The Malaysian Association of Tour and Travel Agents (MATTA) launched MATTA Online, a new AI-powered cutting-edge 24/7 online travel marketplace and platform for MATTA members comprising travel agents and tour operators for hotels, airlines, attractions, theme parks and other tourism providers.
In line with Malaysians’ increased demand for overseas and domestic travel, the platform allows MATTA members to sell directly to consumers.
“This platform will serve the best needs of travelers—both Malaysians and foreigners alike—and will give tourism players, especially MATTA members a clear and distinct advantage in the online travel space. It will also put the control of the Malaysian tourism industry back in the hands of Malaysians,” said Dato’ Sri Hajah Nancy Shukri, Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture Malaysia who presented and officiated the launch ceremony.
“MATTA’s pioneering efforts for this online platform is to support small and medium travel agents in terms of marketing and contracting with the consumers. In line with the government initiative of the digital economy, it is set to improve business opportunities, increase occupancy, bolster revenue generation and boost travel trade profitability. MATTA Online also provides an alternative for consumers to buy from a licensed platform to eliminate scammers, internet fraud and unlicensed travel agents,” said Datuk Tan Kok Liang, President of MATTA.
“Today marks our official collaboration with our Technology Partner,Fusionex, the largest data technology company in the region, as well as an established multi-award-winning data technology market leader specializing in Analytics, Big Data, Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence,” said Tan.
Tan also said that the platform would enable MATTA Members to reach up to 16.29 million Malaysians as well as target a global consumer audience. The platform is uniquely positioned to serve SMEs as well as protecting consumers by providing a safe, regulated and trusted environment to shop for travel packages. He also said that the platform would eventually help eliminate scammers, internet fraudsters and unlicensed travel agents that operate through various social media and un-regulated platforms.
“We are deeply honored to be MATTA’s technology partner and support their efforts to cater to all travel and tourism needs, as well as help the industry recuperate, rebuild and become more resilient through cutting- edge digital technology,” said Fusionex Group CEO Dato’ Seri Ivan Teh.
“This synergy will enable MATTA to further drive innovation in Malaysia’s travel and tourism space by empowering local travel agents and tourism operators to meet customer demand, expand market reach,amplify business opportunities and improve revenue generation.,” said Teh.
Industry players on the ground have relayed positive feedback of many tour bookings made and are expecting international tourist figures to hit five million people by the end of this year.
“With the government’s latest announcement for the resumption of international travel, its efforts to promote Malaysia as a safe travel destination and MATTA’s launch of this new platform, the travel and tourism players have responded positively and are eager to promote their products and attractions. This is a timely shot in the arm for the Malaysian travel and tourism industry,” concluded Tan.