Malaysia Tourism Targets Indian Market at SATTE 2024
Malaysia’s tourism sector is back in action, with a keen focus on captivating the Indian market at the prestigious South Asia’s Travel & Tourism Exchange (SATTE) event, held in Delhi NCR. This marks the 20th participation of Tourism Malaysia in this grand affair, demonstrating its unwavering commitment to wooing Indian travelers. Alongside SATTE, the Malaysia Food Festival at Hyatt Regency, New Delhi, running from February 22nd to February 29th, 2024, aims to provide an immersive experience of Malaysian culture and cuisine to Indian visitors.
Embracing Niche Tourism Segments
This year, Tourism Malaysia sets its sights on niche tourism products tailored to Indian preferences. From indulgent shopping experiences to luxurious golfing getaways, soft adventure tourism, captivating theme parks, and romantic honeymoon packages, Malaysia offers an array of options to cater to diverse interests. Furthermore, emerging segments like destination weddings and film-induced tourism are being actively promoted, presenting Malaysia as an all-encompassing destination for Indian travelers seeking unique experiences.
Strengthening Partnerships and Collaborations
The inauguration of Tourism Malaysia Booth C-36 witnessed the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between Tourism Selangor and three prominent Indian Travel Associations. This collaboration underscores the commitment to fostering stronger ties between tour operators and key stakeholders in the tourism industry, aiming to facilitate seamless travel experiences for Indian tourists to Malaysia. With an expected turnout of over 35,000 trade visitors at SATTE, the event serves as a pivotal platform to drive increased tourism from India to Malaysia.
Leadership and Representation
The Malaysian delegation, spearheaded by Muhammad Akmal Hafiz Abdul Aziz, Acting Director of Tourism Malaysia – Delhi, comprises 39 organizations representing tour agents, hospitality establishments, tourism product owners, airline operators, Tourism Selangor, and Malaysia Convention and Exhibition Bureau (MyCEB). This diverse representation underscores Malaysia’s concerted efforts to showcase its tourism offerings and forge strategic partnerships in the Indian market.
Expansive Promotional Campaigns
Tourism Malaysia’s promotional endeavors in the Indian market are multifaceted and far-reaching. From hosting the Malaysia Food and Cultural Festival to participating in prominent events like the Outbound Travel Mart (OTM) 2024 in Mumbai, the focus remains on enhancing visibility and engagement. A recent roadshow campaign across major Indian cities including Bengaluru, Chennai, Kolkata, and Ahmedabad further amplifies Malaysia’s presence and accessibility in the Indian market.
Leveraging Niche Products and Cultural Experiences
Muhammad Akmal Hafiz Abdul Aziz emphasizes the significance of leveraging niche tourism products and cultural experiences to attract Indian travelers. Malaysia’s allure as a preferred wedding destination and its potential for film-induced tourism are highlighted, accompanied by attractive incentives for filmmakers. The presence of Malaysian chefs at the Malaysia Food Festival underscores the commitment to showcasing the rich and diverse flavors of Malaysian cuisine to Indian audiences.
Strengthening Bilateral Tourism Relations
India holds a pivotal position as a priority market for Malaysia, characterized by robust economic ties and cultural affinities. Notably, India ranks as Malaysia’s fifth largest source of tourists, with a steady influx recorded in recent years. Enhanced air connectivity, with 181 weekly flights between India and Malaysia operated by leading carriers, further facilitates travel and strengthens bilateral tourism relations.
Seizing Opportunities for Growth
Against the backdrop of a visa-free policy extended to Indian tourists until December 31, 2024, Tourism Malaysia aims to capitalize on this opportunity to attract more Indian visitors. Additionally, the platform provided by SATTE 2024 serves as a springboard to promote Visit Malaysia 2026, fostering anticipation and excitement among Indian travelers.
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