SHAH ALAM, Apr 6 — The tourism industry is shifting its focus to destinations in Asia and Southeast Asia following a decline in demand for Europe and West Asia, driven by the impact of the West Asia conflict on the global economy and international travel.
A Media Selangor survey at the Malaysian Association of Tour and Travel Agents (MATTA) Fair yesterday found that travel agencies are redirecting their focus to maintain business stability.
Malaysia Airlines sales representative Allif Imran said the company no longer relies entirely on the European market, instead prioritising Asian destinations.
“We are focusing more on destinations such as Japan, Korea and countries with direct flight connections,” he said.
He added that most travel agencies at this year’s MATTA Fair are also avoiding high-risk destinations.
At the same time, he noted that visitor numbers remain strong, but demand for domestic tourism is increasing.
Meanwhile, GD Destination marketing head Andy Soon said demand for Europe has been slightly affected, with customers now preferring shorter holidays of between five and seven days.
He also noted a growing trend towards cruise packages over flight-based travel.
In Saff Travel business development (ticketing) specialist Nadiah Nordin said demand for West Asia destinations has declined due to concerns over the current situation.
However, she said some customers are still opting for nearby destinations such as Istanbul.
According to her, customers’ main concern now centres on the risk of flight cancellations.
“Following the incident involving Malaysians stranded in Mecca previously, customers have started asking about guarantees should a similar situation occur,” she said.
