October 2024: Latest News from Malaysia Hotel Industry

The Malaysian hotel industry is currently facing challenges as many locals flocked to Thailand for holiday trips in the last month, September. This shift in travel patterns raises important questions about why travellers are choosing international destinations over local stays. Factors such as appealing travel deals, the allure of Thailand's vibrant culture and activities, and the ongoing interest in unique experiences are drawing attention away from Malaysia's own attractions.

As we delve into the latest updates, let’s explore the latest news from the Malaysia Hotel Industry for the month of October 2024. 

1. Tourism Concerns in Johor Due to Vehicle Entry Permit (VEP)

The recent introduction of the Vehicle Entry Permit (VEP) has raised worries among business groups in Johor about its effects on tourism. Since the VEP was enforced on October 1, fewer Singaporeans are visiting Johor, leading to lower hotel occupancy rates. Jarod Chia, the chairman of the Malaysia Budget and Business Hotel Association (MyBHA) Johor Chapter, mentioned that many hotels in Johor Baru saw a significant drop in guests over the past weekend, which is usually a busy time for bookings.

Additionally, residents have voiced concerns about transportation issues, especially the heavy traffic at Customs, Immigration, and Quarantine (CIQ) checkpoints. This congestion has made it harder for visitors from Singapore to enter Johor, causing longer wait times and contributing to the decline in tourist numbers. The hospitality sector is eager to welcome more guests, but addressing these transportation challenges is crucial for attracting visitors back to the region.

Despite these challenges, local business leaders remain hopeful that the situation will improve in the coming weeks, as Singaporeans still want to shop and enjoy their time in Johor. They stress the importance of quickly resolving issues related to both the VEP and transportation to support local businesses and the economy. D. Ravindran, chairman of the Johor Indian Petty Traders and Small Business Association, noted that while the drop in visitors is temporary, it has negatively impacted local commerce. The Johor Tourist Guides Association has also called for prompt action from the state government to ensure a smoother experience for visitors entering Malaysia.

2. Late Check-in Ban

Recently, many hotels in Malaysia have shifted their check-in times to 4:00 PM, a significant change from the previous check-in time of 2:00 PM, which was later adjusted to 3:00 PM. The recent changes at many Malaysian hotels has sparked significant backlash among local tourists, particularly on social media platforms. Influencers and concerned citizens are rallying together to express their dissatisfaction, urging others to boycott hotels that enforce this later check-in policy.

Many argue that this change is inconvenient, especially for families and travellers who want to maximize their holiday experiences.

The online movement has gained momentum, with users sharing their frustrations and encouraging others to consider alternative accommodations or travel plans. Some feel that the later check-in times undermine the appeal of staying at hotels, which are meant to provide convenience and comfort for guests. This collective voice on social media highlights the growing influence of consumer sentiment in the hospitality industry and may compel hotel operators to reconsider their policies to retain local visitors.

Upcoming Events for Hoteliers

Despite the challenges, there are exciting opportunities on the horizon for the hotel sector. The MAH Tourism Fair 2024 Johor Edition is set to take place from 15 to 17 November 2024, at Mid Valley South Key in Johor Bahru. This event promises to showcase some of the best hospitality deals and provide an excellent platform for networking and collaboration among hotel operators, suppliers, and other key stakeholders in the tourism sector.

The MAH Tourism Fair is expected to attract a wide range of industry players, from budget hotels to luxury resorts, offering them the chance to explore the latest trends, technologies, and solutions that can help boost the performance of their businesses. It will also be a key space for discussions on how to tackle the current issues impacting the local tourism industry, such as fluctuating visitor numbers and operational challenges like the shift in check-in times.