In a milestone moment for regional connectivity, Batik Air has officially launched its first international service from Sultan Abdul Aziz Shah Airport, Subang (SZB), with a direct route to Bangkok, Thailand. The inaugural flight, marked by a simple yet meaningful ceremony at SZB earlier, signifies a bold new chapter in the airline’s commitment to expanding Subang’s role as a key travel hub for the Klang Valley.
This new Subang-Bangkok service not only opens the door for more seamless travel between Malaysia and Thailand but also signals Batik Air’s vision of decentralising international access from Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) to a more urban, time-saving location. The Subang airport, located just 20 minutes away from the city centre, offers travelers an efficient alternative for both business and leisure travel.
Alongside this launch, Batik Air also began direct services between Subang and Kuching (KCH) on the same day. This marks the airline’s second East Malaysia route from SZB, complementing its existing network to Penang, Kota Bharu, Kota Kinabalu, and Tawau (via Kota Kinabalu). The addition of Bangkok and Kuching brings the total number of direct routes operated by Batik Air from Subang to five.
Batik Air’s Chief Executive Officer Datuk Chandran Rama Muthy said, “With these new routes, we are not only deepening our presence in Subang but also bringing travelers closer to the destinations they love—whether it’s exploring Bangkok’s vibrant streets or experiencing Kuching’s rich cultural charm.”
The move was also welcomed by Malaysian tourism authorities, who see the expanded connectivity as a timely boost ahead of the country’s upcoming tourism campaigns.
Director General of Tourism Malaysia, Datuk Manoharan Periasamy, commended Batik Air’s role in enhancing regional and domestic air links, especially as preparations gear up for Visit Malaysia 2026 (VM2026). “We applaud Batik Air’s commitment in expanding Malaysia’s regional and domestic air connectivity. These new routes are timely as we gear up for Visit Malaysia 2026 (VM2026). Thailand remains one of our most important source markets, and enhanced accessibility will play a pivotal role in boosting visitor arrivals and supporting the growth of Malaysia’s tourism industry.”
Echoing this, Tourism Selangor expressed optimism that the new international connection will contribute to Visit Selangor Year 2025’s ambitious target of attracting 8 million visitors. With Subang Airport situated close to key areas like Petaling Jaya and Shah Alam, the route is expected to entice more Thai tourists to explore the diverse attractions that Selangor has to offer.
As Batik Air continues to build on its network from SZB, the airline’s latest efforts reaffirm its broader vision to provide travelers with streamlined connectivity, enhanced accessibility and a modern travel experience rooted in convenience and strategic planning. With the addition of Bangkok and Kuching to its Subang portfolio, Batik Air is clearly not just connecting cities, its connecting culture, opportunities, and the growing demand for smarter travel within the region.
Sources: Batik Air
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