Malaysia haze forces tour operators to adjust itineraries

Malaysia’s worsening haze situation is prompting inbound tour operators to adjust itineraries, reduce outdoor activities and shift visitors towards indoor attractions, while overseas travel agents seek updates on air quality before confirming trips.

Mint Leong, president of the Malaysian Inbound Tourism Association, said the haze had been affecting tourism activities for several months, with visitors increasingly reluctant to spend time outdoors.

“Tour operators are shortening outdoor activities and replacing them with indoor attractions such as shopping malls and museums,” she said.

The haze has also affected visitors’ sightseeing experiences, particularly at attractions where visibility and photography are important. Meanwhile, overseas agents are asking Malaysian counterparts whether conditions remain suitable for travel.

“Some travellers who are planning trips to Malaysia prefer to wait until the haze situation improves before proceeding,” Leong noted.

The extent of any impact on bookings and cancellations was not immediately clear.

The worsening conditions have also prompted school closures in affected areas, with educational institutions ordered to close when Air Pollutant Index (API) readings exceed 180.

Meanwhile, the Department of Environment (DOE) reported unhealthy air quality in 38 areas in Peninsular Malaysia as of 15.00 on October 8.

The DOE said the ASEAN Specialised Meteorological Centre had detected 210 hotspots in Sumatra and 94 in Kalimantan, Indonesia, as well as one in Pahang.

“Medium to thick cross-border haze is seen in the south and central Sumatera, Singapore and the southern region of Peninsular Malaysia as well as several areas in Kalimantan,” the DOE said in a statement on October 8.