TBM Staff - Mumbai Malaysia has always been top-of-the mind destination for the Indian traveller, especially in South East Asia in general, and India in specific. “Unfortunately due to Covid-19, there has been a decline in tourist numbers from India, and we plan to rectify that very soon. Malaysia has completely opened for all travellers, including India. We plan to engage with trade and other partners, including corporate entities. In April, we conducted an eight-city road show in India where we reconnected with the trade, and are hopeful of bringing back tourists to Malaysia,” said YB Dato’ Sri Hajah Nancy Shukri, Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture, Malaysia.
The Minister is banking on improved air access for uptick in tourist numbers from India. “We are happy that air capacity is increasing from India. Our trade partners and DMCs will be working closely with airline partners to improve tourist footfall to Malaysia. On the government part we are happy with TAFI hosting its Convention in Malaysia after many years. It gives us immense pleasure that an Indian trade association has selected Malaysia for its annual event, and we hope to continue engaging with the travel trade for more such programmes.”
The Minister also spoke about diversifying tourist traffic to lesser-known and newer destinations. Malaysia has been a well-known destination in India with Kuala Lumpur, Genting Highlands, Penang and Johar Baru being popular choices. “What we now intend to do is introduce the Indian travellers to the lesser-known and unexplored destinations like Sabah and Sarawak. I am happy that the TAFI convention is happening in Sarawak; it will bring the destination in spotlight, and make the travel trade experience the destination first-hand, allowing them to promote it among their clientele,” she said.
