Pakej Cuti Penjawat Awam & Pesara Kerajaan

 

31 Oktober 2021 – Kementerian Pelancongan, Seni dan Budaya Malaysia (MOTAC) melalui agensinya Tourism Malaysia hari ini melancarkan Pakej Cuti Penjawat Awam dan Pesara Kerajaan melibatkan produk-produk pelancongan di seluruh negara dalam usaha meningkatkan pelancongan domestik.

Program yang mendapat kerjasama Kesatuan Pekerja-Pekerja Lembaga Penggalakan Pelancongan Malaysia (LPPM) dan Kongres Kesatuan Pekerja-Pekerja Di Dalam Perkhidmatan Awam (CUEPACS) itu telah dirasmikan oleh Menteri Pelancongan, Seni dan Budaya, Dato’ Sri Hajah Nancy Shukri di Hotel Perdana, Kota Bharu, Kelantan.

Sebanyak 457 pakej telah dibangunkan melibatkan produk-produk pelancongan dari seluruh Malaysia dengan tawaran harga pakej serendah RM120 seorang. Tempoh sah pakej adalah sehingga 30 Jun 2022.

Antara produk pelancongan yang tersenarai ialah Putrajaya, I-City Shah Alam, Genting Highland, Sky Bridge KLCC, Sky Mirror Kuala Selangor, Taman Negara Endau Rompin, Taman Negara Mulu, Royal Belum, Kilim Geoforest Park, Danum Valley, Wakaf Che Yeh, Taman Tamadun Islam dan banyak lagi.

Maklumat lanjut berkenaan pakej-pakej yang ditawarkan boleh diperoleh dengan melayari laman web Tourism Malaysia di https://deals.malaysia.travel/deals.

-Tourism Malaysia.

'Jom Jalan Jalan' With Tourism Malaysia And Petron With These Exciting Cuti-Cuti Malaysia Packages

 

27 October 2021 - In welcoming the reopening of domestic inter-state travel, Petron Malaysia, in collaboration with Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture (MOTAC) through its agency Tourism Malaysia launched the 'Jom Jalan Jalan' campaign to promote domestic tourism.

Officiated by the Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture, YB Dato' Sri Hajah Nancy Shukri, the 'Jom Jalan Jalan' campaign is a five-month-long promotion that aims to reward customers with exciting prizes including holiday packages and cash rewards to explore the wonderful tourist spots in the country. Also present at the event today was Puan Faridah Ali, General Manager of Petron Malaysia.

Petron has teamed up with local resorts and tourism partners namely; Tiarasa Escapes Glamping Resort, Sunway Lost World of Tambun, Camp Out! At Sunway Lagoon, Orchard Wellness Melaka, Glamz Genting, Sepilok Forest Edge, Culvert Santubong as well as VIP Pass Holidays (Malaysia) and Trevo to come up with exhilarating holiday packages as prizes.

The campaign aims to reward 1,156 winners, including 56 lucky customers as top prize winners throughout the five-month campaign period. The holiday packages to be won include 3-day-2night (3D2N) travel packages that offer customers a chance to experience nature in comfort and style at some of Malaysia's best glamping sites through glamping staycation, recreational activities or food experiences that are uniquely tailored to its home state.

Six winners will win the Grand Prize of up to RM20,000 worth of travel packages from Tiarasa Escapes Glamping Resort, Sepilok Forest Edge or Culvert Santubong, cash rewards and fuel from Petron. Each Grand Prize winner can bring along six (6) to 10 family members and friends to enjoy an unforgettable glamping experience.

Aside from the grand prize, an additional 10 customers will win RM5,000 worth of travel packages, cash rewards and fuel monthly from October 2021 to March 2022. Each winner can bring up to four (4) family members and friends.

Another 100 Consolation Prize winners, to be selected every month, will receive RM2,000 worth of VIP Pass hotel vouchers worth 7 days and 6 nights (7D6N), RM300 cash reward and RM300 worth of PMiles points. Additionally, 1,000 weekly winners will receive RM200 worth of PMiles points each.

YB Dato' Sri Hajah Nancy Shukri said that the prizes, inclusive of holiday packages with fuel sponsorship and spending allowance will contribute significantly to the country's economic recovery through the economic activities of the communities involved. "These packages will give them the opportunity for various interesting recreational activities such as theme park activities, batik drawing classes and interacting with orangutans," she added.

Pn. Faridah Ali, General Manager of Petron Malaysia said, "After being on extended lockdown during this pandemic, we are excited to collaborate with Tourism Malaysia and local tour operator partners to reward some of our customers with these amazing holiday packages to enjoy with their loved ones. We are happy to do our share of promoting domestic tourism and boosting our economic recovery."

In addition, the winners will be selected by region - North, East Coast, Central, South, Sabah and Sarawak to ensure every region has their own winners. "This is also our way to show appreciation to our customers who have always been there with us, supporting us throughout the years. We hope to give more #PetronFuelHappy moments with exclusive rewards such as this campaign every time they use PMiles card," added Faridah.

The contest is open to all Petron Miles cardholders. They will earn an automatic entry for a cumulative fuel purchase of RM250 in one month to qualify for the Grand Prize Lucky Draw and RM50 fuel purchase for First Prize Monthly Lucky Draw. Customers will need to swipe their Petron Miles Card when making fuel purchases to participate.

'Jom Jalan Jalan with Petron' runs from October 2021 until March 2022. For more information on this contest, visit www.petronmiles.com.my

-MOTAC.

MOTAC Anjur Minggu Budaya Malaysia 2021

 

25 Oktober 2021 - Kementerian Pelancongan, Seni dan Budaya (MOTAC) menganjurkan Minggu Budaya Malaysia (MBM) 2021 secara hybrid, bermula pada hari ini 25 Oktober sehingga 30 Oktober 2021.

Menteri Pelancongan, Seni dan Budaya Malaysia, YB Dato' Sri Hajah Nancy Shukri dalam ucapan pelancarannya berkata program ini adalah merupakan permulaan sebagai salah satu usaha awal bagi menterjemahkan strategi Dasar Kebudayaan Negara (DAKEN) 2021 yang akan dilancarkan pada 26 Oktober 2021.

Minggu Budaya Malaysia ini dijadikan signature programme Kementerian sebagai wadah manifestasi kepelbagaian seni budaya dan warisan di Malaysia dengan cara menyediakan ruang bagi mengekspresi keragaman budaya. Program ini juga mendorong interaksi budaya dalam usaha memperkukuhkan kebudayaan secara inklusif.

