The 55th edition of the MATTA Fair, one of Malaysia’s premier travel and tourism events, kicked off on September 7, 2024, at the Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre (MITEC), Kuala Lumpur. Running from September 6 – 8, the fair brought together the dynamic global tourism industry under one roof, providing travelers with endless domestic and international travel opportunities.
Notably, this year’s MATTA Fair has broken a record, with 1,590 exhibition booths spread across eight halls, earning the Malaysia Book of Records title for the "Largest International Travel Fair" for the second year in a row. This achievement highlights the continuous growth of the MATTA Fair and its role in promoting tourism both within Malaysia and on the global stage.
Spotlight on Sabah and Sarawak: Discover Borneo
This year's MATTA Fair features a special focus on Sabah and Sarawak under the theme “Discover Borneo: Malaysia’s Favourite Destination.” These captivating Malaysian states have come together to showcase the essence of Borneo, presenting their unique cultural heritage, breathtaking attractions, and adventurous experiences. Visitors can immerse themselves in the wonders of Borneo, an emerging favorite among domestic and international travelers.
Distinguished Guests at the Opening Ceremony
The opening ceremony was graced by two esteemed figures, YB Datuk Christina Liew, Minister of Tourism, Culture, and Environment Sabah, and YB Dato Sri Haji Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry & Performing Arts Sarawak. Their presence reinforced Borneo's significance as a key destination in Malaysia’s tourism landscape, setting the tone for a fair filled with exciting prospects.
Sabah's Vision for Tourism: A Focus on Authenticity and Adventure
During her speech, YB Datuk Christina Liew expressed her excitement about Sabah’s strong presence at the MATTA Fair. Leading the charge with 60 booths, Sabah showcases its rich offerings through the Sabah Tourism Board, 33 travel agents, hotels, and local artisans. YB Datuk highlighted the importance of authentic travel experiences that capture the heart of Sabah, from its cultural heritage to its natural beauty.
To entice visitors, special promotions are available at Sabah’s booths, including travel rebates of up to RM150 for any Sabah tour package. YB Datuk also emphasized the importance of collaboration between Sabah and Sarawak, aiming to enhance the visibility of Borneo’s unique attractions and draw in more visitors.
Sarawak’s Push for Innovation and Connectivity
YB Dato Sri Haji Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah continued the celebration of Borneo’s tourism, focusing on Sarawak’s ongoing efforts to innovate and expand. He highlighted the recent inscription of the Niah Caves as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, a significant achievement that underscores Sarawak’s cultural and natural treasures. The state is also set to launch its own airline, further improving accessibility and connectivity for tourists.
Sarawak’s Minister invited visitors to experience the diverse cultural performances, landscapes, and thrilling adventures that the state offers, positioning Sarawak as a must-visit destination within the broader Borneo region.
Nigel Wong: A Vision for Sustainable Tourism
Nigel Wong, President of MATTA, delivered an inspiring speech about the broader tourism industry and its unique power to unite people across different backgrounds. He emphasized that the MATTA Fair is not just an exhibition but an immersive experience that celebrates the excitement of travel.
Wong also discussed MATTA’s commitment to sustainable tourism. Recently, MATTA signed a virtual Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC), encouraging its members to adopt sustainable tourism practices. This partnership reflects MATTA’s long-term strategy to strengthen Malaysia’s position as a global tourism powerhouse, while ensuring that sustainability is at the forefront of its plans.
International Destinations Take Center Stage
Beyond domestic attractions, the MATTA Fair 2024 features a robust lineup of international destinations. With 15 International Tourism Organizations participating, visitors can explore exclusive travel deals from places like Taiwan, Japan, Turkey, and South Korea. Taiwan, in particular, has been highlighted as the "International Favourite Destination," showcasing its unique travel experiences.
Key Sponsors and Partners of MATTA Fair 2024
This year’s MATTA Fair is supported by several prestigious partners, whose contributions have enhanced the fair’s offerings:
Discover Borneo: Sabah & Sarawak - Malaysia’s Favourite Destination
Taiwan - International Favourite Destination
Malaysia Aviation Group - Official Airline Partner & Premier Sponsor
RHB Bank - Exclusive Platinum Sponsor
Amadeus - Official Travel Tech Partner
AmLeisure Media - Media Partner
Malaysia International Trade & Exhibition Centre (MITEC) - Strategic Partner
MATTA Fair: A Pillar of Malaysia's Tourism Industry
As a vital platform for Malaysia’s tourism industry, the MATTA Fair continues to foster connections between travelers, industry professionals, and stakeholders. The fair plays an essential role in promoting Malaysia’s tourism industry, driving growth and innovation. As it adapts to changing market demands, MATTA remains committed to expanding the fair’s reach, both domestically and internationally.
Explore, Discover, and Celebrate Travel
As the doors open to thousands of visitors, the 55th MATTA Fair promises a weekend of exploration, discovery, and excitement. Visitors are encouraged to take advantage of the exclusive deals, engage with exhibitors, and experience the vibrant cultures, adventures, and landscapes on offer from Sabah, Sarawak, and international destinations alike. The MATTA Fair September 2024 is a testament to the beauty of travel, inviting everyone to embark on unforgettable adventures.
Comments