MOTAC targets the entry of 16.1 million foreign tourists this year
KUALA LUMPUR: The Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture (MOTAC) is targeting an influx of 16.1 million foreign tourists with RM49.2 billion in tourism revenue this year.
The minister in question, Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing, said in order to achieve the target as well as the Tourism Recovery Plan 2023, MOTAC has requested allocation assistance from the Ministry of Finance (MOF) to improve the promotion and image of the country’s tourism products.
“We have asked MOF for help with the identified market focus involving ASEAN countries, the Middle East, China, India and also Europe, subject to the 2023 Budget.
“We will also try our best to facilitate the travel in and out of foreign tourists such as the use of arrival visas, multiple entry visas, e-visas and transit visas,” he said when wrapping up the debate on the Motion to Uphold the Royal Decree for the ministry in the Dewan Rakyat today.
He said MOTAC will also hold inter-ministerial collaboration with MOF, the Ministry of Economy, the Ministry of Home Affairs and the Ministry of Transport to boost the tourism sector.
Tiong said this included improving connectivity to tourism product locations and increasing international flight seat capacity.
“Currently, we have 720,000 seats, so we will discuss with the relevant parties to request an increase in the flight schedule or hold a charter flight from the second line city,” he said.
In the meantime, Tiong said his party will ensure that every existing tourism product in the country is well maintained to ensure that tourists have the best holiday experience.
“We will also try to create new tourism products in addition to providing adequate and suitable allocations.
“Ecotourism products, rural tourism including homestays and handicraft products will be strengthened to ensure the economy of rural entrepreneurs benefit and directly as we prepare to welcome the Year of Visiting Malaysia 2025,” he said.
