Malaysian Artisan District, gazing up at the sun-drenched canopy and the soaring event piazza.
A lively new chapter for Kuala Lumpur begins this August as 118 Mall prepares to open at the foot of the world’s second-tallest tower. Situated within the historic Merdeka 118 precinct, the mall acts as a modern bridge to the city’s rich heritage, located just a stone’s throw from Petaling Street and the iconic Stadium Merdeka. As the first wave of tenants begin their interior fit-outs, the destination is entering its final stages of becoming a global lifestyle hub.
One of the mall’s most unique offerings is the Malaysian Artisan District, a sprawling 80,000 sq. ft. sanctuary dedicated to the local soul and craftsmanship. This energetic gallery features the Makanizm Food Hall on Level 3, a massive 40,000 sq. ft. space designed to celebrate the country’s legendary culinary scene. Visitors can enjoy a mix of global flagships and premium local brands, including handcrafted coffee and food from favorites like Kenny Hills Cafe, ZUS Coffee, Oriental Kopi, and Serai Premium.
The Atmosphere on Level 4 offers a stunning 20,000 sq. ft. sanctuary, crowned by a massive 88-meter glass dome and framed by immersive, high-definition LED displays.
The retail selection is equally impressive, featuring flagship concepts from international names like Skechers and Decathlon alongside the timeless elegance of Habib Jewels. Fashion enthusiasts can also look forward to a curated lifestyle edit including Coach, Hackett London, and Cole Haan. For everyday needs and family essentials, the mall introduces the highly anticipated SOGO118—a contemporary evolution of the iconic SOGO brand—together with Village Grocer and HappiKiddo.
Rising above the shopping levels is The Atmosphere on Level 4, a stunning 20,000 sq. ft. event piazza. This animated social stage is bathed in sunlight via a spectacular 88-meter diameter glass dome and features three massive LED screens for immersive digital art and live content. With over 70% of its retail space already committed, 118 Mall is set to be a key destination for the “Visit Malaysia 2026” calendar, inviting the world to come and “Live Your Story”.
Homegrown culinary icons Hock Kee Kopitiam and D.MasKing, the retail arm of DSR Taiko Berhad, have officially entered a strategic partnership marked by a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). This collaboration signals a new era in local food culture, seamlessly blending the prestigious Musang King durian with the traditional, communal atmosphere of the Malaysian kopitiam. By bringing an “orchard-to-kopitiam” experience to urban centers, the two brands are connecting the authentic heritage of Raub, Pahang, to the daily coffee rituals of Malaysians across the country.
At the heart of this partnership is an exclusive menu designed to transform familiar favorites into premium treats. Customers can now enjoy an elevated version of the classic breakfast staple with Roti Bakar served with Durian Kaya and butter, or explore bold new beverage options such as Durian-infused Coffee and Durian Teh Tarik. The dessert selection is equally impressive, featuring three variants of durian ice cream—soft serve, gelato, and ice cream sticks—alongside a range of retail products including Durian Dark Chocolate and Durian Chips. This curated collection celebrates the spirit of Muhibbah, offering a unique sensory experience that honors traditional recipes while embracing modern innovation.
Nick Ng (Hock Kee Kopitiam) and Dato’ Ng Lian Poh (DSR Taiko Berhad) have signed an MoU to launch Musang King durian-infused retail products, blending the “King of Fruits” with traditional kopitiam favorites.
Beyond the flavors, this collaboration sets a new industry standard for transparency and trust. DSR Taiko Berhad provides the partnership with its unique capability as the only company in Malaysia to verify and certify the authentic source of Musang King durians. Through its proprietary Musang King Integrated Traceability System (MKITS)® and a rigorous Standard of Quality (SOQ) framework, DSR ensures that every durian used is traceable from the tree to the table. This commitment to integrity ensures that Hock Kee Kopitiam patrons receive only the most authentic, high-quality Musang King products available on the market.
