Tourism industry excited about return of 'big spenders' from China

Tourism industry players are eager to receive visitors from China following the expected relaxation of the country’s zero-Covid policy early next year, says Malaysia Inbound Tourism Association (Mita) president Uzaidi Udanis.

He said Beijing’s decision to scrap quarantine for travellers and reopen its border is expected to bring in three million tourists to Malaysia which, in turn, will help boost the economy. 

"China is very important because they have big volume and they are 'big spenders'. This will be able to contribute good numbers for Malaysia's economy," he told a press conference in Kuala Lumpur today.

Uzaidi added that Mita is fully committed to the health ministry’s Covid-19 preventive measures to prevent another outbreak in the country.  

"In our industry, we will comply even though were are very excited about bringing in tourists, because safety comes first.  

"Tourism industry players were badly affected (when the country was hit by Covid-19), and we have learnt from that. Now our mantra is 'good health means good business', so it is important for the industry to comply with the SOPs," he said. 

He said it would be best if tourists enter Malaysia under certified travel agents as this will help the government monitor their movements and reduce the risk of another Covid-19 outbreak, in addition to tackling other issues such as overstaying.