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Tourism Satellite Account 2021 .favourite { position : absolute; width : 24px; height : 24px; background : url(images/icon/fav-pub-gray.png) no-repeat; top : 0px; right : 0; } .added { background : url(images/icon/fav-pub-yellow.png) no-repeat; }

Domestic Tourism dominated with 97.4 per cent to tourism expenditure in 2021

Gross Value Added of Tourism Industries (GVATI) amounted to RM197.9 billion contributing 12.8% to Gross Domestic Product (GDP) compared to 14.1 per cent in 2020. Based on the tourism subsectors performance, almost all industries have recorded negative growth rate except Retail sale of automotive fuel (4.7%), Retail trade (4.4%) and Country-specific tourism services (3.4%). Retail trade remained the main contributor to the tourism industry (56.1%). Tourism Direct Gross Domestic Product (TDGDP) recorded RM13.1 billion compared to RM28.4 billion in 2020, tumbled 53.8 per cent (2020: -72.2%). Overall, TDGDP contributed 0.9 per cent to GDP as against 2.0 per cent in 2020. The three main products in TDGDP were Retail trade, Accommodation and Food & beverage serving services with a combined share of 73.5 per cent in 2021. Inbound tourism expenditure plunged 96.6 per cent to RM0.47 billion in 2021 in tandem with the decline in the number of foreign tourist arrivals to Malaysia. The Internal tourism consumption has generated RM17.9 billion, decreased by 65.8 percent from the previous year. Domestic tourism showed a significant performance by contributing 97.4 per cent to the total internal tourism consumption while inbound tourism recorded 2.6 per cent. Domestic tourism expenditure recorded RM17.5 billion in 2021 compared to RM38.6 billion in the previous year with a decrease of 54.8 per cent (2020: -58.3%). The three tourism products that recorded a significant double-digit decline were Travel agency services (-77.7%), followed by Passenger transport services (-64.5%) and Food & beverage serving services (-62.9%). Employment in the tourism industry recorded 3.52 million people in 2021 which contributed 23.4 per cent to the total employment. The employment of this industry has recovered to 1.8 per cent from a negative 2.9 per cent in the previous year. The full publication of the Tourism Satellite Account 2021 can be downloaded through   eStatistik  portal.

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DEPARTMENT OF STATISTICS MALAYSIA 28 September 2022

Contact person:

Baharudin bin Mohamad Public Relation Officer Strategic Communication and International Division Department of Statistics, Malaysia Tel : +603-8885 7942 Fax : +603-8888 9248 Email : baharudin[at]dosm.gov.my

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• Tourism Satellite Account 2020
• Tourism Satellite Account 2019
• Tourism Satellite Account 2018
• Tourism Satellite Account 2017
• Tourism Satellite Account 2016
• Tourism Satellite Account 2015
• Tourism Satellite Account, 2010-2014
• Tourism Satellite Account 2005 - 2013
• Tourism Satellite Account 2005 - 2012
• Tourism Satellite Account 2005 - 2011
• Tourism Satellite Account 2000 - 2010

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Tourism in Malaysia

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Tourism in Malaysia is big business! But why is this industry so important and how is it best managed? Read on to find out…

Geography of Malaysia

Tourism industry in malaysia, statistics about tourism in malaysia, most popular tourist attractions in malaysia, most popular types of tourism in malaysia, impacts of tourism in malaysia , faqs about tourism in malaysia, to conclude: tourism in malaysia.

Malaysia, a Southeast Asian nation known for its diverse cultures and verdant landscapes, holds a prominent position on the global tourism map. Within the tourism industry, Malaysia offers a multitude of opportunities, but also faces its own set of challenges. This article seeks to explore the depths of Malaysia’s tourism sector, emphasising its economic contributions, growth trajectories, and the imperative for sustainable and inclusive development.

Malaysia is a Southeast Asian country located on the Malay Peninsula and the island of Borneo. It is divided into two main regions: Peninsular Malaysia and East Malaysia.