Dato’ Ng Lian Poh, CEO of DSR Taiko Berhad, highlighted that the collaboration aims to make the best of Malaysian durians accessible to a wider audience through innovative yet authentic product offerings. Nick Ng, Founder of Hock Kee Kopitiam, echoed this sentiment, describing the partnership as a natural fit for a brand that prides itself on comfort and the authentic taste of Malaysia. He noted that adding Musang King to the menu is about more than just variety; it is about providing customers with an elevated and meaningful dining experience that pays homage to local craftsmanship.
Hock Kee Kopitiam partners with D.Masking to release durian-based products including, ice cream (soft serve, gelato & ice cream stick), white coffee, teh tarik and roti bakar.
The new durian-based range will be available at selected Hock Kee Kopitiam outlets, strategically located in hubs such as Bukit Bintang City Centre (BBCC), Bangsar South, The Gardens, Aeon Shah Alam, and Johor Bahru. As both brands continue to expand their footprint, this collaboration stands as a testament to the power of local partnership in promoting Malaysia’s rich agricultural and culinary legacy.
KUALA LUMPUR, 16 MARCH 2026 – The Malaysian Association of Tour and Travel Agents (MATTA) is urging the government to consider implementing a temporary fuel subsidy for tourism transport operators following the recent rise in fuel prices. The association warns that the increase could have a significant ripple effect across Malaysia’s tourism industry if immediate support measures are not introduced.
Tourism transport operators play a vital role in facilitating both inbound and domestic travel, forming a key link in the country’s tourism value chain. However, many operators are currently bound by contracts signed months in advance with local and international travel agencies. These agreements were based on earlier fuel prices, leaving operators unable to adjust rates despite the recent surge in operating costs. As a result, many are now facing mounting financial pressure and the risk of substantial losses.
The sharp increase in fuel costs has significantly affected daily operations. For instance, the cost of refuelling a standard tour bus has jumped from approximately RM747 per tank to RM969, reflecting an increase of between 35% and 38%. Without intervention, operators may be forced to raise transportation charges by at least 30% to remain viable—an outcome that could ultimately affect tour pricing and demand.
MATTA President Nigel Wong emphasised that tourism transport providers are essential in ensuring seamless travel experiences for visitors. He noted that many operators are now absorbing increased fuel costs due to fixed contractual rates, placing them under considerable financial strain. While the industry has previously demonstrated resilience—such as adapting to the exclusion from diesel subsidy rationalisation—the current fuel price hike presents a more severe challenge that could impact business sustainability.
MATTA is calling for targeted and temporary fuel subsidies specifically for tourism transport vehicles to help cushion the impact. Such assistance, the association argues, would allow operators to manage rising costs without compromising service quality or financial stability. This support is seen as critical, especially as Malaysia gears up for increased tourist arrivals in the lead-up to Visit Malaysia 2026.
Ensuring the sustainability of tourism transport services is crucial to maintaining Malaysia’s competitiveness as a preferred travel destination. MATTA believes that timely intervention will help stabilise the sector, preserve service standards, and support the broader tourism ecosystem during this challenging period.
As fuel prices continue to rise, MATTA remains committed to working closely with the government and industry stakeholders to safeguard the future of Malaysia’s tourism industry. The association stresses that proactive measures today will be essential in ensuring long-term resilience and growth for the sector.
KUALA LUMPUR, 12 MARCH 2026 – Travellers can look forward to an exciting and immersive experience at MATTA Fair April 2026 as Johor takes centre stage as Malaysia’s Favourite Destination. Held at the Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre (MITEC), the three-day fair promises a vibrant showcase of travel opportunities, exclusive deals and engaging activities for visitors of all ages.
At the heart of the event is the Johor Pavilion, located at Level 1, Domestic Hall [1C01], where visitors can explore a comprehensive display of the state’s tourism offerings. The pavilion brings together a wide range of industry players, including hotels, resorts, travel agencies and tourism product operators from across Johor. Visitors will have access to exclusive promotions and best-value holiday packages available only during the fair, making it an ideal opportunity to plan their next getaway.
Beyond travel deals, the Johor Pavilion offers a lively cultural experience that captures the essence of Bangsa Johor. Throughout the fair, visitors can enjoy traditional performances, participate in heritage-themed activities and engage in interactive programmes designed to showcase the state’s unique identity. From cultural showcases to lucky draws and family-friendly activities, the pavilion delivers an engaging and memorable experience for all.
