KUCHING: The Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture (MOTAC) is actively engaging with the Ministry of Finance (MOF) to study and refine the most appropriate measures to support the tourism industry amid current global challenges.
Its Minister Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing said the ministry is intensifying communication and holding discussions with MOF to identify practical and reasonable solutions to help industry players navigate ongoing pressures more effectively.
“In response to the ripple effects of the current international situation, particularly the strain faced by the tourism sector, we ask affected industry players to allow some time and space as we work towards suitable solutions,” he said in a statement posted on his Facebook.
Tiong added that he has instructed the ministry to conduct comprehensive engagement sessions with tourism stakeholders, including those in the transport and related service sectors, to gather direct feedback and better understand the challenges faced on the ground.
“This includes assessing cost pressures, operational impacts and potential losses, so that any measures introduced will truly meet the needs of the industry,” he said.
He noted that MOF has expressed support for the ongoing efforts and will evaluate the overall impact and scope based on data and input provided by industry players, enabling more targeted solutions to be developed.
At the same time, Tiong urged all parties within the industry to remain rational and responsible, cautioning against unjustified price hikes or shifting excessive costs to consumers, which could further burden the public and disrupt the market.
“In these challenging times, we must work together to maintain economic stability and ensure a well-functioning market so that all sectors can continue to grow on a strong foundation,” he said.
He added that Malaysia’s economic development has long been built on stability and mutual trust, and called for unity in facing external challenges, including supporting the leadership of Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and ongoing mitigation measures.
Tiong stressed that the government remains committed to prioritising the wellbeing of the people and the stability of the tourism industry, with any measures to be introduced in stages following thorough evaluation to ensure sustainable economic growth and continued industry resilience.
