MALAYSIA’s tourism minister, Dr Ng Yen Yen, said in a press conference that the industry stands to lose up to 1.2 billion ringgit (US$399 million) in income because of the July 9 Bersih 2.0 (Walk for Democracy) rally in Kuala Lumpur.
The police is expecting thousands to participate in the rally for a free and fair general election in Malaysia.
“The tourism industry is highly sensitive to such matters like rallies and street demonstrations that can disrupt travel plans,” she said. “Tourist arrivals last July was 2.2 million, with revenue of six billion ringgit, so if we lose just 20 per cent of that, it would be 1.2 billion ringgit. Furthermore, July is also our peak season for Middle Eastern visitors who come on holiday here.”
Malaysian Chinese Tourism Association president Paul Paw said that the China National Tourist Office had sent representatives to assess the situation, as over 100 travel agents were scheduled for a conference, road show and business exchange on July 10. This is part of a three-country visit that will also take them to Singapore and Indonesia.
“They are very concerned with news of the upcoming rally and are hesitant if it’s safe for their visit. We are expecting just half of the group to arrive as planned,” he told TTG Asia e-Daily. He added that his company, China Express Tours and Travels, stands to lose one million ringgit if the entire group cancelled their trip.
Malaysian Association of Hotel Owners executive director Shaharudin Saaid said that over 30 three- to five-star hotels in central Kuala Lumpur would be affected.
“The tourism industry is fragile and the slightest change or disruption affects us first,” added Red Fury Tours and Travels managing director Frankie S.K. Lee. “Should the rally go on as planned on July 9, we would definitely feel the impact in the aftermath, especially if the situation descends into chaos.”
By Ellen Chen
