Global trend: Tourism players say there is a need for the tourism industry to adapt to the global shift towards smaller groups and independent travel.
PETALING JAYA: The current trend of smaller tour groups is not only putting the spotlight on minivans but also leading to proposals to create major tourism products for international visitors.
The Malaysian Association of Tour and Travel Agents (MATTA) president Nigel Wong sees an urgent need for the Malaysian government to get the country’s tourism vehicles upgraded to meet global standards.
He pointed to the effective use of minivans in popular destinations like Thailand and hopes that Malaysia will increase its fleet of such vehicles to meet the new travel trend.
Europe, too, is known for having high vehicle standards, he added.
“We urge the government to consider allowing higher-spec and luxury vehicles for tourism.
“Currently, we’re limited to what’s available, which may not be sustainable,” he said.
Wong underlined the need for the Malaysian tourism industry to adapt to the global shift towards smaller groups and independent travel.
“Travellers are increasingly opting for smaller group experiences or independent journeys. This trend is global,” he said.
With Malaysia actively preparing for Visit Malaysia Year 2026, Wong said there is an urgent need for immediate policy improvements.
“These improvements are necessary to raise the competitiveness of travel agents, tour operators and other relevant stakeholders to enable them to offer greater value and better services in the evolving tourism landscape,” he said.
Malaysia Inbound Chinese Association (Mica) president Datuk Dr Angie Ng called on the Tourism, Arts and Culture Ministry to push for suitable 10-seater vehicles to cater for the demand of tourists.
She also emphasised the benefits of niche tourism by boosting investment in infrastructure, creating a multifaceted image of the destination, raising awareness of the destination’s lifestyle, and bolstering industries beyond tourism.
Ng said Tourism Malaysia could actively promote international events in Malaysia to attract tourists.
“For example, organise fishing competitions or expand renowned events such as the Rainforest World Music Festival to all states simultaneously,” she said.
Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing has said discussions are underway with the Transport Ministry to allow 12-seater minivans – similar to those used by Thailand’s tourism industry – on the roads.
He also said there are plans for tourism operators to turn minivans into comfortable tour vehicles.
“My ministry’s responsibility lies in meeting the needs of the tourism sector while respecting public and transportation matters,” Tiong said in an earlier interview.
He agreed that Malaysia should diversify its offerings by introducing new products such as golf and durian tourism and fishing tour groups in Sabah and Sarawak, as well as showcasing undiscovered island destinations.