Bertemakan "Bangkit Asal", ia membawa maksud mengangkat atau menghidupkan kembali seni budaya dan warisan negara. Bahkan, inisiatif berterusan Minggu Budaya Malaysia ini turut menyumbang kepada memperkukuhkan promosi budaya Malaysia dipersada dunia khususnya kepada para pelancong luar negara.

Menurut YB Dato' Sri Hajah Nancy, kesatuan daripada pelbagai kebudayaan di Malaysia yang mewakili setiap kaum dan orang asal yang mempunyai nilai, unsur, dan sejarah masing-masing telah melahirkan kepelbagaian produk kebudayaan yang unik di bawah segmen produk pelancongan-budaya. Produk-produk ini dipakejkan sebagai produk pelancongan Malaysia yang mempunyai daya tarikan yang tersendiri.

Program ini melibatkan sepuluh (10) Jabatan/Agensi di bawah MOTAC yang mempunyai signature produk masing-masing. Agensi-agensi tersebut adalah Jabatan Kebudayaan dan Kesenian Negara, Jabatan Muzium Malaysia, Jabatan Warisan Negara, Arkib Negara Malaysia, Perpustakaan Negara Malaysia, Istana Budaya, Perbadanan Kemajuan Kraftangan Malaysia, Balai Seni Visual Negara, Akademi Seni Budaya dan Warisan Kebangsaan (ASWARA) serta penglibatan Tourism Malaysia.

Pelbagai aktiviti menarik telah diatur oleh setiap agensi sebagai pengisian menerusi platform Facebook MOTAC serta laman sesawang khusus yang telah dibangunkan iaitu www.mbm2021.com, bermula pada 25 hingga 30 Oktober 2021, mulai jam 2.00 petang hingga 6.00 petang sepanjang tempoh tersebut.

Aktiviti-aktiviti yang akan dipersembahkan adalah berkaitan pengarkiban, pendidikan seni budaya dan warisan, seni persembahan, seni visual, kandungan manuskrip terpilih, seni dan budaya yang berteraskan akar budaya Malaysia, video-video berkaitan pengiktirafan oleh UNESCO, artifak dan sejarah Negara, serta penjenamaan Malaysia sebagai ‘Top of The Mind Ecotourism Destination of the World'.

"Dengan adanya program seperti ini, ia diharapkan dapat terus menyemarakkan semula industri pelancongan dan kebudayaan negara dalam norma baharu. Saya percaya pelaksanaannya juga seiring dengan perancangan strategik dalam Pelan Pemulihan Pelancongan MOTAC bagi memperluaskan aspek promosi untuk menarik minat pelancong melawat Malaysia apabila pintu sempadan dibuka kelak," jelas YB Dato' Sri Hajah Nancy.

-MOTAC.

Merdeka 118, the world's second tallest tower, will surpass 644m tall upon spire completion

 

Malaysia will set another world record when its megatall structure, Merdeka 118, is completed in the third quarter of next year at nearly 700 metres above sea level.

Merdeka 118's current architectural height is about 644 metres, measured from the ground all the way to the top.

The true height of the 118-floor megatall structure in Kuala Lumpur is expected to be revealed next year, when it is fully completed.

When the final spire is added, the tower's final height is expected to be around 700 metres, according to those involved in its construction.

"The spire is currently being built. It will be installed at the highest point of the tower within the next few months, increasing the tower's height," according to sources.

Even at 644 metres, Merdeka 118 is set to be the world's second-tallest structure.

It will be listed along with some of the world's tallest buildings like Burj Khalifa in Dubai, UAE, the world's tallest tower with a height of 828 metres, and the Shanghai Tower in China, which currently is the second tallest tower in the world, with a height of 632 metres

Within a few years, the list of the world's top five buildings will be Kingdom Tower in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia with a height of 1008 metres, Burj Khalifa (828 metres), Merdeka 118 (almost 700 metres), Wuhan Greenland Center in Wuhan, China with a height of 636 metres, and Shanghai Tower (632 metres).

Merdeka 118 is an RM5 billion development that is being developed in three phases on a 19-acre site in downtown Kuala Lumpur's historical enclave.

PNB Merdeka Ventures Sdn Bhd (PMVSB), a wholly-owned subsidiary of Permodalan Nasional Bhd (PNB) is developing it.

Despite the ongoing pandemic, PMVSB reached a major milestone in the construction of this much-anticipated development by topping out in June of this year.

The topping out marked the completion of the final roof slab, allowing the building to safely reach its peak at level 118 and become Malaysia's tallest building.

The tower overlooks two national historical landmarks, Stadium Merdeka and Stadium Negara, exemplifying the precinct's extraordinary fusion of historic and contemporary architecture.

PNB, as the sole custodian of the two stadiums, has taken meticulous care in maintaining and preserving the nation's historic heritage, resulting in a harmonious representation of Malaysia's rich history, evolution, and future.

According to reports, PNB will keep the project's development costs at RM5 billion.

In November 2015, PNB awarded the main contract worth RM3.4 billion to a joint venture comprised of Samsung C&T and UEM Group Bhd from South Korea.

Eversendai Corp Bhd, which has a contract for connection design, material supply, fabrication, and installation of steel structures, is also involved in this development.

Turner Construction is managing the construction of the tower, as well as providing project management services for the multilevel retail mall and infrastructure portions of the development.

The first phase of the project, which began in 2014, involved the construction of the 118-story tower and a seven-storey shopping mall.

The tower will have 83 floors of Grade A office space, 60 of which will house PNB's headquarters. The upper floors will have 12 stories of hotel rooms and five floors of hotel residences. Park Hyatt will manage the hotel.

The second and third phases consists of several residential towers.

The overall development is expected to be completed by 2025/2026.

From a tourism standpoint, Merdeka 118, like its predecessors, Menara KL and the Petronas Twin Towers, will redefine Kuala Lumpur's skyline. The upper levels of Merdeka 118 will include the highest observation deck in South East Asia. It will also feature a sky lobby, restaurants, and breathtaking views of Kuala Lumpur.

The elevators, another specialised feature, will provide a truly one-of-a-kind experience. Visitors will be able to see the Kuala Lumpur skyline expand as they ascend the glass and steel structure.

PNB has said the Merdeka 118 precinct will also feature a textile museum with a focus on Malay-world textile, a purpose-built childcare centre for children under the age of seven, and Masjid Merdeka.

-nst online.

