Suara Matta 2014 Jul-Sep

Jul-Sep 2014 KDN No. PP13379/2/2005

Official Publication of the Malaysia Association of Tour and Travel Agents

FROM LANDSCAPE TO TABLE AUSTRALIA PRESENTS HER TOP PLATES IN HOT DESTINATIONS Matta Cover_v2.indd 3

7/29/14 10:47 AM

OYSTE R BA RS AT R E S TAU R A N T AU S T R A L I A

D I S C OV E R F R E YC I N E T, TA S M A N I A AT AU S T R A L I A .C O M

Content

Editorial Board Hon. Sec. Gen. JOSEPH FRANCIS A/L MARIASOSAY XAVIER Research & Technology Vice President NIGEL WONG Chief Executive Officer Phua Tai Neng Communications & Sustainability Manager Elizabeth Yee Publishing Consultant REGENT MEDIA PTE LTD Publisher Cecilia Woo

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Managing Editor BEN POON Editor Esther Liew

Annual General Meeting 2014

Writer Adora Wong Art Director JUNLONG LOH Graphic Designer Jeremy Ding Photographer VICTOR TOH Production Manager Nazzarei Chia Printer KHL PRINTING CO Sdn Bhd For advertising enquires, please email sales@regentmedia.sg

A PUBLICATION OF MATTA No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form without the prior written consent of the Publisher. Every effort has been made to ensure that the contents of this publication are correct and up-todate at the time of printing. Some details are liable to change. The publisher cannot be held responsible for any consequences arising from errors or omissions in this publications.

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Message from the President 04 Matta Industry Event Report 06 Pre-Publicity of Matta Fair Sept 07 APeco 2014 - 8th Asia Ecotourism

14 View Point - Ready to Roll with the Punches

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Cover Story

- A Movable Feast Down Under

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News & Updates

- Talk of the Town

08 Fiesta Matta Night - Sept Matta Fair’s

22 Calendar of Events

- What’s On 23 Social Bites

- Travel with Boris Chang

10 Travel Mart

24 New Members & Notices

Conference

Activities Lineup

Message

President’s Message We would like to welcome back Suara MATTA and hope that it will allow us to connect with our members and keep them informed about programmes and activities in MATTA and in the tourism industry.

Suara MATTA will be available in hardcopy and via MATTA’s website (www.matta.org. my) so that we can reach out to as many members and stakeholders in the industry. We hope that members and friends in the industry will find it an informative, refreshing, and encouraging read and will support it.

With the star t of the Executive Council’s 2013-2015 term we worked on various initiatives and issues such as engagements with the Ministry of Tourism and Culture on the amendments to the Tourism Industry Act 1992 and on licensing matters and tour guides issues. MATTA had also on different occasions met with SPAD, JPJ, and the Ministry of Tourism and Culture to discuss tourism vehicles and has continued to work closely with Tourism Malaysia to promote the Visit Malaysia Year 2014 campaign.

16th to 23rd January 2014 was a significant period for MATTA as we succeeded in putting together the ASEAN Tourism Forum 2014 in Kuching for travex and the ASEAN Tourism Conference. It was a learning curve for us when working on ATF 2014 and we are now more prepared for new challenges in the future.

The first quar ter of 2014 was a challenging period for our tourism industry. Significant incidents such as the abduction of tourists off the coast of Sabah and the disappearance of MH370 impacted the industry, and MATTA had to respond to concerns from the public, media, and industry players responsibly and efficiently.

The Executive Council is regularly taking initiatives to enhance our services to our members and to the industry. The MATTA HQ Secretariat is an important component as it suppor ts the Executive Council in carrying out the various duties and responsibilities, and the Executive Council appointed a member to assist the Hon. Secretary General to lead staff members in improving the functions of the Secretariat. The Secretariat recently underwent a structural reorganisation so that there would be greater efficiency and effectiveness when working with the Executive Council. Compared to how it was a few years ago, MATTA today is a lot different and is more active with programmes. The industry is moving and changing at a fast pace, and MATTA has to move in tandem with these developments lest we be left behind.

I wish all members and friends of MATTA great reading pleasure. As this publication is so named, your Suara (voice) should be echoing back to MATTA. We welcome feedback from members and friends on this publication and on the programmes and activities of MATTA. Enjoy this Suara MATTA and may you have a very fruitful and rewarding few months left of 2014!

Warmest regards, Hamzah Rahmat President Term 2013-2015

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Events

MATTA INDUSTRY EVENTS REPORT Report on GST Awareness & Travel and Tourism Industry with Royal Malaysia Customs Department MATTA organised a session with the Royal Malaysian Customs Depar tment on ‘GST Awareness & Travel and Tourism Industry’ that was held on 28th April 2014 at the Vivatel Hotel in Kuala Lumpur. The session was led by Puan Sakenah Begum Bt. Md. Nazir, Senior Assistant Director of Customs II. Participation from MATTA members was encouraging as 124 members attended the session.

