Malaysia is an alluring travel destination. That is because the country trades its tropical beaches, mix of nature, and colourful culture for tourism profits that make it possible to see attractions that are as memorable as they are exciting.
Increasing the Tourist Trade
In fact, the country’s government identifies tourism as a key growth sector in its plans to make Malaysia a high-income country by 2020. The new Malaysia therefore will offer an increasing number of travel amenities from intimate boutique-style hotels to rustic and touristy jungle retreats. Hotels will be situated inside and outside adventure theme parks and be located close to international sporting facilities.
Since 2004, the tourism industry in Malaysia has enjoyed an average growth rate of 12% per annum. In 2014, alone, the country received record numbers of visitors, making the tourism industry Malaysia’s sixth largest economic contributor. Total receipts were in the billions of pounds so it is not surprising that you can find the best budget hotels in Malaysia.
The Third-Largest Travel Route Worldwide
According to travel reports, most visitors to Malaysia enter by way of Singapore. In fact, the Singapore Changi-Kuala Lumpur International Airport or KLIA connection is the third-largest international route worldwide. Numerous flights occur regularly between Singapore and cities in both eastern Malaysia and peninsular Malaysia. In addition, border crossings exist at the Causeway in Johor Bahru as well as the Second Link at Iskandar.
Employment Looks Promising
According to one industry insider, the idea behind travel in Malaysia is to move with the times. Travel executives therefore want to show the vibrant and modern side of the country. To achieve its 2020 objective, the government has identified 12 enablers, or entry point projects (EPPs), in specifically defined areas including shopping, eco-resorts, hotel improvements, the spa industry, and golf. Industry professionals expect the sector to create as many as 497,000 new jobs by 2020, bringing the total number of travel employees to around 2.3 million workers.
A Focus on Ecotourism
The Eleventh Malaysia Plan for 2016 to 2020, which was released in 2015, supported tourism with a focus on ecotourism destinations. The country wishes to underscore its natural resources and cultural heritage in the future, both which appeal to more sophisticated travellers.
Shopping Is Popular
Malaysia recognises the intrinsic value of its biodiversity in such sites as the Royal Belum Rainforest and the Mulu National Park. In addition to these natural and appealing destinations, shopping still remains a critical part of Malaysia’s tourism trade. For example, retail space is expected to be introduced in Klang Valley by 2019. According to one property management company, Kuala Lumpur already averages more in the way of retail space than either Bangkok or Singapore.
Where to Find the Lower Rates
According to the Malaysian Association of Hotels, the lowest room rates are in the central state of Pahang. An overall occupancy rate of around 55% is experienced currently with occupancy expecting to continue to increase. Because the country expects to attract some 36 million tourists by 2020, it has made hotel development a tourism strategy. In the interim, you can still find low-cost accommodation in key areas of the country.
