KUALA LUMPUR – The Malaysian Tourism Federation (MTF) said it is fulfilling a crucial role in the tourism industry by providing a platform for all member associations to come together and speak with a unified voice.
In a statement, MTF secretary-general Sri Ganesh Michiel said this unified representation ensures greater impact and effectiveness when addressing government bodies, policymakers, and other stakeholders.
“By pooling resources and expertise, the federation can tackle common challenges and issues facing the tourism industry, ultimately leading to the development of comprehensive solutions,” he said.
He was speaking on the federation’s official formation on July 10 this year, adding that it was a “significant milestone” for the Malaysian tourism industry.
Led by industry veteran Datuk Tan Kok Liang, MTF aims to unite independent national tourism associations under one umbrella to create a unified voice in the industry, Ganesh said.
Ganesh highlighted that several of MTF’s responsibilities include consolidating the “diverse” voices of and representation in the industry, ensuring balanced interests for its benefit.
“MTF recognises the need to balance the diverse interests and priorities of individual associations to truly serve as a unifying body for the betterment of the entire tourism industry,” he said.
At the same time, Ganesh added that MTF acts as a platform allowing members to collaborate in solving challenges, as well as exchanging knowledge and coordinating marketing campaigns to attract tourists.
Meanwhile, MTF upholds the importance of research and data dissemination, as well as consistent engagement with stakeholders.
The federation also advocates policies that contribute to the industry’s holistic development, while also coordinating crisis management efforts during natural disasters or health emergencies.
Ganesh said its policy advocacy includes crucial aspects such as visa requirements, air connectivity, funding for tourism players, manpower requirements, Umrah travel packages, tourism infrastructure development, as well as Sales and Service Tax thresholds.
He also expressed optimism in collaborating with stakeholders in the industry to “nurture a thriving and sustainable tourism industry”.
Other members include representatives from the Malaysian Association of Hotels (MAH), the Malaysia Budget and Business Hotel Association (MyBHA), the Malaysian Inbound Chinese Association (MICA), the Association of Bumiputera Tourism Operators of Malaysia (Bumitra), and The Malaysian Association Of Theme Park And Family Attractions (Matfa).
The Malaysian Chinese Tourism Association (MCTA), Malaysia Cruise Industry Association (MCIA), Malaysia Scuba Diving Association (MSDA), and Association of Malaysian Spas (AMSPA), Malaysian Indian Tour & Travel Association (Mitta) are also members of the MTF.
The initiative was started in February 2020, with the approval of former Tourism, Arts, and Culture Minister Datuk Seri Nancy Shukri. – December 19, 2023