MELAKA: Tourism players in the historical city are excited about the impending reopening of doors to visitors but have called for a clear set of “dos and don’ts” first.

       Malaysian Association of Tour and Travel Agents (MATTA) Melaka Chapter chairman Goh Hock Gin said Tuesday’s announcement by Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Datuk Seri Nancy Shukri to resume domestic tourism for Melaka, Pulau Tioman and Genting Highlands comes as a huge relief.

       “We are really happy but we need to prioritise the safety of tourists and our members.

       “MATTA hopes only those who have completed their two doses and show no symptoms within two weeks of vaccination would be allowed into the state,” he said in an interview.

       Goh said a mechanism should be put in place to conduct swab tests for tourists, especially for those staying in hotels.

       “We need a clear standard operating procedure before the industry is allowed to reoperate,” he added.

       Goh also voiced concern over SOP compliance by short-term rental providers in the state.

       “We need the relevant authorities to regulate short-term rentals. Hotels have a standardised SOP and are able to manage any influx of guests accordingly,” he said, adding that tourism players should start preparing for the reopening.

       Jonker Walk management committee deputy chairman Datuk Gan Tian Loo said the iconic night market will not be reopened despite the travel bubble granted to Melaka.

       “We are not ready to restart and will wait for the National Security Council to give us the green light to do so,” he said, adding that he expected Jonker Walk to resume activities by December.