As travel increases across Southeast Asia, Malaysia is the only country to have surpassed pre-pandemic tourism levels.
According to travel information analytics firm Outbox Company, Malaysia achieved a full recovery rate of 116.69% compared to pre-pandemic 2019, the highest among other countries in the region.
Thailand will top the list of countries that will see the most tourists in 2023, with international visitors reaching 28 million, followed by Malaysia with 20 million and Singapore with 13.6 million.
Related article: Tourism numbers expected to exceed pre-pandemic levels next year
The survey found that the recovery rate across Southeast Asian countries is expected to reach 72% as of December 2023, with Malaysia, the Philippines, Indonesia, Vietnam and Cambodia exceeding their tourism targets.
The total number of international tourists visiting Southeast Asia increased by 22 percent, reaching a total of 97 million over the course of the year.
Tourism numbers have increased in December 2023 alone, with Malaysia welcoming 2.3 million international tourists, up 36% from the previous month and second only to Thailand, which remains the top destination with 3.3 million visitors, up 23%, further highlighting Malaysia’s growing popularity.
Looking to 2024, the tourism industry in Southeast Asia is looking promising, with continued growth expected, particularly from diversified markets including China.
This achievement positions Malaysia positively for the future in attracting international tourists and further strengthening its position as a major player in Southeast Asia’s tourism industry.