• Peninsular Malaysia: This region is situated on the southern part of the Malay Peninsula, bordered by Thailand to the north and connected to the island of Singapore via a causeway. The landscape of Peninsular Malaysia is characterized by a coastal plain along the western and eastern coasts, with mountainous regions in the interior. The Titiwangsa Mountains, running from north to south, form the backbone of the peninsula and include the highest peak, Mount Tahan. The peninsula is also home to several rivers, including the Perak, Pahang, and Johor rivers.
• East Malaysia: This region occupies the northern part of the island of Borneo, sharing borders with Indonesia and Brunei. It is divided into two states: Sabah and Sarawak. East Malaysia features a diverse geography , including coastal plains, hilly areas, and mountain ranges. Mount Kinabalu, the highest peak in Malaysia, is located in Sabah. The region is known for its lush rainforests, which are part of the biodiverse ecosystems of Borneo.

Malaysia has a tropical climate, with high temperatures and humidity throughout the year. The country is also rich in natural resources, including oil, gas, timber, and minerals. Its coastal areas are dotted with beautiful beaches and islands, such as Langkawi and Tioman, which attract tourists from around the world.

Additionally, Malaysia has several significant bodies of water. The South China Sea borders Malaysia to the east, while the Strait of Malacca separates Peninsular Malaysia from the Indonesian island of Sumatra. The country is also home to numerous rivers and inland bodies of water, including Lake Kenyir, which is the largest man-made lake in Southeast Asia.

Overall, Malaysia’s geography offers a mix of diverse landscapes, from mountains and rainforests to coastal plains and stunning islands, making it a visually captivating and ecologically significant country.

The tourism industry in Malaysia has emerged as a vital economic driver, contributing substantially to the nation’s GDP and acting as a catalyst for socio-cultural development. Malaysia’s diverse landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and strategic geographical location have positioned it as an attractive destination for international and domestic tourists alike. This paper aims to provide an academic exploration of the various facets of Malaysia’s tourism industry, encompassing its attractions, government initiatives, challenges, sustainable practices, and future prospects.

Malaysia boasts a plethora of natural and man-made attractions that captivate visitors from around the globe. The country’s scenic beauty encompasses pristine beaches, lush rainforests, majestic mountains, and captivating islands. The iconic Petronas Twin Towers in Kuala Lumpur, historic sites like Melaka City, and the UNESCO World Heritage-listed George Town further add to Malaysia’s allure. Additionally, the country’s cultural diversity, represented by its vibrant festivals, culinary delights, and traditional arts and crafts, offers visitors a unique and immersive experience.

Malaysia’s cultural heritage is a significant draw for tourists seeking to explore the country’s rich history and multicultural society. The nation is home to a harmonious blend of Malay, Chinese, Indian, and indigenous cultures, which coexist and contribute to Malaysia’s distinct identity. Visitors can immerse themselves in cultural celebrations such as Hari Raya Aidilfitri, Chinese New Year, and Deepavali, or delve into traditional practices and arts, such as batik painting, shadow puppetry, and traditional music performances.

The Malaysian government recognizes the tourism industry’s potential for economic growth and has implemented several initiatives to promote and support its development. The Ministry of Tourism, Arts, and Culture (MOTAC) spearheads efforts to enhance tourism infrastructure, attract investments, and implement policies to facilitate tourism growth. The “Visit Malaysia” campaign, launched periodically, serves as a platform to showcase the country’s attractions and increase visitor arrivals. Furthermore, collaborations with international organizations and stakeholders help bolster Malaysia’s tourism reputation on a global scale.

The tourism industry in Malaysia faces certain challenges that require attention for sustained growth. Factors such as seasonality, changing travel patterns, and global economic fluctuations influence tourist arrivals. Ensuring visitor safety and security, preserving environmental sustainability, and maintaining cultural authenticity amidst rapid development pose ongoing challenges. Furthermore, competition from neighboring countries and emerging destinations necessitates continuous innovation and marketing strategies to remain competitive.

Recognizing the importance of sustainable tourism, Malaysia has made significant strides towards promoting environmentally and socially responsible practices within the industry. Efforts include the establishment of eco-tourism destinations, conservation projects, and community-based tourism initiatives that empower local communities. The Green Tourism Initiative and the Malaysian Sustainable Tourism Criteria are notable examples of the government’s commitment to sustainable tourism development.

