Malaysian Association of Hotels (MAH) is thrilled to announce the overwhelming success of the inaugural MAH Domestic Tourism Fair Jom Cuti-Cuti Malaysia (MDTF2024), held at Pavilion Bukit Jalil recently.

Originally projected to attract 10,000 visitors, the event welcomed over 25,000 attendees, significantly exceeding expectations.

MDTF2024 featured 110 booths with diverse participants: 60% from hotels and resorts, 20% from travel agencies and tour operators, 5% from various associations, and 5% miscellaneous exhibitors. 

This comprehensive travel fair provided visitors with the opportunity to explore the full spectrum of destination deals and packages available in the domestic tourism market all under one roof.

The fair also featured engaging pocket talks, live music shows, lucky draws and family-friendly entertainment. Notably, 5,000 discount vouchers worth RM50 each, totaling RM250,000, and gifts and giveaways worth over RM300,000 were distributed throughout the event.

A post-event survey conducted among exhibitors indicated strong satisfaction. It is estimated that over RM2,500,000 in total sales revenue was generated during the event, showcasing strong engagement and purchasing activity. 

Moreover, exhibitors projected future sales of over RM5.5 million, underscoring the fair’s long-term business growth potential and the promising outlook for domestic tourism.

MDTF2024 established an exclusive partnership with Persatuan Pemuzik Malaysia to support and highlight the challenges faced by local musicians. The association performed four sessions daily at the tourism fair, adding much fanfare to the event.

Additionally, booths were provided to the Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) division of the Ministry of Education (MOE/KPM), allowing them to showcase their students’ skills and offer first-hand insights into the significance of vocational education.

An opening ceremony was held on the afternoon of the first day of the exhibition, officiated by Dato’ Yeoh Soon Hin, Deputy Chairman of Tourism Malaysia. 

The event was graced by several distinguished guests, including 
Manoharan Periasamy, Director General of Tourism Malaysia; Ms Nicole Tan Lee Koon, the Negeri Sembilan State Executive Councillor; and Dato’ Tun Ahmad Faisal, Director of the Terengganu State Economic Planning Unit (UPEN).

“We extend our heartfelt appreciation to Dato’ Yeoh for honoring our event’s opening ceremony as the guest of honour,” said Dato’ Khoo Boo Lim, organizing chairman of MDTF.

“We are also deeply grateful to En Manoharan Periasamy, Director General of Tourism Malaysia, for his presence and unwavering support of our tourism industry,” added Dato’ Khoo.

MDTF2024 received great support from Tourism Malaysia. This exciting event, organized by the hospitality industry for both the industry and the public, is part of Tourism Malaysia’s “Jom Cuti-Cuti Malaysia” program, reflecting the government’s commitment to promoting domestic tourism.

Looking ahead, MAH, with Tourism Malaysia’s support, will organize a spin-off event, “Bazaar Jom Cuti-Cuti Malaysia,” at Gurney Paragon Mall, George Town, Penang, on August 23-25, 2024. 

This vibrant three-day event will feature 60 booths, special travel deals, and engaging entertainment, encouraging locals to explore Malaysia’s hidden gems.

MAH extends our heartfelt thanks to all contributors, sponsors, volunteers, exhibitors and the 25,000 visitors who made MDTF2024 a resounding success. 

We look forward to welcoming you to Penang this August for “Bazaar Cuti-Cuti Malaysia.”

Source – MAH