Abstract
This research explores the potential of domestic tourism as a means to revitalise the tourism industry from the perspectives of local residents and tourism players. A quantitative online survey focused on domestic travel behaviour, motivation, places of interest, travel preferences, and willingness to travel within Malaysia; it was answered by 219 Malaysians. Interview data were collected using structured, open-ended interview questions through emails to eight respondents from tourism associations, five from the hotel sector, and two from the travel and tour sector. Data collection was carried out from 10 January to 15 February 2021. The findings reveal that domestic tourism has the potential to revive the tourism industry. A high percentage of respondents indicate the desire to travel domestically and being motivated by attractive tour packages at discounted prices. COVID-19 has impacted tourist behaviour and attitudes towards travelling, and people prefer to travel domestically rather than overseas. Furthermore, tourism players acknowledged the potential to revive the tourism industry and business via domestic tourism. Despite this, declarations of health, safety issues, flight availability, travel restrictions, and quarantine durations are key barriers to stimulating domestic tourism and rebuilding the tourism industry.
Presenters
Jennifer Kim Lian ChanPrinciple Fellow, Faculty of Business, Economics, and Accountancy, Universiti Malaysia Sabah, Sabah, Malaysia
Details
Presentation Type
Paper Presentation in a Themed Session
Theme
2022 Special Focus—Responsible Post Pandemic Tourism: Built Environment and Design Excellence
KEYWORDS
DOMESTIC TOURISM, COVID-19 PANDEMIC, TOURISM INDUSTRY, SABAH
Digital Media
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