LABUAN: The Labuan chapter for Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia and the Philippines-East Asean Growth Area (BIMP-EAGA) Business Council supports recent statement by Malaysia Travel and Tours Association (Matta) for the government to grant visa-free entry to Chinese tourists.
Chairman Azhar Othman said Chinese made up the biggest number of tourists and among the biggest spenders. He cited a report showing Chinese tourists chalked up 142 million international departures and spend a staggering USD258 billion in 2017.
“The Chinese travelled to more countries, spent more money and engaged in more activities than anyone else in recent years,” he said in statement to Bernama yesterday, adding that Malaysia is one of the favourite destinations among Chinese tourist.
Given the numbers and the growing trend, the council he said, called on the government to consider granting visa-free entry to Chinese and Indian tourists to lure them to the country. – Bernama