Malaysia Airlines Re-opens Domestic Golden Lounge with Festive Fair

 

KLIA, 25 October 2021: Malaysia Airlines is delighted to announce the re-opening of its Domestic Golden Lounge at KL International Airport (KLIA) beginning 29 October 2021. The airline's latest move comes after a steady growth in passenger volume and strong demand for lounge offerings following the relaxation of interstate travel ban and the upcoming year-end holidays.

Its two other flagship lounges at the Regional and Satellite terminals will be reopened in stages, after having been closed for more than a year to abide by the no dine-in rule imposed since the first Movement Control Order in Malaysia.

The re-opening of the Domestic Golden Lounge is timely in conjunction with the upcoming Festival of Lights that comes with a celebratory menu featuring Chicken Biryani and assorted traditional Indian delicacies that will be served from 29 October until 4 November 2021. Guests can also look forward to their favourite meal from a wide array of authentic Malaysian cuisine including nasi lemak, chicken congee, laksa, Malay kuih-muih and assorted desserts as well as teh tarik and barista style coffee, freshly prepared and made available through a contactless digital meal ordering service at the lounge.

Malaysia Airlines Group Chief Marketing and Customer Experience Officer Lau Yin May said, "We are delighted to reopen our Domestic Golden Lounge after a strong pick up in travel domestically and we are expecting further increase in demand with the upcoming year-end school holidays and festivity. We welcome guests to once again immerse themselves with our premium and warm Malaysian Hospitality before their flight. During the hiatus we worked on making significant improvements to ensure everyone's safety is in accordance with the new normal.

Our team continues to ensure that all measures are aligned and in full compliance to international best practices and recommendations, leading to the lounge's reopening. We would like to take this opportunity to thank our customers for their continued support during this challenging time and we look forward to welcoming all of you onboard again, offering our signature experience featuring authentic Malaysian cuisine and Malaysian Hospitality for the comfort and wellbeing of our guests," added Yin May.

The Domestic Golden Lounge will operate daily from 6am to 7pm subject to flight schedules and will adhere to the following operating guidelines in line with the recommendations of the Ministry of Health, Malaysia (MOH):

• Customers must be fully vaccinated with the approved vaccines by MOH. Unvaccinated infants and children up to 17 years old must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian who are fully vaccinated.

 

• Contactless registration and vaccination status check via the 'MySejahtera’ app and temperature scanning.

 

• Compulsory wearing of face masks

 

• Digital food & beverage ordering service and 'grab & go' pre-packed meals.

 

• Hand sanitisers at all critical locations within the lounge.

 

• Social distancing demarcation and guidelines throughout the lounge.

 

• Enhanced hygiene protocols at prayer rooms, family room and facilities after each use.

With the implementation of the #FlyConfidently program, Malaysia Airlines received a 7-star rating for COVID-19 health and safety measures from AirlineRatings, reinforcing its commitment to offer a safe journey for its guests. Recently, Malaysia Aviation Group’s airline companies comprising Malaysia Airlines, Firefly and MASwings, became a member of the Travel Safe Alliance Malaysia (TSAM), representing the aviation industry in providing end-to-end safe travel solutions to travellers and upholding Malaysia as the preferred travel and business events destination in the global market.

Also, in celebration of the lounge's reopening, Enrich members will be able to enjoy an exclusive 10% off to redeem a Domestic Golden Lounge e-voucher via https://www.malaysiaairlines.com/my/en/enrich.html and enjoy a relaxing experience before their flight until 31 December 2021. The e-Voucher is valid for six (6) months from the date of issuance

Meanwhile, Enrich CIMB and Malaysia Airlines AMEX cardholders can now utilise their Golden Lounge vouchers for exclusive access to Malaysia Airlines' Domestic Golden Lounge for their upcoming travel.

To take advantage of the airline's great promotions and outstanding COVID-19 safety record, customers can book their tickets via Malaysia Airlines' App, the airline's official website, at www.malaysiaairlines.com for their next Malaysian holidays. Don't miss out on our irresistible deals for travel packages by visiting https://holidays.malaysiaairlines.com/mhholidays-home.html!

-Malaysia Airlines.

Malaysia set to reopen to foreigners in stages, starting with Langkawi

 

Malaysia’s popular holiday destination of Langkawi is gearing up to welcome back foreign tourists for the first time in 20 months under an international tourism bubble initiative which will kick off on November 15.

Prime minister Ismail Sabri Yaakob said the pilot project will be carried out for three months for evaluation by the National Security Council and Health Ministry before it is rolled out to other islands and destinations in the country.

However, the list of approved countries whose citizens can holiday in Langkawi under the pilot project has yet to be announced. It will be subject to the approvals of the relevant government authorities.

The requirement for foreign tourists entering Langkawi is a minimum three-day stay with proof of a negative PCR test result taken 72 hours before departure. They will also be required to have insurance coverage of at least US$80,000 and to download the MySejahtera contact tracing app.

Foreign tourists arriving at the main gateway of Kuala Lumpur International Airport are to undergo rapid molecular testing before continuing their journey to Langkawi, while those flying directly to Langkawi will have to undergo PCR testing on the second day of their arrival.

Travellers staying for only three days can use their second day Covid-19 swab test to depart from Malaysia, while those staying for more than five days are to undergo a test on the fifth day. All costs will be borne by the traveller.

The pilot project is targeted at fully vaccinated, high-yield individuals; and children under the age of 18 have to be accompanied by their parents or guardians.

Malaysian Association of Hotel Owners secretary, Anthony Wong, commended the government’s efforts to test incoming foreign arrivals for Covid-19 and said that hotels should also test long-staying guests as “it takes five days or more for an infected person to show symptoms”.

With more than 94 per cent of the adult population fully vaccinated, Wong also called on the authorities to reopen the rest of the country quickly to help the tourism industry survive.

Uzaidi Udanis, president, Malaysian Inbound Tourism Association, said it was the right move not to impose a quarantine on foreign tourists as it would have acted as a deterrent.

With regards to the list of approved countries for the pilot project, he called on the authorities to look at markets where its citizens are allowed to travel overseas and return to their home countries without quarantine.

Nigel Wong, secretary-general, Malaysian Association of Tour and Travel Agents, opined that the government should quickly firm up the list of countries permitted to enter Langkawi so that industry players can plan their marketing and promotional activities and rebuild their distribution partnerships.

He hoped that Singapore, due to its close proximity which makes frequent visits to Langkawi possible, would be among the first countries whose citizens will be permitted entry.