Malaysia’s tourism industry holds immense potential for future growth and development. The government’s focus on diversifying tourism products, improving connectivity, and enhancing visitor experiences paves the way for continued success. Furthermore, emerging trends such as ecotourism, wellness tourism, and experiential travel present opportunities for innovation and niche market development. The country’s strategic location within the ASEAN region and its well-established infrastructure further contribute to its favorable prospects in the global tourism arena.

The tourism industry in Malaysia represents a vibrant and dynamic sector that contributes significantly to the nation’s economy and cultural fabric. With its diverse attractions, rich cultural heritage, proactive government initiatives, and commitment to sustainable practices, Malaysia continues to attract a steady stream of visitors from across the globe. By addressing challenges and embracing emerging trends, the industry is poised for continued growth and the realization of its full potential in the years to come.

Now lets take a look at some of the key statistics that help us better understand the scale of tourism in Malaysia:

• Tourist Arrivals: In 2019, Malaysia welcomed a record 26.1 million international tourists, which increased by 5.1% compared to the previous year.
• Top Source Countries: The main source countries for tourism in Malaysia are Singapore, Indonesia, China, Thailand, and India.
• Tourism Revenue: In 2019, tourism receipts in Malaysia reached approximately RM86.14 billion (around USD 20.6 billion).
• Employment: The tourism industry in Malaysia provides significant employment opportunities, with around 3.5 million people working directly or indirectly in tourism-related jobs.
• UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Malaysia boasts four UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including George Town, Melaka, Gunung Mulu National Park, and Kinabalu Park.
• Medical Tourism: Malaysia is a popular destination for medical tourism, with state-of-the-art facilities and competitive pricing. In 2019, the country received over 1.3 million medical tourists.
• Eco-Tourism: Malaysia’s rich biodiversity and natural beauty attract eco-tourists. The country has numerous national parks, rainforests, and marine parks, offering diverse flora and fauna.
• Shopping Tourism: Malaysia is known as a shopping paradise, particularly in cities like Kuala Lumpur and Penang. The country offers a wide range of shopping malls, markets, and duty-free zones.
• Muslim-Friendly Tourism: Malaysia is a Muslim-majority country and has developed a reputation as a Muslim-friendly destination. Halal food, prayer facilities, and Islamic attractions cater to the needs of Muslim travelers.
• Cruise Tourism: Malaysia has become a popular destination for cruise ships. Ports such as Port Klang, Penang, and Langkawi attract many international cruise liners, contributing to the growth of cruise tourism in the country.

Malaysia, a multiethnic country with a unique fusion of Malay, Chinese, Indian, and indigenous cultures, offers a wide range of tourist attractions. This study focuses on the most popular destinations that have achieved widespread acclaim and consistently attract a significant number of visitors.

• Petronas Twin Towers: The Petronas Twin Towers, located in Kuala Lumpur, the capital city of Malaysia, stand as an iconic symbol of modern architecture and engineering prowess. These identical towers, reaching a height of 452 meters, held the title of the world’s tallest buildings from 1998 to 2004. Visitors are captivated by the towers’ stunning design, the Skybridge connecting the two structures, and the observation deck offering panoramic views of the city.
• George Town: Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, George Town is a historic city located on the island of Penang. Its unique blend of architectural styles, including British colonial buildings, traditional Chinese shophouses, and Indian temples, showcases the diverse cultural influences that have shaped Malaysia’s history. The city’s vibrant street art, bustling markets, and delectable local cuisine contribute to its immense popularity among tourists.
• Langkawi: Langkawi, an archipelago of 99 islands situated in the Andaman Sea, is renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty. Pristine beaches, lush rainforests, and clear turquoise waters create an idyllic setting for leisure and relaxation. The island offers various attractions such as the Langkawi Cable Car, which provides visitors with stunning panoramic views, and the UNESCO-listed Kilim Karst Geoforest Park, where tourists can explore mangrove forests and limestone caves.
• Mount Kinabalu: Located in the state of Sabah, Mount Kinabalu is the highest peak in Southeast Asia, standing at 4,095 meters. This majestic mountain, surrounded by the Kinabalu National Park, entices adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts from around the world. Scaling its summit requires physical endurance, but the reward is a remarkable sunrise view above the clouds and an opportunity to explore the park’s rich biodiversity, including unique plant species and diverse wildlife.
• Malacca City: Malacca City, also known as Melaka, is a historical gem that bears witness to Malaysia’s colonial past. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this vibrant city showcases a fusion of Portuguese, Dutch, and British architectural influences. Visitors can explore St. Paul’s Church, A Famosa Fort, and the vibrant Jonker Street, famous for its antique shops, night markets, and culinary delights. The city’s rich history and cultural significance make it a must-visit destination.
• Taman Negara: Taman Negara, meaning “National Park” in Malay, is one of the world’s oldest rainforests, dating back over 130 million years. Encompassing dense jungles, cascading waterfalls, and thrilling canopy walkways, this ecological wonderland offers visitors a chance to immerse themselves in the wonders of nature. Guided jungle treks, river cruises, and wildlife spotting expeditions provide a truly adventurous experience.

