KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia’s got a new door to the northern part of China with the inaugural arrival of China Eastern Airlines’ Taiyuan-Kuala Lumpur flight.
The first service, which arrived at KL International Airport (KLIA) Terminal 1 at 4.30 am yesterday, flew in from Wuhan and was given a warm reception by Tourism Malaysia officials.
Dubbed the “Dragon City”, Taiyuan is China’s ancient city of high economic value. Its direct link with Kuala Lumpur was seen as an economic stimulus to tourism and economic ties between the two countries.
Tourism Malaysia deputy director-general (Promotion II) Lee Thai Hung said the new service showed Malaysia’s desire to further develop ties with China and position itself as a world-class destination in the region.
We expect more Chinese visitors to travel to Malaysia to experience its rich heritage, scenery, and diversified products,” he added during the ceremony.
The four-times weekly flights will be operated using Boeing 737-800 aircraft seating 175 passengers and should be attractive to leisure and business travellers.
Malaysia recorded a sharp hike in Chinese tourists this year, as 2.2 million visitors visited the country between January and June, 35.6% higher than during the same period in 2024.
The upsurge in travelling confidence around the world is on the uptrend, catapulting Malaysia’s preparations towards the Visit Malaysia 2026 campaign.
Tourism Malaysia indicated it would continue collaborating with airlines, airports, and industry stakeholders to enhance connectivity and present Malaysia on the global tourism map.
