At the recent MATTA Fair March 2024 in Kuala Lumpur, China emerged as
the preferred destination choice for Malaysians thanks to its
affordability and abundance of attractions.
We've noticed a surge in interest in China, largely driven by social media. Malaysians get a peek into China from influencers’ short videos or viral posts, and they want to seek these experiences first-hand.– Adam Jalal, COO, Nuh Travel & Tours
“Amid ongoing currency fluctuations, the Chinese yuan stands out as a
more stable option compared to the US Dollar or British pounds, making
China an attractive destination for Malaysians seeking affordable
holidays without exceeding their budgets,” offered Shinjo Lim of UbinGo
Vacations.
Even for companies like Nuh Travel & Tours, which specialises in
European travel packages, adapting to provide options in China is a
strategic move. As demand for European travel declines, the company has
diversified its offerings to include packages across Asia, particularly
in China, catering to the growing Muslim travel market.
"We've noticed a surge in interest in China, largely driven by social
media. Malaysians get a peek into China from influencers’ short videos
or viral posts, and they want to seek these experiences first-hand,"
noted Nuh Travel & Tours' COO Adam Jalal. Some examples of his China
tour itinerary include experiencing halal hot pots and visiting the
Muslim quarter in Xi’an.
MATTA Fair March 2024 was held at Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre. Photo Credit: Anis Ramli
China's relaxed visa rules, which from December 2023 allows
Malaysians to enter the country visa free for up to 15 days, has also
provided a significant advantage for travel agents.
While the mutual visa-free travel policy between China and Malaysia
has undoubtedly been beneficial for the trade, Tai Poh Kim, managing
director of Hello Holidays, observed that China also enhanced its
tourism offerings post-Covid. Previously, travel packages were
predominantly focused on shopping itineraries.
“Post-Covid, we're witnessing numerous land operators offering
packages that highlight scenic beauty, cultural richness, and natural
attractions. This shift resonates well with many Malaysians who now
prioritise experiences beyond just shopping."