HOTEL bookings have seen a significant increase since end-May, as more families opt for local holidays amid the ongoing Middle East crisis.
Malaysian Association of Hotels (MAH) Johor chapter chairman Ivan Teo said most hotels were currently recording occupancy rates of between 70% and 80%.
“Bookings were higher during the public holidays last month. We expect them to increase further in the coming weeks, especially from Singaporean tourists.
“The availability of the Electric Train Service (ETS) has also helped, especially as many people are now more cautious about fuel usage following the Middle East crisis.
“On top of that, the crisis has discouraged locals from travelling too far, prompting them to look at domestic holiday options instead,” he said.
However, Teo said occupancy rates were still lower compared to holiday seasons before the crisis.
“We lost a significant portion of our international visitors, especially from Indonesia.
“So, there is bound to be a drop in bookings compared to previous years, when hotels recorded occupancy rates of more than 90% during school holidays,” he said.
However, he said the association expected a bump in bookings because of the Singapore school holidays.
“Just like locals, Singaporeans are also rethinking travelling far for holidays and are more keen to come here instead,” he said.
Malaysia Budget and Business Hotels Association Johor chapter chairman Jarod Chia also expects bookings to rise, especially during weekends.
“Most of our customers make last-minute bookings, including on the day of their stay, as they hope to enjoy discounts,” Chia said.
“As such, we expect the increase to happen gradually,” he added.
