KUALA LUMPUR: The Tourism, Arts and Culture Ministry has been instructed to begin immediate consultations with the Finance Ministry to formulate targeted measures to address the impact of rising diesel prices on the tourism transport sector.
Its Minister Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing said the move follows feedback from associations and industry players affected by increased operating costs.
"The discussion will focus on the current situation and consider targeted measures, including temporary support to help ease short-term pressures, some of which are influenced by developments in the Middle East,” he said in a Facebook post on Saturday (March 21).
According to Tiong, the ministry is closely monitoring the impact of rising diesel prices, which could put pressure on the tourism transport sector.
"If not properly addressed, this situation could have a ripple effect on inbound tourism, businesses and the overall stability of the tourism ecosystem,” he said.
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Tiong said the tourism transport sector is a key pillar of the country’s tourism industry and must be strengthened in terms of safety standards, vehicle performance and service quality for visitors.
He said the government will adopt a "stabilise and upgrade” approach to help operators navigate current challenges, while encouraging gradual improvements including vehicle renewal, appropriate financial support and enhancements to the regulatory framework.
He added that any form of support introduced would be designed with the industry’s long-term development in mind, rather than as a temporary fix.
"The government’s objective is not merely to mitigate the immediate impact, but to build a more resilient and competitive tourism transport system,” he said.
At the same time, he urged industry players to remain closely engaged with the government and participate in dialogue rationally to ensure sector stability, while supporting the success of Visit Malaysia Year 2026.
Tiong also expressed hope that all parties would remain calm and act prudently, stressing that the government will strive to balance various interests in seeking reasonable solutions and appropriate implementation.- Bernama
