DESPITE the worldwide economic downturn, Malaysia received a total of 23.6 million arrivals in 2009, representing an increase of 7.2 per cent from 22.1 million recorded in 2008.
Overall, Malaysia has experienced significant growth in terms of arrivals despite the world economic downturn and H1N1.
Tuan Razali Tuan Omar, of Tourism Malaysia Dubai, said: “For the year 2010, we are targeting 24 million arrivals. We are confident that the number of tourists to Malaysia will keep on growing for the next five years.
“In order to ensure positive growth in the number of arrivals, we will continue with our promotional activities throughout the world and we will also be targeting certain markets which will ensure a fast conversion in terms of arrivals to the country.”
For the year 2009, Malaysia recorded 284,890 arrivals from the Middle East which was an increase of 7.8 per cent from 264,338 arrivals recorded on 2008. The main contributors were Iran with 101,664 arrivals followed by Saudi Arabia with 77,082.
Omar added: “We have undertaken a number of promotions in the Middle East to target more arrivals to Malaysia. In fact, we have participated in quite a number of tourism related exhibitions in the market areas.
“Besides exhibitions and an advertising campaign, we have being working closely with airlines, tour operators and the media to bring more arrivals to Malaysia through smart-partnerships.”
He added that Malaysia is a unique destination as it has something for everyone offering a wide range of attractions and activities. Landscapes range from the city to the jungle and from the high mountains to the beaches and the ocean, there is shopping and entertainment aplenty but it is the country’s nature offering which proves one of its most attractive attributes.