Cloud Passport In The Works For ASEAN Nations

Malaysian startup BorderPass is set to launch a pilot test at Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) which allows travellers to pre-clear the immigration checkpoint before arriving at the destination.

The closed trial will take place once BorderPass finishes installation of automatic clearance gates at KLIA Terminals 1 and 2 by the end of this year. Public trials are then planned to follow.

Explaining how it works, BorderPass CEO Faisal Ariff said: “We replace paper immigration forms with a biometrically verified online profile, which is sent to the destination government the moment a flight is booked.

“Pre-cleared passengers use a BorderPass automated gate on arrival, skipping the manual immigration queue and forms. It is essentially a precursor to the cloud passport. It is where we feel the world is headed to in the next 10 to 20 years.”

BorderPass is being targeted at intra-ASEAN travellers for now, according to Faisal, who is speaking with various stakeholders within the 10 nation bloc to implement the pioneering solution.

“There are four key stakeholders who we have worked hard to convince: governments, airlines, airports and passengers,” he said.

“Each have a different perspective and we tailor our message to them accordingly. For governments the top three priorities are security, security and security. For airlines, it may be boosting passenger throughput and managing capacity.”

BorderPass had been in talks with the Malaysian Immigration Department since early 2014, as well as with the ASEAN Secretariats in Jakarta and three other ASEAN countries, among many others, to bring the project to its current state. The trail at KLIA is a first for South-east Asia.

Australia and New Zealand, in an initiative led by the two nation’s governments, were the world’s first to test run cloud passport technology back in October 2015.

While going paperless is an exciting prospect for end-consumers, Faisal highlights the positive effects it has for South-east Asian immigration authorities as well.

He said: “The key difference we are introducing is the ability to pre-screen passengers before they arrive, using a secure biometrically-verified profile which carries over from journey to journey across the region.

“This enables the destination government to screen visa-free visitors days, weeks or months ahead of time, as opposed to traditional last-minute manual screening. For passengers this translates to a simple, seamless, and secure journey.”

BorderPass is also currently working closely with travel technology stalwarts Amadeus via its startup programme Amadeus Next to look at integrating its systems with airlines and airports that are being powered by Amadeus solutions.

“We had the unique opportunity to head to Amadeus’ customer event, Online Connect, where we were able to pitch our idea and network with Asia-Pacific’s leading OTAs. It was great exposure to the industry and for us it validated our solution with the online community,” said Faisal.

“We were also pretty excited to be awarded Amadeus Next Startup of the Year at the event, helping us to establish international credibility, and probably it helped us in Malaysia also.”

Source: Pelancongan Kini - Malaysia

KL PASS - Experience KL With Greater Value

Discover Kuala Lumpur with two special combination deals for only RM99! Get your hands on the special KL PASS™ Budget Deal and save up to 43% off ticket admissions to pre-selected attractions in the city. There are two special deals to choose from, depending on what you would like to see, do and experience in Kuala Lumpur. KL PASS™ Budget Deal is the best value way to discover Kuala Lumpur. For just RM99, the KL PASS™ allows you to visit up to 6 interesting attractions – this includes touring the city on board the KL Hop-On Hop-Off Tour Bus. Shop and dine with the KL PASS™ Budget Deal and you will be entitled to discounts and special offers at over 70 establishments such as malls, dining and retail outlets. KL PASS™ Budget Deal is available in 1-Day validity for Adult only. Offer valid till 31st August 2016. Travel now till 31st December 2016. Terms & Conditions apply.

DEAL NO. 1 THE UNDERSEA DEAL This deal gives you access to Aquaria KLCC where you can explore the undersea world. Stroll along a 90-metre walkthrough oceanarium and see sharks, rays, turtles and schools of tropical sea fish. After being amazed with the undersea world, explore the world of delicate winged creatures at the KL Butterfly Park. Discover the history of telecommunications at the Telekom Museum and learn about Kuala Lumpur at the KL City Gallery. End your day with a bang at KL’s most popular superclub, Zouk. ·         SAVINGS RM76.00 ·         PURSE VALUE RM175.00 ·         PRICE RM99.00

THIS DEAL INCLUDES ENTRY WITHOUT FURTHER PAYMENT TO ONLY THE FOLLOWING 5 PRE-SELECTED ATTRACTIONS: AQUARIA KLCC •  TELEKOM MUSEUM  •  KL BUTTERFLY PARK •  KL CITY GALLERY •  ZOUK KL

