CJMY
Tourism Johor urges international entry point agencies in Johor to enhance services for a seamless influx of visitors following the recent approval of a 30-day visa exemption for Chinese and Indian nationals, effective from December 1.
The move is seen as a strategic step towards achieving Johor’s target of welcoming 15 million tourists by the end of the current year.
Enhancing services for tourism growth
Tourism Johor Director, Suhairi Hashim, stresses the importance of improving service facilities, particularly immigration and customs services at the 16 gateways in Johor.
He emphasises the need for additional direct international flights at Senai International Airport (LTAS) to maximise the benefits of the visa-free travel initiative.
Suhairi believes that these enhancements are vital for fostering growth in the tourism sector and bolstering the economy of Johor and the nation.
Impact on tourism industry in Johor
Kathryn Lee, the Johor manager of the Malaysian Association of Travel and Tour Agents (MATTA), expresses optimism about the 30-day visa exemption attracting more tourists to Johor.
Lee anticipates positive spillover effects on various sectors within the tourism industry, including hospitality, retail, food and beverage (F&B), and small traders.
She highlights Johor Premium Outlets (JPO) as a major draw for Chinese tourists, while Legoland Malaysia Resort is noted as the preferred holiday destination for Indian tourists, further cementing Johor’s appeal.
As of November this year, Johor has recorded 11 million tourists, with Indonesia leading in arrivals, followed by Singapore, the Philippines, China, and other countries.
Suhairi highlights the importance of addressing service enhancements and expanding international flight options to capitalise on this positive momentum.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s announcement of the 30-day visa exemption is viewed as a significant move to stimulate tourism and economic growth in Johor and Malaysia as a whole.
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