Pack your bags, wanderlusters! AirAsia Malaysia has announced two new direct routes from Kuala Lumpur to Palembang and Semarang, further enhancing travel access between Malaysia and Indonesia with a total of 188 weekly flights now operating between the two countries.
With these additions, AirAsia Malaysia now connects to 15 destinations across Indonesia, including Jakarta, Bali (Denpasar), Medan, Yogyakarta, Banda Aceh, Makassar, Padang, Pekanbaru, Balikpapan, Labuan Bajo, Lombok and from Penang to Jakarta and Medan, making it one of the most connected foreign carriers in Indonesia.
These latest routes come as Indonesia targets 16 million international arrivals in 2025, with Malaysia consistently ranked among the top source markets. The timing also aligns with the reopening of Sultan Mahmud Badaruddin II Airport (Palembang) and Jenderal Ahmad Yani Airport (Semarang) for international services, making AirAsia the first international airline to return to both cities.
With Visit Malaysia 2026 on the horizon, this expansion comes at the perfect moment to further boost tourism, foster cultural exchange and enhance regional ties between both nations.
Dato’ Captain Fareh Mazputra, CEO of AirAsia Malaysia said: “This launch reflects our ongoing efforts to serve more cities across Indonesia, especially those that have been underserved. We are proud to return to Palembang and Semarang and we were among the first to reopen seats to both PLM and SRG reaffirming our commitment to these key destinations, two vibrant cities that deserve a wider audience.
“Each new route opens up more opportunities for business, tourism and for people to reconnect. We are also proud to bring them closer to Kuala Lumpur and beyond with convenient, affordable flights. We thank the government and all stakeholders who have supported this milestone.”
In celebration of the launch, AirAsia is offering special promotional fares for flights from Kuala Lumpur to Palembang starting from just RM159* all-in, one way. Flights from Palembang to Kuala Lumpur are also available from IDR499,000* all-in one way from now until 29th June 2025, for travelling between 17th July 2025 and 28th March 2026.
Meanwhile, flights from Kuala Lumpur to Semarang start from just RM199* all-in one way, while flights from Semarang to Kuala Lumpur are available from IDR799,000* all in one way. Guests can book their flights from now until 29th June 2025, for travelling between 5th September 2025 and 28th March 2026, available on the AirAsia MOVE app and airasia.com.
Palembang, the capital of South Sumatra and Sumatra’s second-largest city, is known as one of Indonesia’s top travel destinations. Once the heart of the powerful Sriwijaya Empire, it now offers a mix of rich history, local cuisine, and riverfront charm. The Musi River, Sumatra’s longest, flows through the city, with the iconic Ampera Bridge – built in 1965 – standing as a proud symbol of growth and unity.
Semarang, the capital of Central Java, blends Javanese and Chinese cultures and was named the cleanest tourist destination in Southeast Asia by the ASEAN Clean Tourist City Standard (2020–2022). Highlights include the vibrant Kampung Pelangi (Rainbow Village), with its brightly painted homes, and Kota Lama (Old Town), a historic area known for its colonial charm and lively street scene.
With their cultural richness, scenic landmarks, and unique experiences, Palembang and Semarang are must-visit gems in Indonesia.
Flight Schedule between Kuala Lumpur (KUL) and Palembang (PLM):
Flight Schedule between Kuala Lumpur (KUL) and Semarang (SRG):
*All-in fares are quoted for one-way travel only, including passenger service charges, regulatory service charges, fuel surcharges, and other applicable fees. Terms and conditions apply.