At a press conference last week, tourism, arts and culture minister, Nancy Shukri, said that she will be meeting with officials from Singapore this week to discuss resuming cross-border travel between the two countries. She had also hinted that Malaysia would be opening up to Singapore “very soon”.

-TTG Asia.

Elakkan Daripada Menggunakan Khidmat Pengusaha Pelancongan Tidak Berlesen Dengan MOTAC

 

22 Oktober 2021 - Pasukan Penguatkuasa Kementerian Pelancongan, Seni dan Budaya Malaysia (MOTAC) telah membuat pemantauan berterusan termasuk di atas talian susulan daripada dapatan tinjauan di Pulau Langkawi pada awal Oktober 2021 yang mendapati terdapat pelancong telah menggunakan khidmat pengusaha pelancongan tidak berlesen dengan MOTAC.

Selaras dengan pembukaan semula sektor pelancongan, MOTAC ingin menyeru agar para pelancong dan Keluarga Malaysia dapat menggunakan perkhidmatan pengusaha pelancongan berlesen dengan MOTAC semasa membuat tempahan pakej perkhidmatan pengangkutan, penginapan, pelancongan, tiket lawatan atau apa-apa perkhidmatan bersampingan agar dapat mengelakkan kes-kes penipuan. Dalam hubungan ini, Keluarga Malaysia boleh membuat semakan melalui laman sesawang rasmi MOTAC sebelum membuat tempahan (www.motac.gov.my/semakan/tobtab). Sehingga kini, sebanyak 4,607 pengusaha pelancongan yang berlesen dengan MOTAC.

Bagi pengusaha pelancongan berlesen adalah diingatkan agar tidak menjalinkan kerjasama dengan mana-mana individu/ ulat pakej/ freelance/ agensi pelancongan tidak berlesen dalam menawarkan pakej pelancongan mahupun bayaran komisen atau jualan dan diskaun. Sekiranya disabitkan kesalahan, boleh dikenakan denda maksimum sebanyak RM50,000.00 atau lima tahun penjara atau kedua-duanya sekali, selaras dengan Peraturan 6(1)(f), Peraturan-Peraturan Industri Pelancongan (Perniagaan Pengendalian Pelancongan dan Perniagaan Agensi Pengembaraan) 1992.

Merujuk kepada Seksyen 5(2), Akta Industri Pelancongan (Akta 482), tiada seorang pun boleh menjalankan atau mengendalikan, atau menganjurkan dirinya sebagai menjalankan atau mengendalikan perniagaan pengendalian pelancongan; atau perniagaan agensi pengembaraan melainkan jika ianya merupakan sebuah syarikat dan pemegang lesen sah. Bagi kesalahan pertama sekiranya disabitkan kesalahan, denda maksimum adalah sebanyak RM500,000.00 atau penjara 10 tahun, atau kedua-duanya sekali. Bagi kesalahan yang berulang, denda maksimum RM5,000.00 bagi setiap hari kesalahan itu terus dilakukan.

Hasrat MOTAC adalah untuk memastikan Keluarga Malaysia dilindungi serta mendapatkan khidmat melalui pakej pelancongan yang telus. Dengan tindakan yang diambil ini juga, ianya diharapkan dapat membantu dalam memulihkan rantaian ekonomi pengusaha pelancongan berlesen yang telah lama terjejas.

Sebarang aduan atau maklum balas agensi/orang awam berkaitan dengan pengusaha pelancongan tidak berlesen boleh dimajukan melalui Sistem Pengurusan Aduan Awam MOTAC (https://motac.spab.gov.my/).

-MOTAC.

Malaysians catch up on domestic vacations, with a preference for the unusual

 

Strong interstate travel has surfaced in Malaysia since October 11 when the government lifted movement restrictions that were in place for three months, and tourism stakeholders are seeing a change in booking patterns.

Demand for off-the-beaten-track destinations is strong, along with a preference for online bookings.

Angelica Chan, country market manager, Traveloka, noted that unique destinations that offer seclusion and tranquillity are preferred over crowded, popular tourist destinations. Port Dickson, for instance, is winning over beach lovers although it was lesser-known among locals in the past.

Short staycations lasting one or two days in Kuala Lumpur and Selangor are gaining popularity among Klang Valley residents who desire a “quick escape” from their long lockdown.

Sherzede Datu Salleh Askor, CEO of Sarawak Tourism Board, said the state government had also been encouraging local tourism stakeholders, including homestay operators in the rural areas, to go digital since last year by offering financial incentives, in line with the change in domestic and global travel booking patterns.

She believed Sarawak ticked the right boxes with its offerings for international travellers once the border reopens, as travellers would be looking for eco-friendly destinations that were not congested, soft adventure and rich cultures.

Both Chan and Sherzede were speaking at the inaugural virtual discourse, X-Change Malaysia ’21, curated by Ab & Artho Tourism Marketing & PR on October 21. The event was aimed at rebuilding confidence and assurance of the Malaysian tourism industry.

Another speaker, Noredah Othman, CEO of Sabah Tourism Board, stressed that the board was engaging and guiding community-based tourism players and best practices that comply with the ASEAN community-based tourism standards.

Community-based tourism, with its simple concepts of back-to-nature and sustainable living, would be at the forefront for both local and international travel once borders reopen. As such, Sabah Tourism Board is planning roadshows in Peninsular Malaysia for now, and overseas interaction with foreign counterparts later on when international travel is made possible.

Anthony Wong, managing director, Cottage by the Sea by Frangipani Langkawi, shared that the Covid-19 pandemic had also raised awareness of sustainable practices. Since the resumption of domestic travel, Cottage by the Sea has been offering its guests farm-to-table dining experiences, and organic farm tours within the property.

He said: “Our rates are not that cheap, but people don’t mind paying for the experience.”

-TTG Asia.

Tourism Malaysia Joins Virtual PATA Wellness And Luxury Travel Conference And Mart 2021

 

PUTRAJAYA, 21 October 2021 – The Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture Malaysia (MOTAC) through its agency Tourism Malaysia is participating in the virtual PATA Wellness and Luxury Travel Conference and Mart 2021 from 21^st to 22^nd October 2021.

It builds upon the format of PATA Travel Mart, one of the longest-running trade shows in Asia Pacific. This targeted version offers a deeper look at specialised product offerings and forum topics to help the global community prepare for recovery after bearing the brunt of the impacts from Covid-19.

