KUALA LUMPUR – The government will not compromise on tourist safety, particularly in the transport sector, following several accidents last year that affected Malaysia’s image as a safe destination.
Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister, Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing, said while tourism remains a key contributor to the national economy, success cannot be measured by arrival numbers alone.
“Tourists who come to Malaysia must enjoy a safe and pleasant experience. They should not return home with fear or concern. Safety must always come first,” he said after attending the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signing ceremony between local commercial vehicle brand CAM and the Malaysian Inbound Tourism Association (MITA) yesterday.
Upon arrival at the event, Tiong said he was encouraged to see upgraded mini buses and modern tourism vehicles on display, reflecting positive progress within the industry.
“This development is encouraging. I hope CAM will continue introducing new technologies and setting higher standards to elevate Malaysia’s tourism industry,” he said.
However, he stressed that growth in the tourism sector must go hand in hand with stricter safety enforcement and stronger governance.
In this regard, Tiong revealed that the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture is currently in discussions with the Ministry of Transport to streamline the approval of licences and the management of tourist buses under a single ministry.
The move aims to strengthen monitoring mechanisms, improve administrative efficiency and ensure consistent safety standards across the sector.
He also highlighted concerns over certain large buses that lack sufficient capability when travelling on hilly terrain, posing safety risks.
“Excess baggage load and the continued use of ageing engines can increase accident risks. We are studying proposals to tighten vehicle performance standards and to introduce a usage limit for tourist buses,” he said.
Under the proposal, operators may be required to replace their vehicles within five to 10 years to maintain optimal safety standards.
Acknowledging the financial pressure faced by operators, Tiong said the government is considering assistance measures, including tax incentives, bank guarantee facilities to ease financing costs, and support schemes for the purchase of new tourist buses.
“These matters are at the final stage of discussion with the Ministry of Finance and will be announced once finalised,” he said.
At the same time, Tiong said the government takes seriously issues of contract breaches and non-compliance in the implementation of tour packages, which can damage Malaysia’s reputation.
He said operators may be required to provide bank guarantees as a consumer protection measure, adding that those who violate regulations risk having their licences revoked and being blacklisted from future applications.
“Only through close cooperation between the government and industry players, and by upholding safety and integrity, can Malaysia’s tourism industry grow sustainably and move forward with confidence,” he said. -MalayaDailyToday
