Malaysia to attract nearly 70, 000 Lankans this year
Sri Lankans travelling to Malaysia increased by at least 2 per cent in 2013 compared to the previous year, Malaysian Tourism authorities stated this week during a media briefing held in Colombo on a tourism promotional campaign.
At least 64, 051 tourists from Sri Lanka visited Malaysia last year that added to its record arrival figure of 25.7 million holidaymakers contributing to the second highest foreign exchange earning industry in that country, Deputy Director General Tourism Malaysia Azizan Noordin told reporters
He noted that with the new products and destinations being promoted specifically for the Sri Lankan market they expected a further 10-12 per cent increase, close to 70, 000 Sri Lankans visiting Malaysia in 2014.
During the promotional campaign, Tourism Malaysia promoted its Visit Malaysia Year 2014 Sales Mission offered to Sri Lankan tourists the opportunity to shop, relax on the beach, having a relaxing spa vacation to golfing holidays, from weddings and honeymoon locales and helicopter tours ensuring a custom made holiday.
The campaign also organised a travel mart for the trade industry to meet and network, it was stated.
Shopping sales contributed to RM18.6 billion in 2012 and this year’s programme Malaysia Year End Sale (YES) would kick off in November.
Mr. Noordin in response to questions from the media on the visa fees charged that had increased from Rs. 500 to Rs. 5000 said that they would look at providing a possible special incentive.
Currently, Tourism Malaysia is carrying out a joint promotion with SriLankan Airlines, he noted.
It was pointed out that Malaysia Airlines would increase their flights to the country depending on the demand and increase in tourist arrivals from Colombo.
The promotional campaign was scheduled to head next to India covering Kochi, Bengaluru and Mumbai.