Travel fair to focus on domestic packages

AFTER three years, the Malaysia International Travel Mart (MITM) is making a comeback with many travel packages and deals.

It will be held from July 29 to 31 at Sutera Mall, Johor Baru, from 10am to 10pm.

With travel restrictions still imposed in many countries as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic, the travel fair will focus on South-East Asian and domestic destinations this time around.

Johor Malaysian Chinese Tourism Association chairman Edwin Tay Kian Chuan (pic) said this was a good time for people to travel to destinations such as Penang or Sabah, particularly Semporna which is very popular among Chinese nationals and where travellers previously had to book packages months in advance.

“This will also help support the recovery of the local economy and tourism industry as we have been severely hit since the pandemic began in 2020,” he said in a press conference.

While the prices of certain travel packages have increased by about 20% due to inflation, fuel price increase and depreciation of the ringgit, Tay said travel agencies would try to cut their profits to provide more affordable deals.

He believes that the interest to travel remains high among Malaysians.

“However, trends have shifted.

“We are seeing requests for more independent tour groups where the same travelling party does not want to be grouped with others, for health and safety reasons.

“We are expecting about 150,000 visitors for the three-day travel fair, with projected sales of RM18mil.

“So far, more than 10 travel agencies have registered their participation and about 85% of the 80 booths have been taken up,” Tay said, adding that interested tour and travel companies can contact 010-208 8266.

Visitors who spend more than RM300 at the travel fair are entitled to one lucky draw, with up to RM60,000 worth of prizes up for grabs.

Prizes include flight tickets, cruise packages, hotel stays and entry tickets to tourist attractions.

Children can also take part in a colouring contest at the event.

Admission to MITM 2022 is free.