October 2015

SULTANATE OF OMAN The Land of the Arabian Nights

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LUCKY WINNER CORPORATE TRAVEL INSTAGRAM CONTEST Best Airline Staff Service in Travel Solution International 3 Days 2 Nights Mutiara the Middle East ( TSI ) Taman Negara Resort CONTENTS THIS MONTH ISSUE 5 15

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CONTENTS

TTS News & Updates TTS News & Updates Carrier 16 PATA Chapter Instagram Photo Contest Oman Air Event Review 1 Prize Giving Session 7 ‘Best Airline Staff Service in Tourism Career Fair 2015 Dialogue the Middle East’ at World TTS News & Updates Interview with Kavin Airline Awards Tradewinds Travel Services Martinus 8 Corporate Team Building 3 General Manager, Passenger Staff Outing 2015 ABDA Aviation Sdn Bhd Travel 19 Travel Solutions International TTS News & Updates Domestic & 10 (TSI) Tradewinds Travel Services International joins Malaysian 6 Sultanate of Oman The Golf Tourism Association Land of the Arabian Nights

Tel: +603-7967 0888 | [email protected] | www.twtravel.com.my for advertising and promotions, please contact Ms. Nadia, Marketing and Branding at [email protected] Tradewinds Travel Services Tradewinds Trvl Tradewinds Travel Services Tradewinds Travel Services Tradewindstravelservices Umrah 2015/1436H Sirah Diteladani, Ibadah Dihayati 11 Days / 09 Nights Umrah Na’im Package

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PATA MALAYSIA CHAPTER EVENT REVIEW

TOURISM CAREER FAIR 2015 ‘TODAY’S TALENT, TOMORROW’S SUCCESS’

Tradewinds Travel Services Sdn Bhd (TTS) participated in This forum was moderated by YB Dr. Junaida Lee Bt. PATA Tourism Career Fair on Saturday, 12 September Abdullah, Deputy Secretary General (Mgmt) Ministry of 2015 at the Seri Pacific Hotel . Tourism and Culture Malaysia. The panels include:

The objectives of this event are as follows: Mr. Wallace Wong, Regional Director, Asia, PATA, To connect students and potential employees from various universities and colleges in Malaysia with the Mr. Sam Cheah, organizations from tourism and hospitality sector President of Malaysian Association of Hotels under one roof. YB Dato Syed Mohd Razif, To create career awareness on the tourism President of Bumitra Malaysia industry among youngsters. Mr. Mohd Harris Gunashekar, To encourage Human Capital Development in GM, Commercial, . supporting the Visit Malaysia Year Campaign 2015. The Panellists shared their insights, ideas and professional recommendations on the topic from the perspective of The Career Fair was officially launched by Y.Bhg. Dato' their respective industries. Zainol Abidin Omar, Deputy Chairman, Tourism Malaysia at Level 3 Bunga Rooms Seri Pacific Hotel.

The event centers on the following Brand Showcase presentations by: programmes: Boustead Holdings Bhd Legoland Malaysia Resort Felda Investment Corporation Sdn Bhd

Tourism Career Forum: To share knowledge and inputs on tourism that are of interest and beneficial to the participants. The Forum will be focusing on a specific topic, which is 'Today's talent, A total of 20 Exhibitors from the tourism and hospitality Tomorrow's success in the light of Attracting and sector participated at the Fair and shared information on Retaining the Right People for Tourism Industry'. their respective organizations and career opportunities available.