DEAL NO. 2 THE SKY VIEW DEAL Get a bird’s eye view of Kuala Lumpur city from the observation deck of the KL Tower. At 421 metres into the clouds, you’ll see views that will take your breath away. It’s also a great way to see the famed Petronas Twin Towers. Then walk through the beautiful gardens filled with delicate winged creatures at the KL Butterfly Park. Discover the history of telecommunications at the Telekom Museum and learn about Kuala Lumpur at the KL City Gallery. Explore the city on board the KL Hop-On Hop-Off tour bus and end your day with a bang at KL’s most popular superclub, Zouk. ·         SAVINGS RM76.00 ·         PURSE VALUE RM175.00 ·         PRICE RM99.00

THIS DEAL INCLUDES ENTRY WITHOUT FURTHER PAYMENT TO ONLY THE FOLLOWING 6 PRE-SELECTED ATTRACTIONS: KL TOWER  •  TELEKOM MUSEUM  •  KL HOP-ON HOP-OFF  •  KL BUTTERFLY PARK  •  KL CITY GALLERY  •  ZOUK KL

Terms and Conditions The KL PASS™ Budget Deals are applicable for online purchase only • The KL PASS™ Budget Deals allow single entry per attraction • The KL PASS™ Budget Deals are activated upon first usage and are valid based on a 24 hour cycle • Lost or damaged cards are non-refundable • The KL PASS™ Budget Deals are valid until 31st December 2016 for activation and use • Kindly be advised that this is a self-collection order. Pick up your KL PASS™ Budget Deal at KL City Gallery, Dataran Merdeka • A purchase order will take three (3) working days for processing before collection of your KL PASS™ Budget Deal card can be done. • When collecting your KL PASS™ Budget Deal, please present your passport or any form of picture identification together with your KL PASS™ Budget Deal order confirmation • Please note that you need to be above 21 years of age to gain entry to Zouk KL • KL PASS™ reserves the right to make any changes to the KL PASS™ Budget Deal without prior notice.

Purchase your pass here

Medical Tourism Booming in Malaysia

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Research and Markets (http://www.researchandmarkets.com/research/wpmdwn/booming_medical) has announced the addition of the “Booming Medical Tourism in Malaysia” report to their offering.

The Malaysian medical tourism industry is going through a phenomenal growth phase, offering immense opportunities for players involved in the business. Despite the global economic downturn, the market is growing exceptionally in each and every field of medical treatment.

Healthcare expense in developed countries together with the issue of time is making people seek affordable healthcare services in developing countries such as Malaysia.

In their latest research study, Booming Medical Tourism in Malaysia, RNCOS’ analysts identified and deciphered the market dynamics in important segments to clearly highlight the areas offering promising possibilities for the companies to boost their growth. The market is anticipated to grow at a CAGR of 13% during 2013-2017. The robust growth in revenue along with medical tourists is being driven by factors such as cost-effective treatments, skilled medical professionals, and government support.

In the report, the Malaysian medical tourism market is studied thoroughly on various grounds. Comprehensive study of the current market scenario along with the existing medical infrastructure covering hospitals, healthcare human resources and technological developments has been done. Moreover, different drivers and characteristics of the market have been discussed along with forecasts to provide an understanding of the market dynamics. This section intends to aid companies in designing their business strategies and provide them with key insights that can help them boost their profits. Also, the research has included an in-depth analysis of costs, comprising comparison of cost saving in various countries and treatment wise cost comparison of Malaysia with other countries.

Further, the report covers analysis of market, broken down into eight major market segments. This has helped our analysts to clearly identify and highlight the market segments offering maximum opportunity for growth. For instance, our study reveals that alternative medicines are becoming very much popular in Malaysia. Tourists are being fascinated by the alternative medical practices as these practices not only cure the illness but also increase the resilience of the human body devoid of any side effects.

The study further delves into the detailed description of the major players in the industry, covering description of their businesses and their recent developments. This will help the reader to gain a deeper insight into each key market player. In a nutshell, the research provides all the prerequisite information for intending clients looking out to venture into these markets, and facilitates them to devise strategies while going for an investment/partnership in Malaysian medical tourism industry.

Credit: www.breakingtravelnews.com

Source: Medical tourism booming in Malaysia | News | Breaking Travel News

Regional Turmoil Prompts Saudis To Change Their Vacation Plans

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Local tourism experts predict that the political uprisings in Syria, Lebanon, Egypt and other Arab countries has had an impact on Saudis’ vacation choices. 

Europe and south-east Asia remain the destination of choice for many Saudi tourists in light of developments in the Middle East. 

According to local travel agencies, 20 percent of Saudi tourists prefer to spend the summer vacation in the Kingdom, as the month of Ramadan will begin tentatively Jul. 9, coinciding with the beginning of the school holidays. On the other hand, 30 percent of the Saudis who intend to travel this summer have chosen to visit Turkey. 

