Malaysia Airlines has broadened its Bonus Side Trip programme, giving international travellers a valuable opportunity to explore more of the country without additional airfare. Designed to boost domestic travel ahead of Visit Malaysia Year twenty twenty six, the initiative offers free domestic return flights to seven unique destinations across Malaysia for passengers flying through Kuala Lumpur.
The Bonus Side Trip is aimed at making Malaysia more accessible and enriching for global visitors. When booking an international ticket into Malaysia, travellers can now choose an additional domestic destination at no extra cost. This offer is valid for round trip flights from Kuala Lumpur to Langkawi, Penang, Johor Bahru, Kuantan, Alor Setar, Kuala Terengganu, or Kota Bharu. These cities have been selected to reflect Malaysia’s diverse landscapes, local cultures, and heritage experiences.
What makes the programme especially appealing is its simplicity. Unlike traditional travel packages that often require separate bookings and extra coordination, the Bonus Side Trip is integrated directly into the international ticketing process. Travellers just need to select their additional domestic destination while purchasing their primary flight. This ease of access adds significant value and eliminates the hassle often associated with domestic add ons.
Malaysia Airlines’ Chief Commercial Officer, Dersenish Aresandiran, explained that this move goes beyond simply connecting destinations. It reflects the airline’s goal to extend its signature Malaysian Hospitality throughout the country, offering visitors the chance to explore offbeat regions and experience a deeper cultural connection. By encouraging travel to less frequented areas, the programme supports sustainable tourism and strengthens local economies.
This initiative is not just a promotional offer. It is part of a long term vision to disperse international tourism beyond major cities like Kuala Lumpur. As more visitors explore secondary destinations, small businesses, local artisans, and cultural hubs are expected to benefit from increased exposure and economic support. The effort aligns with national goals to create balanced growth in tourism and highlight the richness of Malaysia’s regional experiences.
To showcase the potential of the Bonus Side Trip, Malaysia Airlines recently invited international influencers from India, China, Australia, and Thailand to Langkawi. Their curated itinerary included stops at the Kilim Geoforest Park, the Langkawi SkyCab, and traditional craft centers, providing a compelling preview of what the side trip could offer. Their shared content has already begun drawing attention from audiences worldwide, generating interest in Malaysia’s lesser explored gems.
Each of the featured destinations has its own unique charm. Langkawi boasts natural wonders and geological parks, while Penang is known for its food culture and colonial architecture. Johor Bahru offers a dynamic mix of heritage and modern attractions. Kuantan provides access to beaches and traditional Malay villages. Alor Setar is rich in historical significance. Kuala Terengganu is a coastal town known for Islamic art and floating mosques. Kota Bharu, located near the Thai border, showcases distinct Kelantanese traditions and vibrant markets.
With the Bonus Side Trip, Malaysia Airlines is redefining how international travellers experience the country. Rather than restricting visits to a single city or rushing through a short itinerary, visitors can now take their time and explore more deeply, adding richness to their travel stories. As the country prepares for a major tourism push in twenty twenty six, such initiatives are expected to play a central role in how Malaysia positions itself on the global tourism map.
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