The three-hour session saw the discussion of two topics - the first topic was on ‘Salient Features of GST’ and the second was on ‘GST Treatment on Hospitality Industry (Travel Industry, Tourist Refund Scheme & Hotel Industry).’

Following the implementation of the GST for Travel Industry on 1st April 2014, the main concerns among MATTA members regarding GST were: 1. Calculation of GST for customers and other agents 2. GST effects on a company’s operation, especially on the profit and loss margins After the session, a number of agents requested that MATTA organise another session with Puan Sakenah. Currently, MATTA is planning to organise sessions in Sabah, Northern (Penang) and Southern (Johor) Peninsular, and a second session in Kuala Lumpur.

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Events

Report on Dialogue with PDRM Wilayah Kuala Lumpur As proposed by Vice President – Inbound Mr. KL Tan, a collaborated dialogue session with PDRM was held on 28th April 2014 at the Vivatel Hotel in Kuala Lumpur. The session was attended by the Deputy Chief Police Officer, DCP Dato Amar Singh a/l Ishar Singh, and 25 senior officers from PDRM. Six ExCo MATTA members and 43 other MATTA members also par ticipated in this session.

The Head of International Liaison Unit KLPAC (ILU), DSP Choo Lily gave a briefing of ‘Crime Situation in Kuala Lumpur against Tourist/Foreigners.’ The session then concluded with a Q&A session between the PDRM and MATTA members.

Some of the topics discussed between the PDRM and MATTA members included: 1. PDRM to project a more positive image to the public and tourists 2. PDRM to handle the situation involving foreign workers and tourists better, especially at the hot spots 3. PDRM to update the information on their website. There was a suggestion to create a Facebook page for the Senior Officers of every branch in Kuala Lumpur so that it will be convenient for the public to get information and immediate responses 4. PDRM to equip themselves with tourism knowledge with the assistance of MATTA, MOTAC and other relevant organisations 5. MATTA and PDRM to conduct surveys with tourists at major tourist attractions At the end of the session, DCP Dato Amar Singh suggested that MATTA should organise a PDRM dialogue session with MATTA members every quarter.

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Events

DEDICATED TO DOMESTIC TOURISM

An additional hall solely devoted to Malaysia and domestic tourism products will be the main focus at the MATTA Fair, 5 - 7 Sept 2014.

In conjunction with the Visit Malaysia Year 2014 campaign, MATTA will focus on promoting domestic tourism during the September MATTA Fair said MATTA President Haji Hamzah Rahmat at an official press conference held recently.

Scheduled to be held from 5 - 7 September at the Putra World Trade Centre, the new Hall 4 –known as the Malaysia Hall – will be dedicated specifically to Malaysian tourism and travel products and services.

“There will be a total of 158 booths in Hall 4, with Tourism Malaysia taking up the lion’s share of a hundred booths,” said Haji Hamzah. “Should we receive overwhelming response from local stakeholders, we can still fit in 60 more booths Hall 3.”

According to him, MATTA plans to go all out to promote key attractions in Malaysia. “We urge state tourism offices to participate in the MATTA Fair this September. MATTA is fully committed to promote domestic tourism besides international and regional travel.

Our aim is to give smaller stakeholders an opportunity to participate 6

in the travel fair and promote domestic tourism products.”

Chairman of the September MATTA Fair Rocky Kho said MATTA wants to create a bigger marketplace for local stakeholders. “Domestic tourism is becoming increasingly important and most of our members actually hold inbound licence.

The MATTA Fair Organising Committee concurred that Malaysia has a lot to offer domestic visitors.

“We need to create greater awareness about our country’s hidden gems which remain unknown and undiscovered to many Malaysian travellers,” said Hj Hamzah. “The new Hall 4 would be the place for them to find out about local attractions.”

Kho said they anticipate about 90,000 visitors will be passing through Hall 4 for the September MATTA Fair. “We will be promoting the travel fair to the expatriates in Malaysia as well as tourists that are already here during that period. Going forward, we may look at promoting thematic products such as cruises or budget travel which will be the upcoming trends.”

Events

8th ASIA PACIFIC ECOTOURISM CONFERENCE (APeco 2014)

For the second time, Kota Kinabalu Sabah will host APeco 2014. The ecotourism conference is a very important event in the national tourism calendar. With the growing awareness of global warming and negative environmental impact of human activities, ecotourism will be increasingly carried out not just by urbanites and city dwellers but also by foreign tourists who seek out adventures, education, and recreation in natural environments.

The theme for APeco 2014 is “Adding Value through Development”. It has been a policy of the Ministry of Tourism and Culture to not just pursue an increase in tourist arrivals to our shores but to increase the quality of their holiday experiences as this will in turn positively impact their spending.

