Matta sets higher sales target of RM35 mln for Penang fair

GEORGE TOWN, April 3 (Bernama) -- The Malaysian Association of Tour and Travel Agents (Matta) has set a target of RM35 million sales for its upcoming travel fair in Penang.

Its secretary-general Nigel Wong said about 35,000 visitors were expected to flock to the three-day fair, which begins this Friday at Setia Spice Arena here.

"The sales turnover of the previous fair in September last year showed an increasing trend, and we believe with more exhibitors this year, we could achieve a higher sales of RM35 million," Wong told reporters here.

The Matta Fair Penang in September recorded a sales turnover of RM31.6 million, with 186 booths involved. This year the number of exhibition booths has risen to 264.

Among the highlights of this year's fair, Wong said, was be a buyers' contest. For every minimum purchase of RM200 on travel packages, visitors stand to win prizes which include return air tickets, cruise holidays, hotel vouchers and admission tickets to theme parks.

"The grand prize for the buyer's contest is a business class ticket from Penang to Xiamen, China, courtesy of Malaysia Airlines, the official airline for the Matta Fair Penang 2019," he said.

He added that there would also be visitor "Daily Lucky Draw" prizes to be won that included air tickets and hotel accommodation.

However, Wong urged travellers to equip themselves with sufficient travel insurance to protect themselves from unforeseen circumstances.

"It is important that travellers are sufficiently covered on their holiday to ensure that they will travel with peace of mind," he said.

In conjunction with the three-day Matta Fair Penang, Malaysia Airlines and sister company Firefly Airlines are offering discounts of up to 52 per cent on airfare to a host of destinations.

Admission to the fair, which opens from 10am to 9pm, is free.

-- BERNAMA