Latest news with #MATTAFair
The Star
10-05-2025
- Business
- The Star
Big boost at Sabah MATTA fair
Smile for the camera: (From left) Malaysia Aviation Group's East Malaysia and Government Commercial Sales head Nur Hayati Aziz Rashid, Sabah Tourism Board deputy chief executive officer Tay Shu Lan, Tourism, Culture and Environment Ministry permanent secretary Datuk Josie Lai, Liew, MATTA Sabah president Nigel Wong, RHB Bank Sabah Region Sales and Services' regional sales head (deposit) Ivy Primus Kayau, MATTA Sabah immediate president Datuk KL Tan and MATTA Sabah chairman Mohd Azlan Saleh attending the official launch of MATTA Fair Sabah 2025 in Kota Kinabalu. Surge in exhibitors signals return of tourism confidence KOTA KINABALU: A surge in exhibitors and booths at this year's Malaysian Association of Tour and Travel Agents (MATTA) Fair Sabah is sending a strong signal of renewed confidence and enthusiasm among tourism stakeholders. State Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister Datuk Seri Christina Liew said the increased participation reflects optimism in the industry and Sabah's rising profile as a must-visit destination on both the domestic and international travel map. 'This year, we are proud to see that MATTA Fair Sabah has grown bigger, with more companies coming on board. 'This expanded participation enhances the fair's appeal and presents valuable opportunities for local travel agencies and tourism players to showcase their products and services,' she said at the launch of the fair at the Sabah International Convention Centre yesterday. Liew praised the tourism sector's resilience following years of pandemic-related disruption. 'Sabah recorded RM4.5mil in sales at the recent MATTA Fair in Kuala Lumpur, up from RM3mil last September. 'This is a clear reflection of the growing interest in our culture, adventure and nature tourism offerings,' she added. Island-hopping excursions and immersive cultural experiences, such as trips to the Mari Mari Cultural Village, topped the list of best-selling packages. Liew stressed that the fair is about more than just sales, as it is also about nurturing partnerships, building stronger networks, and most importantly, creating meaningful, unforgettable experiences for everyone who steps foot in Sabah. 'Through continuous collaboration and innovation, I believe Sabah's tourism industry will continue to grow, fuelling both our economy and our reputation as one of Asia's top destinations,' she said. She also spotlighted the new 'Top 5 Mountains in Sabah' campaign, launched in Kuala Lumpur last month, as part of efforts to strengthen its status as a South-East Asian adventure tourism hub. 'Peaks such as Mount Kinabalu, Mount Trus Madi and Mount Tambuyukon are just some of the highlights under this campaign, and we look forward to welcoming more climbers and trekkers in the months ahead,' she said. The MATTA Fair Sabah, organised with support from the Sabah Tourism Board, runs throughout the weekend and features a wide array of travel deals and packages. Liew also extended her gratitude to MATTA for its ongoing efforts in championing Sabah as a travel destination, urging all tourism players to keep working hand-in-hand to ensure the state remains one of Asia's top travel destinations. Meanwhile, organising chairman Rocky Kho said this year's fair stands out not just for its exclusive travel deals, but also its strategic role in promoting travel aligned with the upcoming Visit Malaysia 2026. He emphasised that hosting the fair in Sabah reinforces the state's visibility and MATTA's role as a key driver of tourism growth within and beyond Malaysia. Kho added that the event also continues MATTA's Eco and Sustainable Tourism Initiative (Mesti), in line with the association's commitment to promote a cleaner, more conscious, sustainable and inclusive way of exploring the country. 'The initiative prioritises collaborative efforts to address wildlife and marine conservation, and cultural and historical preservation. Mesti empowers the travel and tourism industry, and visitors alike to protect what makes Malaysia truly unique,' he said.
