Tourism Malaysia seeks bigger 2027 Budget allocation to hit 47mil arrivals
KUALA LUMPUR: Tourism Malaysia is seeking a higher allocation under Budget 2027 to help achieve its target of 47 million international tourist arrivals under the Visit Malaysia campaign, which has been extended until 2027.
Malaysia's Tourism Malaysia department is requesting a larger budget allocation in Budget 2027 to reach its goal of 47 million international tourist arrivals under the Visit Malaysia campaign, which extends until 2027. Director-general Mohd Amirul Rizal Abdul Rahim emphasized that the additional funds are crucial for maintaining Malaysia's competitiveness in attracting tourists worldwide.
The department consulted with tourism industry stakeholders, who expressed the need for increased allocations to bolster efforts in promoting Malaysia globally. Rahim highlighted that the tourism sector positively impacts various segments of society, benefiting hotels, restaurants, and operators of tourism-related products and services.
He explained that international-scale events can attract foreign tourists specifically to attend, contributing to Malaysia's gross domestic product (GDP). Despite a 2.5 percent increase in international visitor arrivals to 21.1 million between January and June 2023, compared to 20.6 million in the same period of the previous year, the tourism sector has yet to meet its target.
This shortfall is partly attributed to the impact of the Middle East conflict, which began in early March. Nonetheless, the government remains committed to the 47 million international tourist arrivals target, and the extension of the Visit Malaysia campaign until 2027 is a testament to this commitment.
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