The contribution and cooperation from the different sectors of the tourism industry – from academics, hoteliers, ecolodges, tourist guides, architects and engineers, tours operators, restaurants, and handicraft operators in the private sectors to those managing protected areas and national parks –

will be the keys to the success of the tourism industry.

As a delegate, you will learn to manage, market, and maintain ecotourism facilities, products, and services using sustainability and community benefits as the guiding principles.

For example, learn to observe ecotourism’s contribution to conservation, communities, and the economic value of natural area tourism, geotourism, and geoparks.

There is a one-day pre-conference workshop on ecolodges and a two-day conference will welcome 16 speakers from four continents who will cover a diverse range of topics and experiences and provide an opportunity for all the academics, industry experts, and practitioners to network and share their expertise and knowhow on the latest trends in marketing, conservation, ecolodge design, operations and community-based projects. Some of the speakers to share their knowledge include Alison Pritchard (Aust), Dr. Young C.Y. Ng (HK), Professor Ross Dowling Oam (Aust), Masaru Takayama (Japan), and Professor Amran Hamzah (Malaysia).

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Events

Fiesta MATTA Night to kick-start September MATTA Fair’s activities line-up

text by Anthony Tan

MATTA to focus on promoting local hidden gems and less travelled domestic destinations

The Malaysian Association of Tour and Travel Agents (MATTA) will be on an aggressive drive to promote domestic tourism in line with the country’s Visit Malaysia 2014 campaign for its September MATTA Fair 2014.

Organising chairman Rocky Kho said Hall 4 will be designated as the Malaysia Hall. It can accommodate about 200 exhibitor booths, including many of the smaller tourism industry players from the various states of Malaysia.

He hopes that this would help change the perception that MATTA Fair is an outbound travel fair. Kho, who is also MATTA’s assistant honorary secretary-general, said the local booths would be separated from the ASEAN booths for the first time.

A total of six halls from the Putra World Trade Centre (PWTC) in Kuala Lumpur would be used for the September MATTA Fair, he said at the recent Fiesta MATTA Night, which was held to network with representatives from foreign embassies (such as Algeria, Argentina, Egypt and Krygyz), national tourism organisations (NTOs) state tourism offices (STOs) and local media.

The Fiesta MATTA Night held at a Brazilian restaurant

located in the Kuala Lumpur City Centre area, is one of the many activities planned by MATTA organisers as a prelude to the upcoming fair, which is scheduled from 5 - 7 September.

Tourism Malaysia, the biggest NTO at the March MATTA Fair which had signed up for 72 booths, is expected to take up 100 or more booths in September. The March MATTA Fair attracted 90,273 visitors.

MATTA President Hamzah Rahmat said the association’s target is to increase the number of visitors to the September MATTA Fair to at least six digits, adding that the response from the NTOs and STOs have been positive and very encouraging.

At the March MATTA Fair, about 70 potential exhibitors were turned away due to lack of space. Hamzah urged the travel industry players to confirm their participation early in order not to miss the boat again.

The March MATTA Fair, which had a total of 467 organisations participating, recorded RM155 million worth of sales of travel packages. For the September MATTA Fair, the organiser hopes to have more than 1,000 booths from over 500 exhibitors.

Please note that the contents of the above article should not be re-written or re-hatch for other publications as it is contractually for MATTA Newsletter only.

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Events Launch Reception The organising committee of the MATTA Fair September hosted Launch Reception at the rooftop of the swanky G Tower to thank the travel agents and tour operators who have been faithfully participating in the MATTA Fair. One hundred and fifty travel agents, , sponsors, representatives from NTOs, STOs, and the press and flight carriers attended the event.

Rocky Kho conveyed that the committee is committed to going all out to attract visitors to the fair, and that they will be allocating a higher budget to advertising and promotion to both achieve their target and to strengthen their relationships with various media partners. “Indeed by increasing the breadth of media partners with MATTA Fair, we want to be heard and

seen. But the ultimate goal is to arouse the interest and excitement of the general public to draw them to the Fair,” said Kho. “Knowing today’s changing trend, there might be very different ways of reaching out to the younger generation.

Hence, this explains our move into social media, online news and radio slots to stoke their interest and excitement.

Brand names which strike resonance with them. To win customers, we must have a way to communicate to customers,“ he added. “We have secured approximately RM2.98 million-worth in value for A&P. This is the commitment we make to our exhibitors. Through this platform, we want to convey our message loud and clear to our exhibitors.”

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Travel Mart

Asia Pacific Ecotourism Conference 2014 is now open for registration Organised by MATTA, Asia Pacific Ecotourism Conference (APeco) returns with the theme ‘Adding Value Through Ecotourism Development’ and a comprehensive programme that will highlight ecotourism’s contribution to conservation and communities, the economic value of natural area tourism, and the place of tourism in park conservation, among other key subjects. Insiders keen on environmental sustainability in the tourism sector can pick up game-changing trends and ideas at the Pacific Sutera Hotel in Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, this 16th to 18th October.

