KUCHING: Cambodia and Malaysia have emerged as the frontrunners in tourism recovery in Southeast Asia, showcasing remarkable progress post-pandemic.
According to a report by travel research firm Outbox Consulting, Cambodia takes the lead with an impressive recovery rate of 82.5 per cent of pre-pandemic levels in 2023, followed closely by Malaysia at 77.2 per cent.
Other notable performers include Indonesia with a recovery rate of 71.7 per cent, Singapore at 71.3 per cent, and Thailand at 70.4 per cent.
Meanwhile, Vietnam achieved its recovery rate of 70 per cent which is higher than the Philippines’ 66 per cent.
Highlighting Malaysia’s resurgence, the report revealed that the country welcomed 29 million tourists last year, including a significant influx of nearly 9 million foreign day-trippers.
Thailand followed closely with 28 million arrivals, while Singapore and Vietnam recorded 13.6 million and 12.6 million respectively.
To maintain its momentum, Thailand and Malaysia have implemented visa waivers for tourists from key markets such as China and India since late last year.
