According to Khairul, Malaysia has fully re-opened its international borders since 1 April 2022, and the number of tourists has shown a steady increase. “For 2023, MTPB has set a target of 15.6 million tourist arrivals, bringing in a total revenue of more than HK$84 billion,” he says. “We look forward to welcoming tourists from all over the world to experience ‘Malaysia, Truly Asia!’.”

In highlighting the array of attractions in Malaysia, Khairul named Bako National Park in Sarawak just 45 minutes from the capital, Kuching; Mount Kinabalu in Sabah, the highest mountain in southeast Asia; diving in the pristine waters of Sipadan; island hopping at Tunku Abdul Rahman Park; or exploring the UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Malacca and George Town in Penang.

“For the many keen foodies in Hong Kong, they would do well to follow the latest edition of the ‘Michelin Food Guide – Kuala Lumpur and Penang 2023’ to savour the authentic vibrant flavours of Malaysian cuisine and street food,” he adds.

Malaysia has long been a favourite tourist destination, and statistics show that, as of September 2022, tourist arrivals from China, Hong Kong and Macau totalled 100,000, far exceeding the 5,100 for the same period in 2021. To add to the allure of Malaysia, the delegation unveiled a series of innovative travel ideas, including fly-and-drive packages, honeymoon and family-themed products.

Khairul points out that flights between Hong Kong and Malaysia are fast returning to pre-Covid days, with flight resumptions to more destinations. For example, Cathay Pacific added flights to Penang in December 2022, and Air Asia has just added direct flights to Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, offering more options for travellers.

Website: www.malaysia.travel