NEW DELHI: AirAsia Group has welcomed the recently-announced multiple visa entry scheme for Indian tourists to Malaysia, as well as the proposed review of the Bilateral Air Services Agreement between the two countries.
AirAsia Berhad Executive Chairman and AirAsia X Group Chief Executive Officer Datuk Kamarudin Meranun said the airline applauds the announcement of a multiple-entry eVisa, valid for 15 days, as there is an urgent need to ensure hassle-free travel for Indians and Malaysians.
“This good news will certainly encourage tourists travelling between both countries, and contribute to higher receipts from travel and tourism, which will then provide immediate contribution to economic growth,” he said in a statement today.
Kamarudin also said the airline is pleased with the planned review of the Bilateral Air Services Agreement between India and Malaysia.
“We would like to record our sincere appreciation to the Indian government for expanding the number of slots for Malaysian carriers to operate between the two countries,” he said.
AirAsia, as a group, operates 109 international flights weekly to 13 destinations in India – which is a relatively low number when you take into account the size and population of the country, he said.
“We look forward to working closely with Tourism Malaysia and India to grow tourist arrivals on both ends, as we aim to provide wider connectivity between India, Malaysia and Asean,” he added.
In 2015, 722,141 Indian tourists visited Malaysia, compared to 272,941 Malaysians who visited India on tourist visas.
The leading budget airline, which is a key member of the Malaysia India Business Council (MIBC), was also pleased to participate in a business forum co-organised by the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII), held as part of Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak’s six-day official visit to India.
“We were able to provide input on various matters which are key to facilitate social economic development, trade investments and tourism between both countries – vital elements in providing immediate contribution to the economy,” Kamarudin said.
Meanwhile, AirAsia India’s managing director and Chief Executive Officer, Amar Abrol, said AirAsia India is a living example of a successful strategic partnership.
“A joint venture by two large conglomerates, AirAsia India is in its growth phase,” he said.
The airlines’ Indian operations recently welcomed its 9th Airbus A320, and announced Kolkata as its third hub, which will connect to Ranchi, and from there, on to New Delhi.
He added that with 15 destinations and three hubs in Bengaluru, New Delhi and Kolkata, AirAsia India will strive further towards connecting Tier I destinations to Tier II and III segments.
“It’s an exciting year for us, and we look forward to marking several milestones in the next few months”, Amar added.