Malaysia Airlines boosts global trade ties through TES 2026 in Sabah

TES 2026 reportedly Malaysia’s largest airline trade event, brought together key industry stakeholders from across the global travel and aviation ecosystem, aiming to strengthen Malaysia’s positioning during Visit Malaysia 2026.

Malaysia Airlines, in strategic collaboration with Sabah Tourism Board, hosted the third edition of its flagship Trade Elevation Summit (TES) from May 12-15, 2026, in Kota Kinabalu, Sabah. Said to be Malaysia’s largest airline trade event, TES 2026 reported to have brought together key industry stakeholders from across the global travel and aviation ecosystem, aiming to boost Malaysia’s position as a preferred tourism and connectivity hub during Visit Malaysia 2026.

TES 2026 welcomed more than 300 delegates, including trade partners, tourism stakeholders, key decision-makers, and top leadership from 60 cities globally.

The four-day summit culminated in an exclusive gala evening on the third night, bringing together Malaysia Aviation Group’s (MAG) top leadership, including Captain Nasaruddin A. Bakar, President and Group Chief Executive Officer; Bryan Foong, Chief Executive Officer of Airline Business and Dersenish Aresandiran, Chief Commercial Officer of Airline Business, who shared strategic updates and the Group’s future direction with global trade partners. The evening also served as a platform to recognise the achievements and enduring support of trade partners through the Golden Wau Awards.

Dersenish Aresandiran, Chief Commercial Officer of Airline Business from MAG, said, “We are grateful to Sabah Tourism Board for their strong collaboration in bringing this year’s Trade Elevation Summit to Kota Kinabalu — a destination renowned for its breathtaking islands, rich cultural heritage and warm hospitality. Hosting TES 2026 here allowed us to showcase the very best of Sabah while strengthening meaningful partnerships with our global trade partners. As the national carrier, Malaysia Airlines remains committed to driving tourism growth and enhancing connectivity across Malaysia and beyond as we continue to champion Malaysia’s tourism offerings to the world during Visit Malaysia 2026 and beyond.”