PETALING JAYA: Despite changing patterns and economic constraints, tourism players anticipate consistent arrivals of Chinese tourists and tour groups during China’s upcoming Golden Week vacations, which begin on October 1.
Because of the convenience of booking online, frequent flights, and the lack of a visa need, they are still optimistic about last-minute bookings.
Citing China’s deteriorating economy and a lack of new tourism offerings in Malaysia, the President of the Malaysian Tourism Federation Datuk Tan Kok Liang predicted that Chinese tour group arrivals during Golden Week, from October 1 to 7, will be similar to last year’s.
The yuan and ringgit are the main currencies used by Chinese tourists, therefore they “should not materially impact arrivals,” he added, downplaying the significance of the ringgit’s recent increase versus the US dollar.
Although there have been some recent fluctuations in the value of the Chinese renminbi relative to the Malaysian ringgit, overall stability has maintained Malaysia’s attraction to Chinese tourists looking for affordable travel experiences, he said.
Tan cited industry data to highlight China’s strong recovery in outbound tourism, with overseas flight bookings up 32% from the previous year to 85% of pre-pandemic levels.
Tan emphasized the necessity for new tourism offerings, even while Malaysia continues to draw a lot of Chinese visitors because of its allure in terms of nature, wellness, shopping, and cultural experiences.
“Improving our travel packages and experiences is what we mean by offering new products and experiences, not making something out of nothing. That way, our tourism industry will be sustainable,” he stated.
Additionally, he encouraged the government to keep an eye on things and take action to protect tourists’ safety, uphold market stability, and implement safety regulations.
China observes National Day on October 1st. The Golden Week, a period of public holidays from October 1st to October 7th, is a time when people travel and spend time with their families.
Nigel Wong, president of the Malaysian Association of Tour and Travel Agents, anticipated a drop in arrivals when compared to the same period the previous year due to several issues, most notably the weakening Chinese economy.
But there is still hope.
“With reservations being made barely a week or even a few days before arrival, there may be a last-minute rush.
“We are hoping for a positive outcome, as visa-free travel and the convenience of booking flights and hotels online often facilitate this.”
Wong also noticed that Chinese visitors who make their reservations and frequently rely on information from social media sites like Xiaohongshu and TikTok are travelling in small groups more frequently.
This puts travellers at risk for fraud and deprives them of the insurance, security, and services they need in case their travel arrangements go wrong.
“Such incidents have the potential to cause tourists to become stranded and damage Malaysia’s image as a tourism destination,” he stated.
Wong pleaded for the Ministry of Tourism, Arts, and Culture to take tough measures against unregistered businesses and individuals, including tougher penalties, to defend the sector and safeguard travellers.
President of the Malaysian Inbound Tourism Association Mint Leong saw a rise in reservations made by free independent travellers (FITs), particularly for Sabah’s star-rated hotels.
“Many tourists now choose customized travel experiences and make reservations online, frequently eschewing conventional tour groups.”
Leong disclosed that to attract the FIT market, the association has been pushing its members to adjust by providing comprehensive itineraries and collaborating with online travel agents (OTAs).
In addition, she disclosed that an intelligent virtual platform will soon be launched to prevent fraud and guarantee safe reservations made through authorized travel agencies.
“This platform, which should launch soon, will use influencer marketing to connect with prospective travellers,” she stated – The Star.