Malaysia Airlines, in a powerful collaboration with the Malaysia Convention and Exhibition Bureau (MYCEB) and the Langkawi Development Authority (LADA), recently concluded the second annual Trade Elevation Summit (TES). Held from June 10 to 12, 2025, on the picturesque island of Langkawi, this flagship event served as a critical platform to energize global trade partnerships and bolster Malaysia’s vision for Visit Malaysia Year 2026 (VMY2026).
Uniting Global Aviation Leaders in a Stunning Setting
As Malaysia’s premier airline trade gathering, TES 2025 drew over 300 delegates from 68 cities worldwide, including airline representatives, trade partners, and key industry stakeholders. Following the success of its inaugural edition in Kuala Lumpur last year, the summit leveraged Langkawi’s breathtaking UNESCO Global Geopark status to provide an inspiring backdrop for collaboration, innovation, and strategic discussions. Attendees were treated to a blend of business-to-business (B2B) sessions, immersive product showcases, and insightful forums focused on aviation growth, regional connectivity, and destination marketing, all while experiencing the rich tapestry of Malaysian culture.
Championing Langkawi and National Tourism Goals
Mr. Dersenish Aresandiran, Chief Commercial Officer for Airlines of Malaysia Aviation Group, highlighted the airline’s commitment to showcasing Malaysia’s diverse appeal. “Malaysia is more than just a destination; it’s a narrative of vibrant culture, genuine hospitality, and global potential,” Aresandiran stated. “As the national carrier, Malaysia Airlines proudly carries this story across continents, bridging nations and representing all that Malaysia embodies.”
He emphasized Langkawi’s enduring significance within the airline’s network, noting it as one of their earliest and most cherished leisure destinations. With 56 weekly flights connecting Langkawi to key cities both within Malaysia and internationally, Malaysia Airlines continues to position the island as a crucial tourism gateway and a driver of regional economic growth.
Aresandiran further explained that hosting TES in Langkawi reflects the airline’s sustained dedication to elevating Malaysia’s primary tourism hubs and aligning with national objectives. He pointed to initiatives like the “Bonus Side Trip” program and ongoing investments in connectivity, product innovation, digital platforms, and customer experience as core strategies. These efforts aim to solidify Malaysia Airlines’ standing as a top-of-mind carrier in the region and mark a strategic milestone leading up to Visit Malaysia Year 2026, where the airline will continue its role as a proud champion of Malaysia as a premier global destination.
A Unified Push for Tourism Growth
As an annual initiative, TES reinforces Malaysia Airlines’ mission to promote Malaysia as a preferred travel destination, foster innovation in aviation, and encourage closer collaboration between international stakeholders and local industry players. This year’s summit in Langkawi not only reinforced Malaysia’s position as a leading travel destination in Asia but also underscored the airline’s commitment to supporting state-level tourism through strategic alignment with the nation’s broader tourism goals.
The success of TES 2025, buoyed by the strong support from MYCEB and LADA, exemplifies a cohesive national effort to fortify Malaysia’s tourism and aviation sectors. Driven by strategic collaboration and a shared ambition, the summit served as a timely catalyst to invigorate the tourism ecosystem, forge lasting partnerships, and reaffirm Malaysia Airlines’ integral role as the nation’s flagbearer as the country gears up for Visit Malaysia Year 2026.
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Rajeev Kohli, JMD, Creative Travels @ Kerala Travel Mart 2024
