Tourism Malaysia extends its warmest congratulations to Xiamen Airlines on the successful launch of the inaugural direct flight connecting Quanzhou and Kuala Lumpur today.
Flight MF8661, which landed at Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) Terminal 1 at approximately 2:45 p.m. Malaysia time, marked the start of direct air services from Quanzhou, a city renowned as the starting point of the ancient Maritime Silk Road. Operating four times a week with a Boeing 738 aircraft, the route connects Quanzhou Jinjiang International Airport (JJN) to KLIA (KUL) Terminal 1, accommodating 169 passengers per flight; 8 in business class and 161 in economy class. This development reflects a significant step forward in enhancing air connectivity between Malaysia and southern China, fostering deeper bilateral cooperation and driving growth in tourism, trade, and cultural exchange.
The inauguration ceremony was officiated by Mr. Samuel Lee, Deputy Director General (Promotion II) of Tourism Malaysia, alongside Mr. Mohamad Libra Lee Haniff, Director of International Promotions (Asia/Africa) Division of Tourism Malaysia, as well as Mr. Sarjanisham Darus, Senior Manager of Aviation Marketing and Development, Malaysia Airports Holdings Berhad, and Ms. Gao Ya Shuang, General Manager of Xiamen Airlines. The presence of these distinguished guests demonstrated a strong show of partnership and collaboration between the aviation and tourism sectors.
Following the official launch, Mr. Samuel Lee emphasised that the launch plays an important role in strengthening tourism relations between Malaysia and China. Beyond improving travel accessibility for visitors from Quanzhou and the surrounding regions, it underscores Tourism Malaysia’s commitment to promoting Malaysia as a premier travel destination in Southeast Asia. He expressed confidence in welcoming more travellers from Quanzhou to explore Malaysia’s vibrant cultural heritage, stunning natural attractions, and diverse tourism offerings.
From January to August 2025, Malaysia recorded 3.3 million visitor arrivals from China, reflecting a significant 27.5% increase compared to the corresponding period in 2024. This growth highlights Malaysia’s rising popularity among Chinese travellers, particularly with its vibrant urban destinations, diverse culinary offerings, tranquil islands, and culturally rich heritage towns. With the introduction of this direct flight by Xiamen Airlines, Malaysia is set to provide a more seamless and convenient travel experience for visitors from China.
Tourism Malaysia remains committed to working closely with international airlines, airport authorities, and industry partners to strengthen global air connectivity and expand the nation’s tourism footprint. In line with the Visit Malaysia 2026 (VM2026) campaign, this milestone also provides a golden opportunity for Malaysia to intensify preparations and elevate its position as one of the world’s leading travel destinations.
For further information or to book your trip, visit www.xiamenair.com/en-my/.
