GEORGE TOWN – The travel industry in Penang has won a reprieve after the state government extended its moratorium on water, quit rent, assessments and business licencing fees.
The community, led by the Malaysian Association of Hotels (MAH), had written extensively to the state since January seeking exemptions because their businesses have been severely impacted by the movement control order brought on by the Covid-19 pandemic.
State Tourism and Creative Economy committee chairman Yeoh Soon Hin said the exco has agreed to extend the moratorium until the end of the year.
“We are conscious of the needs of the tourism industry and we hope the exemptions can assist tourism members in addressing their financial struggles,” he said in a statement.
The moratorium is extended to hotels, tourism landmarks and travel agency operators.
Yeoh urged them to submit their applications in writing to the two city councils, Penang Water Supply Corporation and land offices to qualify for the moratorium.
Earlier, Penang MAH chairman K. Raj Kumar said the travel industry will only start to rebound after at least 70% of the world’s population have been vaccinated.
He added that the industry will focus more on the domestic market. – The Vibes, March 12, 2021
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