The travel industry is now shaped by new consumer priorities, hence boosting the wellness and luxury segment. The priority on health and wellbeing show that luxury travellers now demand unique experiences during their getaways and require tourism industry players to continuously pivot and innovate to grab the lucrative market share.

Tourism Malaysia aims to showcase Malaysia as the preferred destination for the wellness and luxury tourism market through this event by offering the discerning travellers Malaysia’s brands of premium and lifestyle experiences complemented by the rich multi-cultural society of diverse heritage and culture, unique cuisine, shopping, and world-class accommodation.

In line with the National Tourism Policy 2020-2030 and the United Nations Sustainability Development Goals, Tourism Malaysia is also working towards promoting the Malaysia Truly Asia campaign by highlighting the country’s wellness and luxury segments through not only ecotourism, but also experiential tourism, as well as niche and luxurious tourism products.

-Tourism Malaysia.

Pengumuman Harga Lantai Pengerjaan Ibadah Umrah Dan Penetapan Syarat Pengiklanan Pakej Umrah

 

17 Oktober 2021 - YAB Perdana Menteri Malaysia pada 15 Oktober 2021 telah mengumumkan kebenaran bagi pergerakan Keluarga Malaysia ke luar negara untuk mengerjakan umrah bermula 18 Oktober 2021 yang mana tentunya satu berita yang sangat ditunggu-tunggu oleh umat islam di negara ini. Selama dua (2) tahun ibadah umrah tidak dapat dilakukan akibat penutupan sempadan negara dan larangan oleh negara Arab Saudi untuk mengerjakan haji dan umrah kepada semua negara. Pengumuman ini juga tentunya disambut dengan gembira oleh 444 buah syarikat pengendali umrah yang berlesen di bawah Kementerian ini.

Walau bagaimanapun, selaras dengan Peraturan 6(1A)(a), Akta Industri Pelancongan 1992 [Akta 482] yang mana menyatakan ‘Pengendali pelancongan berlesen tidak boleh mengiklankan pakej yang ditawarkan tanpa kelulusan Pesuruhjaya Pelancongan’. Sehubungan itu, sebagai salah satu inisiatif untuk menangani kes-kes penipuan pakej umrah, Kementerian ini telah mewajibkan agar mana-mana syarikat yang dilesenkan untuk memohon kebenaran bagi mengiklankan promosi umrah. Kementerian telah mengadakan sesi libat urus bersama-sama dengan persatuan-persatuan pengendali umrah iaitu PAPUH, MATTA DAN BUMITRA untuk membantu pihak MOTAC merangka dan memperhalusi isu pengiklanan umrah ini. Berdasarkan sesi-sesi libat urus yang telah dijalankan, persatuan-persatuan berkaitan memahami dan menyokong inisiatif yang dilaksanakan oleh MOTAC demi memelihara kepentingan Keluarga Malaysia dan juga pemain industri umrah itu sendiri.

Sehingga kini, Kementerian ini telah menerima sebanyak 31 permohonan iklan. Setiap iklan yang diluluskan akan diberikan Nombor Siri Khas iklan umrah yang perlu dipaparkan di iklan-iklan yang akan dipromosi. Ini bertujuan untuk membantu Kementerian ini mengenalpasti iklan-iklan haram pakej umrah. Borang permohonan iklan ini boleh di muat turun daripada laman web rasmi Kementerian di www.motac.gov.my.

Kementerian juga telah berbincang dengan persatuan-persatuan berkenaan bagi menetapkan harga lantai umrah yang mana penetapan kali terakhir ialah pada tahun 2017 iaitu pada paras harga RM4,900.00. Walau bagaimanapun, selaras dengan perkembangan semasa, terdapat peningkatan kos memandangkan pelaksanaan SOP sama ada di pihak Arab Saudi atau di pihak kerajaan Malaysia. Antara faktor-faktor yang mempengaruhi peningkatan kos adalah bilangan kapasiti di dalam bilik penginapan di Arab Saudi, kapasiti pergerakan pengangkutan yang membenarkan 50% dari jumlah kapasiti sebenar dan pengurusan mutawif serta ujian swab COVID-19. Harga Lantai yang telah dipersetujui untuk pengerjaan umrah untuk 12 hari dan 10 malam ialah RM6,900.00. Harga Lantai akan disemak semula apabila wabak COVID-19 diisytiharkan berakhir dan keadaan sudah kembali normal yang mana kekangan SOP tidak lagi dilaksanakan oleh pihak Kerajaan Malaysia dan Arab Saudi.

Harga ini juga merupakan panduan bagi pihak Kementerian dalam melaksanakan pemantauan terhadap industri umrah manakala orang ramai boleh menjadikannya sebagai panduan dalam membuat pertimbangan dalam memilih syarikat mana yang sesuai dengan bajet mereka. Orang ramai boleh mengambil langkah berhati-hati jika didapati harga yang ditawarkan terlalu rendah atau terlalu tinggi daripada yang telah ditetapkan bagi mengelak kes-kes penipuan pakej umrah. Orang ramai boleh menghubungi pejabat MOTAC negeri atau melayari laman web rasmi MOTAC bagi mengenalpasti syarikat-syarikat yang telah dilesenkan.

MOTAC mengucapkan selamat mengerjakan ibadah umrah kepada Keluarga Malaysia yang bertuah dan terus mematuhi SOP yang telah ditetapkan oleh kerajaan Malaysia dan Arab Saudi.

-MOTAC.

Flash Deals: Malaysia Airlines’ MHholidays Offers RM100 Voucher for Holiday Packages

 

KLIA, 18 October 2021: Malaysia Airlines' tour operating arm, MHholidays, is giving away RM100 vouchers from 18 to 19 October 2021 for customers to redeem their holiday packages including flights and accommodation to all domestic destinations.

 

Customers can claim their e-vouchers using promo code MHH100 via https://holidays.malaysiaairlines.com/ to book their long-awaited holiday with families or loved ones at the best prices to favourite destinations such as Penang, Langkawi, Kuantan and Johor Bahru.

 

The e-vouchers can be used for selected hotels ranging from 3 to 5-star hotels including WOLO Kuala Lumpur, Berjaya Langkawi Resort, Shangri-la Tanjung Aru Resort & Spa Sabah and Fraser Place Puteri Harbour, Johor under MHholidays' Breakfree Deals Campaign for travel up to 21 April 2022.

 

Since the relaxation of interstate travel, MHholidays has shown an upward trend with holiday packages sold more than 100%, reflecting customers’ appetite for a long overdue vacation.

