Johor: The government's initiatives to develop the Special Tourism Investment Zone (STIZ), particularly in Johor, Melaka, Negeri Sembilan, and Sarawak, are expected to boost tourist arrivals and improve investment in the sector in those states. Mersing Tourism Association (MTA) secretary Ahmad Firdaus Shaik Omar is confident that the initiatives can also open up more business opportunities for local industry players, including micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), homestay operators, and tourist guides.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, the MTA remains committed to collaborating with all parties, including the government, private sector, and local communities, to ensure this development provides holistic benefits to industries and the people. Malaysia Association of Hotels (MAH) Johor chapter chairman Ivan Teo stated that the STIZ would further develop the tourism potential of the state, already known for its arts, culture, heritage, and natural environment.
Melaka Homestay and Kampungstay Owners Association chairman Datuk Akramuddin Abd Aziz described the government's strategic measures through the STIZ as a platform to promote the uniqueness of local cultures. He expressed confidence that Melaka could showcase new attractions and diversify its tourism products, making it a choice destination in the region. The STIZ is expected to generate job opportunities, activate local entrepreneurship, and enhance community tourism in Melaka.
MAH Negeri Sembilan chapter chairman Haziz Hassan believes that the government's focus on the homestay sector will empower the rural tourism industry, providing more accommodation choices for tourists. He emphasized the importance of the tourism industry's development and socio-economic plans under the MADANI Government, hoping for continuous initiatives beyond the Visit Malaysia Year.
Meanwhile, Padawan Homestay and Eco-Tourism Entrepreneurs Association chairman Amirrudin Abdullah proposed that the STIZ development in Sarawak include continuous assistance and support for homestay operators, encompassing training, hospitality certification, digital marketing, and tourism safety. Amirrudin also urged the government to upgrade basic infrastructure and promote homestays in state tourism packages while providing grants for operators to improve facilities without affecting local cultural identities.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, when tabling the 13th Malaysia Plan (13MP), emphasized the government's commitment to empowering the tourism sector through STIZ development, heritage asset conservation, and homestay industry empowerment over the next five years. The tourism sector has gained renewed momentum, with foreign tourist spending surging to RM102.2 billion in 2024.