Malaysia, known for its vibrant multicultural society and captivating landscapes, has emerged as a prominent tourism destination in Southeast Asia. With a diverse range of tourism offerings, the country has successfully attracted visitors seeking various experiences. This study focuses on elucidating the most popular types of tourism in Malaysia and provides a nuanced understanding of their characteristics, significance, and impact.

• Cultural Tourism: Cultural tourism plays a vital role in Malaysia’s tourism industry due to the country’s rich cultural heritage and ethnic diversity. Visitors are enticed by the harmonious coexistence of Malay, Chinese, Indian, and indigenous cultures. Cultural attractions such as religious festivals, heritage sites, traditional arts and crafts, and culinary delights form the core of this tourism type. Popular cultural tourism destinations include George Town (Penang), Malacca City, and Kuala Lumpur.
• Nature and Ecotourism: Malaysia’s abundant natural resources, including rainforests, national parks, and pristine islands, make it an ideal destination for nature and ecotourism. Tourists are drawn to explore the country’s diverse ecosystems, engage in activities like jungle trekking, wildlife spotting, bird watching, and diving in marine reserves such as Sipadan Island and Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park. The promotion of sustainable practices and conservation efforts are integral to maintaining the allure of nature-based tourism in Malaysia.
• Adventure Tourism: Adventure tourism caters to thrill-seekers and adrenaline enthusiasts who seek unique and challenging experiences. Malaysia offers a plethora of adventure tourism opportunities, including white-water rafting, rock climbing, caving, canopy walks, and paragliding. Destinations such as Taman Negara, Gunung Kinabalu, and Langkawi Island attract adventure tourists with their awe-inspiring landscapes and adrenaline-pumping activities.
• Medical and Wellness Tourism: Malaysia has emerged as a prominent medical and wellness tourism destination, renowned for its quality healthcare services, modern facilities, and affordable treatments. International visitors often choose Malaysia for medical procedures, including cosmetic surgery, dental treatments, and wellness retreats. The country’s medical hubs such as Kuala Lumpur and Penang boast internationally accredited hospitals and wellness centers, catering to the growing demand for healthcare tourism.
• Gastronomic Tourism: Malaysia’s diverse culinary scene, influenced by Malay, Chinese, Indian, and indigenous cuisines, attracts food enthusiasts from all over the world. The country is renowned for its street food culture, offering a mouthwatering array of flavors and delicacies. Destinations such as Penang, Kuala Lumpur, and Ipoh are known as gastronomic hotspots, showcasing a rich tapestry of culinary traditions and local specialties.

Tourism plays a vital role in Malaysia’s economy, contributing significantly to its GDP and employment opportunities. However, it is crucial to evaluate the broader consequences of tourism in order to make informed decisions regarding sustainable development and resource management. This paper investigates the social, environmental, and economic impacts of tourism in Malaysia, presenting a comprehensive analysis of its positive and negative effects.

• Social Impacts of tourism in Malaysia: 

Positive Impacts: a. Cultural Exchange: Tourism facilitates cultural interactions, fostering a sense of understanding and tolerance among visitors and locals. 

b. Socio-cultural Revitalization: The preservation and promotion of traditional arts, crafts, and customs contribute to the conservation of cultural heritage. 

c. Job Creation: Tourism in Malaysia generates employment opportunities, particularly in the service sector, thus improving the livelihoods of local communities.

