Just as Datuk Seri Nancy Shukri launched a promotional initiative, a video featuring scenic locations in Malaysia accompanied with the song Cuti-Cuti Malaysia was projected in the hall at the ministry’s office in Putrajaya.
The Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister had earlier this afternoon addressed the press regarding initiatives and activities as the Recovery Movement Control Order (RMCO) which allows interstate travel among others, began today. And if there was one key takeaway from Nancy’s speech, it has to be marketing Malaysia as a safe destination.
The much anticipated Visit Malaysia Year 2020 had to be scrapped as Malaysia, dubbed as the nation that is Truly Asia, saw its tourism industry crippled following the Covid-19 pandemic that forced a partial lockdown on March 18.
Those within the industry, from tour guides to hoteliers, have suffered massive losses and it is uncertain if they can bounce back anytime soon as international borders remain shut.
“Many stakeholders have been affected and we have always acknowledged that,” she said, adding her ministry has had engagements with stakeholders and other government agencies to identify the impact of Covid-19 and strategies to spur the industry.
However, the Covid-19 episode could spur a new kind of tourism – focusing strictly on inter and intra state locations.
“Visit Malaysia Year 2020 has been cancelled, but efforts to promote local destinations will continue.
“We want to promote Malaysia as a safe destination for tourism. We want things to become normal again, hopefully soon.”
Nancy revealed the findings of the Survey on Domestic Travel in Malaysia after Movement Control Order which saw 13,797 respondents. They are:
- 50.9% believe it is safe to travel domestic.
- 84.2% believe Covid-19 has changed their attitude towards travelling.
- 71.3% pick Malaysia as their holiday destination instead of abroad.
- 30.7% would like to go for a holiday in the next six to 12 months.
- 22.8% would like to go for a holiday within two to six months.
- 22.6% would like to go for a holiday in the next two weeks.
“Everyone is excited to go for a holiday,” said Nancy.
As such, she spoke of plans to promote local destinations aggressively via digital platforms.
“We want people to regain their confidence in travelling locally and visiting Malaysia. We want to ensure the standard operating procedures are strictly adhered to so that tourists will stay longer.
“We also want to optimise promotions online.”
As for hoteliers, operators and tour guides, several initiatives have been laid out by the ministry – on top of the stimulus packages announced in recent weeks. These include 40 per cent discounts on compounds and extension of payment of the compounds until the end of the year.
As for non-governmental organisations that develop and promote cultural activities, some RM300,000 has been given out to 37 such establishments.
