Batik Air has officially connected Ipoh to Singapore with a brand-new daily service, marking a milestone moment for Perak’s tourism and economic landscape. The launch, held today at Sultan Azlan Shah Airport, signals the airline’s growing confidence in the state’s potential and arrives at a strategic time as preparations accelerate for Visit Malaysia Year 2026.
State Tourism, Industry Investment and Corridor Development Committee chairman Loh Sze Yee said the new route is set to transform Perak’s appeal to international travelers. Singapore remains Malaysia’s largest tourist source market, recording more than 10 million arrivals in just the first half of the year.
“With this direct connection, we are opening the door wider for Singaporeans and travelers transiting through Singapore to discover Perak’s rich heritage, natural beauty, and unique cultural experiences”, Loh said.
He highlighted that Ipoh’s charm, a blend of colonial-era architecture, limestone hills, mystical cave temples, and a regionally beloved culinary scene, makes it an ideal getaway for travelers seeking meaningful and authentic experiences.
Boosts for Local Businesses and Tourism Ecosystem
The Perak state government is fully backing the new service, recognizing the economic ripple effects that increased air connectivity can bring.
“More flights mean more opportunities for our hotels, homestays, tour agencies, transport operators, small businesses, creative entrepreneurs and tourism-related communities across Perak. Our goal is not only to welcome travelers but also to position Ipoh as a preferred hub for short-haul international travel”, Loh said.
He added that the state hopes Batik Air will introduce more direct international routes soon, especially to markets with growing interest in cultural and nature based tourism.
A Strategic Move Ahead of Visit Malaysian Year 2026
Loh also noted that the Ipoh-Singapore service complements the nation’s broader tourism strategy leading up to Visit Malaysia Year 2026. Stronger international links, he said, will be critical in Malaysia’s efforts to enhance seamless travel, collaboration and sustainable tourism development.
“By strengthening international air links, we are building a stronger foundation for sustainable tourism growth and greater shared prosperity for Perakians,” he added.
Batik Air : Strengthening Malaysia’s Regional Connectivity
Batik Air CEO Datuk Chandran Rama Muthy echoed the sentiment, calling the Ipoh-Singapore service a meaningful addition to the airline’s growing regional network.
“Singapore remains Malaysia’s largest source of visitors, and giving travellers a direct gateway into Ipoh creates new opportunities for tourism, business exchanges and community growth”, he said. He added that the new route forms parts of Batik Air’s commitment to strengthening national connectivity ahead of 2026 and offering more direct, convenient travel options across Malaysia.
“By investing in routes like Ipoh – Singapore, Batik Air aims to support long-term tourism growth, stimulate regional development and position Malaysia as a connected, future-ready destination in the heart of Southeast Asia,” he said.
With daily flights now operational, Ipoh is set to experience a fresh wave of visitors, and renewed global attention as one of Malaysia’s emerging cultural and eco-tourism gems.
Sources: NST
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