CIBTM China’s leading meetings, incentives, and business travel exhibition will take place this 17th to 19th September at the China National Convention Centre in Beijing to assist the world’s leading business event suppliers with a platform to network with top-level buyers of high purchasing power. The well-known event attracts more than 4,000 industry professionals every year, and participating sectors include airlines, hotels, destinations, convention bureaus, and business travel services, among others.

Participants will be kept up-to-date with the latest MICE developments so that they will know how best to effectively gain an edge over competitors. www.cibtm.com

ITB Asia The annual B2B trade show and convention returns this 29th to 31st October for the seventh time at the Sands Expo and Convention Centre in Singapore to enable Asia Pacific’s leading travel companies and small and medium-sized enterprises to meet with prominent buyers from the MICE, leisure, and corporate travel sectors. Almost 9,100 visitors from 110 countries attended last year’s show to meet with more than 800 exhibitors to benefit from value-for-money offers and travel product ranges customised to their needs. www.itb-asia.com

World Travel Market London The leading event of the travel industry provides a one-stop, fuss-free platform for trade professionals to network and conduct business. Five thousand tourism boards, airlines, cruises, hotels, and travel technologies will be exhibiting their services at ExCeL London from 3rd to 6th November, and more than 50,000 senior travel industry exper ts, government ministers, and media groups are expected to turn up. A comprehensive programme of conferences and seminars discussing the latest trends and ideas with case studies from top travel brands by influential figures of the trade will be open to all attendees for free. www.wtmlondon.com 10

AGM

ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING 2014 The 39th MATTA Annual General Meeting was held Saturday, 21 June 2014 at the Pacific Sutera Harbour Hotel, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah. The meeting started at 10:15 a.m. and was chaired by the President of MATTA, Tn Haji Hamzah Rahmat and ended at1:00 p.m.

This AGM was an historic event as this is the first ever AGM held outside Kuala Lumpur.

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AGM

Decisions of AGM The AGM was a good and lively meeting with feedback and questions asked by several members present. The President in his opening address spoke on the issues faced by the Association and the industry.

The AGM then went through all the agenda items and approved and adopted the Minutes of the AGM 2013 and the EGM 2013, the Annual Report 2013, the Audited Annual Accounts and the Statement of Receipts and Payments of the Association for 2013 and the Budget 2015.

The AGM also approved a proposal by the Executive Council to put aside a budget of RM5 million for the purchase of suitable properties outside Kuala Lumpur for the Chapters over a period of 24 months.

The Executive Council also tabled its proposed amendments to the Constitution of MATTA, and after constructive discussions and input from members present, the meeting proved the amendments with some further revision and changes.

A new auditors firm, Mazars, was appointed by the meeting to be the external auditors for MATTA for year 2014.

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AGM Let’s Hear from the Floor …

The AGM, which took place in the city of Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, was organized with the help of the Sabah Chapter of MATTA with the support of Yang Berhormat Datuk Seri Panglima Masidi Manjun, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Environment Sabah.

We gather feedback from the floor on the AGM in KK, Sabah.

“The great fellowship and get together within all chapter members and having the well organised AGM was a success and Bravo to the Sabah Chapter for a job well done !!!”

and outstanding one! This has given the opportunity to members from other states to interact with members of Sabah Chapter especially during the welcoming dinner and B2B sessions.”

“Personally to me it does not matter where we meet but rather the objective of AGM or why we meet. However, it will be nice to have the AGM outside of KL during NONelection years because every other Chapter will have the opportunity to introduce their very own state tourism product by having a B2B sessions and product update or technical visit to various tourism spots. This can create an opportunity for members to do cross selling.”

“Yes as it is most pro-active to get to know each chapter and look into their strength and weakness and yet experience the pleasure of each state in Malaysia in making MATTA known to all members ...”

Ngi Chin Soon, Kenny

Madelina Kuah

Managing Director, CK Vacations Sdn. Bhd. Johor

Director, Kenzar Travel & Tours S/B Melaka “I believe the success of this 39th AGM is mainly due to the reason for the first time, it was held outside of KL, a historical event to be put on record.”

“Yes definitely Matta should continue to hold its AGM outside KL during its non- election years, by way of rotations to the other states / chapters. Matta members are from all over the states and thus Matta AGM should not confine to just in KL. By having Matta AGM outside will give the members of the elected Chapter the opportunity to showcase their products by having B2B sessions as an addon program and at the sametimes, the rest of Matta members from other states besides having a business rapport shall also have the opportunity to see & experience for themselves the culture, food, places of interests each states have to offer.”

