Tourism Malaysia to help solve congestion woes

PUTRAJAYA: Tourism Malaysia is working with the Immigration Department to resolve congestion and delays experienced by tourists at airports nationwide.

Its chairman, Datuk Dr Siew Ka Wei, said the board was aware of the situation and assured the public that it was working with the department as well as Malaysia Airports Holdings Bhd to address the problem.

He said the board was in touch with Immigration Department director-general Datuk Seri Mustafar Ali, who is also a fellow board member, to address the issue.

Siew, who had earlier said the matter was brought to the board’s attention through comments directed at them and postings on blogs, remained positive that the situation would be rectified with the collaboration.

“We look forward to a quick solution since the situation has become critical.

“The coming months are the peak holiday season for many markets. In addition, the 2017 Sea Games is just around the corner for which we are expecting to welcome some 15,000 athletes and officials along with their army of supporters,” he added.

“Tourists usually get a first glimpse of a country at the airport. The first impression there counts and will affect the rest of their holiday and time spent in our country.

“Let’s work together to provide a smooth welcome at their arrival by ensuring a hassle-free entry at the airport and Immigration counters.”

Department of Civil Aviation director-general Datuk Seri Azharuddin Abdul Rahman had said based on Kuala Lumpur International Airport and klia2 flight movement data, there was an increase in flight delays in the mornings, evenings and nights from January to May this year, compared with the same period last year.

Mustafar told the New Straits Times that dedicated lanes, including for those with special passports, would be opened when the need arose.

He said the department would also strive to meet the client charter of clearing holders of foreign passports in under 45 seconds.

“This ad-hoc support system to ease traffic flow will continue until the end of September, at least,” he said.