Travel interest in Malaysia surges 160pct ahead of Bahrain GP

KUALA LUMPUR: Searches for accommodation in Malaysia have surged more than 160 percent year-on-year leading up to the Formula 1 Bahrain Grand Prix, according to data from Airbnb. The increase in interest in Kuala Lumpur, Sepang, and the surrounding areas was recorded for the weekend of the Oct 2 to 4 event. Airbnbs country head for India and Southeast Asia, Amanpreet Bajaj, attributed the surge to major sporting events serving as key drivers of tourism and economic activity.

People are increasingly planning their trips around experiences like concerts, festivals, and sporting events. Airbnb offers flexibility for travelers to plan their stay around these experiences, whether it's for a weekend or exploring more of the destination. The sharp rise in searches was primarily driven by international travelers from Singapore, China, Indonesia, Australia, the United Kingdom, and the United States, who comprised about 75 percent of total searches.

Kuala Lumpur accounted for more than 60 percent of searches, followed by Sepang at nearly 25 percent and Petaling and Hulu Langat. While travelers are looking for accommodation near the circuit and airport, Kuala Lumpur remains the primary base for visitors. About 80 percent of searches extended beyond the race weekend, with the median intended stay reaching nearly six nights.

Trips with two guests made up more than one-third of searches, while bookings for two or more guests accounted for close to seven in 10.