Hajah Sofia

“It was a success because those that were in attendance were committed to being there. They made the effort to travel as they felt they could contribute to the meeting.

MATTA must encourage the participation of all attendees and not let the ‘politics’ or dominating parties dictate discussion and decision making for all.”

“A different location provides an opportunity to discuss local issues and strategies which may benefit all members. It allows for greater networking and future opportunity.”

“It is a good idea as it gives an opportunity for different venues, attractions to showcase travel and tourism in their state. It should be rotates throughout each Malaysian state in the non AGM years. It also means that the attendance will be limited to those willing to travel and actually contribute to the meeting.

The meeting would also allow for some that would not normally attend an AGM in KL to attend, even if by invitation only.”

Manager, Astana Travel & Tours S/B

Sharifah Nor Syed Rohani “For me, meeting in non-traditional venue such as Kota Kinabalu, Sabah is a brilliant

CEO, Sharifah Nor Travel & Tours Sdn. Bhd. Perak

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View Points

READY TO ROLL WITH THE PUNCHES President Haji Hamzah Rahmat urges MATTA members to be ready to roll with the punches in view of upcoming challenges facing local travel & tourism players

What is your vision for MATTA as the President?

Having served half of my Presidency, my greatest wish is to see MATTA expands into every state with a Wisma MATTA building to call its own. It is a dream which I had been nursing in the past eight years and I’m proud that it will finally be realised.

Now that we have enough funds and the necessary approvals have been given, we are looking at buying some properties outside of Kuala Lumpur. Very soon ten

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state chapters will have their own buildings in addition to our existing MATTA headquarters building and academy in Kuala Lumpur and the Penang state chapter office.

I think it is important for MATTA to have its own building in each state as it will give MATTA members a sense of belonging and continuity, and make them feel proud to be associated with MATTA. Besides that positive psychological effect, a proper office space and meeting venue

will enable members to meet and interact in more conducive environment.

Please share some key agenda/issues you want to focus on as MATTA President?

I wish to inform members that we are actively pursuing the desired revisions to the Tourism Act with the Ministry of Tourism. We are still waiting for response from the Ministry but we are confident two-thirds of our target will be achieved.

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View Points

“Our ideal wish is for the government to issue us with one all-inclusive licence that can be renewed 3-5 years instead of the current1-2 years.”

We also hope to sor t out the issues of licensing and the validity period.

Our ideal wish is for the government to issue us with one all-inclusive licence that can be renewed 3-5 years instead of the current1-2 years. It would also be good if the Ministry can review the terms and conditions for outbound travel agencies especially the clause about agencies being required to get a bank guarantee. If possible, repeal this and replace it with travel insurance instead.

What is your view on the current state of travel & tourism industry in Malaysia e.g. strengths and weaknesses?

Moving forward, MATTA call on in-bound members to be more aggressive and to embrace the latest technology. From sales & marketing to online business transactions, most medium and small players still lack exposure and remain ignorant of the benefits of modern technology. It’s important to remedy this aspect.

Outbound players should be more innovative as they have to deal with savvier consumers now. Only those who can respond with instant, accurate information and are able to confirm bookings for customers quickly will thrive.

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Are MATTA members ready for 2015 when the Asean FTA kicks in? What should they do to face the competition?

Members should keep up with changing times or be left behind when the Asean Free Trade Agreement (FTA) comes into effect. Members cannot afford to

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be complacent anymore and will have to move quickly to face the competition.

The government can’t protect or help us forever and only the fittest will survive in the business. MATTA is doing all it can by organising seminars and talks for members especially on the technology aspects.

Members must act fast, be smart and have a wealth of information at their fingertips. The advantage for us compared to those online service providers is that we will be a crucial reference point for customers when they encounter any problems or trouble. With our experience, we will be able to help customers by providing suggestions, options and consultation.

What are some of the biggest challenges MATTA faces currently?

We would like reduce the current amount of red tape, without us having to deal with 3-4 different government agencies. For instance, MATTA hope the authorities will find a practical solution to our tourism transport and vehicle licensing issues.

Instead of different types of licences, we hope they will issue us just one.

If the authorities are serious about tourism as a major foreign exchange earner and getting more tourists to come and spend their money in Malaysia, they should help us overcome such obstacles.

When it comes to drawing new blood into the fold, the tourism industry is such a complex one that it warrants a separate field of study. I have pointed out to our educators on the mismatch between hospitality and tourism graduates with our industry needs. Universities and colleges

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shouldn’t lump tourism and hospitality together as both sectors consist of too many components and should be split.

How does MATTA aim to overcome the challenges?

MATTA members and the relevant stakeholders must work closely together, to bring Malaysia’s tourism industry to greater heights amidst all the challenges.

For those interested in the tourism industry, language ability especially using English as an international business language must be given greater emphasis. Future staff must be capable of handling emails and business correspondence in English or else it could be problematic for us.

