State ramps up domestic tourism to offset lower international arrivals due to Middle East conflicts.

KUCHING: Sarawak is intensifying efforts to promote local tourism as international arrivals decline due to rising airfares and global uncertainty caused by ongoing conflicts in the Middle East.

State Minister for Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah said soaring fuel prices have driven up travel costs, discouraging international visitors.

“We are beefing up our local tourism promotions to counter these impacts now,” he said at a Ramadan event in Kuching.

Karim noted that reduced international arrivals affect hotels, food outlets, and shopping sectors, underscoring the need to strengthen domestic tourism.

Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusuf recently warned that the conflicts could also push up costs for Haj pilgrimages, citing higher aviation fuel prices, travel insurance, and transportation expenses.

He said Tabung Haji is negotiating with Saudi authorities and airlines to contain costs for Malaysian pilgrims.

Fadillah added that Malaysia is using diplomatic channels to support peaceful resolutions, with Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim engaging Gulf leaders on issues including trade routes through the Straits of Hormuz.

 The Sun Malaysia