Visit Malaysia 2020 cancelled over virus impact

PETALING JAYA: The Tourism, Arts and Culture Ministry has cancelled the ongoing Visit Malaysia 2020 in light of the Covid-19 outbreak.

Its minister Datuk Seri Nancy Shukri said it was cancelled due to the impact of the Covid-19 outbreak, which has affected the local and international tourism sector.

“This is effective immediately,” she said in a statement.

She also announced the freeze of all over-the-counter and online services for the ministry’s tourism licensing division.

“They include the ministry’s state offices concerning tourism licensing such as tour guides, tour drivers, tourism training institutes and the registration of tourism accommodation premises, rated spa centres and foot massage centres until March 31,” she said.

Nancy said in line with the announcement by the National Security Council regarding the two-week movement control order, all tourist accommodations would be permitted to operate at a minimum level.

“All guests must remain in their rooms during the period, but are allowed to order food through room service.

“Check-ins at tourist accommodations will also be permitted but on a small and limited scale.

“For guests who are forced to extend their stay due to the order, they may register with tourist accommodations suited to their budget.

“However, new local tourists will not be permitted,” she said.

Nancy also urged the public to adhere to the social distancing measure and to get verified information from official sources.

“Let us all pray for the betterment of the country and for the situation to return to normal,” she added.