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“For those interested in the tourism industry, language ability especially using English as an international business language must be given greater emphasis.”

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Feature

Adelaide Central Market

A Movable Feast Down Under

Embark on an epicurean spree in the land that has produced the Donna Hay empire and Kylie Kwong, and get ready to be transported to a taste paradise Treasures of the sea Whether you fancy your seafood served up Asian style, as on-the-go battered snacks or beautifully plated in a five-star restaurant, Australia’s teeming waters offer up a vast variety of edible marine life to suit any cuisine.

Since the country’s fishing zone spans over 4,000 kilometres from the iciest Patagonian toothfish-rich Antarctic waters to the glistening coasts of the Coral, Timor and Arafura seas, it is no wonder that locals are spoilt for choice.

Some of the world’s most luxurious seafood can be found in this country of plenty – think oysters, rock lobsters, smoked salmon and abalone. And if you 16

are in Sydney, pop into the Sydney Fish Market, where its average daily offerings of over 100 species makes it the second largest seafood market in the world, choice-wise.

Be sure to sample the Sydney rock oysters here, for they are only grown in New South Wales. Cooking enthusiasts even get to put on their chef hats for the day, and learn how to whip up a seafood feast at the resident Sydney Seafood School.

Those visiting the Northern Territory will be in for a treat – famed for its wild barramundi, this fish’s unique firm and moist meat is available from March to October.

Sydney Fish Market

Feature become a firm part of the local culture.

Vineyard owners have thrown open their doors year-round to welcome both wine connoisseurs and those who just enjoy a glass of red after dinner.

At the lush Hunter Valley in New South Wales, horse and carriage tours will take visitors through wineries, where they can sample cheese and olives, and watch the world roll by in a truly Old World pace.

For those who love the vintage – in both wine and lifestyle terms – Victoria’s Top Down Tours will take you around the Yarra Valley in a classic 1960s Chevrolet Impala Convertibles. Here, it’s all about slipping on your sunglasses, holding a glass

Spear fishing Queensland

If lobster is your thing, South Australia is the place to visit. Sign up for the Eyre Peninsula’s seafood trail, and enjoy your traipse around the region to sample the best seafood its geography has to offer.

And the waters of Queensland serve up beautiful tiger and Crystal Bay prawns – and adventure to boot. Sign up for a spearfishing trip to net your own crabs and scallops. Local tastes run to decadent dishes like coconut-coated banana prawns and bonito with watermelon and feta, so tuck in well while you are here.

Fly fishing lovers should check out in Western Australia’s southern coast’s limestone retreats. There, they get to fish for brown and rainbow trout to their heart’s content, then go home to whip up their freshest seafood meal yet. Australia literally offers up a veritable ocean-toplate feast for those who love their food.

“You can choose to book a leisurely tour that visits at least five of 16 top vineyards, or head north to the picturesque Lake George” of the house special and enjoying the warm rays and cool breeze on your face.

And yes, Queensland may be known for its sun-splashed lands, but head up to the Stanthorpe area. That’s where the Granite Belt lie. You can book your own four wheel drive wine tour to explore and taste the exciting wines from one of Australia’s top cold climate wine-growing areas.

Hunter Valley

The Australian Capital Territory is the land of the riesling, shiraz and merlot.

Boutique wineries abound, and also offer premium cabernet sauvignon, pinot gris, shiraz vionier and tempranillo. You can choose to book a leisurely tour that visits at least five of 16 top vineyards, or head north to the picturesque Lake George.

Spend your day here wandering the wineries and enjoying the scenery.

One can’t talk about cellar doors in Australia without mentioning the Western Australia region. The spirit of the bon vivant is apparent from the presence of some of the country’s best wineries here, as well as the many top-notch restaurants by top chefs that have sprung up to accompany the local wines.

Check out the Margaret River area for award-winning wineries and good food, then pop just a few kilometres down to the beach after. What’s better than giving a toast to your day with some of the country’s finest, as the sun sets into the waves?

Nectar of the gods Ample sunshine and fertile lands down under have yielded some of the best wines in this par t of the globe – think the world acclaimed Grange Hermitage from South Australia and the rolling vineyards of Möet & Chandon in Victoria. Winery tours have

Margaret River

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Feature

Adelaide Central Market

Bazaar of the land This continent’s myriad climate zones offer the likes of world-class dairy products, exotic game meat including crocodile and kangaroo, and indigenous herbs with evocative names like parrot peas and bush honey.

And it all comes together at the farmer’s market. The food markets of Australia literally burst with colour and sound, as they offer up the best that the land has to offer. Those who love to cook up a storm visit in order to buy the ripest greens and most tender meats, while those who love to eat will find glorious pies and creamy cheeses and yoghurts just begging to be tasted.

Food aficionados must make a pilgrimage to the Adelaide Central Market, touted as Australia’s best fresh food stop.

