UNCERTAINTY stemming from the Middle East conflict and the resulting fuel crisis is beginning to have an effect on the tourism sector, say industry experts.
Malaysian Tourist Guides Council president Jimmy Leong said the unpredictable nature of the war had led to a drop in bookings and an increase in cancellations.
“Uncertainty is very damaging for tourism, especially since travellers now have more things to consider before making a booking,” he said.
“There may be concerns about flights being cancelled, fuel shortages in the country they are travelling to, and safety.
“Although fuel shortages have not affected Malaysia as much as they have in other countries, we do not know if that will be the case in the near future.”
Leong, who is also Johor Tourist Guides Association chairman, said the rise in transportation costs had burdened tour bus operators, with rates now almost doubled.
“Tour bus and van providers who rely on diesel are facing severe pressure following the price increase.
“Higher fuel costs also translate to higher travel prices, which are causing travellers to be more cautious and slowing down domestic tourism,” he said.
Meanwhile, Malaysian Association of Hotels Johor chapter chairman Ivan Teo said many were still assessing the impact of the conflict.
“It will certainly impact the tourism sector, especially due to increases in the price of air tickets and a surge in cancelled flights.
“However, we have yet to know to what extent, and will see how things change in the weeks to come.
“For Johor, the most obvious drop is from our Indonesian market.
“But for now, we are still seeing a steady arrival of travellers from China,” he said.
Teo said that many industry players were banking on domestic travellers to lessen the blow.
“A lot of Malaysians may also be postponing or cancelling their overseas trips due to the uncertainties, and we hope that they will travel locally instead to support the local tourism sector,” he added.
