Latest news with #MATA
Focus Malaysia
5 days ago
- Focus Malaysia
Confusion over MATTA and MATA—intentional or otherwise?
I REFER to the Bernama report 'New tourist bus safety regulations in Malaysia from Aug 1' published on July 14. The first paragraph is reproduced here in toto: The Malaysian Association of Tour and Travel Agents (MATA) has voiced strong support for the Tourism, Arts and Culture Ministry (MOTAC) in enforcing new regulations for tourist bus operations. And the following paragraph: Datuk Seri Dr Mohd Khalid Harun JP, MATA president, stated that the updated rules, effective from Aug 1, will introduce stricter maintenance schedules, driver working hour limits, GPS tracking, and compulsory six-month safety checks. Over the past six years, some reporters and editors were unclear or confused between MATTA and MATA, and they were not at fault if they had been misled or not corrected, But it had brought much confusion among the public. MATTA was established half a century ago, and its registered name was 'Malaysian Association of Tour and Travel Agents'. Its acronym was also used in the 50-year-old logo. The headquarters of the association is housed in its own building in Kuala Lumpur named Wisma MATTA, On the other hand, MATA was founded six years ago in 2019 and shares the same Seremban address as Housecoff Travel & Tours as listed by MOTAC, with Datuk Seri Dr H Mohd Khalid Harun as the president & CEO. Interestingly, Khalid served as MATTA president until 2013. But on Sept 11, 2014, MATTA held an extraordinary general meeting which voted overwhelmingly to expel five of its members, including Khalid, who were office bearers of MATA for causing moral and material damage to MATTA. MATA was registered as 'Persatuan Agensi Pelancongan Malaysia' and the correct translation is Malaysia Tourism Agency Association and abbreviation MTAA. Both the above official Malay and English names are stated in its website Instead of using MTAA, MATA was used to masquerade as MATTA and its popular MATTA Fairs. Before the pandemic, there were more than 3,600 MATTA corporate members in 2019. MATTA's website allows the public to verify all its members listed in 'Member Directory'. In contrast, MATA's website has only four names, all from its 'Executive Committee' and an occasion scheduled in 2022 is still listed under 'Upcoming Events'. It appears there were hardly any activities in MATA, but claims to represent the majority of tourism players in Malaysia. There are more than 10 travel associations in Malaysia listed in 'Travel associations are one too many' published on May 28, 2020, which may provide an inkling as to why they were set up. Are these trade bodies serving their industry or just a platform to draw attention and gain importance? ‒ July 18, 2025 YS Chan is master trainer for Mesra Malaysia and Travel and Tours Enhancement Course and an Asean Tourism Master Trainer. He is also a tourism and transport business consultant. The views expressed are solely of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Focus Malaysia. Main image: MATTA
The Sun
13-07-2025
- The Sun
New tourist bus safety regulations in Malaysia from Aug 1
KUALA LUMPUR: The Malaysian Association of Tour and Travel Agents (MATA) has voiced strong support for the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture Malaysia (MOTAC) in enforcing new regulations for tourist bus operations. These measures aim to improve road safety ahead of Visit Malaysia Year 2026. Datuk Seri Dr Mohd Khalid Harun JP, MATA president, stated that the updated rules, effective from August 1, will introduce stricter maintenance schedules, driver working hour limits, GPS tracking, and compulsory six-month safety checks. 'This initiative will boost public trust in tourism transport and ensure safer travel for both local and international visitors,' he said. Recent data from the Malaysian Institute of Road Safety Research (MIROS) and Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) revealed over 2,300 accidents involving tourist buses between 2020 and 2024, with 27 fatalities and 230 injuries recorded in 2023 alone. Mechanical failures, driver fatigue, and poor maintenance were identified as key causes. MATA has pledged to collaborate with MOTAC, operators, and transport firms to conduct safety training and encourage telematics adoption. The association also aims to promote responsible scheduling to reduce driver fatigue while providing feedback on regulation implementation challenges. 'The tourism sector is vital to Malaysia's economy, and transport safety is fundamental to the visitor experience,' Mohd Khalid added. 'These regulations will strengthen Malaysia's global reputation as a secure travel destination.' – Bernama
Barnama
13-07-2025
- Barnama
MATA Supports MOTAC's New Regulations To Enhance Tourist Bus Safety
