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Xiamen Airlines Hangzhou Kuala Lumpur news: The Chinese airline has resumed direct flights, which strongly reaffirms the commitment to enhancing air connectivity between Malaysia and China.
The resumed flight, MF8713, touched down at KL International Airport (KLIA) Terminal 1 on 13 December. This arrival signifies the airline’s return to the Hangzhou–Kuala Lumpur route, following the suspension of operations in 2018.
Operated using a Boeing 737-800 aircraft with a 169-seat capacity, this reinstated service significantly strengthens access from Eastern China, particularly Hangzhou and its surrounding catchment areas. The route is strategically positioned to support robust tourism growth, facilitate essential business travel, and enhance cultural exchanges between both nations.
The official welcoming ceremony saw high-level attendance, including Mr. Mohd Amirul Rizal Abdul Rahim, Director General of Tourism Malaysia; Mr. Samuel Lee Thai Hung, Deputy Director General (Promotion II), Tourism Malaysia; Mdm. Nuwal Fadhilah Ku Azmi, Senior Director, International Promotion Divisions (Asia/Africa) of Tourism Malaysia; Ms. Gao Ya Shuang, General Manager of Xiamen Airlines; and representatives from Malaysia Airports Holdings Berhad (MAHB).
Xiamen Airlines relaunches Hangzhou – Kuala Lumpur flights
“The resumption of Xiamen Airlines’ direct Hangzhou–Kuala Lumpur service enhances connectivity between Eastern China and Malaysia. This route simplifies travel for Chinese travellers and further strengthens tourism and economic cooperation between Malaysia and China,” stated Mr. Mohd Amirul Rizal Abdul Rahim, Director General, Tourism Malaysia.
The return of this route is strategically timed ahead of Visit Malaysia 2026 (VM2026). It significantly improves accessibility for Chinese travellers, enabling them to easily experience Malaysia’s diverse offerings, which range from rich cultural heritage and culinary experiences to stunning natural attractions and island destinations.
This initiative serves as a vital precursor to the VM2026 campaign, which is set to commence in less than a month. The national countdown begins with the VM2026 Eve Celebration in Kuala Lumpur on 31 December 2025. This flagship event will feature a wide array of activities, including the official countdown ceremony, festivals, and cultural performances. The government’s aspiration for VM2026 is twofold: to welcome 47 million international visitors and to inspire a significant surge in domestic travel, ensuring the campaign’s success as a comprehensive strategic framework for the nation’s tourism future.
By enhancing connectivity, travel to Malaysia becomes more seamless, supporting increased arrivals from key markets. This initiative reaffirms Tourism Malaysia’s commitment to positioning Malaysia as a premier destination and gateway to ASEAN, offering vibrant cultural experiences and stunning natural attractions.
From January to August 2025, Malaysia recorded 3.3 million visitor arrivals from China, reflecting a 27.5% year-on-year increase compared to the same period in 2024. This strong performance underscores Malaysia’s sustained attractiveness and strategic significance within the China market.
