Overcoming Barriers to Tourism in Malaysia

Tourism in Malaysia plays a very big role in our economy and to some extent, our day-to-day lives. Malaysia is a country that is full of stories where people go from rags to riches as well as stories about war heroes that decorate the walls of the National Museum in Kuala Lumpur; we have plenty to tell. As far as history goes, our country seemed to have a penchant to being colonised by western powers such as the British, Portuguese and even the Dutch.

It came upon the time when the West started the Industrial Revolution where important minerals were needed to make tin. Nowadays, despite not having much ore left to mine, tourists still come by in flocks to visit our country. Even so, there are many obstacles that they have to overcome in order to enjoy our diverse lifestyle.

One of the biggest barriers to tourism in Malaysia is public transportation. Sure, the new LRTs have been built and are expected to reduce traffic but as far as I can see, nothing much has changed. The buses around town are irregular as well, coming as and when they can depending on traffic conditions. Unlike in places like the UK, public transportation is a hassle to take. It’s unreliable and most tourists have horrendous experiences when it comes to taking taxis.

It is a shame that tourists who are coming to Malaysia go back with stories that taxi drivers overcharge them and swindle them of money for a simple trip in KL. A trip that would normally cost RM5 may even cost up to RM50 because they are tourists. Why do our Malaysian taxi drivers choose to do this? It brings a bad reputation to the country and those who do so should be fined double the amount they charged.

Malaysians should also learn how to converse in fluent English. There is no need for fancy and bombastic words but being able to give simple directions to tourist should be expected. If someone from America chooses to visit Malaysia loses their way and requests for a local’s help, how helpless would they be if the locals themselves cannot speak in understandable English?

Besides that, Malaysians should also be friendlier when they spot tourists looking lost. Most of us would just choose to ignore them for a variety of reasons but there is no reason to. If we choose to help them, it will uplift the reputation that Malaysians are friendly and helpful. This encourages them to return for a second trip and also tell their family and friends about what a wonderful time they had when they visited our country.