Here, you will find specialist stores selling only mushrooms or Polish sausages, as well as precious jars of the hard-to-find Kangaroo Island Ligurian bee honey.

Stop by Rusty’s Markets when you are in central Cairns to get your Asian cuisine fix. Galangal and turmeric jostle for space 18

with avocados and coconuts. Tropical fruits like papaya and jackfruit are on bright display, while Hmong gardeners offer up aromatic herbs like lemongrass and shallots grown in the Ather ton Tablelands nearby.

The local market is such a fixture in Australia that the Albany Farmer’s Market in Western Australia has been credited with saving what was once a ghost town.

A café and dining culture has sprung up around this Saturday market, which sells local delights like honeys made from the native Kauri and Jarrah trees and yabby, a type of crayfish only found here.

And, Tasmania’s Salamanca Markets in Hobart is a weekly affair which even the locals are loathe to miss. Hundreds of stalls offer up season-based gems of the land, including plump fruit and rare jams and honeys – making this market a perennial favourite year-round.

In Australia, it is so easy to eat well, thanks to the banquet of fresh goodness found at local food markets all over the land. Diversity is truly the name of the food game here.

“The food markets of Australia literally burst with colour and sound, as they offer up the best that the land has to offer”

Melbourne’s cool cafes

Salamanca Market

“Food”-prints of the cities If you want to sup like a king, head for the metropolises of Australia. Major cities down under offer multi-layered food choices to suit any wallet and mood.

While the vibrant restaurant industry sees a constant flux of exciting new players, the café cultures are equally important in establishing the country as a foodie’s heaven. For laidback as the café scene is, is has actually been credited to have invented the flat white coffee.

So take yourself to Melbourne for some serious java juicing. Thought to serve up some of the best brew in the whole of Australia, the eclectic cafes of Melbourne are tucked into the narrow, street-art laden back alleys of this Victoria-era city – which takes savouring your morning cuppa to a whole new, atmospheric level.

“Take yourself to Melbourne for some serious java juicing.

Thought to serve up some of the best brew in the whole of Australia, the eclectic cafes of Melbourne are tucked into the narrow, street-art laden back alleys of this Victoria-era city” Those with sweet teeth will want to check into the Sweet Dreams Walking Tour by Queenies Walking Food Tours.

Taking you to the South Yarra area – or the “dessert capital of Melbourne” in short – here is where you will find beautifully crafted tarts and truffles, glorious cakes and luscious handmade chocolates, all for your pleasure.

In Sydney, do good even as you feel good, when you embark on a tour led by the 200-year-old Benevolent Society, which helps out the disadvantaged. Their Taste Food Tours takes you on a whirlwind multi-cultural dining adventure, where you can either walk or bus to try out cuisines like South American, Arabic, Chinese, Greek, Indian, Korean, Iraqi and Persian.

For a “meal” with a twist in Tasmania, why not book yourself on a food tour?

Gourmania’s The City Tour, Tea and Tapas or The Café Tour promises at least three hours of non-stop eating.

Offering a feast of samples, you get to sink your teeth into mouth-watering chocolate tarts, find out what Wessex saddleback pork tastes like and cool off with delicious homemade ice-cream. So get ready for a taste bud explosion when you dine in the cities of Australia, where the best and brightest gather.

Restaurant Australia Campaign Kicks Off Blessed with diverse and unique terroir that provides ideal conditions for growing premium produce, Australia ramps up her marketing efforts this year to highlight her status as a destination of choice for gourmand travellers seeking unique and premium food and wine experiences.

Sixty per cent of repeat visitors to Australia currently ranked it second for food and wine experiences after France.

But only 26 per cent of those who have never visited Australia associate the country with good-quality culinary offerings. With recent research conducted across 15 Australian tourism markets, the results have shown that 38 per cent of respondents feel that “great food, wine and local cuisine” is a key factor that influences holiday-making decisions, followed by “world-class beauty and natural environments”.

The timing has never been more apt, with an increasing number of prominent chefs setting up restaurants and cafes that garner a loyal following of foodies in their respective cities. Restaurant Australia, which falls under the global “There’s Nothing Like Australia” campaign, aims to highlight seafood, people, wine, produce, restaurants, experiences and festivals. Initiatives include new advertising creatives for broadcast and print mediums and consumer promotions in 12 key international markets.

Says Tourism Australia Managing Director John O’Sullivan, “Restaurant Australia is all about bringing together the incredible stories of our people, place and produce to demonstrate to the world that every day, unique and exceptional food and wine experiences are being served up in remarkable locations, and then sharing these stories through the creation of rich and compelling content.”

