KUCHING: A strengthening ringgit is boosting outbound travel demand, with agencies reporting a rise in overseas bookings and higher spending on flights, accommodation and activities.
Managing Director of Khaimal Borneo Travel & Tours, Mohamad Fikri Zainol Majid, said the firmer currency has restored consumer confidence after a period of hesitation driven by exchange rate concerns.
“We have seen a noticeable increase in outbound bookings since the ringgit strengthened. Travellers are planning earlier and are more willing to spend on destinations that once felt expensive,” he said.
According to Fikri, improved exchange rates have also encouraged travellers to raise their budgets, opting for better flight options, higher-rated hotels and more activities.
“People want a more comfortable and meaningful travel experience,” he said.
Regional destinations continue to dominate demand, with Indonesia, Vietnam, Thailand, Singapore, Brunei, Japan and South Korea remaining firm favourites due to their perceived value in food, culture and shopping.
At the same time, interest in long-haul travel is gaining momentum. Italy, Spain and France are drawing more Malaysian travellers, while emerging destinations such as Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan are also seeing rising interest, alongside Turkiye, China and India.
“Travellers today are more open to exploring new destinations. They are looking beyond the usual tourist spots and are more interested in experience-driven travel,” he said.
Despite renewed enthusiasm for international trips, Fikri said domestic tourism remains stable, supported by family holidays, school trips and corporate programmes such as meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions (MICE).
Domestic destinations, he added, continue to perform well during school holidays and festive seasons, when shorter and more convenient getaways are preferred.
“Rather than one segment affecting the other, we are seeing domestic and international travel grow side by side,” he said.
Fikri noted a broader shift in traveller preferences towards quality, including longer stays, better accommodation and add-on experiences such as guided tours and cultural activities.
“Travellers want their holidays to be more fulfilling,” he said.
Looking ahead, he said demand should remain healthy if the ringgit stays stable, although external factors such as fuel prices, the cost of living and global economic conditions will continue to influence travel decisions.
“As long as the currency remains favourable, we expect healthy demand in the coming months,” he said.
He also cautioned travellers against unlicensed individuals offering travel services at unusually low prices, advising consumers to book only through agencies registered with the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture (MOTAC).
“These parties often do not follow regulations, which can expose customers to risks such as poor service, last-minute cancellations or a lack of protection if problems arise,” he said.
“The stronger ringgit has given people the confidence to travel again — and to travel better,” he added.