With free admission and operating hours from 10 am to 9 pm daily, MATTA Fair ensures accessibility for everyone. Complimentary shuttle services from KL Sentral and Sunway Putra Mall further enhance convenience, making it easier for visitors to attend and fully enjoy the fair.
A major step forward in Malaysia–China cooperation unfolded in Changsha with the successful staging of the “Let’s Go Malaysia” Cultural, Trade & Tourism Promotion Event on 6 March 2026. Held at Saint Tropez Hotel Changsha, the event coincided with the 52nd anniversary of diplomatic relations between Malaysia and China, reinforcing a shared commitment to strengthening bilateral ties across tourism, investment, and cultural exchange.
Organised by KMA Production in collaboration with Hunan TV International, the event marked the official debut of the cross-border travelogue “Let’s Go Malaysia”. Positioned as both a media and economic initiative, the programme is designed to elevate Malaysia’s profile among Chinese travellers while opening new avenues for trade and investment. Its launch comes at a strategic time, aligning with Visit Malaysia 2026 and increased efforts to attract high-value tourists and investors from China.
The event drew participation from key institutional players, including Tourism Malaysia, MIDA, and MATRADE, alongside regional stakeholders such as the Hunan Provincial Department of Commerce. Their involvement reflects a coordinated effort to leverage media, tourism, and trade as interconnected drivers of bilateral growth.
Corporate stakeholders also played a prominent role, with companies such as EcoWorld Development Group Berhad and R&F Princess Cove showcasing investment opportunities linked to tourism development. The inclusion of IFOOD Expo further highlighted the importance of culinary tourism and cross-border trade in enhancing Malaysia’s appeal to international audiences.
With nearly 100 media organisations in attendance, the event generated significant exposure, underscoring growing interest in Malaysia as a destination for travel, investment, and cultural exploration. Industry observers note that initiatives like “Let’s Go Malaysia” demonstrate how media-driven storytelling can influence travel behaviour and strengthen economic linkages between countries.
As the travelogue begins its journey, it is expected to spotlight Malaysia’s diverse offerings—from its multicultural heritage and vibrant food scene to the unique attractions of Johor—while reinforcing the broader narrative of Malaysia as a dynamic and welcoming destination. The initiative stands as a testament to the evolving partnership between Malaysia and China, where tourism, media, and business converge to create new growth opportunities.
Goh Liu Ying Teams Up with Mango TV Hosts Tong He and Duan Hong for “Let’s Go Malaysia,” Delivers Special Launch Message
A dynamic blend of culture, tourism and business collaboration took centre stage at the “Let’s Go Malaysia” launch event in Changsha, reflecting the growing synergy between Malaysia and China. The ceremony featured engaging highlights, including an energetic exchange between Hunan TV host Tong He and Malaysian representative Nigel, whose chemistry embodied the programme’s cross-cultural narrative. Malaysian badminton star Goh Liu Ying also made a virtual appearance through a pre-recorded video message, sharing her enthusiasm for the project and spotlighting Johor as a destination offering unique and memorable travel experiences.
Beyond entertainment, the event served as a strategic platform for investment promotion. Guests were treated to a culinary showcase by Hock Kee Kopitiam, introducing traditional Johor delicacies and reinforcing Malaysia’s cultural appeal. The programme then shifted to business discussions, where officials from MIDA and MATRADE outlined Malaysia’s competitive advantages, including investor-friendly policies and its strategic position within ASEAN’s 600-million-strong market.
Corporate presentations further underscored Malaysia’s economic potential. EcoWorld Development Group Berhad highlighted its comprehensive industrial ecosystem, while R&F Princess Cove showcased its cross-border connectivity advantages near Singapore. With the development of the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone gaining momentum, Johor is rapidly emerging as a preferred hub for regional headquarters and supply chain operations.
The event also marked a significant milestone with the signing of a Memorandum of Cooperation involving KMA Travel & Tours, Nine Square Media and IFOOD Expo, paving the way for the upcoming Let’s Go Malaysia Expo. Industry leaders, including representatives from EcoWorld, emphasised Malaysia’s stable political environment, strong infrastructure and strategic location as key factors attracting global investors.
