Aussie Tourist Numbers To Malaysia Set For Big Boost

MELBOURNE, Feb 9 (Bernama) - Tourism Malaysia has moved into top gear to capture a big slice of the expanding Australian travel market.

"Because of the strong Aussie dollar and strong economy, Australians have been going overseas in increasing numbers," said Tourism Malaysia, Australia director, Roslan Abdullah. "Australian outbound travel this year is expected to increase by 6.2 per cent and Malaysia can expect to see more holiday arrivals from Australia," he said.

Roslan said the 29.4 per cent increase in direct seat capacity (37,895 seats a week) from Australia to Malaysia and increased direct flights from 95 to 131 a week from Australia had boosted tourism trade to Malaysia. He said there was no doubt the entry of AirAsia X into Australia had played a big part in increasing tourist numbers to Malaysia.

The promotion of Visit Malaysia Year 2014 (VMY2014) has also drawn the interest of Australians to seriously consider Malaysia as a holiday destination.

"Australian travel agents are amazed at the extensive programmes of mega events and festivals Malaysia has organised to celebrate our culture, cuisine, diversity, achievements and our fantastic goodwill to all overseas visitors," Roslan said.

He said Malaysia had reaped more than RM138 million last year, a massive 226.4 per cent increase over the previous year's figure. "This year, income from tourism will be even bigger," Sydney-based Roslan said.

He said an awareness campaign was launched at the recent Chinese New Year celebrations here which attracted a huge turnout. The four-day festivities along the Southbank riverside was sponsored by Crown Entertainment Centre to the tune of A$3 million.
-bernama.