Borneo Post
10-05-2025
- Business
- Borneo Post
MATTA Fair Sabah launched with expanded participation
Liew (fourth left) and Nigel (fourth right) with guests at the launch of MATTA Fair Sabah at SICC on Saturday. KOTA KINABALU (May 10): The Malaysian Association of Tour and Travel Agents (MATTA), in collaboration with its state chapter, officially launched the 2025 MATTA Fair Sabah at the Sabah International Convention Centre (SICC) on Saturday. The event was officiated by the Minister of Tourism, Culture and Environment, Datuk Seri Panglima Christina Liew. The three-day event, held from May 9 to 11, showcased strong cooperation between travel agencies, state tourism organisations, airlines and tour operators. 'This year, we are proud to see that the MATTA Fair Sabah has grown larger, with an increased number of booths and more participating companies. These are clear indicators of growing confidence and enthusiasm among tourism stakeholders. 'This expanded participation not only enhances the fair's appeal but also offers valuable opportunities for local travel agencies and tourism players to promote their products and services,' Liew said in her speech. She also noted that Sabah continues to innovate in its tourism promotion efforts. For example, at the recent MATTA Fair in Kuala Lumpur, the 'Top 5 Mountains in Sabah' campaign was launched to further position the state as an adventure tourism hub in Southeast Asia. 'Peaks such as Mount Kinabalu, Mount Trus Madi and Mount Tambuyukon are among the highlights of this campaign, and we look forward to welcoming more climbers and trekkers in the months ahead. 'Hosting the MATTA Fair in Sabah significantly strengthens the state's position as a top destination for both Malaysians and international tourists. Despite the challenges brought about by the global pandemic in recent years, Sabah's tourism industry has shown tremendous resilience and has made a strong recovery,' she added. At the Kuala Lumpur MATTA Fair, Liew revealed that Sabah recorded RM4.5 million in sales, a notable increase from RM3 million in September 2024. She believes this growth clearly reflects the strong demand and increasing appeal of Sabah's Culture, Adventure and Nature (CAN) tourism products. Among the most popular packages were island hopping tours and visits to the Mari Mari Cultural Village. However, she stressed that the ministry's focus is not solely on boosting sales figures. 'Our efforts are about nurturing partnerships, building stronger networks, and most importantly, creating meaningful and memorable experiences for all who visit Sabah. 'Through continuous collaboration and innovation, we are confident that Sabah's tourism industry will continue to thrive, contributing to both our economy and our reputation as one of Asia's top destinations,' she concluded. A total of 143 booths representing 51 organisations participated in MATTA Fair Sabah. These included 31 licensed tour and travel agencies, three state tourism offices, two airlines, and five hotels and resorts. According to MATTA President Nigel Wong, MATTA Fair Sabah is projected to generate RM26 million in sales, an increase from the RM21 million recorded during the previous fair. 'Sabah's reputation as a world-class tourism destination is well established, and MATTA is proud to be a committed partner in growing inbound travel to the state. Our focus remains on expanding the tourism footprint across Sabah. 'Through this fair, MATTA supports not only outbound travel but also plays a strategic role in connecting inbound-ready tour operators with the domestic market and beyond, ensuring that tourism spending remains within the country and benefits local businesses and communities,' he said. Meanwhile, Managing Director of Fun Holiday Tours and Travel Sdn Bhd, Connie Chong, said that this year's fair saw a somewhat lower turnout compared to last year, despite extensive promotions by the organisers. 'On the first day, Friday, there weren't many visitors, and most of those who did come were just browsing. The second day was slightly better, but overall, the crowd was still smaller than last year. 'In terms of pricing, most participants offered generous discounts and promotional rates for popular destinations among Sabahans, such as Japan, China, and Central Asian countries like Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan. 'For families, the school holidays remain the peak period for bookings. Most of the bookings made during this fair were for travel during the year-end school holidays,' she said. Chong also noted that travel costs have not changed significantly compared to previous years due to the wide range of options now available on the market. Additionally, Sabah's travellers are becoming increasingly knowledgeable about geography, health and safety, making travel planning smoother.