As highlighted by Hunan Broadcasting System, the initiative represents more than a media project—it is a multidimensional platform driving tourism, trade and cultural exchange. The launch signals a forward-looking partnership between Malaysia and China, with “Let’s Go Malaysia” positioned as a catalyst for deeper economic and cultural ties.
Karnival pengalaman selama enam hari yang meraikan budaya, sukan dan gaya hidup Malaysia akan berlangsung di Sunway Velocity Mall dari 31 Mac hingga 5 April ini. Dikenali sebagai “Malaysia on the Move: Mana-mana pun ON!”, acara ini dianjurkan oleh theCOVER ASIA bersama Sunway Velocity Mall dengan sokongan Sunway Multicare Pharmacy sebagai penganjur bersama, manakala MY FM dan MELODY bertindak sebagai rakan radio rasmi. Berlangsung setiap hari dari jam 10 pagi hingga 10 malam di pintu masuk Nanjing, aras 1, karnival ini menggabungkan elemen sukan dengan pelancongan, budaya serta jenama tempatan. Acara ini turut diterajui oleh juara dunia badminton Aaron Chia dan Chen Tang Jie bersama barisan atlet kebangsaan lain dalam usaha mempromosikan budaya kesukanan, pelancongan serta produk tempatan sempena kempen Visit Malaysia 2026.
Menurut theCOVER ASIA, tema “Mana-mana pun ON!” mencerminkan semangat dinamik rakyat Malaysia di samping menggalakkan orang ramai untuk meneroka dan menyokong produk tempatan sambil menikmati gabungan sukan, gaya hidup dan budaya. Pengasas theCOVER ASIA, Stephen Wong berkata kerjasama ini merupakan kolaborasi pertama bersama pusat beli-belah tersebut dan diharapkan dapat mendekatkan semangat sukan kepada masyarakat melalui pengaruh atlet negara, selain mengetengahkan jenama ‘Buatan Malaysia’ yang berkualiti tinggi.
Antara atlet yang dijangka hadir termasuk pasangan beregu campuran Goh Soon Huat dan Shevon Lai, perenang Welson Sim, pemain badminton Hoo Pang Ron dan Kong Zhou Swin, juara skuasy Sukan SEA Sanjay Jeeva serta juara luncur ais Fang Ze Zeng. Pengunjung juga boleh meneroka Malaysia Made Experience Zone yang menampilkan pelbagai aktiviti interaktif seperti pengalaman makanan tempatan, bengkel DIY serta pameran kesihatan, kecantikan dan gaya hidup. Selain itu, pelbagai permainan interaktif turut disediakan termasuk cabaran padanan produk, aktiviti meneka bau dan pertandingan media sosial, dengan lebih 500 sampel produk diagihkan setiap hari sepanjang karnival.
Antara tarikan utama ialah jualan barangan eksklusif atlet seperti aksesori NFC Touch ’n Go serta koleksi edisi terhad termasuk kad emas tulen 999, lanyard dan pelbagai barangan gaya hidup lain. Pengunjung yang berbelanja RM200 dan ke atas berpeluang menyertai cabutan bertuah dengan hadiah utama berupa 100 raket badminton bertandatangan pemain profesional.
Dalam pada itu, atlet badminton kebangsaan Chen Tang Jie bakal melancarkan kad koleksi eksklusif emas tulen 999 sebagai satu inisiatif istimewa bagi menghargai sokongan peminat sepanjang perjalanan kariernya. Koleksi ini bukan sekadar memorabilia, malah melambangkan dedikasi, usaha berterusan serta semangat juang yang telah membawanya ke pentas antarabangsa. Setiap kad emas yang dihasilkan turut membawa nilai simbolik yang mendalam, mencerminkan perjalanan penuh cabaran serta sokongan padu daripada para penyokong. Menurut Chen Tang Jie, penghasilan kad emas ini merupakan satu langkah untuk tampil dengan sesuatu yang lebih berbeza dan bermakna berbanding produk peminat konvensional, di samping menjadi permulaan kepada pembangunan jenama peribadi yang lebih meluas pada masa hadapan. Pelancaran rasmi koleksi ini dijangka mendapat sambutan hangat daripada peminat serta pengumpul, sekali gus mengukuhkan hubungan antara atlet dan penyokong.