The Exhibitors included:

www.tradewindstravel.com.my 1 TTS News & Update

www.tradewindstravel.com.my 2 Umrah 2015/1436H Sirah Diteladani, Ibadah Dihayati Umrah 2015/1436H Sirah Diteladani, Ibadah Dihayati

11 Hari / 09 Malam Pakej Umrah Na’im

3 3 MAKKAH MADINAH 06 MALAM 03 MALAM AL SARAYA GRAND DAR AL NAEEM

PAKEJ UMRAH 2015

PENERBANGAN TARIKH MASA AIRBUS A380

MH 8200 KUALA LUMPUR - JEDDAH 20 Disember 1000/1415

MH 8001 MADINAH - KUALA LUMPUR 29 Disember 1715/0645 RM 6,980* RM 7,200* RM 7,400* Bilik Berempat Bilik Bertiga Bilik Berdua (Seorang) (Seorang) (Seorang)

*Harga tertakluk kepada perubahan dari pihak penerbangan dan penginapan, pertukaran mata wang asing tanpa notis tertakluk kepada kelulusan VISA TTS News & Update

TRADEWINDS TRAVEL SERVICES TEAMBUILDING @ STAFF OUTING 2015 TOGETHER WE CAN MOVE MOUNTAINS

Tradewinds Travel Services (TTS) organized its Teambuilding @ Staff Outing 2015, from the 18th to 20th September 2015 at Meritus Pelangi Beach Resort & Spa, Langkawi.

The objective of this Teambuilding cum Staff Outing event is to promote unity and cohesiveness amongst TTS’s employees as they progress forwards as one to produce outstanding results for TTS! As the old adage goes, “A champion team will always beat a team of Champions”!

The employees arrived at Meritus Pelangi Beach Resort & Spa, Langkawi via three (3) airlines; AirAsia, and Malindo 2. #Ke...Laut : Captain Muhammad Zaidi Yahya Air on Friday, 18th September 2015 at 7.55 pm and 9.45 pm with warm greetings from Meritus Pelangi Beach Resort & Spa front office staff.

TTS’s employees stayed for two (2) nights at Meritus Pelangi Beach Resort & Spa, Langkawi, in a double-storey Garden Terrace Chalets that boasts refreshing views of the resort’s green landscapes. The chalets are located in close proximity to the beachfront and two free-form outdoor swimming pools.

Twenty six (26) employees from TTS participated in the 3. Tukun Babau : Captain Syahrum Mohamed Abdin Teambuilding cum staff outing event. The employees were divided into four teams from mixed departments namely:

1. Loudspeaker : Captain Kasmadi Kamaruddin 4. Fantastic 6 : Captain Leonard Tan Kay Ann

www.tradewindstravel.com.my 3 TTS News & Update

The four teams experienced Amazing Race + Fear Factor challenges on the Saturday morning and continued with Teambuilding activities later in the afternoon. The winners are as follows:

1st placing: Loudspeaker 2nd placing: #Ke Laut 3rd placing: Tukun Babau

Encik Mohd Khairy Abdul Rahim, General Manager TTS handed over lucky draw prizes of various kinds to the employees during lunch on Saturday at the Spice Restaurant. The generous sponsorships were from the following companies:

Sponsorship by:

Asia Experience Mutiara Hotel Bharu

Hung Anh Travel & Trade Joint Stock Company, Masenang Tour & Travel (Borneo)

Cekap Jaya Enterprise Meritus Pelangi Beach Resort & Spa, Langkawi

Etihad Airways Oman Air

Cathay Pacific Airways Limited Lufthansa German Airlines

Pacific World Travel Sdn Bhd (Philippine Airlines) Bali Leisure Ms Tour & Travel

Rabiha Ibrahim & Associates Narasindo Tour

Galileo Travelport Vacomm

Tourplan Airlines

Qatar Airways AirAsia

Harrods Tradewinds Premium Goods Sdn Bhd British Airways

Encik Mohd Khairy had a session on Saturday night, 19th September 2015 with TTS’s employees at Pelangi Room 1 whereby En Mohd Khairy was overwhelmed with the employees’ unity, motivation and passion towards finishing the Teambuilding event. At the end of the event, he wished the participants well and that they will continue to maintain the same fighting spirit that was shown tonight for the betterment of the company and personal development. With the said spirit, he said, there should be a greater teamwork between departments and employees.

