Rise in ASEAN Tourists for Malaysia 2008

Malaysia welcomed a total of 16.6 million international arrivals from the countries of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) in 2008, reflecting an increase of 6.5% from 2007. These arrivals made up approximately 75% of the total international arrivals for Malaysia in 2008 and contributed around US$9.4 billion to the economy, recording a 10% increase from 2007. Malaysian tourism authorities have identified the region as a vital source of demand, given its total population of 570 million and the preference for short-haul travelling amidst the current economic conditions.