Negative Impacts: 

a. Socio-cultural Disruption: Rapid tourism development can lead to the commodification and commercialization of local cultures, potentially eroding traditional values and practices.

 b. Social Disparities: Income disparities between tourism-rich regions and less developed areas may increase, exacerbating social inequality. 

c. Sociocultural Conflicts: Cultural clashes between tourists and locals, often fueled by differences in behavior, customs, and expectations, can strain community cohesion.

• Environmental Impacts of tourism in Malaysia: 

Positive Impacts: 

a. Conservation Efforts: Revenue from tourism in Malaysia can be channeled into environmental preservation initiatives, contributing to the protection of natural resources, biodiversity, and ecosystems. 

b. Awareness and Education: Tourism in Malaysia provides opportunities to educate visitors about environmental conservation, fostering a sense of responsibility and encouraging sustainable practices.

a. Environmental Degradation: Overcrowding, unregulated development, and increased waste generation can place strain on fragile ecosystems and biodiversity.

 b. Natural Resource Depletion: Unsustainable tourism practices, such as excessive water consumption and deforestation for infrastructure development, can deplete valuable resources. 

c. Carbon Footprint: Tourism-related transportation and energy consumption contribute to greenhouse gas emissions, exacerbating climate change concerns.

• Economic Impacts of tourism in Malaysia: 

Positive Impacts:

 a. Foreign Exchange Earnings: Tourism in Malaysia generates foreign currency inflows, bolstering the country’s economic stability and reducing trade deficits. 

b. Economic Diversification: The tourism sector provides an alternative source of income and employment opportunities, reducing dependence on traditional industries.

 c. Small and Medium Enterprises (SME) Development: Tourism in Malaysia stimulates the growth of SMEs, including accommodation providers, tour operators, and local artisans, fostering entrepreneurship and regional economic development.

Negative Impacts:

 a. Leakage: Profits from tourism in Malaysia may leak out of the local economy due to foreign ownership, importation of goods and services, and repatriation of earnings by international companies. 

b. Seasonality and Dependency: Destinations heavily reliant on tourism in Malaysia can face challenges during low season periods, leading to economic instability and job insecurity for locals.

 c. Inflation and Cost of Living: Rapid tourism growth can drive up prices, particularly in popular tourist areas, potentially impacting the affordability of essential goods and services for local residents.

The impacts of tourism in Malaysia are multifaceted, encompassing social, environmental, and economic dimensions. While tourism has brought numerous benefits, such as cultural exchange, job creation, and economic diversification, it has also presented challenges, including cultural disruption, environmental degradation, and economic dependencies. To ensure sustainable tourism development, it is imperative to implement effective policies and strategies that maximize the positive impacts while mitigating the negative consequences, promoting responsible tourism practices, and prioritizing the well-being of local communities and the environment.

Now that we know a bit more about tourism in Malaysia, lets answer some of the most common questions on this topic:

Q: What are the must-visit tourist destinations for tourism in Malaysia?

A: Some of the must-visit tourist destinations in Malaysia include Kuala Lumpur, Penang, Langkawi, Malacca, Borneo (Sabah and Sarawak), Cameron Highlands, and the Perhentian Islands.

Q: What is the best time to visit Malaysia?

A: Malaysia has a tropical climate, so it is generally warm and humid throughout the year. The best time to visit depends on the region you plan to explore. The months from March to October are generally considered the best time to visit the West Coast (Peninsular Malaysia), while the East Coast (Perhentian Islands, Tioman Island) is best visited from April to October. Borneo (Sabah and Sarawak) can be visited year-round, but the dry season from March to October is recommended.

Q: Is it necessary to have a visa to visit Malaysia?

A: The visa requirements for Malaysia depend on your nationality. Many countries have visa-free entry for a certain period, while others may require a visa on arrival or a pre-approved visa. It’s advisable to check with the Malaysian embassy or consulate in your country for the most up-to-date visa information.

Q: What are the popular activities to do in Malaysia?

