Tourism industry players eager to restart domestic tourism

 

KUALA LUMPUR: Tourism industry players believe that the much-awaited nod on inter-state and inter-district travels, except for areas under the Enhanced Movement Control Order (EMCO), will allow them to get their businesses back on track.

Malaysian Association of Tour and Travel Agents (Matta) president Datuk Tan Kok Liang said the government's decision to lift the ban was a good start ahead of the festive and holiday season.

"The recent Conditional Movement Control Order (CMCO) has been demoralising due to travel restrictions. Therefore, we welcome the announcement as it would boost domestic tourism," he said.

However, Tan hoped that the authorities would relax the conditions for those wishing to enter Sabah. Currently, those wishing to do so must undergo the RT-PCR or RTK-Ag Covid-19 test three days before their journey.

Tan said by lifting the requirements, it could further promote travel and subsequently encourage people to visit the state.

He said tourism industry players are hoping that the Covid-19 pandemic will be further contained as it is crucial to have stability in order for economic activities to function normally.

Yesterday, Senior Minister (Security Cluster) Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob announced that inter-state and district travels will be allowed starting tomorrow (Monday), except for areas placed under EMCO.

He said the move was necessary to strike a balance between improving the country's economy and health.

Previously, inter-state and districts were not allowed for states or localities that were placed under the CMCO.

Meanwhile, Malaysian Association of Hotels (MAH) said the latest announcement must be well supported with clear guidelines and standard operating procedures (SOP) to ensure that there are no doubts in execution.

MAH chief executive officer Yap Lip Seng said although the current situation is not as favourable as the initial Recovery Movement Control Order (RMCO) in June, which had driven up domestic tourism, tourism and hotel industry players were hoping that it would encourage people to travel safely.

"This move should drive essential travel further such as for business or even corporate events that would help support recovery for the tourism industry, especially hotels.

"We have long requested for reinstatement of business events as well as ancillary facilities in hotels. With necessary SOPs in place, events can be held in a controlled environment for added assurance of safety and health.

"We still need to ensure that the SOPs are clear, for travel assurance and to build confidence. The current situation especially in Kuala Lumpur is cause for concern and the government needs to step up on compliance with the SOP, rather than restricting activities."

-nst online.