Special tour packages being drawn up for domestic tourists

 

Paddy field in Selangor. photo: PelanconganKini

KUALA LUMPUR: Tourism players have pinned hopes on the targeted travel bubble between states placed under the Recovery Movement Control Order (RMCO) to kickstart domestic tourism.

Malaysian Association of Tour and Travel Agents (Matta) president Datuk Tan Kok Liang said more time had to be given to allow the new initiative to pan out.

"Our tour operators are drawing up special tour packages for target groups like corporate companies, families and for educational institutions.

"Several major markets for domestic travel are still placed under the Conditional Movement Control Order (CMCO), such as Kuala Lumpur, Selangor and Penang.

"Since many tour operators and tourism vehicles are in those states, it will take some time for us to make necessary arrangements and reach out to the public with our new tour packages. 

"We are aware of the standard operating procedures (SOP) in place and will strictly adhere to them."

Tan also hoped the government would gradually relax the regulations and impose restrictions only in more localised hotspots rather than for a whole state.

This, he said, would eventually relieve police from the administrative burden of issuing travel permits so they could address other areas of concern.

On Tuesday, Senior Minister (Security Cluster) Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob said the targeted travel bubble initiative would start from Wednesday under tight conditions.

Tourists will not be allowed to commute using private vehicles but only via tour agency vehicles registered with the Tourism, Arts and Culture Ministry (Motac).

Tour agencies' vehicles can transit from one RMCO state via a CMCO state but are not allowed to stop at any areas in CMCO states.

Tour operators are also required to obtain police permission for interstate travel on behalf of their customers.

Travellers, however, argued that these conditions would deprive them of an authentic tour experience.

Selvakumar Krishnan, 39, who works as a business development manager, said travellers preferred to enjoy a customised tour experience without relying on tour operators.

"Most people rely on tour agencies for international vacations, not for local destinations. They prefer to Google famous destinations and visit these places in the comfort of their own cars.

"It is more convenient and safer. Otherwise, we have to rush to keep up with the time set by tour operators and cannot really enjoy our vacation.

"Travelling with tour operators will also make us feel like we are 'under surveillance' all the time.

"The better alternative is to lift interstate travel bans between states under the RMCO," he said.

Lee Shi Ying, 26, from Penang, called on the government to allow tourists to commute using private vehicles with prior applications and registration process with Motac.

She said, the National Security Council (NSC) could keep track of the record of tourists as they needed to check-in via MySejahtera.

"Tour groups will comprise many individuals who are not from the same household. This could increase the risk of Covid-19 transmission.

"If we are allowed to travel in our own vehicles, then it is easier to comply with new norms.

"Furthermore, with tour agencies arranging transportation and accommodation, the cost will be absorbed by end-users. I don't think Malaysians want to burn a hole in their pocket to travel," she said.

-nst online.