Latest news with #NigelWong
The Star
22-07-2025
- Automotive
- The Star
MATTA to launch training programs for tour vehicle operators
PETALING JAYA: The Malaysian Association of Tour and Travel Agents (MATTA) is in the final stages of developing Safety and Defensive Driving Courses for drivers of tourism vehicles. According to its president, Nigel Wong, the training programmes would equip drivers with skills to operate vehicles safely and professionally. It would also educate operators on best practices in vehicle maintenance, road safety and productivity. 'MATTA is also exploring the development of other relevant programmes. Emergency response and crisis management modules would help drivers respond appropriately during unforeseen events such as accidents, vehicle breakdowns, or natural disasters, while familiarisation training on tourism routes would enable drivers to navigate key destinations efficiently and enhance the overall tour experience,' Wong said in a statement on Tuesday (July 22). MATTA also welcomed the Transport Ministry's recent clarification on the suspension of Public Service Vehicle (PSV) licences. Following a request by the association, the Ministry confirmed on July 13 that suspensions would apply strictly to drivers involved in serious or repeated offences, not those with minor or compoundable violations. 'This clear distinction ensures that enforcement is proportionate and fair,' said Wong. The Ministry also stated that drivers found guilty of road offences would undergo a mandatory rehabilitation course (Kursus Pemulihan Wajib), implemented via the Road Transport Department (JPJ), for holders of both PSV and Goods Driving Licence (GDL).
Malaysian Reserve
12-07-2025
- Malaysian Reserve
24-hour accident reporting rule not realistic, says Matta
by AZALEA AZUAR THE Malaysian Association of Tour and Travel Agents (Matta) has raised concerns over the Tourism, Arts and Culture Ministry's (Motac) proposal in requiring agencies to file an accident report within 24 hours. Failure to do so will result in their licences being forfeited. The ministry's decision to come up with this proposal was followed by a spate of recent tragic incidents involving tour buses. Matta president Nigel Wong acknowledged the importance of timely accountability and safety, but said it is not realistic. 'During our recent town hall sessions, members expressed that more time is needed for us to provide the information that is required by Motac and we would be happy to comply. 'We urge the authorities not to take punitive action immediately. Instead, investigations should be allowed and due process must be followed,' he said during a press conference today. Additionally, Matta sought clarification from the Road Transport Department (JPJ) regarding its policy on suspending drivers involved in road accidents. The association also wants to know whether the suspension applies only to fatal accidents or if it also includes minor incidents. Wong warned that if a travel company's licence is revoked due to a single incident — before it is even clear who is at fault — it could have serious consequences. If such actions continue without proper checks, it could spread industry-wide and not only harm businesses but also Malaysia's tourism reputation. 'We also would like to call again for the ministries involved, not just Motac, but also the Transport Ministry (MOT) and other agencies to engage in more structured dialogue with the industry in order to find the pain points for the industry itself and to come to a solution which will both protect the interests of the industry, as well as tourists,' added Wong. Moreover, Matta has started developing its own initiatives in response to the recent incidents which include a safety driving course and other training programmes which will be launched soon. It is also introducing a data collection programme to gather information on incidents reported by its members. To address these concerns, Matta held a series of town hall sessions to engage directly with its members in Johor and Kuala Lumpur (KL), which will continue in Sabah, Penang and Terengganu. On July 8, Motac announced that travel agencies with a Travel Operating Business and Travel (Tobtab) licence are required to file an accident report within 24 hours of the incident. On July 7, JPJ decided to immediately suspend the vocational licence of commercial vehicle drivers involved in road accidents while police investigations are underway. JPJ DG Aedy Fadly Ramli reportedly said that if a driver is found guilty or issued a notice for violating any part of the Road Transport Act 1987, their vocational licence will be revoked under Section 56(4)(b) of the same Act. MOTAC recently urged for the return of its regulatory authority over tourism transport. This followed a tragic bus accident in Gerik, Perak, which claimed the lives of 15 Universiti Pendidikan Sultan Idris (UPSI) students. Meanwhile, two men were killed while 16 others were killed in a collision on July 3, which involved a tour bus and two lorries at 80.7km of the Southbound North-South Expressway (PLUS) near Ayer Hitam, Johor.
Free Malaysia Today
11-07-2025
- Free Malaysia Today
Matta slams rule for crash report within 24 hours, says industry not consulted
A tour bus was involved in the June 9 crash near Gerik, Perak, that killed 15 UPSI students. (Bernama pic) KUALA LUMPUR : The Malaysian Association of Tour and Travel Agents (Matta) has criticised the tourism, arts and culture ministry for requiring tour companies to submit a report within 24 hours of any accident, or risk having their business licence cancelled. Matta president Nigel Wong said the mandate, effective from July 1, was an 'extreme' measure introduced without consulting industry players. 'Government agencies should first carry out investigations before pronouncing judgment. As far as the ministry is concerned, we understand it needs the information to improve on the situation (of road accidents involving tour vehicles). 'However, 24 hours is not a reasonable timeframe, and suspending licences should the report not be lodged within this timeframe is also not acceptable,' he said. Nigel Wong. Wong said stripping tourism companies of their licences would not only affect their staff and their families but also the company's clients, which would not reflect kindly on Malaysia as a travel destination. '(In terms of road accidents) it may not be the owners of the businesses (who are at fault). It could be the drivers themselves, or the condition of the vehicle. It could even be external influences. 'The tourism community is saying, look, don't just penalise a tour company for the sake of making a statement,' he said. The ministry had made it mandatory for companies holding Tour Operating Business and Travel Agency Business (Tobtab) licences to report any accidents within 24 hours of the incident from July 1. It said failure to comply with this new rule would see their licences revoked without notice, adding that this is to ensure the safety and integrity of the nation's tourism sector. This followed several fatal road crashes involving tour buses, including one on June 9 that saw 15 Universiti Pendidikan Sultan Idris students losing their lives. Multiple agencies but no coordination Wong said various ministries and agencies were stepping in to impose regulations on the industry now, including the natural resources and environmental sustainability ministry, and the road transport department (JPJ). However, he said, there seemed to be no coordination among them. Matta vice-president (land transportation) K Subramaniam called for greater transparency and clarity on proposed regulations for the sector, saying regulatory ambiguity only leads to more confusion within tour companies that manage transport. Wong reiterated that industry players would be happy to work with the relevant ministries to formulate a balanced solution to issues, but the government must start implementing regulations with stakeholders in mind.
