Malaysian hoteliers demand for action to save the industry

Tourism minister Nancy Shukri expects the reopening of borders to help save the bleeding industry 

According to Free Malaysia Today, the Malaysian government has yet to respond to the ideas given by hoteliers nearly three weeks ago to save the industry that is “hanging by the thread.”

An insider mentioned that discounts, subsidies, and tax exemptions were some of the ideas sent to the tourism ministry.  

The source said, “many ideas and proposals have been put forward. Every day that nothing is done, the industry, and all the employees, suppliers move closer to ruin.” 

Nancy Shukri, tourism minister, said the Cabinet has already been made aware of the problems of the hotel and tour industry. She further mentioned that the reopening of state and district borders is a key factor in the industry’s recovery, but the decision was out of her hands.  

The industry insider further adds that “other sectors can open but we cannot. As long as this situation persists, there is no hope for survival let alone recovery.” 

Other proposals made to the government included vaccination priority for workers in the tourism and entertainment sectors, an increase in wage subsidies, permission to hold government events at hotels, and discounts on utility bills.  

N Subramaniam, president of Malaysian Association of Hotels, confirmed little response from the government about their proposals

“The hotel industry is bleeding to death, over 100 hotels have closed and many more are on the verge of closing down,” he added.  

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Nancy Shukri said the ministry is highly concerned about the tourism sector and have discussed the situation with other stakeholders, including tour operators

She said, “in many cases, the government’s challenges stem from the high numbers of COVID-19 cases every day and the non-compliance with the SOPs.”  

“But we will not give up. We will continue to fight for the industry so it can rebound,” she concluded.