state

One of Malacca’s famous tourist streets.
(Source: Instagram / @imnhsn_)

ALOR GAJAH – Before the onset of the coronavirus disease, Malaysia used to be one of the most interesting places to visit, filled with tourists that came from all over the world. The tourism industry has continually bloomed and is believed to be buoyed primarily by sustained economic growth. However, during this pandemic, Malacca is one of the tourism spots that is currently struggling to survive in this industry.

All economic sectors were badly affected, especially the tourism sector. This includes those who are obliged by law to start working from home.

Minister of Defence, Ismail Sabri Yaakob had made a public statement on 22 May, stating that 80% of government employees will work from home involving nearly 750,000 of Malaysians.

The analysis included the reduction of employees in the private sector at any one time to only 60% while the rest of the 40% will be working from home, according to the press release.

The relaxation of lockdown measures in most Malaysian states provides a chance for the tourism sector to bounce back from the worsening state. The halt in traveling and the closure of global borders has made it logical for the tourism industry in Malaysia to strategize their advertising techniques especially in adapting to the new norm.

Several tourism programs might be proposed in reviving Malacca's essential tourism spots that were severely affected by the enforcement of the Movement Control Order (MCO) early 2020. During the MCO, financial-economic activities are allowed to run as usual, but interstate travel is banned nationwide.

Malacca River, Malacca.

(Source: Instagram /@imnhsn_)

Berita DIMENSi has contacted a Functional Consultant from Kamakura Corporation, Nur Amalena Ghazali via email to gain more insights on her role.

Amalena, 29, was chosen for this interview because she is a frequent traveler for her job and contributes to the tourism business, but she is unable to travel due to the pandemic.

“I complied with the Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) strictly because of the severity of the situation. When the first MCO was announced I just got back from a working trip in Singapore and I immediately underwent quarantine upon touchdown in Malaysia,” she said.

She also expressed her concerns about the cancellations made by many tourists and people who always travel for work, especially when they have not yet received their vaccine.

Preparing the right operating station is also the main thing to do for her to work properly from home. She also said that it is important for her to have a proper working station to support the efficiency of her work.

“The nature of my work involves a lot of consultation regarding financial risk management systems. Face-to-face interaction is the best however, there is a workaround solution i.e. through conference and video calls,” she added.

Reviving any tourism economy in Malacca comes with many options, she believed that some improvements could be implemented for the tourism sector to survive.

“Certainly, there are so many beautiful places in the country, and as Malaysians, we have the responsibility to help the tourism industry bloom again and at the same time contribute towards our country’s growth. Our best option is to travel locally.

“Promotions and advertising are the keys. After being in lockdown for too long, many Malaysians are desperate to travel and have holidays, however, the pandemic has also caused the economy to slow down,” she said.

She also hopes that the tourism sector not just in Malacca but all states in Malaysia will improve for a better living for everyone.

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