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Malaysian tourism industry unite to further push inclining visitor stats

The Malaysian Tourism industry’s determination to survive and succeed in the face of adversity has produced positive results.

The Malaysian Tourism industry’s determination to survive and succeed in the face of adversity has produced positive results.

Figures released by Malaysia’s Immigration Department show that from January to May Malaysia welcomed a total of 11.53 million tourists, registering a hike of 10.1 per cent compared to the same period last year.

The statistics also revealed that Australia continued to be one of the top 10 tourist generating markets to Malaysia, with over 250,000 Australians visiting the country across this period. The number of Aussies travelling to Malaysia during the third quarter has held steady and is currently slightly ahead of last year.

This positive result, according to Tourism Malaysia, is due to their aggressive promotional efforts and commitment from industry players, despite a challenging year.

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“There is no doubting that 2014 has been a tough year for Malaysian tourism, driven largely by the Malaysian Airlines tragedies,” Tourism Malaysia’s Sydney Director, Roslan Abdullah said.

“We are incredibly buoyed by the continued support and faith shown in us by Australian tourists, agents and tour operators as reflected in the current travel figures.”

Abdullah claims that the statistics are fantastic news for a country who recently announced that 2015 will be their Official Year of Festivals.

“Right now Malaysia is one of the safest, most politically stable and value-for-money destinations in South East Asia,” he said.

“Add in friendly people, amazing cuisine and almost unparalleled diversity in terms of our tourism offering. We can virtually accommodate every type of traveller.”

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Their festival itinerary appears to emulate that sentiment. Among the steady procession of celebrations will be the renowned Formula 1 Petronas Malaysia Grand Prix that begins on 27 March.

“It is hard to beat the for some spectacular motor racing action on arguably one of the world’s most picturesque F1 tracks,” Abdullah said.

In April, the Malaysia International Shoe Festival takes place, featuring an exhibition that showcases over 60 international designer brands in more than 200 booths.

From 28 May, travellers will be able to experience the Magic of the Night Festival held, with its nighttime Lighted Boat Parade showcasing brightly and beautifully decorated boats.

“Each of these reveal a very different side of Malaysia and provide travellers a chance to really immerse themselves in the traditions and culture of one of Asia’s most intriguing countries,” Abdullah said.

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Do you think the positive stats will maintain through Malaysia’s Year of Festivals?