KUALA LUMPUR: Local travel operators have been told to ensure the itineraries for tour groups are to let them see as many local attractions as possible, and not for shopping, says Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing.
The Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister said the ministry had received numerous complaints that tour groups were only able to see one or two tourist attractions before they were taken to specific outlets for shopping.
He said there had been instances where tour groups to Malaysia had not been taken to see the many popular attractions the country had to offer.
"We will issue a circular that travel agents are not allowed to take visitors shopping (at specific shopping outlets) in the (travel) itinerary," he said.
However, he said travel agencies could free up a day or two in the itinerary for tourists to go shopping at destinations of their own choice.
"We will call travel agents for a meeting and implement the circular soon," he said when launching Tomei's 55th Emerald Year – Bloom From Within campaign here on Friday (Feb 10).
"The Tourism Ministry will take the necessary action if you continue to include shopping trips (in the itinerary).
"If tourists want to shop, they can make their own decisions and choices," he said.
Meanwhile, he said with China's borders reopening, the expected large influx of Chinese tourists will boost the domestic consumer market and aid the country's economic recovery.
At the event, Tomei unveiled its colour theme for this year – a shade of green that corresponds with the company's 55th "emerald" anniversary, which also represents eternal commitment and directly reflects Tomei's promise to honour tradition, embrace modernity.
To attract more investors and bolster the company's competitive edge, Tomei Consolidated Bhd managing director Datuk Ng Yih Pyng said that the company's future development plan would align with global environmental, social and governance (ESG) trends.
"Tomei Group promises that we will strengthen our supply chain management, comply with international ESG standards, and lay a more solid foundation for the enterprise's future sustainable operation and development," he added.