‘TTS employees shall continuously be a united and cohesive team to produce great results for TTS. I hope the spirits of unity, motivation and passion towards work and great bonding between employees will continue to stay as long as they are with TTS’ says Encik Mohd Khairy Abdul Rahim, General Manager.

www.tradewindstravel.com.my 4 TTS News & Update

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TRADEWINDS TRAVEL SERVICES JOINS MALAYSIA GOLF TOURISM ASSOCIATION

Effective from 1st August 2015,Tradewinds Travel Services are pleased to announce that we are officially an Ordinary Member of Malaysia Golf Tourism Association (MGTA).

The objective is to secure and raise a better understanding, appreciation and awareness of Golf Destination Malaysia amongst golf travellers worldwide. Through this association, we are able to raise standards in order to deliver the best possible experience to the visiting golf traveller.

About MGTA (Malaysia Golf Tourism Association)

The Malaysia Golf Tourism Association is a non-profit making organisation whose goal is to create greater international awareness of Malaysia as Asia’s Best Kept Secret when it comes to golfing holidays.

MGTA works to bring more tourists to Malaysia and experience the magnificent array of golf from the mountains to the beach and the cities to the rainforests. Once here, visitors will be inspired by the myriad attractions, sights, spas, shopping, medical practices, dining, nightlife and business offerings. MGTA is the portal for overseas elite travelers to discover Malaysia through a collective of golf clubs and tour operators, working together to educate and inform potential visitors, and address specific issues that will raise performance and ensure joint goals are met.

MGTA works closely with Tourism Malaysia and the clubs and courses in Malaysia, as well as the media and corporate world to ensure a winning strategy that sees more golfers visit the country and discover Asia’s hidden gem.

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TTS News & Update

Instagram Photo Contest Prize Giving Session

Our lucky winner for Instagram ‘Embracing The Beauty of Mother Nature Contest’ , Lisha Emira Binti Shariffudin had raised the highest number with 3000 likes. She received 3 Days 2 Nights at Mutiara Taman Negara Resort, Taman Negara and Travel Kit worth of RM300. Prize-giving session was held at Tradewinds Travel office in the presence of Mutiara Taman Negara representative and Marketing and Branding team.

Tradewindstravelservices

www.tradewindstravel.com.my 7 Dialogue

DIALOGUE INTERVIEW WITH KAVIN MARTINUS GENERAL MANAGER, PASSENGER ABDA AVIATION SDN BHD

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INSPIRING VIEW FROM THE TOP INTERVIEW WITH KAVIN MARTINUS, GENERAL MANAGER, PASSENGER ABDA AVIATION SDN BHD

Three must-dos in Muscat, Oman

1. Diversity in natural surroundings – from desert to rugged mountains to pristine beaches, it is a must for avid photographers and the adventurer in you!

2. Traditional Arabia – rich in Arabian heritage and preserved in culture and tradition but liberal in many ways, it is the real Arabia.

3. For sportsman – there is great deep sea diving spots, rugged mountain- climbing and great golf courses to explore!

KAVIN MARTINUS, GENERAL MANAGER , PASSENGER ABDA AVIATION SDN BHD

a. What do you do for fun? c. What are you reading right now?

I am a simple person and therefore my idea of fun Nothing as I have been busy recently. But my kids is to meet up with friends over coffee and have a have been following the Harry Potter trilogy, so I good laugh. I believe that laughter is the best gift in may just start soon! life and we should not take things too seriously as life is just too short. Occasionally, a short trip abroad helps to unwind the stress a bit. d. Any health and fitness tips?

I always do 5 minutes of stretching exercise before b. Your ideal holiday country? I sleep and immediately after waking up. It is supposed to minimise muscle related injuries. I would say New Zealand, as it is only 10 hours Always wait for 20 minutes after a meal before away, has great scenery and pleasant weather, drinking water. Its suppose to help in our digestion. reasonably-priced accommodation and fits everyone’s needs from nature to adventure. I like the outdoors so it suits me well.. e. Which living person inspires you and why?

Bill Gates, as an inventor and also a philanthropist.

www.tradewindstravel.com.my 9 Costa Del Sol could also be called Costa del Golf. Andalusian coast, in the south of Spain, is famous for

Spend a full week playing golf in an amazing environment with sea, mountains and a lot of Pasión.

