Diesel Price Hike Forces Kelantan Tourism Operators To Adapt

 KOTA BHARU, April 8 (Bernama) -- Rising diesel prices are beginning to strain Kelantan’s tourism industry, forcing operators to adapt their operations to cope with higher costs.

State Tourism, Culture, Arts and Heritage Committee chairman Datuk Kamaruddin Md Nor said diesel is a key component for tourism, affecting multiple aspects, such as transportation and generators at accommodations. 

“Tour bus operators, lorries and resorts that rely on generators require diesel, so this directly impacts their operating costs,” he told Bernama recently.

He said operators must manage expenses more prudently and refine their strategies to control costs while sustaining operations.

Kamaruddin said some operators may consider raising prices if cost pressures persist, but urged caution to avoid dampening demand.

“Small operators are more vulnerable as they lack the financial reserves to absorb rising costs. Larger operators may be able to absorb the costs temporarily as they have stronger financial capacity,” he said.

He added that the state government will continue to support the tourism industry where possible.

“Although fuel pricing falls under the Federal government’s jurisdiction, we will explore what assistance can be provided through relevant agencies,” he said.

Last Wednesday, the Finance Ministry announced a 50 sen increase in the retail price of diesel in Peninsular Malaysia to RM6.02 per litre, while prices in Sabah, Sarawak and Labuan remain unchanged at RM2.15 per litre.

-- BERNAMA