The RM1.16bil allocation in the 2023 Budget for management and development of the tourism, art and culture sectors reflects the government's continuous efforts to restore and strengthen the country's economy.

The government targets more than 15 million in foreign tourist arrivals, with a projected revenue of RM47.6 billion next year.

Budget 2023: Revive the local tourism sector

The Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture Ministry (MOTAC) described the budget as a sign of the government's initiative under the leadership of YAB Dato' Sri Ismail Sabri bin Yaakob, clear commitment in ensuring that the national economic growth agenda continues to be given focus to empower the industry and businesses continue to be supported in this phase of recovery and growth.

MOTAC described this budget as a sign of the government's continued support and commitment to make the local tourism, arts and culture industry strong again.

Apart from that, the government is allocating RM25mil to provide incentives to the people in the form of discounts, vouchers and rebates for accommodation, tourism packages, handicrafts, and works of arts up to RM100; RM25mil for programmes to popularise arts, culture and heritage and 100% tax exemption on statutory income for foreign and local tourists.

“Many tourism players will eventually request extra funds from the government to fund their business but I believe another option that the government may introduce to revive the local tourism industry is to generate the excitement of our own local people to appreciate their own country,'' said Ezani, General Manager, The Mines Resort and Golf Club.

“In my opinion, the government should take initiatives in improving the logistics in the country’s island such as ferry and taxi services. Plus, they should also add common attractions for the tourists such as theme parks, upgraded waterfalls, national landmarks and more,” said William, Resort Manager, Pangkor Sandy Beach Resort.

Meanwhile, other funds related to tourism are:

  • Charter Flight Services, including from the Middle East and East Asia as well as new direct flight routes from international destinations;

  • Tourism operators can also take advantage of the initiative through the Syarikat Jaminan Pembiayaan Perniagaan (SJPP) which provides financing of up to RM9 billion for SMEs, especially for strategic sectors such as agro-food, sustainable technology, tourism, and oil and gas. 

  • RM10 million for ecotourism involves upgrading the ecotourism attractions in Gua Kelam, Perlis, managing sustainable solid waste in Perhentian Island, Terengganu and intensifying activities at the Sultan Ahmad Shah Perak Jubilee Agricultural Park in Kuantan, Pahang; 

  • The Tourism Infrastructure Financing Fund amounts to RM1 billion to strengthen the momentum of the recovery of the tourism sector including funding for hotel restoration, urban renewal and heritage conservation. 

  • RM10 million through the ThinkCity initiative for the regeneration of downtown Kuala Lumpur; and 

  • RM20 million is provided to the Malaysia Healthcare Travel Council.

The main focus is attracting foreign tourists to our country, especially the health tourism industry. At the same time, various initiatives are given to ensure that the tourism industry sector is prepared in terms of upgrading infrastructure and sufficient employees.

According to Dr Kung, Chinese Physician and Clinical Manager GHHS Healthcare, wellness tourism allows patients to have more opportunities to explore quality healthcare options with a different cultural experience beyond the medical procedure.