Private arrival and departure transfers in a *Price per person based on two adults sharing deluxe vehicle room (Standard) 7 nights at 5* hotel Los Monteros SPA and *Package valid from September 16th 2015 to Golf Resort December 22nd 2016 Double or Twin Classic Room (upgrade to A supplement of 60€ /pax will be applied during Superior room upon availability) the following periods: - from September 16th to November 14th 2015 Flamingo Restaurant - from December 23rd to December 31st 2015 Special Welcome gift - from February 1st until June 30th 2016 Green fee Pass (to choose between 11 - from September 1st until November 14th 2016 A supplement of 110€ /pax will be applied during Golf desk and special professional support the following period: - from July 1st to August 31st 2016

Spain is a shopping destination par excellence. Competitive prices, quality of workmanship and the

- mers, adding value in their Andalusian experience.

Tel: +603-7967 0888 | [email protected] | www.twtravel.com.my Domestic & International

DOMESTIC & INTERNATIONAL Sultanate of Oman The Land of the Arabian Nights

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Sultanate of Oman The Land of the Arabian Nights

Oman’s evocative landscapes and its overwhelming hospitality make it an absolute delight to explore. Oman is the land of frankincense and myrrh, Aladdin, Ali Baba and Sinbad the Sailor. Experience a slice of authentic Arabia where the traditions of old can still be found but with all the comforts of modern luxury.

Oman is also a haven for lovers of sun and nature, with unspoiled beaches, tropical seas, mountains, wadis, caves and deserts to enthral the adventurous spirit.

The Sultanate of Oman is on the eastern end of the Arabian Peninsula. It borders the United Arab Emirates in the northwest, Saudi Arabia in the west and Yemen in the southwest.

Oman’s 3165 kilometre coastline spans in the Gulf of Oman in the north and the sea of Oman (which forms part of the Arabian Sea) in the east.

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A wide variety of pristine beaches and islands Spectacular mountains, crayons and wadis World class diving, snorkelling and other water sports Turtle, dolphin and whale watching Wildlife tours in the Sultanate’s nature reserves and THINGS TO biodiversity spots DO IN OMAN Cultural sites including forts, ancient tombs and prehistoric cities Desert safaris and adventures A large variety of markets and souqs Museums and art galleries Trekking, rock climbing and cave adventures

Best Time to Visit Oman

Two main types of climate prevail in Oman; Mediterranean in the East and North, and tropical in the West and South. However, a more desert climate is prevalent in the centre with permanent heat, even at night.

Elsewhere, humidity is high and the South and West experience monsoon weather between June and September.

The best time to visit Oman is between October and March, temperatures are warm and you avoid the monsoon in the South.

Did you know?

Muscat Festival happens from late January until late Fast Facts February showcases Oman’s rich traditions and Area: 3 09 500 km historical identity. The festival has a very special Population: 4157 000 flavour; a mixture of old and new, history and Capital: Muscat progression- from fashion show, folk poetry to dance Currency: Omani Rial evenings.

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TOP ATTRACTIONS IN OMAN

MUSCAT

Muscat is Oman's financial and trade centre. Today, under the leadership of His Majesty Sultan Qaboos, Muscat has improved beyond recognition, but has never lost its pride in its heritage and culture.

Muscat offers the visitor a unique opportunity to witness a modern commercial centre existing in harmony with its traditional culture. With its natural harbor, Muscat means 'Anchorage' and lies in natural volcanic bowl. Muscat mosques and forts are perhaps the city’s most prominent landmarks.

Nizwa Fort

Nizwa Fort is one of the oldest forts in Oman which has a unique large round shape. First point of call for most visitors is Nizwa’s splendid fort, raised in the late 17th century. Nizwa Fort was built by Imam Sultan Bin Saif Al Y’aribi in the middle of the seventeenth century. Near the fort and castle is the traditional Nizwa market famous for its artefacts.