A: Malaysia offers a wide range of activities for tourists. Some popular activities include exploring the Petronas Towers in Kuala Lumpur, visiting heritage sites in Malacca, enjoying the pristine beaches of Langkawi, diving in Sipadan Island, wildlife spotting in Borneo, experiencing street food in Penang, and trekking in the Cameron Highlands.

Q: Is English widely spoken in Malaysia?

A: Yes, English is widely spoken in Malaysia, especially in urban areas and tourist destinations. Most Malaysians are bilingual and speak both English and Malay (Bahasa Malaysia). You should have no trouble communicating in English with locals.

Q: What is the currency used in Malaysia?

A: The currency used in Malaysia is the Malaysian Ringgit (MYR). It’s advisable to carry some cash, but credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and major establishments.

Q: Is it safe to travel to Malaysia?

A: Malaysia is generally a safe country for tourists. However, it’s always advisable to take normal precautions and be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas or tourist spots. Take care of your belongings and avoid isolated or poorly lit areas at night.

Q: What is the local transportation like in Malaysia?

A: Malaysia has a well-developed transportation system. Major cities have public transportation networks, including buses, trains, and taxis. In Kuala Lumpur, the MRT and LRT (light rail transit) systems are efficient and convenient. Ride-hailing services like Grab are also popular in Malaysia.

Q: What is the cuisine like in Malaysia?

A: Malaysia is renowned for its diverse and delicious cuisine. You can enjoy a variety of dishes influenced by Malay, Chinese, and Indian cuisines. Some popular dishes include Nasi Lemak, Roti Canai, Laksa, Char Kway Teow, and Satay. Don’t miss the opportunity to explore the street food scene in places like Penang and Kuala Lumpur.

Q: Are there any cultural etiquettes to be aware of in Malaysia?

A: Malaysians are generally friendly and welcoming. It’s advisable to dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites or rural areas. It’s also polite to remove your shoes before entering someone’s home or places of worship.

Malaysia, a confluence of diverse cultures, landscapes, and traditions, remains a significant cornerstone in Southeast Asian tourism. As the nation strides forward, the fusion of environmental stewardship with cultural integrity is paramount. By upholding these tenets, Malaysia reinforces its position as a captivating and sustainable destination on the global stage.

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Smart Tourism: Future of Tourism in Malaysia

Tourism is the third-largest contributor to Malaysia’s GDP, after the manufacturing and commodities sectors. In 2019, the sector contributed about 15.9 per cent to the total GDP. In the last few years before the outbreak of COVID-19, the tourism industry in Southeast Asia had experienced a significant growth phase, and Malaysia launched the “Visit Truly Asia Malaysia 2020” campaign with a target of 30 million visitors and RM100 billion in tourist revenue for 2020. However, the COVID-19 outbreak severely impacted the Malaysian tourism industry, which led to the cancellation of the campaign.

The Government then launched the National Tourism Policy (NTP) 2020-2030 on 23 December 2020 to ensure the continuity of the country’s tourism industry and make Malaysia a preferred tourist destination globally. Key approaches in achieving the NTP’s agenda include effective recovery of the tourism industry based on new norms, strengthening competitiveness, sustainable and inclusive tourism development, as well as disaster risk management.

Among the Transformation Strategies outlined in the NTP is to embrace ‘Smart Tourism’. Advances in digital technology have influenced the way people travel, causing tourism-related businesses to change the way they operate.

The Malaysia Smart Tourism 4.0 initiative launched by Tourism Malaysia on 5 April 2018 aims to take the industry to the next level by taking advantage of opportunities in the digital age. These efforts will pave the way for new innovative sub-sectors and create employment opportunities in line with the NTP and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDG). In a study conducted by Monitor Deloitte, ‘Smart Tourism’ has the potential to increase Malaysia’s tourism-based revenues from the current USD25 billion to USD110 billion by 2030, an increase of more than 4-fold.

According to Dr Hayley Stainton, the founder and CEO of Tourism Teacher, “Smart Tourism is defined according to the technological capabilities of a particular destination, attraction or the tourist themselves.”

The definition is supported by The European Capital of Smart Tourism which defines a smart destination as:

‘A destination facilitating access to tourism and hospitality products, services, spaces and experiences through ICT-based tools. It is a healthy social and cultural environment, which can be found through a focus on the city´s social and human capital. It also implements innovative, intelligent solutions and fosters the development of entrepreneurial businesses and their interconnectedness.’

