April 22 (Reuters) - A top envoy to U.S. President Donald Trump has asked FIFA to replace Iran with Italy in the upcoming World Cup, the Financial Times reported on Wednesday.
Industry targets different markets over possible China slowdown PETALING JAYA: Flight cancellations from China ahead of the Labour Day holiday have raised concerns over a potential dip in tourist arrivals to Malaysia during one of the busiest travel periods for Chinese nationals.
Nevertheless, tourism industry players are pivoting by offering flexible packages, focusing on independent travellers and domestic tourists. Malaysian Inbound Tourism Association president Mint Leong said the flight cancellations from China are driven by fuel-related challenges and operational adjustments by airlines.
“It’s mainly due to the oil situation from the Middle East conflict as prices and supply are not stable. In some cases, there may not be enough fuel supply for certain routes. ”The flight cancellations are ahead of one of the Golden Weeks in China – beginning May 1, with a nationwide holiday over five days, usually allowing an influx of tourists as China nationals take the opportunity to travel.
“Some airlines would inform early, some at the last minute, and some cancel flights for short periods like two weeks or two months, so it is very uncertain. ” “If an airline only has one flight per day and it is cancelled, there is no replacement. Travellers can only be refunded or choose another destination. ”“Airfares have increased by about 20% to 30%.
This will have quite a heavy impact on Chinese tourists coming to Malaysia. ” “But we are seeing some additional routes from other countries, and we can also focus on domestic travellers to support the industry. ” Malaysian Tourism Federation president Dr Sri Ganesh Michiel said the industry is closely monitoring the situation while remaining cautiously optimistic.
“We remain confident that the strong and ongoing efforts by the Tourism, Arts and Culture Ministry and Tourism Malaysia, including state tourism promotion agencies in promoting Visit Malaysia 2026, will help sustain demand and minimise the overall impact of these cancellations,” he said“While the full impact may not be immediately visible, early indicators suggest softer forward bookings and some cancellations within group travel segments,” he said. “If the situation persists, it could slow the pace of recovery for international tourism and place added pressure on industry players who are relying on strong Chinese arrivals to support growth.
”“Hotels and travel operators are adjusting their strategies by targeting more independent travellers, offering flexible packages, and strengthening digital marketing efforts. ”
Flight Cancellations Tourism Industry Independent Travellers Domestic Tourists Flexible Packages Oil Situation Rising Airfares Booking Trends Visit Malaysia 2026
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