KUALA LUMPUR: The Sabah government’s decision to lift the Covid-19 test requirements for fully-vaccinated visitors has been hailed by the tourism industry.

       Malaysian Association of Tour and Travel Agents (MATTA) president Datuk Tan Kok Liang said the announcement was timely especially during the MATTA Fair period as it would create enthusiasm for tour operators to market Sabah as a prime destination.

       “It is very good for tourism and it will create a spin-off effect, with hotels, the transportation sector, and restaurants all filling up.

       “The Sabah Chief Minister has been very proactive, and he sees the necessity of really moving tourism and boosting (tourist) arrivals,” he said when met yesterday at the 49th MATTA Fair being held at the World Trade Centre (WTCKL) here.

       Yesterday, Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor announced that Sabah will allow fully vaccinated visitors to enter the state without swab tests starting next month and that it is fully prepared to welcome international arrivals as soon as Malaysia reopens its borders next year.

       With international borders reopening, Tan said the tourism industry anticipates the establishment of more “vaccinated travel lanes” (VTLs) or similar clearance mechanisms with other countries.

       “Our closest neighbour Singapore already has VTL arrangements with 15 countries and will add another six countries to that list by Dec 6 (which includes countries from Asia, Europe, the Middle East and North America),” shared Tan.

       “As such, we urge the government to quickly establish more VTLs or travel bubbles to capture the pent-up demand, especially during the upcoming holiday season. Other popular tourist destinations, such as Kota Kinabalu and Penang, should not be overlooked in addition to Langkawi,” he added.

       The first day of the MATTA Fair saw people flocking to WTCKL to get information on the best travel deals offered at 255 booths.

       Named “Malaysia’s Favourite Destination”, Sabah has the largest state pavilion with 12 booths, where the Sabah Tourism Board (STB) and its exhibitors are promoting and marketing a variety of offerings.

       Hajiji, who opened the MATTA Fair, was accompanied by Sabah Tourism, Culture, and Environment Minister Datuk Jafry Ariffin and his Assistant Minister Datuk Joniston Bangkuai, and Sabah Special Tasks Minister Datuk Mohd Arifin Mohd Arif.

       Bangkuai, who chairs STB, encouraged people to take advantage of the travel fair to explore Sabah even more so now that the Covid-19 swab test is being phased out.

       “We are aware that the swab test requirement has been a hindrance for individuals, particularly those travelling with family, who want to visit Sabah.

       “Travelling has now been made easier. It’s time to begin planning a trip to the Land Below the Wind, where many adventures await,” he said.