 

Customers booking through MHholidays will be entitled to premium travel perks, including 40kg baggage allowance, complimentary onboard meals and free seat selection while enjoying the best of Malaysian Hospitality throughout their journey. Other offers include the best selection of activities, attractions and experiences offered through its Trip and Tours features, making travel plans easier and convenient through a single platform.

 

Malaysia Airlines' customers can enjoy their holidays worry-free with the airline's enhanced safety and health protocols across multiple touchpoints at airports and onboard. Among the measures in place include mandatory usage of face masks, frequent aircraft disinfection, and early replacement of aircraft HEPA filters to ensure an effective air circulation system capable of filtering out 99.97 per cent of microorganisms onboard. Passengers will also receive complimentary hygiene kits, which come with a non-surgical face mask, a sachet of hand sanitiser and sanitary wipes, hygienically packed in a sealed zip-lock small sized pouch and be served by a fully vaccinated crew. This is in line with the airline's Fly Confidently campaign, providing a safer and comfortable journey to all our customers, which remains in full swing.

 

Customers are encouraged to keep themselves informed of the latest SOPs by the National Security Council (MKN) to ensure their smooth travel. Customers are also advised to adjust their travel plans to KL International Airport accordingly to allow for sufficient time to navigate through police roadblocks at several locations and check-in procedures at the airport.

 

Malaysia Airlines received 7-star rating for COVID-19 health and safety measures from AirlineRatings in 2019 and a member of Travel Safe Alliance Malaysia, representing the aviation industry which was established to provide end-to-end safe travel solutions to travelers and uphold Malaysia as the preferred travel and business events destination in the global market.

 

To take advantage of the airline's great prices and outstanding COVID-19 safety record, customers can book their tickets via Malaysia Airlines' App, the airline's official website, at www.malaysiaairlines.com for their next Malaysian holidays. Don't miss out on our irresistible deals for travel packages by visiting https://holidays.malaysiaairlines.com/mhholidays-home.html!

-Malaysia Airlines.

Malaysia Airlines Celebrates the Interstate Travel Relaxation with New Lifestyle Benefits for Students through MHexplorer

 

KLIA, 15 October 2021: Members of Malaysia Airlines’ student travel programme, MHexplorer can now enjoy the adventurous and adrenaline-rush attractions at Flowrider 1 Utama, The Top Penang, Komtar and Ripley’s Adventureland, Genting Highlands with discounts of up to 30% following the government’s lifting of the nationwide interstate travel ban.

These latest partnerships are set to offer a world of exciting perks on experiences and attractions when students travel around Malaysia throughout the year with greater lifestyle benefits enabled by the seamless integration with the airline's frequent flyer program, Enrich. This is in addition to MHexplorer’s host of unmatched travel benefits that include *special rates of up to 30% flight discounts all year round across all fare types, an additional 10kg of check-in baggage, one complimentary date change across all flight fares as well as access to exclusive promos for four friends and family via promo codes plus 20% off for Firefly Air Cargo service with the shipment delivery on the same day.

Group Chief Marketing and Customer Experience Officer of Malaysia Airlines Berhad, Lau Yin May, said, "We are excited to roll out the latest additions to MHexplorer exclusive privileges to offer more excellent value our members and taking it to the next level with our new entertainment partners, timely with the lifting of the interstate travel restrictions.

This is part of the airline's extended Malaysian Hospitality to ensure the travel needs of young travellers worldwide are taken care of and rewarded for their continued loyalty with the very best offers and benefits in addition to flights. Through MHexplorer, we welcome over 370 million students travelling each year, be it on experiential travel that covers education, culture, or leisure to take advantage of the programme and enjoy the actual travel experience when they Fly Malaysia.

We believe the easing of interstate travel for those who are fully vaccinated, and the reopening of theme parks and attraction centres will help to revive Malaysia’s tourism industry and economy. As the national airline, we are delighted to be playing an instrumental role in stimulating customers’ confidence in travelling through our stringent focus on safety and hygiene via #FlyConfidently campaign, various improvements made in our service and offerings and innovative products such as MHexplorer.”

MHexplorers can take the opportunity to reunite with their friends and families with the signature extreme indoor activities at Flowrider, a hybrid board sport of flow riding and surfing simulation when they travel to 1 Utama Shopping Centre in Petaling Jaya, Selangor.

Other interesting points of attractions to enjoy includes the panoramic bird's eye view of Penang from George Town's highest point at The Top at Komtar, the enthralling realm of dinosaurs first-hand at the Jurassic Park in Penang, or experience walking through to see over 300 exhibits from the worlds of science and illusions, wax figures, rare artifacts set in exotic themed surroundings among others at Ripley’s Adventureland in Genting Highlands, Pahang.

Via this partnership, MHexplorer members are entitled to the following:

 FlowRider at 1 Utama Shopping Centre, Petaling Jaya, Selangor

• A 30% discount on a regular 1-hour surfing experience at FlowRider, with guidance of professional instructors. Additionally, members can enjoy Buy 1-Free-1, Buy 1-Hour Rides Free Cash Vouchers on selected dates. All packages include free use of surf boards, premium bathrooms and digital lockers.

 The Top Penang Attractions, Georgetown, Penang

•  Rainbow Skywalk - World’s First Tower Curved Walk
•  Jurassic Research Centre – The Largest Dinosaur Park

 Genting Highlands

•   Ripley’s Adventureland, Level 4 Sky Avenue, Genting Highlands

Sign-up between November 2021 to March 2022 to enjoy 20% off at the popular attractions from The Top’s attractions, Penang and Ripley’s Adventureland, Genting Highlands. Adding to this, members can enjoy one free complimentary admission for a birthday celebration on birthday month.

Sign up now at https://www.malaysiaairlines.com/student-portal/mhexplorer-home.html to join MHexplorer family with Malaysia Airlines to create and cherish memorable experiences for a lifetime. Check out Malaysia Airlines’ flagship e-retail store, Temptations to grab exclusive MHexplorer’s pin and other premium merchandise and offerings.

-Malaysia Airlines.

Ekspresi Media Tingkatkan Promosi Pelancongan Langkawi

 

LANGKAWI, 14 Oktober 2021 – Seramai 11 pengamal media terdiri daripada agensi media cetak, elektronik, dan media baharu menyertai program Ekspresi Media Langkawi 2021 anjuran Tourism Malaysia selama empat hari bermula 11 hingga 14 Oktober 2021 yang julung-julung kalinya diadakan dengan kerjasama syarikat penerbangan AirAsia.

