The association says travel within Malaysia and the Asean region remains robust due to strong demand and pre-existing bookings.
Malaysian Association of Tour and Travel Agents (Matta) president Nigel Wong said travel within Malaysia and the Asean region remains robust, even as rising costs linked to the ongoing Middle East war weigh on long-haul travel.
Wong said demand for domestic tourism remains strong, with feedback from members indicating that destinations across Southeast Asia and the wider Asian region continue to perform well.
Earlier bookings have also helped sustain travel activity, as Malaysians continue to travel despite the current uncertainties.
“For now, we are doing all right. As you can see from the crowd at the domestic arrival hall, demand for domestic tourism is still high.
“Our hope is that the conflict will end soon so we can resume business as usual,” he said after the opening of the 58th Matta Fair here today.
Wong said airline ticket prices have fluctuated amid the tensions in the Middle East, affecting overall travel costs, particularly for long-haul routes to Europe that transit through the region.
“As long as the crisis in the Middle East continues, we can expect costs – not just for airline tickets, but also for ground transportation – to increase due to rising fuel prices.
“However, we have noticed that many Malaysian carriers are trying to keep fares stable for now. Ultimately, it also depends on demand.
“The usual advice applies for anyone booking airline tickets: book as early as possible to secure the best rates,” he said.
He also encouraged Malaysians to support domestic tourism, noting that a strong local tourism base would drive innovation, improve infrastructure, and enhance service quality, ultimately benefitting inbound tourism. - FMT
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