Report: Chinese tourists flock to Malaysia to celebrate Lunar New Year here

The influx of Chinese tourist is attributed to the winter season in Chinaas well as familiar language, food, vast choice to shop andexciting theme parks in the country. — Picture by Arif Kartono

PETALING JAYA, FEB 10 — More than 327,000 visa and entry passes were issued to Chinese Nationals coming into the country last month, The Star reported today.

Malaysian Ambassador to China Datuk Zainuddin Yahya said this is in comparison to 193,000 issued in the same period last year.

“The Chinese like being in Malaysia during the Chinese New Year period as it is a major festival celebrated nationwide here. They look forward to experiencing our colourful activities while on holiday, “ he said.

The influx of Chinese tourist is attributed to the winter season in China as well as familiar language, food, vast choice to shop and exciting theme parks in the country said the Malaysian Association of Tour and Travel Agents president Datuk Tan Kok Liang.

“They feel that it is better to spend outside [of China] as it is good values for money. Additionally, holiday destinations in China will be packed with other tourist and many shops are closed.

“The availability of water sports activities and local attractions also make Malaysia an attractive holiday destination,” Tan said.

However Tan said more investment is needed for tourism infrastructure to sustain more tourists in the future. “There is also a need for Chinese speaking tourist guides,” he said.

A Pearl Holiday (M) Travel and tour Sdn Bhd spokesman said the Chinese New Year would the busiest time for them. “We will have up to 200 tour groups from china during Chinese New Year,” said the spokesman.

Meanwhile, Mangga Travel and Tours Sdn Bhd director for inbound services L.F. Chong said the agency, which cater to high end market for Chinese tourist, said the firm expected an increase of 20 to 30 per cent during the Lunar New Year.

“Chinese New Year is always a peak period for us,” he said.

To ease travel for Chinese tourists into the country, Kuala Lumpur International Airport launched the Chinese Travellers Affairs Helpdesk which employed Mandarin speaking volunteers.

The desk located before the immigration counters is to provide additional info to Chinese tourist or tour groups.

-malaymail online.