Pengasas Click Entertainment, Tan Yin Loo berkata pihaknya berbesar hati dapat menjalinkan kerjasama dengan theCOVER ASIA serta menyokong barisan atlet kebangsaan di bawah naungan mereka. Beliau turut menyifatkan Chen Tang Jie sebagai kebanggaan negara yang sentiasa mengharumkan nama Malaysia di pentas antarabangsa, selain menghargai kerjasama bersama golongan muda yang membawa tenaga baharu dan merupakan tonggak masa depan negara. Tambah beliau lagi, syarikat akan terus meneroka saluran baharu serta pendekatan inovatif bagi memberikan pengalaman yang lebih menarik kepada para peminat, di samping mewujudkan hubungan yang lebih bermakna antara penyokong dan atlet kebangsaan.
Siaran akhbar ini diterbitkan oleh Click Entertainment. Untuk sebarang pertanyaan, orang ramai boleh menghubungi Yin Loo di talian 012-632 6658 atau melalui emel yinloo@click-ent.com.
KUALA LUMPUR, 1 APRIL 2026 – Malaysia’s tourism transport sector is facing mounting pressure as diesel prices continue to climb, prompting the Malaysian Association of Tour and Travel Agents to call for urgent intervention. With a majority of tour buses and vans consuming high volumes of fuel monthly, operators are increasingly unable to absorb rising operational costs while maintaining competitive pricing.
The industry body highlighted that many transport providers are operating on razor-thin margins, leaving little room to manoeuvre amid cost surges. As a solution, MATTA is advocating for a temporary and transparent fuel surcharge model that aligns with industry best practices, alongside targeted subsidies. These measures are designed not to generate profit, but to stabilise operations and safeguard the broader tourism value chain. Without intervention, the sustainability of tourism transport services — a critical backbone of the industry — may be at risk.
Malaysia will host Disney’s The Lion King Live in Concert for the first time, marking a landmark collaboration with Istana Budaya’s National Symphony Orchestra in conjunction with Visit Malaysia 2026. The event will take place on 13 June 2026 at the KLCC Plenary Hall. Presented by Milestone Production, this spectacular showcase brings Disney’s beloved 1994 animated masterpiece to life in a breathtaking live-to-film concert experience.
Disney fans in Malaysia will relive the magic of the Pride Lands as the full film is screened on the big screen, accompanied by a 72-piece orchestra performing the iconic score live in perfect synchronisation with the film, creating an immersive cinematic experience like no other. This world-class production will be performed by the National Symphony Orchestra Malaysia under the baton of Resident Conductor Eric Lee, who is recognised and approved by Disney Concerts for his technical precision, musical excellence and ability to meet international performance standards.
The orchestra will bring to life the iconic score by a distinguished team of Oscar and Grammy-winning talents, including composer Hans Zimmer, songwriters Elton John and Tim Rice, as well as South African music producer and composer Lebo M, whose voice and musical influence have become synonymous with The Lion King. Since its original release in 1994 by Walt Disney Animation Studios, the film has captivated millions worldwide with its timeless story of courage, love and destiny. From the powerful opening of “Circle of Life” to the joyful “Hakuna Matata” and the romantic “Can You Feel the Love Tonight,” the unforgettable soundtrack performed live will transport audiences deep into the African savannah, making this a must-see experience for families, friends and Disney fans of all ages.
Presented under licence by Disney Concerts, all rights reserved, the production is staged in conjunction with Visit Malaysia Year 2026 and also highlights Malaysia’s growing stature as a premier destination for world-class live entertainment and performing arts tourism. Tickets are now on sale with prices starting from RM168, and UOB cardmembers can enjoy up to 20 percent off on ticket purchases with applicable terms and conditions. More information can be found at www.milestone-entertainment.com.