“This summer, we anticipate that Europe will witness a 20-percent increase in the number of Saudi tourists, while Arab countries will witness a sharp decline,” Mohammad Abdul Aziz, a manager at the Gulf for Travel and Tourism Agency, told Arab News.

“Malaysia and Singapore will also be attractive destinations for many Saudi tourists. Meanwhile, Turkey is expected to receive more than 30 percent of Saudi holidaymakers this year,” he added.

Nasser Al-Tayar, chairman of Al-Tayar for Travel and Tourism, affirmed that 5 million Saudis traveled outside the Kingdom during the summers of 2011 and 2012. 

“Since Ramadan happens to fall during the beginning of the summer season this year, almost 3 million Saudis will opt to remain in the Kingdom,” said Abdul Khaleq Radwan, an employee at a local travel agency. 

“During the summer of 2010, Egypt alone received more then 500,000 Saudis. This season is different, as initial surveys indicate a 60-percent drop in Saudi tourists traveling to Egypt due to fears about the political situation,” he added. 

Meanwhile, Sultan Abdullah, a marketing executive at a private company, said he had planned to spend his summer vacation in Egypt, but after the latest violence the country witnessed, he is no longer sure.

“I am hesitant; I love Egypt and used to frequently visit, but the recent events have left me wary. I am currently searching for alternative vacation spots. London is an option, as I have many friends living there,” he added. 

Alternatively, Mohammad Saeed views the present state of affairs in some Middle Eastern countries as a chance to travel somewhere new.

“I think this is a good chance to explore new countries. We have been accustomed to traveling to Egypt every summer. This year, I will opt perhaps for Malaysia instead.”

Credits
Writer: IBRAHIM NAFFEE
Source: www.arabnews.com

F1 Petronas Malaysia Grand Prix 2012 - Will it be Hot or Wet?

With only few days to go for the Petronas Malaysia Grand Prix to kick off, weather conditions strike 

the focus of participating teams now. As previous years races, hot and wet weather play role for the 

winners and the backmarkers. Tire wear will be a critical factor in the race strategy of the teams.

According to the Malaysian Meteorological Department weather outlook for Sepang area, there will 
be showers in the afternoon - 7 Days Weather Outlook for Sepang.  

However, fans can expect competing teams and drivers in Sepang this year better prepared, whatever
the weather conditions is.

See you there!

Info links:     SIC Official Page

                   e-Ticket   Global Ticket Agents   Seat Viewer

                   Access Information  

Download:  F1 2012 Malaysia GP Brochure (pdf)

                  

Source/Credit/Image Credit:  Sepang International Circuit Sdn. Bhd.

webs / search engine

Tickets for F1 race worldwide 

Go Kart at Sepang International Circuit | Sepang International Circuit, Malaysia

Go Kart at Sepang International Circuit | Sepang International Circuit, Malaysia

Picture Credit: SIC
Shared from: Go Kart at Sepang International Circuit

Raya Open House 2011 by The ZON All Suites Residences on the park

POWER-GEN ASIA 2011

Topic:             Power Generation, Transmission and Distribution

Date:               27^th – 29^th September 2011

Venue:            Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre, KLCC

Organizer:      PennWell Corporation

Description:    

POWER-GEN Asia, co-located with Renewable Energy World Asia, is the region's leading event dedicated to the power generation and transmission and distribution industries.

Full Info here 

PDF Power-Gen Asia 2011 Pre-Show Guide 

Credit/Source: Powergenasia.com

                        PennWell.com

FHM 2011

Show Title	:	FOOD AND HOTEL MALAYSIA 2011 The 11th Malaysian International Exhibition of Food, Drinks, Hotel, Restaurant & Foodservice Equipment, Supplies, Services & Related Technology
Held alongside	:	Propak Malaysia 2011 Culinaire Malaysia 2011
Incorporating	:	Halal Food Asia 2011 Bakery & Confectionery Malaysia 2011
Status	:	Malaysia's Official Food & Hotel Show
Venue	:	Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre (KLCC)
Date	:	20-23 September 2011
Endorsement & Support	:	Ministry of Tourism, Malaysian Association of Hotel, Chefs Association of Malaysia, the Malaysian Food & Beverage Executive Association and MATRADE
Opening Hours	:	10.00 am - 6.00 pm (20 - 22 September 2011) 10.00 am - 5.00 pm (23 September 2011)
Admission	:	The exhibition is open to all professionals, trade and business visitors related to the food and hospitality industries only

Read More: Full Info here
PDF - FHM 2011 Preview

Source/Credit to Organizer: Malaysian Exhibition Services Sdn Bhd (MES)