Latest news with #MalaysianAssociationofTourandTravelAgents
The Star
22-07-2025
- Automotive
- The Star
MATTA to launch training programs for tour vehicle operators
PETALING JAYA: The Malaysian Association of Tour and Travel Agents (MATTA) is in the final stages of developing Safety and Defensive Driving Courses for drivers of tourism vehicles. According to its president, Nigel Wong, the training programmes would equip drivers with skills to operate vehicles safely and professionally. It would also educate operators on best practices in vehicle maintenance, road safety and productivity. 'MATTA is also exploring the development of other relevant programmes. Emergency response and crisis management modules would help drivers respond appropriately during unforeseen events such as accidents, vehicle breakdowns, or natural disasters, while familiarisation training on tourism routes would enable drivers to navigate key destinations efficiently and enhance the overall tour experience,' Wong said in a statement on Tuesday (July 22). MATTA also welcomed the Transport Ministry's recent clarification on the suspension of Public Service Vehicle (PSV) licences. Following a request by the association, the Ministry confirmed on July 13 that suspensions would apply strictly to drivers involved in serious or repeated offences, not those with minor or compoundable violations. 'This clear distinction ensures that enforcement is proportionate and fair,' said Wong. The Ministry also stated that drivers found guilty of road offences would undergo a mandatory rehabilitation course (Kursus Pemulihan Wajib), implemented via the Road Transport Department (JPJ), for holders of both PSV and Goods Driving Licence (GDL).
Focus Malaysia
18-07-2025
- 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
Borneo Post
13-07-2025
- Politics
- Borneo Post
Minister defends policy requiring tour operators to submit accident reports in 24 hours after occurrence
Dato Sri Tiong King Sing SIBU (July 14): Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing firmly defends his ministry's policy requiring tour operators to submit a report within 24 hours of any accident. In stressing this, he points out that ensuring tourists' safety is always top priority and thus, his ministry will continue enforcing this measure strictly. 'Numerous tour-related accidents in the past have already raised serious public concern, even leading to foreign governments issuing travel advisories against certain destinations in Malaysia. 'Therefore, the ministry will not compromise under any form of pressure or complaint. 'We remain firmly committed to upholding the principle of safety-first, to restore confidence in Malaysia's tourism brand,' he said in a Facebook post, issued in response to the Malaysian Association of Tour and Travel Agents (Matta)'s labelling the ministry's policy as 'excessive'. In this regard, Tiong expressed hope that Matta president Nigel Wong and all association members would fully understand that ensuring the safety of tourists remained their most basic responsibility, and must never be sacrificed for the sake of convenience or profits. Moreover, the minister clarified that the accident report would facilitate tour companies in providing accurate information such as the driver's background and health status prior to the incident, the inspection records of the tour bus including its latest technical conditions, the travelling group details, as well as the itinerary and routes before and after the incident – all of which would help the authorities determine the cause of the accident. Nonetheless, Tiong was quite dismayed by the overly-defensive reaction from Matta and its members. 'Would they rather see more accidents happen in the country, with no accountability whatsoever, than to rectify these glaring safety loopholes? 'Why are they so quick to expand their 'comfort zone', lower the costs, and increase profit margins, while showing no interest in improving tourist safety? 'I urge all tourism players to reflect on this. How many tourism-related accidents have happened in Malaysia to date? 'How many lives have been lost during the two and a half years since I took office as minister? 'And what has Matta done to address this? Have they ever proposed safety improvements to their members?' Tiong pointed out that as the government could approve the operating licences allowing tour companies the opportunity to do business, it was incumbent upon the private sector to ensure that it would fulfil its obligations to safety and regulatory compliances. 'We believe this requirement of 24-hour reporting (after an accident has occurred) will encourage proper screening during the hiring process and more stringent implementation of safety measures.' Tiong also said it was unacceptable to use 'manpower shortage' as an excuse to compromise safety, noting that in past tour bus and also boat accidents, some drivers or operators were reported to have drug-related criminal records and yet, they were still hired. There were also recurring incidents, he added, such as the Pulau Perhentian boat accident, where passengers were not provided with life jackets. 'During my official overseas visits, foreign ministers frequently express concern over Malaysia's safety standards. How can our tourism industry thrive in the face of continued safety concerns?' In this aspect, Tiong hoped that the Matta president and its members would think carefully before making any public statements in the future. 'My ministry and myself are more than willing to work hand in hand with the industry players to grow Malaysian tourism. 'We sincerely hope for strong cooperation on this matter, and welcome more constructive dialogues and engagements to help build a more progressive and responsible tourism landscape for our nation,' he added. accident report lead Tiong King Sing tour operators tourism
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
Focus Malaysia
10-07-2025
- Business
- Focus Malaysia
Safety should be the core, not an option
I WAS delighted when reading the heading of a report 'Making tourists feel safe is our top priority, says MATTA Melaka Chapter'. Malaysian Association of Tour and Travel Agents (MATTA) Melaka Chapter Chairman Goh Hock Gin said his team is working closely with government departments and enforcement agencies to strengthen safety measures and boost traveller confidence ahead of major tourism campaigns. The historic city is gearing up to host key events for Visit Malaysia 2026 (VM2026), and also the World Tourism Day on Sept 27, plus World Tourism Conference from Sept 27‒29. After unveiling the VM2026 promotional vehicle stickers on July 8, Goh said, 'In conjunction with both major tourism events, MATTA has launched the 'Tourism Safety Awareness Seminar' to ensure that safety remains at the core of our tourism revival efforts.' 'Today's seminar is not just about procedures but about restoring trust with holidaymakers. We want every tourism player to prioritise security, hospitality and professionalism. By putting safety first, we are also strengthening Malaysia's global image as a leading travel destination.' 'This sticker is not just about branding. It is a promise to tourists that the tourism operators adhere to the highest standards of safety and service.' Using vehicle stickers for campaigns reminds me of patrol cars displaying 'No Bribery' on their rear windscreen many years ago. There were also campaigns to train and brand metered taxi drivers as tourism ambassadors, but many continued to decline un-lucrative trips or fix fares. If business operators were to be asked, they would claim to place safety first. However, this could easily be debunked if they have not taken any of the five critical steps needed to ensure safety, not just for customers, but also for their workers, bystanders and the public at large. While facilitating the module 'Preparing for Future Shocks' in the Travel and Tours Enhancement Course (TTEC) for tour and transport operators, I would remind participants that safety starts with planning, followed by implementation, operations, monitoring and also conducting timely reviews. Similar to responsible tourism, safety is not just something nice to have but must be incorporated into all activities and services. In fact, it should be part of the company's DNA and make its corporate culture, not relegated as an option or slogan. Over the years, I was pivotal in developing the module on 'Safety and Security of Tourists' and also the 'Contingency Plans Workshop'. The litmus test to determine how much organisations give priority to safety is whether they have prepared plans to manage all kinds of contingencies. Chances are, almost all have not, including large and small tour operators. I have introduced contingency planning into TTEC for participants to learn the seven key steps. It is a lengthy and comprehensive process requiring many weeks or even months to be fully complete. In a situation when there are two equally good bidders with similar pricing and service, the better choice would be the one with superior contingency plans or over the other without. Why? Any organisation that has contingency plans in place would have identified all the risks or things that could possibly go wrong and taken measures to reduce such probability or eliminate them if possible. And if any untoward were to happen, the contingency plans would be activated. Those on site could access the contingency plans stored in their phone and immediately take the crucial first steps to contain the disaster and notify key personnel swiftly. Any delay could turn a minor incident into a major catastrophe. Safety management includes prevention and response. ‒ July 10, 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 : Bernama
