LETTERS: Many assume that tour packages to local destinations are meant for Malaysians.
Actually, the main target market is foreigners. This is especially true of Arab tourists, who normally travel with family members.
After spending the first few days checking out various malls, they are ready to visit popular attractions at other destinations.
Domestic tour package providers should also target the large community of expatriates with family members and friends living with them. Foreign students would also wish to see the country while they are here.
Last year, 154,155 expatriate passes were issued to foreigners working in Malaysia, surpassing pre-pandemic levels. That number is the highest since 2018.
These passes are valid for up to two years, and if the number is repeated every year, then there might be an increase in the number of expatriates officially working here.
If those entering Malaysia on social visit passes are to be included, the total number of expatriates could more than double.
Generally speaking, many foreigners entering Malaysia visa-free often exit and re-enter the country before the expiry of their time limit. This will allow them to stay another 30 or 90 days in the country.
In 2019, foreign tourists spent an average of 7.4 nights in Malaysia. This figure dropped to 2.5 in 2022, partly due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
Nevertheless, looking back at previous trends and especially due to better economic developments post-pandemic, I believe that the average length of stay of foreign visitors will rise again.
Tourists will stay longer when they have more time and bigger budgets to visit multiple destinations in the country and see the many attractions Malaysia has to offer.
YS CHAN
Kuala Lumpur
The views expressed in this article are the author's own and do not necessarily reflect those of the New Straits Times