The Star
10-05-2025
- Business
- The Star
Increased participation at Sabah MATTA fair shows increased confidence among stakeholders, says Liew
KOTA KINABALU: The growing number of exhibitors and booths at this year's Sabah edition of the Malaysian Association of Tour and Travel Agents (MATTA) fair signals renewed confidence and enthusiasm among tourism stakeholders. State Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister Datuk Seri Christina Liew said the increased participation was a positive indicator of Sabah's strengthening position as a prime travel destination, both domestically and internationally. 'This year, we are proud to see that MATTA Fair Sabah itself has grown bigger with more exhibiting companies. This expanded participation enhances the fair's appeal and presents valuable opportunities for local travel agencies and tourism players to showcase their products and services,' she said. Speaking at the launch of MATTA Fair Sabah 2025 at the Sabah International Convention Centre (SICC) on Saturday (May 10), Liew noted that despite the challenges posed by the pandemic, in recent years, the tourism industry in Sabah has shown remarkable resilience and is now bouncing back with strong momentum. 'Sabah recorded RM4.5mil in sales at the recent MATTA Fair in Kuala Lumpur, up from RM3mil in September last year. This is a clear reflection of the growing appeal of our Culture, Adventure and Nature (CAN) tourism offerings,' she said. Among the most popular packages sold were island-hopping tours and cultural experiences such as visits to the Mari Mari Cultural Village. She added that efforts are not just about boosting sales figures, but also nurturing partnerships, building stronger networks and most importantly, creating meaningful and memorable experiences for all who visit Sabah. 'Through continuous collaboration and innovation, we are confident that Sabah's tourism industry will continue to grow, contributing to both our economy and our reputation as one of Asia's top destinations,' she said. She also highlighted the state's new 'Top 5 Mountains in Sabah' campaign, which was launched in Kuala Lumpur last month to boost Sabah's standing as an adventure tourism hub in Southeast Asia. 'Peaks such as Mount Kinabalu, Mount Trus Madi and Mount Tambuyukon are just some of the highlights under this campaign, and we look forward to welcoming more climbers and trekkers in the months ahead,' she said. The fair, organised by MATTA with support from the Sabah Tourism Board, runs over the weekend and features a variety of travel deals and holiday packages. Liew also thanked MATTA for its continued commitment to promoting Sabah, and urged all industry players to continue working together to ensure the state remains one of Asia's top travel destinations. Meanwhile, event organising chairman Rocky Kho said the MATTA FAir Sabah stands out significantly this year as it also includes more exclusive travel deals, while campaigning their inbound and outbound initiatives as a strategic partner to the Visit Malaysia Year 2026 campaign. 'Hosting the fair in Sabah is a great deal, not only to enhance the visibility to the state as a primary tourism destination but also reinforces the fair's role as an important platform to promote travel within and beyond Malaysia,' said Kho. He added that this fair also sees the continued implementation of the MATTA Eco and Sustainable Tourism Initiative (Mesti), in line with the association's commitment to promoting a cleaner, more conscious, sustainable and inclusive way of exploring the country. Mesti, he added, is aimed at strengthening and promoting sustainable, and inclusive growth across the country. 'The initiative prioritises collaborative efforts to address wildlife and marine conservation, and cultural and historical preservation. Mesti empowers the travel and tourism industry, and visitors alike to protect what makes Malaysia truly unique,' he said.
The Star
09-05-2025
- Business
- The Star
Kelantan aims to draw tourists with pull-net fishing
KOTA BARU: Kelantan will revive traditional pull-net fishing, once a common practice among local fishermen, as a new tourism attraction along its beaches. State tourism, culture, arts and heritage committee chairman Datuk Kamaruddin Md Nor said the activity, which requires 20 to 30 people to haul a net along up to a kilometre of shoreline, allows visitors to participate directly rather than remain spectators. 'Pull-net fishing has largely faded from practice. 'We want to revive it not only as a cultural experience but as a healing and recreational activity that brings people together,' he told reporters at the launch of MATTA Fair Kelantan 2025 yesterday, Bernama reported. The initiative is part of the state's Indahnya Kelantan 2025 campaign, which includes 41 tourism events covering heritage, arts, sport, eco and community tourism. Kamaruddin noted the success of monsoon-season surfing introduced at Pantai Kemasin in Bachok last year, which drew more than 3,000 visitors, as a sign of growing interest in niche tourism. The three-day MATTA Fair, which focuses on island destinations and ecotourism, targets RM5mil in sales and is expected to attract around 5,000 visitors. Separately, Kamaruddin said the National Heritage Department is awaiting funding approval from the Finance Ministry to begin repairs on the Sultan Ismail Suspension Bridge in Kuala Krai, which is over a century old and reportedly at risk of collapse. He said the department has completed a full structural assessment and submitted a funding request, expressing hope that restoration work would begin soon.
