KUCHING: AirAsia X (AAX) and Kenya Tourism Board entered a strategic collaboration to enhance connectivity between Asia and Africa and drive tourism growth for both regions.
According to AAX in a statement, the collaboration also includes joint promotional activities, coordinated marketing campaigns, and collaborative efforts to enhance travel experiences which aims to leverage the strengths of both organisations to attract more tourists and stimulate economic growth in both countries.
This, it added, follows the upcoming launch of AAX’s new direct flights connecting Kuala Lumpur to Nairobi, set to commence on November 15, 2024 with four weekly flights.
“The introduction of this direct route is also set to play a crucial role by offering Kenyan travellers convenient Fly-Thru access to Asia’s leading destinations through Kuala Lumpur.
“In alignment with Malaysia’s upcoming Visit Malaysia 2026 campaign, this new route will bolster Malaysia’s appeal as a premier travel destination offering diverse experiences.
“Kuala Lumpur will serve as a key gateway for tourists from Nairobi, granting them direct access to Malaysia’s vibrant attractions, including its cultural landmarks, scenic landscapes, and thriving culinary scene,” it said.
Commenting on the collaboration, AAX chief executive officer (CEO) Benyamin Ismail said that it is indeed a major milestone in the company’s mission to connect Asia with Africa and opens up a world of travel possibilities between the two continents.
“Our Route Marketing Collaboration with the Kenya Tourism Board demonstrates our commitment to expanding travel opportunities and boosting tourism.
“This new route will play a crucial role in Kenya’s tourism growth and create new connections for travellers. For our other key routes such as Australia and China, Nairobi will now be easily accessible, offering new adventures in Africa and enhanced travel options via Kuala Lumpur.
“This route not only strengthens our global network but also supports the tourism goals of both Kenya and Malaysia,” he said.
Meanwhile, Kenya Tourism Board CEO June Chepkemei said that the collaboration would drive a substantial growth in tourism numbers to Kenya.
According to her, this enhanced connectivity will stimulate economic growth and create new opportunities for local businesses, showcasing Kenya as a key destination for global travellers, especially from Asia.
By facilitating easier access to Nairobi, she said, the country anticipates increased tourism revenue and stronger cultural exchange, benefitting both Kenya’s tourism sector and its broader economy.
“The Asia Pacific region is a key source market for Kenya. The region saw over 320,000 travellers into the country in 2023, with India, China and Japan among the top drivers of visitor arrivals.
“Our goal through this collaboration is to ensure that we have more tourists coming from Malaysia and other regional destinations to Kenya,” she added.
For the record, AAX is offering special fares for travellers from Kuala Lumpur to Nairobi from RM799 all-in one-way in Economy or from RM1,999 to experience AAX’s award-winning Premium Flatbed.
Bookings are available now through October 6, 2024, for the travel period from November 15, 2024 until June 30, 2025.
