KUALA LUMPUR: Domestic tourism packages sold at the 59th Malaysian Association of Tour and Travel Agents (MATTA) Fair generated an estimated RM37mil in sales, directly benefiting local operators and businesses, the Dewan Rakyat was told on Tuesday (Oct 13).
In a written parliamentary reply dated Oct 12, the Tourism, Arts and Culture Ministry said the exhibition served as a promotional and sales platform for travel agencies, hotels, tourism product owners, transport operators and related service providers.
“The event helped stimulate business activity, increase demand for tourism products and generate income for industry players,” said the ministry, noting that the economic benefits extend to food and beverage businesses as well as micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs).
The ministry was responding to a query from Datuk Seri Sh Mohmed Puzi Sh Ali (BN-Pekan) regarding the event’s impact on the local economy and addressing concerns over whether the fair primarily encourages outbound overseas travel among Malaysians.
The ministry said that it will continue collaborating with MATTA through Tourism Malaysia to boost domestic travel destinations. Key initiatives under consideration include expanding business-to-consumer (B2C) promotions, organising business-to-business (B2B) matching sessions, and reviewing proposals to extend the duration of future fairs.
“These efforts aim to increase sales of local products and provide more business opportunities for industry players and local communities,” the statement read.
Addressing consumer protection and transparency, the ministry said the importance of compliance with licensing regulations and clear disclosure of package terms. Tourism offerings must explicitly detail pricing, service scopes, facilities, and conditions to enable informed consumer choices. Consumers were also advised to engage only with licensed travel agencies and thoroughly review contract terms prior to payment.