The Star
20-06-2025
- Business
- The Star
Nationwide clampdown begins on illegal tourism players
PETALING JAYA: Enforcement against illegal tourism businesses is being ramped up ahead of Visit Malaysia 2026 to ensure they all operate within the law. Inspections are being conducted, both proactively and based on public complaints, in line with the Tourism Industry Act 1992 and the Tourism Vehicles Licensing Act 1999. 'When violations are identified, formal inspection notices are issued in accordance with existing procedures,' the Tourism, Arts and Culture Ministry said in a statement. The action comes after a court in Penang convicted Renewage Group Sdn Bhd for operating without a valid tourism licence on June 16. The company was fined RM30,000. The ministry said nationwide integrated operations were being carried out with other enforcement and regulatory agencies to safeguard visitors and uphold industry standards. Five travel agencies have had their licences revoked between 2024 and 2025 for regulation breaches. These unlicensed operators pose a serious threat to the industry by undercutting legitimate businesses, said Malaysian Association of Tour and Travel Agents president Nigel Wong. 'These illegal players don't need offices, don't pay for licences or insurance, and can therefore offer cheaper rates. But this leaves consumers exposed to fraud and without legal protection if things go wrong, such as trip cancellations or accidents,' he said. Wong urged tourism stakeholders to work only with licensed guides, travel agencies and transport providers and not fall prey to cheats on social media. 'Social media is now a key channel for unlicensed players. We're seeing issues in places like Langkawi and other entry points, where unauthorised individuals and even foreigners are acting as tour guides,' he said, adding that there is a need for more enforcement. Malaysian Inbound Tourism Association president Mint Leong echoed the call for stronger action, noting that unlicensed operators can also damage Malaysia's image. 'Illegal tourism businesses pose real risks to safety and credibility,' she said. Leong said the booming demand for travel both inbound and outbound has fuelled misuse. 'Anyone can upload beautiful pictures on social media and attract customers. But many of these 'too good to be true' offers are traps,' she said. 'When an operator is caught, it should be made public. Let people see that enforcement is happening – it sends a message and helps prevent more victims.' Malaysian Women Tourist Guide Association president Erina Loo, meanwhile, urged both local and foreign visitors to verify tour operators through official channels. 'All licensed agencies, guides, homestay providers and operators are listed on the ministry's official website,' she said. For foreign visitors, Loo advised contacting Tourism Malaysia's overseas offices or Malaysian embassies. She also cautioned independent travellers to do their homework before hiring guides, adding that there were legal limits for licensed tour guides too. 'A licensed guide may lead a tour but cannot sell or advertise tour packages,' she said.
The Sun
11-06-2025
- Business
- The Sun
Mainstream media remains vital for tourism promotion, say industry leaders
KUANTAN: Mainstream media continues to play a pivotal role in promoting Malaysia's tourism sector by effectively reaching diverse audience demographics, according to Malaysian Association of Tour and Travel Agents (MATTA) president Nigel Wong. He noted that while digital platforms and social media have become dominant tools in tourism marketing, the role of traditional media including television, radio and print should not be underestimated, particularly in engaging older demographics and the business sector. 'Social media and mainstream media cater to different audiences, making them complementary when promoting various aspects of tourism to distinct demographic groups,' he told Bernama. Wong emphasised mainstream media's role as a foundational pillar for long-term tourism success, particularly in highlighting initiatives, programmes and products. Echoing Wong's views, Malaysian Association of Hotels Pahang Chapter chairman Charles B Peter said mainstream media remained relevant due to its engaging content, credible information and adherence to journalistic standards. 'We know that social media is very active nowadays, but mainstream media retains the unique advantage of providing accurate, accountable information. 'I believe that before airing any programme, mainstream media undergo proper editing, and the quality of its presentation remains more engaging compared to social media,' he said. Charles pointed out that the media's tourism role extends beyond destination promotion, serving as a platform to address industry concerns including infrastructure development, safety improvements and accessibility to national landmarks. Meanwhile, he called for enhanced collaboration between media agencies, local authorities (PBT) and tourism associations to showcase hidden-gem destinations while preserving their cultural heritage. 'I propose coordinated media familiarisation trips with tourism associations to identify and develop potential attractions,' he said, suggesting that this approach would better highlight regional history and local culture. Recognising the media's role and contributions to the nation's development, National Journalists' Day (HAWANA) is celebrated annually on May 29, and this year, the main event for the celebration will take place on June 14 at the Kuala Lumpur World Trade Centre (WTC KL) and will be opened by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim. Themed 'Journalism in the New Era: Embracing AI, Safeguarding Ethics', more than 1,000 media practitioners, locals and from abroad, are expected to attend the event organised by the Communications Ministry with the Malaysian National News Agency (Bernama) as the implementing agency.