The top commands a panoramic view of the landmark brown-domed mosque next to the fort, the maze of flat-topped houses and the belt of palms surrounding Nizwa. Southwest of the fort stretch the various buildings making up Nizwa’s celebrated souk.

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Twilight Dhow Cruise

Hop on a Traditional Omani Dhow and enjoy the scenic beauty of Oman’s coastline as the sun goes down. The stunning coastline of Oman is the perfect way to relax and dip in the sight of beautifully modern yet traditional country.

Muttrah Souq

Muttrah souq is the oldest market in Muscat and best place to visit for shopping. The covered bazaar consists of shops selling souvenirs, silverwear and goldwear, spices etc.

Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, Muscat

The Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque is the main mosque in the Sultanate of Oman. Opened in 2001, this is the only mosque in Oman open to non-Muslim and one of the largest in the Gulf, with room for an estimated 20000 worshippers in the two prayer halls and surrounding courtyard.

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Wahiba Sands

Wahiba sands are also known as Sharqiya Sands, is a true desert and the chance to sleep under stars attracts many travellers. The dunes here are huge, standing up to 330 feet (100 meters) high in the north. Wahiba desert offers an exciting dune drive and the opportunity to try camel riding.

Oman’s evocative landscapes and its overwhelming hospitality make it an absolute delight to explore.

Beaches

Qurum Beach & Qantab Beach

Qurum Beach and Qantab Beach, a hidden gem with golden sands and a diving centre. You will find a selection of restaurant and cafes along the beach, while sheltered coves and shallow waters are perfect for snorkelling

Wadi Shab

Wadi Shab is a must see destinations in Oman, located in the Al Sharqiyah Region. People visit Wadi Shab for the nature, to swim in the fresh water pools or just to have barbeque.

Wadi Shab is famous for its deep canyons and swimming pools. The scenery is fantastic with blue green pools, rust cliffs and lush greenery.

“Egypt has pyramids, Oman has Wadi Shab”

www.tradewindstravel.com.my 15 Real Madrid vs Football Club Barcelona…Be prepared for the most expected and exciting match of the Spanish Liga, “el Clásico”. This unique sport event should be experienced from a special place. leads you to its Private Grandstand Boxes. Feel real part of the match from the most privileged and exclusive VIP location at Santiago Bernabeu Stadium. An unforgettable lifetime memory each Football fan should have.

Private arrival and departure transfers in a deluxe vehicle Add other special activities 3 nights at the centrally located Intercontinental hotel (5*) to your stay: Spectacular Flamenco Show Walking Tapas Gourmet Tour Fun Segway Tour

Hostess service Gourmet catering Price per person based on two Bernabeu Tour adults sharing room (standard) Meeting the players after the match (upon their availability) Suites or other room types are available with extra cost. Special discounts in the Real Madrid Shop

Madrid is a shopping destination par excellence. Competitive prices, quality of workmanship and the exquisite level of design make this city an irresistible shoppers` paradise. them available to your customers, adding value in their Madrid experience.

Tel: +603-7967 0888 | [email protected] | www.twtravel.com.my Carrier

CARRIER OMAN AIR ‘Best Airline Staff Service in the Middle East’ at World Airline Awards

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OMAN AIR HAS BEEN NAMED AS THE WINNER OF THE ‘BEST AIRLINE STAFF SERVICE IN THE MIDDLE EAST’ AWARD AT THE SKYTRAX WORLD AIRLINE AWARDS 2015

The award was presented at a ceremony held at the Paris Air Show recently. It recognises the commitment of Oman Air’s staff to providing the airline’s customers with quality, comfort and a seamless passenger experience.

