Community Based Tourism to take part in MATTA Fair
KOTA KINABALU: Some 40 exhibitors featuring over 90 booths will promise an extensive selection of travel-related services and experiences at the Malaysian Association of Tour and Travel Agents (MATTA) Fair Sabah, from April 26 to 28 at Sabah International Convention Centre (SICC).
MATTA Sabah Chapter chairperson Christina Wahida Wong said these include 22 outbound special discounts, participation from Community Based Tourism (CoBT) and discount offers from the Malaysia Aviation Group.
Anticipating a bustling turnout, MATTA Sabah Chapter projected about 17,000 visitors for the three-day event, with an expected sales turnover of RM26 million.
“As the mid-year school holidays and long weekend holidays approach, domestic destinations such as Sarawak, Penang and Johor are poised to be top favorites among travellers.
“Local inbound operators from Lahad Datu, Tawau and Tenom are primed to receive an enthusiastic response.
“This year we are proud to have participation of CoBT from several districts showcasing authentic countryside experiences, encouraging visitors to explore nature and local culture firsthand. We would like to thank Sabah Tourism Board (STB) for actively engaging with MATTA and supporting this exploration,” Wong said in a press conference on Friday.
For international adventurers, Wong said destinations ranging from Japan, China, South Korea and Thailand, to exciting countries in Europe await exploration.
Additionally, exclusive Islamic packages cater to those seeking spiritual journeys to Saudi Arabia for pilgrimage and umrah.
“We are also delighted to announce the biggest and allout participation of the official airlines, The Malaysia Aviation Group (MAG), comprising Malaysia Airlines, Firefly and MASwings, are offering a range of services and discount offers to customers.
“Travel enthusiasts can look forward to unbeatable deals on airfare tickets, holiday packages and experiences, along with multiple travel perks for their next getaway,” she added.
“As an official airline partner, MAG’s airlines will offer up to 30 per cent off on air fares to domestic and international destinations within its network, during the MATTA Fair.
“This exclusive offer is valid from 26 to 28 April 2024 via the physical fair, as well as on the airlines’ online platforms for travel until 30 November 2024. In addition, Malaysia Airlines and Firefly will also be offering up to 25 per cent off on ancillary products including seat selection, extra baggage, and more,” she said.
Members of Malaysia Airlines award-winning travel and lifestyle loyalty programme, Enrich, will also enjoy five times EnrichMoney points for EnrichMoney user and 1,000 Enrich Points and RM10 cashback for new sign ups at the fair.
In addition to the enticing airfare discounts, customers can also look forward to the muchawaited Buyers Contest where MAG airlines will be offering a total of five return tickets, including Business Class tickets to Maldives, Economy Class tickets to Vietnam and Kuala Lumpur, among other exciting destinations.
These initiatives underscore MAG’s dedication to providing enriching and rewarding experiences for visitors and buyers alike.
Consumers can enter the draw with a minimum purchase of RM100 at the fair.
The three-day extravaganza fair runs from 10am to 9pm and admission is free.
Also present at the press conference were MATTA Sabah Chapter deputy chairman Mohd Azlan Saleh Abd Salam, honorary secretary Imelda A. Angkangon, honorary treasurer Masliza Mansor and representatives from sponsors.