Tuesday, August 27, 2024 Malaysia aims to diversify its tourism markets and boost its appeal by leveraging new airlines and expanding airport capacity through strategic marketing campaigns. According to Tourism Malaysia director-general Manoharan Periasamy, this strategy focuses on emerging markets like Pakistan and Bangladesh, highlighting Malaysia’s rich cultural diversity, natural wonders, and vibrant modern cities. Tourism Malaysia collaborates closely with international airlines, hotels, tour operators, and travel agencies to create joint promotions and tourism packages, showcasing the wide range of attractions and experiences available across Malaysia’s various states.
Additionally, the agency is rolling out dynamic joint promotion initiatives with airlines and travel agencies to tap into the significant growth potential of the Chinese market. These initiatives, supported by the Matching Grant for International and Charter Flights, are designed to position Malaysia as a premier tourist destination and significantly increase Chinese tourist arrivals. Manoharan emphasized that these collaborations aim to enhance accessibility, increase flight frequency, and expand seat capacity by supporting chartered flights, scheduled services, and the development of new routes.
The matching grant also complements the existing flight network provided by other carriers, further boosting tourist traffic between Malaysia and China. With the resumption of existing routes and the launch of new ones by both Malaysian and Chinese airlines, including Air China, China Eastern Airlines, China Southern Airlines, Xiamen Air, Loong Air, and Spring Airlines, there are now over 408 weekly flights connecting China and Malaysia. Manoharan also highlighted the launch of the first China Imam Fam Trip: Discover Muslim-Friendly Malaysia initiative, in partnership with the Islamic Tourism Centre and the Malaysian Inbound Chinese Association.
This initiative aims to showcase Malaysia’s diverse tourism offerings, including its wide variety of halal cuisines and commitment to providing Muslim-friendly hospitality..