KUALA LUMPUR, July 13 (Bernama) -- The Malaysian Association of Tour and Travel Agents (MATA) supports the efforts of the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture Malaysia (MOTAC) in implementing new regulations on the operation of tourist buses in Malaysia. Its president, Datuk Seri Dr Mohd Khalid Harun JP, said this step is very important and timely following the increasing concerns about the safety level of commercial tourism vehicles on the roads, especially with the upcoming Visit Malaysia Year 2026. "The new regulations, which will come into effect from Aug 1, set stricter requirements including more frequent vehicle maintenance, driver working hour limits, the installation of GPS tracking systems, and mandatory safety inspections every six months. "This initiative aims to strengthen public confidence in the tourism transportation sector and ensure greater safety for both local and international tourists," he said in a statement today. According to him, data from the Malaysian Institute of Road Safety Research (MIROS) and Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) show more than 2,300 accidents involving tour buses and coaches between 2020 and 2024, and in 2023 alone, 27 deaths and more than 230 injuries were reported. Among the main factors were mechanical failures, driver fatigue, and insufficient maintenance, highlighting the need for stricter regulations in this industry. Mohd Khalid said MATA is committed to continuing cooperation with MOTAC, tour operators, and transport companies in conducting safety awareness training for tourism transport operators and promoting the use of telematics systems and digital safety technology in tourism buses. Additionally, MATA is also said to promote more responsible travel scheduling to reduce driver fatigue and continuously provide feedback to MOTAC regarding the implementation and challenges faced at the field level. "The tourism sector is one of the main contributors to the country's economy, and transportation safety is the cornerstone of the tourist experience.
The Star
28-06-2025
- Business
- The Star
SST better suited for post-pandemic economy
MALAYSIA'S upcoming implementation of the revised Sales and Service Tax (SST) on July 1 has reignited public concerns over possible increases in the cost of living and inflationary pressures. Memories of the Goods and Services Tax (GST) era remain fresh, raising questions about whether the new SST model will be more sustainable or merely a repeat of the past. However, tax experts say the SST, in its current form, offers a more targeted and less burdensome approach — particularly for lower- and middle-income households. According to Malaysian Association of Tax Accountants (MATA) deputy president Dr Mohd Fairuz A Razak, unlike GST, the SST is not imposed at every stage of the supply chain. 'GST was a multi-stage tax, which affected almost every level of transaction — even basic goods — unless they were zero-rated,' he said. 'In contrast, SST is a single-stage tax, typically applied at the manufacturing or service-provider level. This avoids the risk of cascading taxes or 'tax-on-tax' scenarios.' Mohd Fairuz noted that SST is not imposed on most essential items such as rice, vegetables, fish and medication, offering greater relief for households in the B40 and M40 groups. 'For example, items like sanitary pads and soap, which were previously taxed under GST, are now exempt under SST. This has a direct impact on household spending and cost-of-living management,' he said. The simplified structure also helps stabilise retail prices, as goods are taxed only once in the supply chain. In addition to being consumer-sensitive, the SST system is seen as more friendly to small and micro businesses. 'The registration threshold for SST is RM500,000 in annual turnover. This means many micro and small enterprises, especially those just starting out, are not required to register or collect taxes,' Mohd Fairuz explained. This, he said, helps reduce compliance costs and complexity for small vendors, especially those operating in night markets, roadside stalls, and informal sectors. 'SST also eliminates the need for complex accounting systems. Small businesses can rely on basic bookkeeping, without investing in expensive ERP or tax software,' he added. This simpler compliance structure, he said, gives confidence to small traders to formalise their operations without fear of burdensome regulations. Mohd Fairuz also highlighted how SST places more emphasis on discretionary or luxury items, rather than daily essentials. 'Luxury bicycles, imported fruits, salmon, five-star hotels, insurance and entertainment services are among those that will be taxed. These are typically consumed by higher-income groups who can afford to pay more.' 'This approach is more equitable and aligns with the principle of progressive taxation,' he said. From a broader perspective, the reintroduction and expansion of SST is part of a larger fiscal reform agenda, one that aligns with Malaysia MADANI's core values of compassion (ihsan), responsibility, and justice. Mohd Fairuz said the SST structure encourages wealthier Malaysians to contribute more to national revenue, while ensuring that vulnerable groups are not unduly affected. 'It is a more socially conscious tax model. While GST might have generated more revenue, SST strikes a better balance between collection and citizen well-being—especially in a post-pandemic recovery period,' he said. He also pointed out that SST is easier to monitor and less susceptible to fraud, due to its simpler design. 'Revenue collected can go directly into funding targeted subsidies, public healthcare, education and infrastructure.' While SST may not bring in as much revenue as GST, Fairuz argued it is a more sustainable tool for long-term fiscal management. Looking ahead, he said there's still room for improvement. 'The government should continue exempting essential goods, while synchronising SST with digital systems like e-invoicing to enhance transparency.' 'There's also a need to review SST thresholds and rates periodically and consider introducing limited input tax credits for certain industries.' Ultimately, he added, taxation systems should be designed not just to raise revenue — but to serve the people. 'When implemented with care, SST can be a key fiscal instrument rooted in Madani values — fair, transparent and people-centric.'
