Matta president Tan Kok Liang also said he hoped a recent incident at Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA), where a Chinese national was allegedly denied entry into the country, would not result in a travel boycott by Chinese tourists.

According to a Daily Express report, Tan claimed that such incidents only happen in Peninsular Malaysia, particularly at KLIA, adding that the government should bear this in mind as part of its damage control measures.

“The incident has seriously tarnished Malaysia’s reputation as a safe and preferred destination for Chinese tourists and others,” the report quoted him as saying.

“We hope Chinese tourists will not shy away from Malaysia due to this unfortunate fiasco, which has been viralled all over China.

“They (Chinese tourists) will definitely enjoy peace of mind and receive a warm welcome in the Borneo states.”

Tan said the immigration authorities in the Borneo states are tourist-friendly and have always worked closely with tourism stakeholders to ensure smooth immigration clearance.

“We hope that the various ministries will work closely with the tourism, arts and culture ministry to strengthen Malaysia’s position as a key tourism destination, and we anticipate more positive changes to the industry in the coming months,” he said.