Domestic trade and cost of living minister Armizan Mohd Ali said while he acknowledged the burden of higher diesel prices on the industry, all parties must ensure their actions complied with the law.

“Any form of agreement, understanding or joint decision by related associations regarding price-fixing, including setting minimum fares or ceilings, is prohibited as it contains cartel elements that affect the country’s tourism market,” he said in a Facebook post.

The Malaysian Inbound Tourism Association (Mita) yesterday announced new ceiling fares for tour buses and vans, effective immediately, aimed at helping operators and travellers adjust to rising diesel costs.

Mita said tour buses, vans and ferries were not included in the national diesel subsidy mechanism after the blanket subsidy was abolished in 2024.

Under the new rates, tour bus fares will range up to RM1,100 for series tours and between RM1,900 and RM2,200 for domestic day tours, while van services will cost up to RM900 for series tours.

Diesel prices have risen by about RM2.40 to RM5.52 per litre over the past three weeks, driven by global energy supply constraints linked to the Middle East conflict.

Other tourism bodies also attended the press conference, including the Malaysian Indian Tour & Travel Association (Mitta), the Malaysian Tourist Guides Council (MTGC), and the Malaysian Tour Van Drivers Association.