MEDIA STATEMENT: Tourism takes flight with new direct route from Kuala Lumpur reopening this year

Tourism takes flight with new direct route from Kuala Lumpur reopening this year 

• Crisafulli Government helps secure direct flights from Kuala Lumpur to Brisbane, with Malaysia Airlines recommencing five weekly services from November. 
• The route will bring more than 75,000 inbound seats each year and is expected to generate $54 million for the local economy in the first year.
• Boost in tourism and export opportunities will deliver positive outcomes for Queenslanders. 

The Crisafulli Government has welcomed a new era of connectivity between Southeast Asia and Queensland, with Malaysia Airlines relaunching direct services between Kuala Lumpur and Brisbane for the first time since 2023.  

From 29 November 2025, travellers can enjoy five services each week between Kuala Lumpur and Brisbane aboard A330-300 aircraft, delivering 75,400 inbound seats to Queensland in the first year of operation.  

The new route expands Queensland’s global reach, offering international travellers direct access to the Sunshine State’s famous beaches, world class cultural events and iconic natural wonders. 

The service is set to boost the Queensland’s economy by attracting more visitors, strengthening local businesses and creating new employment opportunities.  

Minister for the Environment and Tourism Andrew Powell said there were plans to gradually increase service frequency from five times a week to daily within the first three years of operation. 

“We are very excited to welcome Malaysia Airlines back to Brisbane from November this year,” said Minister Powell.   

“Additional seats mean additional visitors, and Queensland is ready to welcome them with open arms. 

“Whether it’s adventure tourism like snorkelling or mountain bike riding, or enjoying nature on our fantastic beaches, or the wonderful rainforests of the Tropical North – there’s something for everyone.” 

Minister for Trade, Finance, Employment and Training Ros Bates said it was a great opportunity for Queensland producers. 

“We’ll also be sending those plane cargo holds back to Asia, and on to Europe, filled with the very best of Queensland exports, so it’s a great economic win for our state,” Minister Bates said.  

Brisbane Airport CEO Gert-Jan de Graaff said the service would offer Queenslanders more choice and convenience connecting with the rest of the world. 

"We are delighted to welcome back Malaysia Airlines and the additional connectivity it brings to Brisbane. The airline boasts a robust Southeast Asian network, strong connections into Europe, and serves 10 Indian hubs, where demand is growing,” Mr de Graffe said.  

"Malaysia is Queensland's seventh largest export destination, and the restoration of non-stop air connections is vital for exporting perishables, including Queensland beef, our top export to Malaysia. 

“Kuala Lumpur is the 33rd destination on Brisbane’s international network map, matching our pre-pandemic number for the first time, so it’s a milestone moment.”