Program tersebut yang berlangsung serentak dengan hari pertama kebenaran rentas negeri serta pembukaan semula sektor pelancongan domestik di seluruh negara, antara lain bertujuan mengembalikan keyakinan rakyat untuk melancong selain menguar-uarkan jaminan produk pelancongan bersih dan selamat di Langkawi dalam amalan norma baharu.

Memasuki edisi kelima, program Ekspresi Media pada kali ini masih mengekalkan konsep lawatan suai kenal interaktif dengan mengetengahkan produk berasaskan pengalaman pelancongan (experiential tourism).

Para peserta memulakan pengembaraan dengan menaiki pesawat AirAsia ke Langkawi sebelum dibawa ke Jeti Pelancongan Pekan Rabu menerusi perkhidmatan e-hailing terbaharu, AirAsia Ride bagi meneroka Pulau Tuba.

Di Pulau Tuba, para peserta dibawa meninjau lokasi pelancongan desa serta menelusuri laluan pendakian bagi melihat formasi batuan batu kapur di Bukit Kecik.

Hari kedua pengembaraan menyaksikan para peserta meneroka Biogeotrail Kubang Badak dengan menaiki bot bagi menelusuri kawasan paya bakau di Sungai Siam, menjejaki geotapak Gua Pinang serta peninggalan tapak kebuk arang lama yang dianggarkan berusia 100 tahun di Kampung Siam.

Projek Biogeotrail Kubang Badak menerusi Lembaga Pembangunan Langkawi (LADA) telah menerima pengiktirafan di peringkat antarabangsa apabila memenangi Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) Gold Awards 2021 di bawah kategori Heritage Award, baru-baru ini.

Dalam pada itu, para peserta turut berpeluang menikmati pemandangan panorama 360 darjah Langkawi apabila dibawa menaiki kereta kabel tercuram serta jambatan gantung melengkung terpanjang di dunia iaitu SkyBridge sepanjang 125 meter yang terletak 650 meter dari aras laut.

Turut diatur ialah aktiviti mengelilingi pulau (island hopping) dengan menaiki jet ski, lawatan di sekitar Pekan Kuah termasuk Balai Seni Negara Langkawi serta penginapan berkonsepkan rumah tradisional di Kunang-Kunang Heritage Villas.

Pengarah Bahagian Komunikasi Korporat Tourism Malaysia, Datin Rafidah Idris berkata, diharapkan impak perkongsian pengalaman oleh para peserta media ini dapat merancakkan lagi aktiviti promosi pelancongan domestik melalui perencanaan kempen Cuti-Cuti Malaysia di pelbagai platform media sekali gus menggalakkan rakyat Malaysia untuk kembali melancong bagi menyokong pemulihan industri pelancongan negara.

Sementara itu, Ketua Komersil Serantau AirAsia, Mai Yin Tan pula berharap rakyat Malaysia tidak akan ragu-ragu untuk kembali memilih penerbangan bersama AirAsia dengan jaminan standard keselamatan tertinggi seiring pelan mitigasi COVID-19 pihaknya dalam menerima penumpang lengkap divaksinasi selain mewajibkan proses daftar masuk secara kendiri menerusi airasia Super App yang telah diintegrasikan dengan status vaksinasi melalui MySejahtera.

-Tourism Malaysia.

Malaysia Participates As Platinum Partner At GULF TRAVEL SHOW 2021

 

DUBAI, 12 October 2021 – Tourism Malaysia is participating for the third time at the third edition of the Gulf Travel Show (GTS) from 12 to 14 October 2021. As a platinum partner, Malaysia is having its own virtual pavilion with 13 booths consisting of Tourism Malaysia Dubai, Tourism Malaysia Jeddah, Langkawi Development Authority (LADA), Malaysia Healthcare Travel Council (MHTC), together with three (3) Destination Management Companies (DMC)/ tour operator partners, one product partner, as well as five hotels and resorts from the island of Langkawi.

Following this year’s participation, Mr Manoharan Periasamy, the Senior Director of Tourism Malaysia’s International Promotion Division for Asia & Africa says that GTS 2021 is a platform that allows industry players to share the development and implementation of safety for domestic and international travellers in preparation for reopening the borders, especially for the Middle East market.

“Malaysia has successfully completed the vaccination of more than 90 per cent of its adult population against COVID-19, and as a result, domestic tourism has fully reopened effective Monday, 11 October 2021. In the meantime, Tourism Malaysia is gearing up in preparing to welcome more tourists and also continuing in promoting the #WeMissYou campaign ahead of the reopening of our international borders that is expected after we achieve 90 per cent complete inoculation nationwide,” says Mr Manoharan.

Mr Nasaruddin Bin Abdul Muttalib, the Chief Executive Officer of LADA also shares, “On 16 September 2021, the government has announced the reopening of Langkawi as the pilot project for Malaysia’s domestic travel bubble, aimed at reviving the nation’s tourism industry. Langkawi has become the first holiday destination in Malaysia to open its doors to domestic tourists who are fully vaccinated. The visitors are also subject to the standard operating procedures (SOP) compliance and are required to go through COVID-19 screening tests before entering Langkawi.”

For more information, visit GTS 2021’s official website here.

-Tourism Malaysia.

Captain Izham Ismail elected to IATA Board of Governors

 

Boston, 4 October 2021: Captain Izham Ismail, Managing Director and Group Chief Executive Officer of Malaysia Airlines and the Malaysia Aviation Group (MAG), has been appointed to the Board of Governors (BoG) of the International Air Transport Association (IATA) during its 77^th Annual General Meeting (AGM) held in Boston. Izham will serve a three-year term until 2024, and in his role as member of the BoG, he will participate in providing policy directives and guidance to IATA industry committees and to their subsidiary bodies.

 

Commenting on the appointment, Group Chairman of the MAG, Tan Sri Wan Zulkiflee Wan Ariffin said, “This is indeed a huge recognition of Captain Izham’s leadership, having been in the industry for more than 40 years. His vast knowledge and experience encompass all aspect of the airline business – commercial or operational, and I am proud that an international body such as IATA values the contribution that Izham will bring to the BoG. On behalf of the Board of Directors and employees of MAG, I congratulate Captain Izham and wish him all the best in representing not just Malaysian but all airlines in the Asia Pacific Region.”

 

Captain Izham added, “I am honoured to be elected and very excited to start work on the BoG. Airlines globally are still reeling from the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, suffering huge losses which is expected to continue until 2022. I look forward to working closely with my colleagues on the BoG towards charting the path to recovery besides driving further growth and development of the aviation industry across the globe.”