Oman air also achieved acclaim in six further categories of the awards. The airline’s renowned service attained top-ten places in the “Furthermore, the timing of this award could not ‘World’s Best Business Class Airline’, ‘Best Business have been more appropriate. We are currently Class Airline Seats’, ‘Best Business Class Airline engaged in a programme of expansion that will see Catering’ and ‘Best Business Class Comfort us operate 70 aircraft to around 75 destinations by Amenities’ categories. Oman Air also achieved 2020. In recent months we have increased the size of top-ten places in the ‘Best First Class Airline our fleet and launched new services to Manila, Catering’ and ‘Best Airline Seats’ Jakarta, Goa and Singapore. We have also categories of the awards. increased frequencies on a number of established routes and we plan to unveil more new destinations Abdulrahaman Al-Busaidy, Chief Operating Officer later in the year. As a result, many thousands more at Oman Air, commented: customers will have the opportunity to experience Oman Air’s award-winning staff service.” “We are delighted that Oman Air has been recognised by the World Airline Awards for our The World Airline Awards provide the most outstanding staff service. To have won this award two prestigious accolades available within the air travel years in a row, and to have achieved high rankings in industry. Not only are they entirely independent of a further six categories of the awards this year, is any commercial pressures, but they are voted for by testament to the extraordinarily high standards of the industry’s most exacting and demanding judges hospitality that our staff offer to all our customers. That – air travellers. The World Airline Awards therefore hospitality is an extension of Omani culture, so this offer an unparalleled benchmark for the quality of award is recognition not only of Oman Air’s service, the products and services the airlines offer and it is but also of the warm welcome offered to every visitor an honour to receive this acclaim. to Oman.

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Abdulaziz Al-Raisi, chief officer management affairs, Oman Air, said:

“It was a great honour to accept this prestigious award on behalf of Oman Air. This year’s award of ‘Best Airline Staff Service in the Middle East’ follows wins in the same category in 2011 and 2014. In addition, Oman Air won ‘Best Business Class Seat in the World’ in 2011 and 2012. As Oman Air pursues its current ambitious programme of expansion, it has continued to receive awards from industry bodies, consumer groups and publications around the world.”

Skytrax’s World Airline Awards are based on the results of a survey of some 18 million travellers from more than 160 countries, in what is described as the only truly global, independent passenger survey of airline standards. Covering more than 200 airlines, it analyses customer satisfaction for the overall airline passenger experience across more than 40 areas on the ground and in the air, from check-in to boarding, seat comfort, cabin cleanliness, food, beverages, in-flight entertainment and staff service.

Notably, the carrier was recently honoured at the World Travel Awards, where it was awarded ‘Best Business Class Airline- Middle East 2015’ and ‘Best Economy Class Airline – Middle East 2015’. In addition, Oman Air was named ‘World’s Leading Economy Class Airline 2014’. Oman Air has also claimed ‘Best Luxury Airline, Middle East’ at this year’s Business Destinations Awards, following success in the same category in 2011, 2012, and 2013.

www.tradewindstravel.com.my 18 your dreams come true, especially when “it’s all about football”! Seat in our VIP Private Grandstand Box at Santiago Bernabeu Stadium and live the crazy experience of a great Champions League match: Real Madrid vs PSG. Enjoy the best football and greatest atmosphere from the most privileged position, among all VIPs. Let yourself go with the special vibrancy and emotion of the show!

Private arrival and departure transfers in a deluxe vehicle Add other special activities 3 nights at the centrally located Intercontinental hotel (5*) to your stay: Spectacular Flamenco Show Walking Tapas Gourmet Tour Fun Segway Tour

Hostess service Gourmet catering Price per person based on two Bernabeu Tour adults sharing room (standard) Meeting the players after the match (upon their availability) Suites or other room types are available with extra cost. Special discounts in the Real Madrid Shop

Madrid is a shopping destination par excellence. Competitive prices, quality of workmanship and the exquisite level of design make this city an irresistible shoppers` paradise. them available to your customers, adding value in their Madrid experience.

