MATTA calls for relief efforts for industry in Budget 2021

PETALING JAYA: The Malaysian Association of Tour and Travel Agents (MATTA) has called on the government to act boldly and decisively in Budget 2021, which will be tabled next Friday, to bolster the ailing tourism industry.

MATTA president Datuk Tan Kok Liang said the tourism industry would be fragile and sensitive in the coming years caused by the Covid19 fallout.

He said Budget 2021 must provide solid relief programmes and substantial spending to stimulate the economy and the livelihoods of Malaysians.

Many businesses and individuals will suffer and probably be declared bankrupt without a moratorium extension.

Datuk Tan Kok Liang

“Budget 2021 must then be reviewed periodically given the unprecedented global changes happening all around us,” Tan said in a statement yesterday.

At the same time, Tan also urged the government to focus on protecting jobs and businesses through a more effective wage subsidy programme and moratorium extension among other relief support.

He said the moratorium should be extended until June 2021 as the tourism industry is crippled and unable to repay loans.

“Many businesses and individuals will suffer and probably be declared bankrupt without a moratorium extension.

“The government has to make firm decisions and instruct banks and other finance and leasing companies to extend the moratorium period to help the economy as a whole,” Tan added.