Photo: RONNIE CHIN/The Star
IPOH: The first six months of this year saw Perak record 406,929 foreign hotel guests, a 2.5% increase compared with the same period last year.
Perak tourism, industry, investment and corridor development committee chairman Loh Sze Yee said for the same period last year, the number of foreign guests was 397,048.
He said most visitors were from Singapore, Thailand, China and Indonesia, reflecting the state’s growing appeal as a preferred travel destination.
"The upward trend is expected to continue following the decision to grant visa-free entry to visitors from China and India. The move is timely and beneficial for Malaysia’s overall tourism growth," he said recently (Nov 7).
Loh said to maximise the benefits of the visa-free policy, the state government through Tourism Perak, local councils and related agencies have been working closely with industry players and non-governmental organisations.
A comprehensive strategy is being rolled out, including familiarisation trips for travel agents from China, Thailand and Indonesia, intensified social media promotions and expanded partnerships with international travel networks to strengthen Perak’s market visibility and accessibility.
"Adding momentum to these efforts, Batik Air will launch a new direct flight between Ipoh and Singapore on Dec 8, providing a convenient transit hub for travellers from China and Southeast Asia, and easier access for Indian tourists heading to Perak via Singapore," he said.
Loh said the withdrawal of AirAsia’s earlier Singapore–Ipoh route had caused a decline in visitor numbers from Singapore.
"However, Batik Air’s new service is a vital step in restoring and expanding international connectivity, helping to revive the Singapore market while opening doors for travellers from India, China and other regions. These coordinated efforts underscore Perak’s commitment to fully leverage Malaysia’s visa-free policy. The initiatives align with preparations for Visit Malaysia Year 2026 and aim to generate broader benefits for local communities and the tourism ecosystem," he added.
Malaysian Association of Hotels (MAH) Perak chapter chairman Tony Wong said Perak’s tourism appeal remains largely domestic, attracting visitors mainly from Selangor, Johor, Kuala Lumpur and, to a certain extent, Singapore.
He noted that unlike Penang, Perak does not have an international airport or a strong influx of foreign tourists.
"Ipoh is popular among food lovers from major cities, but the city still lacks a vibrant nightlife. Attractions are also fairly limited, apart from cave explorations and white-water rafting," he said.
Wong said currently, hotel occupancy rates in the state hover around 65% on weekends and 55% on weekdays.
He expressed hope that the state government would enhance local attractions and host more international conventions and sporting events to boost tourist arrivals and occupancy rates.
Wong, however, said Perak is prepared to welcome both domestic and international tourists in conjunction with Visit Malaysia Year 2026.
"We are confident that the hospitality sector will experience a strong start in the first quarter of 2026. This is supported by the extended holiday period and renewed travel enthusiasm. At present, we are already recording encouraging arrivals from key markets including Australia, China, Singapore, Hong Kong, Canada and Zimbabwe," he said.
Wong added the chapter’s members represent 70 different hotel brands, collectively offering about 8,000 rooms across Perak, mainly based in the city.
He said the introduction of Batik Air’s new route from Singapore to Ipoh, commencing this December, is expected to further boost tourist arrivals, particularly from Indonesia and neighbouring countries.
"With these developments, we are optimistic that Perak’s hospitality industry will be well-positioned to support the success of Visit Malaysia Year 2026 and deliver an exceptional experience for all visitors," he said.
