PETALING JAYA: Warnings of severe traffic congestion during the upcoming long holiday period could unintentionally discourage domestic tourists from visiting Penang and other destinations.
The Malaysia Budget and Business Hotel Association (MyBHA) warned that these statements could hurt local travel.
Its national president Dr Sri Ganesh Michiel said public safety and traffic management remained important.
However, he noted that repeated messaging on overcrowding and travel difficulties risked creating fear among travellers.
He added that this could hurt the tourism industry, which was still rebuilding confidence.
Sri Ganesh said communication should focus on preparedness, safe travel planning and encouraging tourism rather than creating unnecessary anxiety.
"The tourism and hospitality industry is still in the process of strengthening recovery and rebuilding confidence," he said in a statement on Wednesday (May 27).
"During previous festive and holiday periods, similar statements regarding extraordinary traffic conditions were issued," he added.
He noted that hotel occupancy rates in many areas still remained about 50%, which was far below expectations and industry projections.
He said negative perceptions affected not only hotels but also restaurants, retail businesses, tourism attractions and transport operators.
The issue also impacts event organisers, local traders and tourism workers dependent on visitor arrivals.
The association encouraged travellers to choose licensed accommodation providers, make hotel bookings early, reserve directly with hotels and plan journeys properly.
"Malaysia remains a welcoming and safe tourism destination, and Penang continues to be one of the country’s most vibrant tourism hubs," Sri Ganesh said.
He added that the state offers culture, heritage, food, beaches and hospitality experiences for both domestic and international visitors.
Authorities had earlier projected that about two million visitors would enter Penang during the May 27 to June 2 period.
This influx is due to overlapping school holidays and festive breaks, with heavier traffic expected across major routes into the state.
The holiday period is also expected to bring increased traffic volumes nationwide as multiple public holidays coincide with school breaks.
