54th MATTA Fair stimulates travel sales

KUALA LUMPUR, April 22, 2024: The recent MATTA fair attracted more than 170,000 visitors and generated more than MYR230 million in sales during the three-day fair, the Malaysian Association of Tour and Travel Agents (MATTA) said this weekend.

In a post-event review of the 54^e edition of the MATTA Fair, held from March 22 to 24, 2024 at the Malaysia International Trade & Exhibition Center (MITEC) Kuala Lumpur, the National Travel Agency Association said the fair covered a total of 39,000 sqm of exhibition space, booked by 278 exhibitors, including 12 National Tourism Organizations (NTOs) and eight State Tourism Organizations (STOs) – an indication that Malaysia’s tourism and travel industry remains vibrant and expected to grow.

Domestic sales revenue exceeded MYR31 million, indicating enormous growth potential in domestic tourism, which has seen significant growth post-Covid.

“We have implemented a strategic plan to reduce traffic congestion, which was a concern during the last travel fair,” said MATTA chairman Nigel Wong. “By offering shuttle services from major transportation hubs such as the MITEC area, KL Sentral and Sunway Putra Mall, we have reduced traffic-related complaints by as much as 65%. The positive response to this initiative from trade show visitors demonstrates the effectiveness of this approach in ensuring a smoother and more enjoyable experience for visitors.”

Wong noted that MATTA was actively working with RapidKL to increase transportation options for fair visitors. As part of these efforts, the number of buses will increase significantly, significantly reducing wait times for visitors. This initiative has encouraged visitors and exhibitors to take public transportation or park their cars at Sunway Putra Mall and KL Sentral for future MATTA fairs.

“Our sincere appreciation goes to DYTM Tuanku Raja Muda Perlis for contributing to the success of our opening ceremony through his distinguished presence. “The leadership shown by His Royal Highness Tuanku Raja Muda Perlis and the team from the Perlis Economic Planning Division, Perlis State Park, Department of Mineral and Geoscience Malaysia and Perlis Agriculture Department, in collaboration with private sector stakeholders such as MATTA, is proof that smart partnerships These types of things are critical to promoting destinations in a new and fresh way,” says Wong.

“The success of MATTA Fair March 2024 is an important milestone, indicating that the tourism sector is in the final stages of recovery and aimed at rapid growth in the coming years,” he added.

At the show, China secured the top spot in the top 10 most popular destinations, followed by Japan, Korea, Malaysia, Turkiye, Vietnam, Taiwan, Switzerland, Italy and the United Kingdom.

For domestic tourism, consumers preferred packages from Selangor, Sabah, Terengganu, Pahang, Kedah and Penang mainly due to logistical considerations and diverse attractions. Data also showed that travel packages were in high demand during the fair from more than 67 international destinations in North America, Africa, Europe, Asia and Australia.

MATTA Fair provides a platform where travel enthusiasts can obtain first-hand information from recognized travel agencies and tour operators, plan their dream vacations and benefit from exclusive deals, all under one roof.

“We remain committed to promoting and nurturing the tourism sector in Malaysia; this travel fair is more than just an event; it is a major catalyst for industry growth. The excellent results of the MATTA Fair March 2024 inspire us to continue to work persistently to generate opportunities, promote innovation and provide unforgettable experiences to travelers,” concluded Wong.

The next MATTA Fair will take place at MITEC Kuala Lumpur from September 6 to 8, 2024.