Budget 2025: Melaka Tourism Sector Seeks Funding To Boost Infrastructure, Promotion

MELAKA, Oct 14 (Bernama) -- Tourism industry players in Melaka are hopeful that the federal government will allocate special funds in the upcoming Budget 2025 to enhance infrastructure and public facilities, particularly in tourist hotspots, while also increasing funding for tourism promotion efforts.

Melaka Tourism Association (MTA) president Madeline Kuah Mei Lee said this is especially important now that Melaka has been selected to host World Tourism Day (WTD) 2025, presenting a key opportunity to showcase both Melaka and Malaysia as premier tourist destinations.

“Melaka is a state rich in heritage, history, and culture, and it is vital that preservation and conservation efforts continue, including beautifying key areas such as roads, lighting, and signage to enhance the appeal of tourist sites.

“In addition, the government should introduce proactive measures, such as budget-friendly tourism packages to encourage domestic travel, and provide incentives for airlines to increase flight frequencies from Pekan Baru, Indonesia to Melaka,” she told Bernama.

She added that these efforts would further develop the tourism industry, which has a wide-reaching impact on sectors such as hospitality, food, and transportation, all of which contribute significantly to the national economy.

Meanwhile, Melaka Homestay and Kampungstay Owners Association chairman Datuk Akramuddin Abd Aziz expressed hope that the government will also focus on rural tourism in the upcoming budget.

He highlighted that rural tourism products, such as homestays, offer unique experiences for visitors, particularly international tourists, by providing insights into local lifestyles and culture.

“Promotional efforts should be intensified, especially with the upcoming WTD 2025, to showcase aspects of rural community life, including traditions, food, and the overall countryside experience to foreign delegations and tourists.

“It is hoped that the government will provide appropriate support through special allocations to boost the country's tourism sector to remain competitive and help the people's economy,” he said.

-- BERNAMA