Malaysia sees around 80% of tourist arrivals from the ASEAN region

Monday, March 11, 2024

Malaysia’s tourism sector is on the cusp of a remarkable upturn, with projections indicating a whopping RM375.3 billion in revenue over the next three years, heralding a significant economic boost. Deputy Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Khairul Firdaus Akbar Khan unveiled these ambitious figures, attributing the anticipated surge to a steady increase in tourist arrivals leading up to the eagerly awaited Visit Malaysia Year 2026.

This year alone, the Malaysia expects to welcome around 27.3 million tourists, contributing an estimated RM102.7 billion to the national coffers. These numbers are set to climb progressively, reaching 31.4 million visitors in 2025 and generating an impressive RM125.5 billion in income.

The crescendo of this upward trajectory is expected in 2026, with a forecast of 35.6 million tourists, potentially pouring RM147.1 billion into Malaysia’s economy, as stated by Khairul in response to inquiries from Datuk Seri Wilfred Madius Tangau (PH-Tuaran).

However, the Deputy Minister did not shy away from acknowledging the challenges that lie ahead. The tourism industry and airline operators, heavily impacted by the Covid-19 pandemic, are still in the throes of recovery.

A key concern highlighted was the optimization of aircraft usage, which was severely disrupted during the pandemic. Despite these hurdles, there is a concerted effort among airlines to revitalize their operations and enhance connectivity—a crucial component for the sector’s success.

The issue of insufficient domestic flights was brought to the forefront by Madius, underscoring the potential obstacle it poses to the tourism sector’s growth. Enhanced air connectivity within the country is vital to ensure the seamless movement of tourists, thereby enriching their travel experience and encouraging further exploration of Malaysia’s diverse attractions.

Adding to the optimism, Khairul Firdaus revealed that a significant portion of tourist arrivals, approximately 80%, originates from the ASEAN region. This statistic not only underscores the importance of neighboring countries as a source market but also highlights the potential for Malaysia to further tap into and expand its reach within this dynamic region.

As Malaysia gears up for Visit Malaysia Year 2026, the government’s proactive measures and strategic planning are pivotal in overcoming the lingering effects of the pandemic. With an eye on revitalizing the tourism sector, enhancing airline connectivity, and capitalizing on its geographical and cultural appeal, Malaysia is poised to reclaim and exceed its pre-pandemic glory, setting a new benchmark in the global tourism landscape.

This ambitious growth trajectory promises not only to elevate Malaysia’s status as a premier travel destination but also to significantly contribute to the national economy, creating jobs, and fostering sustainable development across various sectors linked to tourism. As the country marches towards 2026, the focus remains on creating a resilient, inclusive, and thriving tourism ecosystem that welcomes the world with open arms.

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