Tourism Malaysia extends its sincere congratulations to Xiamen Airlines on the successful resumption of its direct Hangzhou–Kuala Lumpur service, a move that reaffirms the airline’s long-term commitment to strengthening air connectivity between Malaysia and China. The return of this route marks an important milestone in restoring travel links between the two destinations after several years of suspension.
The resumed flight, MF8713, arrived at Kuala Lumpur International Airport Terminal 1 at 2.45 p.m., signalling Xiamen Airlines’ official return to the Hangzhou–Kuala Lumpur route, which had been suspended since 2018. Operated using a Boeing 737-800 aircraft with a seating capacity of 169 passengers, the reinstated service enhances access from Eastern China, particularly Hangzhou and its surrounding catchment areas, which are known for strong outbound travel demand.
This direct route is strategically positioned to support tourism growth, facilitate essential business travel, and promote deeper cultural exchanges between Malaysia and China. By offering a seamless travel option, the service reduces transit time and improves convenience for travellers, strengthening people-to-people connections and commercial ties between both countries.
The official welcoming ceremony at KLIA was attended by senior representatives from both tourism and aviation sectors. Among those present were Mr. Mohd Amirul Rizal Abdul Rahim, Director General of Tourism Malaysia; Mr. Samuel Lee Thai Hung, Deputy Director General Promotion II of Tourism Malaysia; Mdm. Nuwal Fadhilah Ku Azmi, Senior Director of the International Promotion Divisions Asia and Africa at Tourism Malaysia; Ms. Gao Ya Shuang, General Manager of Xiamen Airlines; as well as representatives from Malaysia Airports Holdings Berhad.
Commenting on the occasion, Mr. Mohd Amirul Rizal Abdul Rahim stated that the resumption of Xiamen Airlines’ direct Hangzhou–Kuala Lumpur service significantly enhances connectivity between Eastern China and Malaysia. He noted that the route simplifies travel for Chinese visitors while further strengthening tourism development and economic cooperation between the two nations.
The return of this service is timely as Malaysia prepares for Visit Malaysia 2026. Improved air access from key Chinese cities allows travellers to more easily explore Malaysia’s diverse offerings, including its cultural heritage, culinary experiences, urban attractions, and renowned island destinations. Enhanced connectivity plays a crucial role in shaping positive travel experiences and encouraging repeat visits.
This development also serves as an important lead-up to the Visit Malaysia 2026 campaign, which will officially begin with the Visit Malaysia 2026 Eve Celebration in Kuala Lumpur on 31 December 2025. The national countdown event is set to feature a range of activities such as the official countdown ceremony, festivals, and cultural performances, reflecting the country’s readiness to welcome the world. The government aims to attract 47 million international visitors while stimulating strong domestic travel as part of a comprehensive tourism strategy.
By strengthening international air links, travel to Malaysia becomes more accessible and efficient, supporting higher arrival numbers from priority markets. This initiative underscores Tourism Malaysia’s continued commitment to positioning the country as a leading destination and a key gateway to ASEAN, known for its rich culture, natural beauty, and welcoming hospitality.
From January to August 2025, Malaysia recorded 3.3 million visitor arrivals from China, representing a 27.5 percent year-on-year increase compared to the same period in 2024. This growth highlights Malaysia’s sustained appeal within the China market and reinforces the strategic importance of restoring and expanding direct air connectivity between the two countries.
