Dept: Tourist arrivals from China increasing

The country's tourism sector, especially where tourists from China are concerned, has recovered with an increase of 5.9% from last October compared to the same period in October 2013.

Tourism Malaysia (planning) deputy director-general Chong Yoke Har said 118,289 tourists from China visited Malaysia last October compared to 111,730 in October 2013.

She said Tourism Malaysia was confident the exemption of visa fees for Chinese tourists to the country from Feb 15 would attract more tourists from China this year.

The government initiative to offer visa on arrival (VOA) to Chinese tourists entering Malaysia from Singapore at Sultan Abu Bakar Complex, Tanjung Kupang, Johor, from last Nov 1 would also boost the number of arrivals this year, she said after launching the “Make It Malaysia 2015” programme jointly held with 148 tourism agencies and media from China yesterday.

Chong said Chinese tourists visited the country for shopping and relaxation, besides enjoying the food.

“As the community in Malaysia is unique due to its various races and religions, the Chinese tourists have the opportunity to sample the traditional food of the diverse races besides Chinese food from the local Chinese community,” she said.

She said they were also fond of beach resorts and frequently visited the islands in Malaysia such as Pangkor island, Langkawi, Pulau Perhentian and other islands in Sabah.

The six-day “Make It Malaysia 2015” programme which began yesterday until March 13, comprised sessions with Tourism Malaysia staff and visits to tourist destinations here and Genting Highlands.