Disney’s The Lion King Live in Concert in Kuala Lumpur will be held on 13 June 2026, with showtimes at 2:30pm and 8:00pm at the KLCC Plenary Hall. Ticket prices are set at Premium RM638, VIP RM538, CAT A RM468, CAT B RM368, CAT C RM268 and CAT D RM168, and are subject to a RM6 ticketing fee per ticket as well as 8 percent SST. For school bookings, corporate packages or purchases for persons with disabilities, enquiries can be directed to Ms. Sha at +6012 332 3024 or via email at sha@milestone-entertainment.com.
he Hunan–Malaysia Cultural, Trade & Tourism Expo, themed “THE HUNAN – MALAYSIA SYNERGY POWERING INVESTMENT, TRADE & TOURISM,” serves as the key offline extension of the “Let’s Go Malaysia” initiative. Scheduled to take place in Johor from 31 July to 2 August, the three-day expo integrates five strategic pillars: cultural and tourism promotion, product exhibition and sales, overseas business expansion, media outreach, and education and investment visits.
The event is expected to attract over 500 emerging enterprises and premium brands from China, providing a robust platform for business matching and industrial collaboration. Activities include culinary demonstrations, Malaysia–China cultural performances, brand showcases, and a global business matching forum. By facilitating cross-border business partnerships and tourism promotion, the expo aims to create complementary value and foster sustainable economic cooperation between Hunan and Malaysia, particularly Johor.
Skyline Luge Kuala Lumpur bakal menyambut ulang tahun kedua pada Disember ini, menandakan dua tahun penuh pengalaman tunggangan yang mengujakan, momen yang tidak dapat dilupakan, serta aktiviti komuniti yang meriah. Sejak pembukaannya pada 2023, lokasi ini telah menerima kunjungan pengunjung dari pelbagai peringkat umur dan dari seluruh dunia yang hadir untuk merasai sendiri keseronokan penuh pengembaraan. Kini, keterujaan tersebut diteruskan dengan pelancaran Skyline Hyfly yang serba baharu, menambah satu lagi tarikan menarik buat peminat aktiviti lasak.
Sempena ulang tahun istimewa ini, Skyline Luge Kuala Lumpur memperkenalkan pelbagai aktiviti dan promosi sepanjang musim cuti sekolah. Sepanjang Disember 2025, pengunjung boleh menikmati persembahan busker secara langsung pada setiap Jumaat hingga Ahad dari jam 5 petang hingga 9 malam, selain suasana meriah yang dihiasi zon bergambar, dekorasi tema ulang tahun, kawasan bercahaya LED dan pelbagai sudut menarik untuk merakam kenangan indah. Sepanjang waktu operasi taman, pengunjung juga boleh menyertai trivia ringkas tentang jenama ini, dan mereka yang memberikan jawapan tepat berpeluang memutar roda untuk memenangi hadiah seperti tunggangan Luge percuma, barangan eksklusif atau baucar aiskrim.
Pada tarikh terpilih sepanjang Disember, pengunjung turut berpeluang menikmati pelbagai pilihan makanan dan minuman tempatan di bazar khas yang dianjurkan di kawasan taman. Mereka yang ingin mencuba hidangan manis pula boleh mendapatkan satu skup aiskrim Tip Top tambahan dengan harga hanya RM2 di Luge View Café. Tidak ketinggalan, pengunjung juga boleh merasai debaran Skyline Hyfly pada harga hanya RM20 apabila membeli Kombo Ulang Tahun ke-2, menjadikan pengalaman di Skyline Luge Kuala Lumpur lebih bernilai dan menyeronokkan.
Semua promosi dan aktiviti yang ditawarkan adalah tertakluk kepada terma dan syarat. Skyline Luge Kuala Lumpur mengalu-alukan kedatangan semua pengunjung untuk bersama-sama meraikan detik bermakna ini dan menjadi sebahagian daripada keseronokan serta adrenalin yang telah menjadikan dua tahun ini begitu istimewa. Untuk maklumat lanjut mengenai sambutan ulang tahun ke-2 beserta promosi eksklusif, orang ramai boleh melayari laman web rasmi atau mengikuti media sosial Skyline Luge Kuala Lumpur di Facebook dan Instagram bagi mendapatkan perkembangan terkini, pemberian hadiah dan berita menarik.
