LANGKAWI – It is all systems go for the reopening tomorrow of the island here under the tourism bubble programme, after the industry went into a comatose state for eight months.
The travel trade fraternity expressed relief that their livelihood will return to normal as fully vaccinated Malaysians are set to resume their holidays.
Kedah Travel and Tour Agents Association (Matta) chairman Mohd Yusin Mohd Yatim said tourism agencies have fielded many inquiries following the announcement on the reopening, in an effort to get clearer standard operating procedures (SOPs).
Yusin said Matta members are fully supportive of the Tourism, Arts and Culture Ministry’s (Motac) initiative to use Langkawi as a base for the sector’s reopening and revival.
“It will lead to other destinations opening up, and the authorities can hopefully use Langkawi as a model for the gradual return of the leisure industry,” he told The Vibes.
Langkawi was last opened to tourists in February before it was forced to shut down as Covid-19 cases skyrocketed throughout the country.
Despite the island still having some 900 cases, over 90% of its 115,000 individuals have been fully vaccinated.
Yusin acknowledged that travel agents may need an additional two weeks to assess whether tourists are heading to the island in a consistent volume, which will drive the industry forward.
The Malaysian Association of Hotels’ Kedah and Perlis chapter chairman Eugene Dass said in light of the tourism bubble announcement, hotel bookings are picking up on the island.
“But what’s equally important is a strict adherence to the SOPs, which will ensure that even if cases are detected, (the number) will be small and will not result in clusters.”
It is learnt that Pelangi Beach Resort, the first five-star establishment on the island, has reportedly secured up to 100% bookings following the announcement.
To mark the occasion of Langkawi’s reopening, National Recovery Council chairman Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin is expected to chair a meeting with hoteliers, while Motac Minister Datuk Seri Nancy Shukri will formally unveil the reopening of tourism on Malaysia Day.
Langkawi MP and former prime minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad will arrive on Friday to mark the occasion. – The Vibes, September 15, 2021
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