The Star
17-06-2025
- Entertainment
- The Star
Super-hit movie Ejen Ali 2 achieves the highest box office income for local and international animated films in Malaysia
With a gross of RM55.1 million, Ejen Ali The Movie 2 (EATM2) has now officially been crowned as the highest grossing animated film in the history of Malaysian cinema, surpassing all local and international animated works that have ever been screened. Even more impressive, EATM2 has now surpassed the grossing of blockbuster films from Hollywood and Asia over the past two months. This is a clear testament to the confidence and extraordinary support of Malaysian audiences for animated films that are based on local identity and spirit. 'This success does not belong to WAU Animation alone but to all the agents who believed in and stood by us from the beginning. "I truly appreciate the dedication of the entire WAU Animation team who have poured their energy and creativity into making this film a success. "Thank you also to our production partner, Primeworks Studios, who have given their full commitment in promoting this film, and have always come up with fresh and bold new ideas to ensure that EATM2 continues to be the audience's choice. "And of course, the highest appreciation goes to the fans who have been our backbone and main source of inspiration since day one,' said Usamah Zaid Yasin, director of the EATM2 film. On the other hand, Nini Yusof, Chief Executive Officer, Media Prima Television Network and Primeworks Studios, paid tribute to all those who worked on the project and said every one individual involved in the project deserve a pat on their back. 'This achievement is the result of our shared cooperation, trust and passion. We hope that the audience will continue to support EATM2 and help us reach our next collection target of RM60 million. "Only with your strong support can we realize our dream of producing the next Ejen Ali script, for the development of the local creative industry that will make Malaysia proud,' said Nini. From an animated series on television to the silver screen, Ejen Ali has grown into a mature and influential franchise. This second film not only strengthens the brand, but also reflects the evolution of local animated storytelling that is bolder, more dimensional and touches the hearts of various audiences. For the record, the film is still showing in cinemas nationwide. About Ejen Ali the Movie 2 Set in the futuristic city of Cyberaya, 'Ejen Ali the Movie 2' follows a young boy who is accidentally recruited as a secret agent by the Meta Advance Tactical Agency (MATA) intelligence agency. Ejen Ali is eager to prove himself in Project Satria, MATA's latest Artificial Intelligence (AI)-assisted armored suit. As Ali struggles with his new responsibility to master Satria, he must accept MATA's decision to give his friend (and rival) Alicia the next holder of the supercomputer device, IRIS. Meanwhile, the hacker Neonimus resurfaces to wreak havoc on MATA, signaling a larger conspiracy in Cyberaya. Since its premiere on Malaysian television channel TV3 in 2016, 'Ejen Ali' has been broadcast and streamed in over 65 countries across South-East Asia, the Middle East and North Africa, the Indian subcontinent, and North America. The first two seasons of the series were followed by 'Ejen Ali The Movie' in November 2019, which grossed an impressive RM30 million (USD8 million) in Malaysia, Singapore, Brunei, and Indonesia, making it one of the highest-grossing animated films in Malaysia to date. The latest installment, 'Ejen Ali Season 3', also holds the title of being the first Malaysian animated intellectual property to be co-produced with Disney+ Hotstar South-East Asia, and will first launch exclusively on the streaming service in June 2022.
