Malaysia Up Its Game in International Tourism Promotion

Malaysia Association of Tour and Travel Agents (MATTA) deputy president Mohd Akil Mohd Yusof stated that the Tourism, Arts and Culture Ministry (MOTAC) have been actively putting in major efforts to promote Malaysia as a destination on the international platform through travel fairs and exhibitions. This is evident through the increase in tourism arrival in the second half of 2022, but there is still room for improvement to return to the pre-2020 level. He noted that the existing market that Malaysia used to promote international tourism must be continued, as well as focusing on target marketing by identifying major events and shows that will draw in tourists from Europe, the US, the Middle East and Japan. He also highlighted that the MICE and Muslim-friendly markets should be afforded immense attention as they contribute hugely to GDP. MICE tourists come in big numbers, while those from Islamic market normally stay more than three nights and have high spending power, giving the country more revenue.