They support calls by the National Recovery Council for the expedition of applications for foreign labour.

While the total allocation of RM1.6 billion will help boost the tourism industry, many factors need to be taken into consideration, they say.

Corporate travel managers and buyers have difficulty with securing accommodation at good prices, while hotels struggle with inflation and talent shortages amid a rebound in tourism and business events, reports say.

The move would come at a time when Japan is expected to further ease its Covid-19 border controls, waiving visa requirements for certain tourists and removing a limit on daily arrivals.

More than half of the 20,000 Afghans who have arrived in Britain in the last year are still in temporary accommodation, unable to put down roots and rebuild their lives.

Hotel occupancy in the state is estimated at 35% to 40%, compared to 10% to 15% during the pandemic.

While hotel bookings have been on the rise since interstate travel was allowed, many operators continue to face financial problems.

Another 86 have been temporarily closed since March last year.

Owners have nowhere to go, which means pets have no need of hotels either.

The landmark hotel says it has been left with little other choice.

Health experts warn of a possible fourth wave if SOPs are ignored.

Interstate travel should be allowed under strict conditions for those who can show proof that they have booked and paid for accomodation at licensed hotels in the country.