TEN tourism industry players have suggested the Immigration Department take steps to improve foreign tourist entry procedures using existing technology. 

In a statement, the stakeholders said there are obstacles that burden the industry, especially in relation to foreign tourist arrivals.

“Among the obstacles are long queues for Immigration checks that disrupt the industry, which is currently trying to welcome and celebrate tourists from abroad.

“The airport is the first meeting place for arriving tourists, but having to queue at the Immigration counter with a less-than-friendly welcome will surely harm our tourism industry, especially when (those experiences) are spread on social media like TikTok or Facebook.

“There are various simple measures that can be used to change negative perceptions to make Malaysia a tourist-friendly destination.

“Among them, the visa-on-arrival method uses existing technology and is accurate. Visa-free visits can also be accommodated with available technology capabilities,” the group said in a statement today.

The 10 associations are Asean Retail Chain and Franchise Federation, Kuala Lumpur Tourism Association, BBKLCC, Batu Road Retailers Association, Bumiputra Retail Organization, Industries United, Malaysian Theme Parks and Family Attractions Association, Malaysian Retailers Association, Malaysian Retail Chain Association, and Mosque Business Association of India. 

The groups praised Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Tiong King Sing’s determination to obtain information from the source and scouting the situation on the ground.

“He observed the actual situation regarding the conditions and practices of various government departments, especially regarding the treatment of tourists.

“We fully support the minister to correct mistakes quickly and formulate changes that are necessary to the country’s tourism industry,” the groups said.

Tiong reportedly barged into an arrival hall without a pass to help a Chinese national who was being detained.

He however clarified by saying his presence at the KLIA arrival hall uncovered a culture of corruption and chronic abuse of power.

He said that he would be providing the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) with details.

MACC chief Azam Baki said the commission will investigate the complaint. – July 2, 2023.