Tel: +603-7967 0888 | [email protected] | www.twtravel.com.my Corporate Travel

CORPORATE TRAVEL TRAVEL SOLUTIONS INTERNATIONAL (TSI)

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TRADEWINDS TRAVEL REACHING OUT ACROSS THE GLOBE

As part of one of Malaysia’s largest companies, with a 20 year background in international commerce, the establishment of Tradewinds Travel in 1995 was ABOUT TSI a natural expansion of Tradewinds Corporation’s global reach and continued investment in the In 2008, and after more than 10 years working Hospitality sector. together, a number of privately owned and long-established Travel Management Companies Tradewinds Travel manages the travel and event (TMCs) came together to establish TSI – Travel management needs for corporate and leisure clients Solutions International. to all corners of the globe and has developed an expertise and insight that is highly valued by our The formation of TSI was a direct response to the Malaysian as well as our wider South East Asian increasing globalisation of companies and the client base. requirement to co-ordinate travel activities across multiple countries. As clients opened overseas So why did we decide to join TSI (Travel Solutions offices, trade restrictions were relaxed and the International) and how does our inclusion as the global village became a reality, companies simply exclusive partner in Malaysia help us, and you, our travelled more! clients? Not only did it become essential to manage the cost of this activity but it became more important to support both travellers and company administrators so that they could be freed to concentrate on developing their own businesses. Travel Management was no longer about “ticketing”, it had matured into a complete service that included Consulting & Advisory Services, Payment Solutions, Global Supplier Management – in short, anything to get someone safely, and cost effectively, from A to B.

By 2015, TSI had grown to 36 TCMs and our partners now manage a combined sales turnover (Pictured: Mohd Khairy Abdul Rahim General of more than US$3.25 billion and connect over Manager of Tradewinds Travel with TSI 100 offices across the globe with unified systems, Colleagues in Abu Dhabi). processes, supplier contracts and technology providing clients an environment of real value.

Now headquartered in London (right) , TSI is structured into three regions, the Americas, EMEA and APAC. Craig Stein, pictured, is TSI Chairman and highlights the importance of Malaysia to TSI’s global and regional strategy.

www.tradewindstravel.com.my 20 Corporate Travel

“Malaysia is the third The independent spirit that first differentiated TSI’s largest economy in approach remains central to the organisation’s South East Asia – and proposition. It ensures that any multinational it was always critical programme receives the attention and focus it that we could offer deserves – sensitive to local culture and practice our multinational whilst respecting global requirements and leveraging clients with operations global spend. It applies to an organisation that wants in Kuala Lumpur to offer the same programme across one region (TSI not only because of the Kingdom’s substantial has multiple clients for whom we provide an APAC manufacturing base and international solution) as well as those with operations spread out markets, but to service the travel that has across 40 countries (our largest client). accompanied a massive rise in the financial sector, Islamic Banking and associated TSI services are tailored for each client and deployed services that have seen the knowledge with a flexibility that enables companies to ensure economy blossom. compliance with Travel and Expense policy, Corporate and Social Responsibility commitments, These are the kind of conditions which duty of care obligations and corporate governance encourage travel – and the figures for objectives – without compromising local in country overseas investment and trade demonstrate acceptance and collaboration. the continuing role that Malaysia will have for our global clients. Tradewinds Travel, TSI’s partners, such as Tradewinds Travel, are all supported by a robust and well established leaders in their respective markets, and work parent company with interests in hospitality together to achieve their international clients’ and development, operated with the same goals – making a measurable difference to commitment to service and have been a key corporate consolidation and the visibility of travel member of our APAC operations and regional spend and activity. TSI Services include: success” • Policy Development & Benchmarking Craig Stein, TSI Chairman • Online Booking Solutions • TSI Flights and Fares • Programme Deployment & Communications • Client Travel Portal • Hotel Programme TRADEWINDS WORKING • Business Intelligence & Data Analysis • Expense & Payment Solutions WITH TSI • Ground Transportation • Procurement & Supplier Management TSI offers us, at Tradewinds Travel, the ability to • Meetings & Events access the expertise of over 3,000 travel • Global Account Management professionals and to provide our clients with a • Traveller Tracking truly international programme. • Visas • Project Management We learn from best practice across all markets, • Itinerary Tools engage with some of the most experienced and • Emergency Services well-known of travel professionals and have access to the buying power and systems of a $3bn organisation - without sacrificing the service ethos that has powered our growth in Malaysia.

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