 

Captain Izham is also actively involved in other industry related bodies such as the oneworld Alliance Governing Board, Executive Committee of the Association of Asia Pacific Airlines (AAPA) and Board of Directors of Tourism Malaysia. 

IATA represents some 290 airlines in 120 countries, comprising 82% of global air traffic and plays a key role in helping formulate global policies on critical aviation-related issues.

-Malaysia Airlines.

Menteri Pelancongan, Seni Dan Budaya Adakan Pertemuan Dengan Pengarah-Pengarah Tourism Malaysia Luar Negara

 

6 Oktober 2021 - Menteri Pelancongan, Seni dan Budaya, Dato' Sri Hajah Nancy Shukri telah mengadakan pertemuan secara maya bersama 43 orang Pengarah Tourism Malaysia yang berada di pelbagai negara. Sesi perbincangan adalah menjurus kepada potensi pembukaan semula aktiviti pelancongan antarabangsa apabila pintu sempadan negara kembali dibuka kelak.

"Data yang kita perolehi daripada semua Pengarah Tourism Malaysia luar negara akan dijadikan panduan untuk kita mengenalpasti tahap kesediaan negara untuk menyasarkan pembukaan sektor pelancongan antarabangsa. Ini dapat membantu kita untuk merangka kempen promosi dan pemasaran bagi membolehkan pelancong luar negara menjadikan Malaysia sebagai destinasi pilihan apabila sempadan negara dibuka nanti," kata YB Dato' Sri Hajah Nancy.

Sesi libat urus ini juga membincangkan perkara-perkara berkaitan peraturan kesihatan serta amalan terbaik yang dilaksanakan oleh negara luar. Informasi seperti ini dapat membantu pihak MOTAC dalam merangka mekanisme yang bersesuaian berhubung urusan kemasukan, faktor kesihatan dan keselamatan, imigresen serta sistem penjejakan data. Perkara ini seterusnya akan dikemukakan kepada Majlis Keselamatan Negara (MKN) untuk dipertimbangkan sebelum keputusan membuka semula sempadan negara dibuat.

Sementara itu, antara isu yang dikemukakan oleh Pengarah Tourism Malaysia Luar Negara adalah berkaitan tempoh kuarantin semasa ketibaan, pengiktirafan vaksinasi dan SOP yang jelas untuk pelancong luar negara.

Untuk rekod, industri pelancongan negara terjejas teruk dalam tempoh pandemik ini dengan anggaran kerugian sebanyak RM135 bilion. Jumlah ini dijangka meningkat kepada RM165 bilion pada tahun 2021.

YB Dato Sri Hajah Nancy turut berkata, Tourism Malaysia perlu meningkatkan promosi berhubung keunikan Malaysia di persada dunia seiring dengan tumpuan MOTAC terhadap cadangan pembukaan gelembung pelancongan antarabangsa.

"Bagi mencapai sasaran kemasukan 16 juta pelancong antarabangsa dan pendapatan sekurang-kurangnya RM45 bilion pada tahun 2025, kita perlu bersama-sama berganding bahu dan bekerja sebagai satu pasukan demi mencapai matlamat memulihkan kembali industri ini seiring dengan tagline MOTAC, Coming Back Stronger," jelas beliau.

Turut hadir dalam sesi libat urus berkenaan ialah Datuk Wira Dr Noor Zari Hamat, Ketua Setiausaha MOTAC. Beliau turut menyatakan bahawa promosi dan pemasaran perlulah mengangkat produk pelancongan yang lebih baik terutamanya dalam aspek kelestarian pelancongan itu sendiri.

-MOTAC.

Slow tourism recovery hitting jobs and growth worldwide: WTTC

 

The travel and tourism sector’s continued sluggish recovery will see its year-on-year contribution to global GDP rise by less than one-third in 2021, according to new research from the WTTC.

The sector’s recovery has been hampered by the lack of international coordination, severe travel restrictions and vaccine inequity, WTTC said in a media release.

In 2019, the travel and tourism sector generated nearly US$9.2 trillion to the global economy, noted WTTC. However in 2020, the pandemic brought travel and tourism to an almost complete standstill which resulted in a 49.1 per cent drop, representing a loss of nearly US$4.5 trillion, it added.

While the global economy is set to receive a modest 30.7 per cent year-on-year increase from travel and tourism in 2021, this will only represent US$1.4 trillion and is mainly driven by domestic spending.

The economic modelling was conducted by Oxford Economics on behalf of WTTC and calculated a baseline scenario based on the current global vaccination rollout, consumer confidence and relaxed travel restrictions in some regions around the world.

The research reveals that at the current rate of recovery, travel and tourism’s contribution to the global economy could see a similar moderate year-on-year rise of 31.7 per cent in 2022.

Last year, WTTC revealed the loss of a staggering 62 million travel and tourism jobs around the world and with the current pace of recovery, jobs are set to rise by only 0.7 per cent this year.

Similarly, research shows a more hopeful potential year-on-year jobs rise across the sector next year, by a positive 18 per cent.

Julia Simpson, WTTC president & CEO, said: “If governments can start looking internationally and support travel and tourism with simplified rules to enable the safe return of travel, there is the opportunity to save jobs and boost economic wealth.”

According to the research, the sector’s contribution to global GDP and the rise in jobs could be more positive this year and next, if the following measures are met:

1.    Allow fully vaccinated travellers to move freely, irrespective of their origin or eventual destination, removing complex tiered systems.

2.    The implementation of digital solutions which enable all travellers to easily prove their Covid status, so in turn, speeding up the process at borders around the world.

3.    Recognition of all vaccines authorised by the World Health Organisation (WHO) and/or any of the stringent regulatory authorities (SRA).

4.    Agreement from all relevant authorities that international travel is safe with enhanced health and safety protocols.

The research shows that if these four vital rules are followed before the end of 2021, the sector’s contribution to the global economy could jump by 37.5 per cent, reaching US$6.4 trillion this year (compared to US$4.7 trillion in 2020).

There is also hope that if restrictions continue being lifted and with more international cooperation, governments could bring back nearly 19 million jobs before the year ends (up 6.8 per cent).

The trend continues into next year when the sector’s contribution to the global economy could see a year-on-year rise of 34 per cent, reaching US$8.6 trillion, close to 2019, a record year for travel and tourism. Similarly, jobs could surpass 2019 levels – up 20.1 per cent year-on-year, to more than 349 million.

-TTG Asia.