Tiong apologises to China tourists, vows better safety measures

Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Tiong King Sing has apologised to China tourists for Malaysia’s shortcomings and vowed to provide an improved travel experience in the country.

In his speech during the opening of the China International Travel Mart (CITM) in Shanghai, he said his ministry is aware of the “unpleasantness” some tourists have experienced while travelling in Malaysia.

He said Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim is very concerned about the issue and has directed relevant authorities to improve safety measures and ensure every tourist in Malaysia will have a pleasant and memorable experience.

“For our shortcomings, I deeply apologise and extend Malaysia’s sincere apologies to Chinese tourists.

“We will continue to maintain close communication with relevant parties to enhance the tourism service platforms further and improve the visitor experience.

“At the same time, we also pledge to prioritise the safety of tourists and provide each traveller with a safer and more comfortable travel experience through comprehensive measures,” he said, according to a statement from his office.

The statement did not elaborate on the nature of the shortcomings or unpleasantness encountered by tourists.

Destination Malaysia

At the fair in Shanghai, Tiong is leading a delegation that includes seven travel agencies, four hotels and resorts, three tourism product proprietors, representatives from the Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H) programme, tourism associations, and airlines.

Malaysia is a guest of honour at the CITM, which Tiong said underscores Malaysia’s deep friendship and cooperation with China.

He said the country will be showcasing its vibrant cultural and natural treasures to entice China’s enormous outbound travel market, as well as leveraging Malaysia’s MM2H programme, its strategic location, cultural familiarity, affordability, and comfortable lifestyle.

According to the statement, China tourist arrivals in Malaysia exceeded 2.53 million as of September this year, an increase of more than 120,000 compared to 2.41 million in the same period in 2019.

Last month, analysts at Maybank Investment Bank reportedly predicted Chinese spending on tourism in Malaysia could rise to more than RM30 billion next year, almost double the pre-pandemic amount.

This is due to an anticipated increase in the number of visitors from China, as well as increased spending by each visitor. - Mkini