Malacca expects 10% increase in tourist arrival from China for CNY

MALACCA: Malacca expects an increase of about 10% daily in arrival of tourists from China during the current Chinese New Year celebration.

Director at the Malacca Office of the Ministry of Tourism and Culture, Jeffri Munir said Malacca recorded an average of 5,000 arrivals of tourists from China daily on normal days.

He said the increase in the arrival of the Chinese national tourists would have positive effect on the state's hotel industry, as well as for tour guides, car rental and tour bus service.

"Tourists from China who come to Malacca are often handled by tour agents in Kuala Lumpur with agents in the state.

"They normally come in groups and will visit places like the Hang Li Po Well, temples and museums," he said when contacted by Bernama.
Meanwhile, Malacca branch Malaysia-China Chamber of Commerce president Datuk Lim Kok Ann said the popular spot for the Chinese national tourists in Malacca during Chinese New Year was Jonker Street.

"The Chinese New Year celebration in Malacca, especially at Jonker Walk, is merrier than in other states, with many red cloth and lanterns hung to bring excitement to the celebration,' he added.

Lim said Malacca was also a destination for tourists from China because of the existing Malaysia-China bilateral ties, especially in trade and tourism.

He said implementation of the e-visa and electronic travel registration and information (ENTRI) by the government since March last year also attracted more tourists from China to come to Malaysia.

In a related development, Malacca Malay Hotel Association honourary-secretary,Datuk Nur Sahar Osman said all rooms were fully booked in the state from tomorrow until Jan 30, except the homestays.

Based on information received, 50% of the bookings are for tourists from China, he added. — Bernama