PHILIPPINES JOINS MATTA FAIR KL 2025, MALAYSIA’S LARGEST INTERNATIONAL TRAVEL FAIR

KUALA LUMPUR - The Philippines participated in the MATTA Fair KL 2025, Malaysia’s Largest International Travel Fair, held from 18-20 April 2025 at the Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre (MITEC).

The Philippine pavilion featured six (6) booths, including five from the private sector. Participating companies included Cebu Pacific Air, Philippine Airlines (PAL), and three local travel agencies—Airlink Travel, Apple Vacations Sdn Bhd, and Ubingo Vacations—which offered a variety of travel packages to the Philippines.

The Tourism Promotions Board Manila was represented by Mr. Billy John Casabuena, Market Specialist II from the ASEAN and the Pacific Division, and Ms. Gianna Allysa Añonuevo, Market Specialist III, from the International Promotions Department. They provided valuable information to visitors, assisted in planning their trips to the Philippines, and engaged actively with attendees to showcase the country’s diverse tourism offerings. Datuk Melissa Ong, Marketing Director of TPB’s Malaysia Representative Office, was also present to oversee the pavilion and highlighted the growing interest of Malaysian travelers in exploring the Philippines.

While the Philippines is widely known for destinations like Manila and Boracay with its world-famous beach, one of the key highlights at this year’s fair was the growing availability of Muslim-friendly tourism in the country. Among the highlights was a beachfront resort in Boracay that recently introduced a fully Muslim-friendly experience—complete with halal dining and private facilities tailored to the needs of Muslim travelers. This initiative underscores the Philippines’ commitment to inclusive tourism and its efforts to cater to Muslim markets like Malaysia.

MATTA Fair KL is an annual event that serves as a major showcase for the tourism industry, offering a platform for both local and international travel agents, airlines, hotels, and tourism boards to showcase their products and services. The fair offers visitors special travel deals, packages, and vacation opportunities, and typically features a wide range of destinations, tours, and promotions. END