The Star
05-05-2025
- Business
- The Star
A ‘formidable force' for tourism
Enduring legacy: Khairul Firdaus (centre, right) receiving a token of appreciation from Wong at the MATTA 50th Anniversary Gala Dinner. — IZZRAFIQ ALIAS/The Star PETALING JAYA: The Malaysian Association of Tour and Travel Agents (MATTA) celebrated its golden jubilee in style on Saturday with a gala dinner, marking 50 years of unwavering service to Malaysia's tourism landscape. The event brought together leaders from the public and private sectors, united in their commitment to shaping the next chapter of Malaysian tourism. Tourism, Arts and Culture Deputy Minister Khairul Firdaus Akbar Khan, delivering a keynote address on behalf of Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, lauded MATTA's enduring legacy. Khairul Firdaus highlighted MATTA's evolution from humble beginnings into a formidable force representing thousands of agents and shaping national tourism policies. He noted the record-breaking success of this year's MATTA Fair, which hosted 1,754 booths and welcomed over 210,000 visitors, generating RM270 million in projected sales. 'MATTA has not only supported the growth of the tourism ecosystem but has also contributed meaningfully to national economic development. 'Tourism has become a major contributor to our GDP, creating countless job opportunities and supporting local communities across Malaysia,' he said during his speech at Sunway Resort Hotel here. Shared culture: Dancers performing a traditional routine during the MATTA 50th Anniversary Gala Dinner. Despite falling short of the original target, Khairul Firdaus said Malaysia welcomed over 38 million international visitors in 2024 – a notable 31.1% increase from the previous year. Tourism receipts soared to a record RM106.8bil, surpassing pre-pandemic levels and reflecting a 43.7% increase from 2023. Domestically, Khairul Firdaus said 193.3 million visits were recorded by September 2024, with RM77.8bil spent – a 27.2% year-on-year increase. As the nation prepares for Visit Malaysia Year (VMY) 2026, Khairul Firdaus emphasised three strategic pillars which include sustainability, digitalisation and collaboration. 'The tourism industry is more than just an economic engine. It connects cultures, fosters understanding and showcases the beauty of Malaysia to the world,' he said. MATTA President Nigel Wong echoed this spirit of progress, reflecting on the association's journey from inception to national prominence. 'MATTA was born over the simple idea to come together as an industry, to find strength in unity. 'Our story is one of resilience. Through economic shifts, global crises and challenging times, MATTA has remained steadfast. 'This milestone isn't just about the years. It's about people – the pioneers, the volunteers, the members who make MATTA what it is today.' Looking to the future, Wong outlined MATTA's four guiding pillars: sustainability, youth empowerment, digitalisation and industry empowerment. He revealed plans to revive the MATTA Academy as a centre of excellence, nurturing new leaders and recognising existing talent. He also highlighted upcoming AI initiatives, including the MATTA Incident Response System (IRS), designed to support government efforts with real-time data and insights. 'VMY 2026 represents more than just a tourism campaign. It is a national mission to reintroduce Malaysia to the world, to create new stories, and to unlock new opportunities for all. 'We must protect what makes Malaysia truly special – our nature, our culture, our communities – through responsible and sustainable tourism practices,' he said. The gala dinner also paid tribute to all of MATTA's past presidents, honouring their contributions to the association's legacy. Bringing the celebration to life, the evening also featured a captivating display of Malaysia's rich cultural tapestry through traditional dances from across the nation.