The ultimate aim of smart tourism is to improve resource management efficiency, enhance tourism experiences, maximise competitiveness, and enhance sustainability through technological innovation and practices.

The five most common methods of implementing smart tourism

While the tourism sector has taken a hard blow due to the pandemic, the focus on digitalisation and developing smart products and infrastructure are among initiatives to build a more resilient and sustainable future in Malaysia. Taking a positive spin, a crisis is often an opportunity to rethink and reinvent old processes, particularly to adopt more sustainable tourism practices. According to UNWTO (UN World Tourism Organisation), sustainable tourism ‘has the potential to advance urban infrastructure and universal accessibility, promote the regeneration of damaged areas and preserve cultural and natural heritage, assets that depend on tourism’.

In recent years, there has been a demand for high-class hotel development in response to the increase in global wealth and higher living standards among developed and developing countries. The upcoming mega projects and large mixed-use development in TRX, Bandar Malaysia and KL Metropolis are expected to attract upperupscale and luxury hotels. It is estimated that the proposed investment for the establishment of 4 and 5 star hotels in Malaysia amounted to RM7 billion in 2021.

In efforts to develop Malaysia’s tourism landscape into a sustainable, competitive and resilient sector, incentives are provided to encourage existing operators of 4 and 5-star hotels and smart tourism. MIDA welcomes quality investments that involve high-value and innovative tourism products and services, and contributes to a comprehensive ecosystem such as special tourism investment zones without compromising on environmental policies and legal requirements. MIDA also encourages companies to invest in modern and higher standard infrastructure and facilities to build up the resilience and long term competitiveness of the tourism sector.

Explore other related content to further explore MIDA’s insights.

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Malaysia maintains top spot as premier destination for Muslim travellers in GMTI report

Thursday, 30 May 2024

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PETALING JAYA: Malaysia retained its top position as the premier destination for Muslim travellers after receiving over 4.5 million Muslim international arrivals in 2023, says the Islamic Tourism Centre (ITC).

This marks the ninth time Malaysia maintained its top spot in the Mastercard-Crescentrating Global Muslim Travel Index (GMTI) 2024 report that was released on Thursday (May 30).

The country was also named as the “Top Muslim-Friendly Destination of the Year (OIC)” for the second year running at the Halal in Travel Awards 2024 held in Singapore on Thursday.

The arrivals had also generated RM14.70bil in revenue for the country in 2023, according to a press release by ITC on Thursday.

With borders reopening worldwide, the latest GMTI report also forecasted the market to grow significantly with an estimated 230 million Muslim travellers expected by 2028 from 160 million in 2019.

“Malaysia's popularity among Muslim travellers stems from its accessibility to Halal food and faith-related facilities and services, beautiful beaches, diverse culture, and incredible shopping experiences.

“Additionally, it offers a wide range of Muslim-friendly tour packages, allowing tourists to experience the country's rich history, mosque architecture, heritage, gastronomy, nature, arts and culture,” it said.

ITC director-general Nizran Noordin praised the achievement as a recognition of the country’s Muslim-Friendly tourist industry player as he reassured the government’s efforts to further grow the industry.

“This recognition is a testament to the dedication of industry practitioners and stakeholders in advocating for the Muslim-Friendly Tourism and Hospitality (MFTH) sector.

“We remain dedicated to championing MFTH on both local and global scales,” he said in his acceptance speech at the launch of GMTI 2024 on Thursday.

Nizran also noted the importance of having a standard Muslim-friendly tourism and encouraged all industry players to work with ITC in its efforts to develop the industry.

“I would like to urge industry players to come on board with ITC for this Muslim-friendly marking to champion just one Muslim-Friendly Tourism and Hospitality Assurance and Recognition logo.

“We need to establish MFAR as a global brand and common logo that we all can refer to, and market it together to make the world more inclusive,” he added.

Related stories:

Tags / Keywords: Muslim Friendly , Malaysia , Islamic Tourism Centre , Global Muslim Travel Index , Muslim-Friendly Tourism and Hospitality , Nizran Noordin

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