Budget 2014 Review: Malaysians travel for attractions, cheaper packages

Malaysians determine where they want to spend their holidays based on the attractions and activities at the destination, a survey showed.

The poll is part of Astro AWANI’s weekly review on several topics for the 2014 Budget which will be announced on Friday.

Last week, AstroAwani.com asked its readers how they determine where to spend their holidays.

37% of those who took part in the poll said they took into consideration the attractions and activities available at the destination.

32% made their decision based on the cheapest all-in package offer.

Tourism

Meanwhile, when asked what makes them decide to travel in Malaysia, 35% said it was based on the cheaper budget.

Only 17% said it was based on cultural experience.

Reasons to travel in Malaysia

Below are some comments made at www.1malaysia.com.my/bajet2014 as part of the government’s initiative to gather feedback from the public.

Azreen Manap suggested for a Visitor Card:

“Tourism Ministry could promote Malaysia especially Kuala Lumpur by selling visitor card to the transit/short stay tourist (24, 48, 72 or 124 hour card). It can offer free use of public transport, free entry to KL's top attractions or other places in Malaysia, special offers at local restaurants and also KL's map. Tourist can take advantage of free and discounted transport and admission. Short stay tourist normally willing to spend more due to time constraint. Good for Malaysian income.”

Faizal Aziz suggested for a vacation home swap:

"Establish a facility to swap vacation homes among members, like Airbnb or Interval International. We could go for vacation around Malaysia with cheaper cost. E.g, I have a vacation Condo in PD. I can deposit an X number of nights of my vacation Condo to the Membership portal for an exchange of X number of nights of another members vacation condo/home/resort/chalets anywhere in Malaysia. With this, I can use it for my own stay or give it out to a friend."