For more information, visit www.australia.com 19

Update

MATTA News

MATTA Seeking a More Relaxed Umrah Visa Quota for Malaysians MATTA has urged the Malaysian Prime Minister to request that the Saudi Arabian government loosen the quota of umrah visas for Malaysians. MATTA President Hamzah Rahmat highlighted that although 26,000 applications were submitted to the embassy of Saudi Arabia recently, only 10 percent of them were approved, and that the restriction has adversely affected local umrah tour operators as deposits or even full payments have been made. He also pointed out that when the quota

system for Malaysia was introduced last year, it was only for Shaaban and Ramadan, the two months under Islamic calendar preceding Syawal. “The umrah itself can be postponed if the jemaah (congregation member) wishes to but rescheduling and cancellations will cost the agents,” said Hamzah. “On behalf of affected MATTA members, I would also seek the kind consideration of Airlines in waiving cancellation charges and to accord full refunds to MATTA members,” he added.

Visa-free travel to the United State If it all works out, Malaysians may be able to travel to the United States without a visa within the next 18 months.

Home Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi has expressed confidence that the Immigration Department can fulfill the requirements of the US via waiver

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programme sooner than expected. According to MATTA President Hamzah Rahmat, because tourism is a two-way traffic the move is set to increase both the outbound market towards the United States and the number of tourist arrivals from the United States to Malaysia.

Update MATTA Urges Urgent Revamp of Security System in Esscom to Support Dive Industry MATTA is extending its hear tfelt condolences to the family members of the marine policeman that lost his life during a recent attack on Mabul Island, Sabah, and is expressing hope that the other officer will be found unharmed. “We hope the government will fast track the deployment of the appropriate military assets and the suppor ting infrastructure at the soonest time possible,” said KL Tan, Vice President of Inbound of MATTA. “Safety and security are main factors for tourists when selecting a holiday destination,” he added.

Although the attack and the incident of the missing

MH 370 has adversely impacted Malaysia’s tourism industr y, Tan has refuted claims that the industr y is collapsing and shared that diving, of which Sabah is famous for, makes up some six percent of the total tourism contribution. He is urging stakeholders to not be dishear tened by the current security issues and maintains that his team will be revising marketing strategies to revive the industr y. “Tourism has proven to be a resilient area capable of withstanding a challenging environment, and there are various elements to boost travel and tourism growth,” he remarked.

MATTA Calls for Exemption of Tour Guide Services for Domestic Tourists MATTA is urging the Ministry of Tourism and Culture to review the requirement of tour guides for domestic tourists. “With the relatively high knowledge of the country amongst the locals, it is not necessary to hire a tourist guide for domestic tours for Malaysians. The ruling should allow flexibility in deploying tour guide. Not a one-size-fits-all kind

of hard and fast rules,” shared Jaya Kumar, Vice President of Ground Transportation. Jaya also noted that some operators use factory or school buses to transport tourists as a tour guide is not required on such vehicles, and that the current regulation is too rigid for the industry.

Advertorial

Weststar Maxus Seeks Greater Heights Weststar Maxus Distributors Sdn Bhd pursuits for fur ther recognition and higher market traction in the highly competitive commercial van sector continues with its retail operation expansion into East Malaysia.

It has been a leader in multipurpose commercial vehicles’ customisation since 2011, and today Weststar Maxus assembles and distributes various custom made commercial vehicles encompassing a wide array of mobile operations.

The V80’s reliability and versatility have won many admirers among its demanding corporate clients looking for an efficient and seamless mobile operation. The value proposition that complements the V80’s European engineering excellence has largely contributed to its growing ubiquitousness on Malaysian roads.

Available in short and long wheel base configurations, the Maxus V80 vans can be customised to fit any mobile applications’ requirements. The brand new window vans can be converted to passenger vans, tour buses, and school buses, while the panel vans can be converted into ambulances, mobile offices, and even rescue vans.

The customer oriented vehicle is not only equipped for multipurpose commercial uses but is also superior in road safety, thus ensuring a smooth ride even on the harshest of terrains.

Other basic safety features of the highly acclaimed commercial vehicle include an active electronic safety system that aids collision avoidance, a three-point seatbelt tightening mechanism, and dual airbags.

With three main sales branches located in Kuala Lumpur, Johor Bahru, and Alor Setar, Weststar Maxus Distributors is wellequipped to support its 14 nationwide dealers.

With more than 33 authorized 2S (spare parts and service) service dealers throughout the country, customers are assured of convenient and quality services.

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Calendar

what’s on

AUG

A round-up of upcoming travel and tourism events in Malaysia that are not to be missed

sept matta fair by chapters 2014 chapter Johor Matta Fair date 9th to 10th venue Batu Pahat Mall, Batu Pahat, Johor

OCT

FAM Trip 2014

chapter Johor Matta Fair date 15th to 17th venue Expo @ Danga City Mall, Johor Bahrur

what Tashkent International Tourism Fair – Hosted Buyer Programme date 7th to 9th venue “Uzexpocentre” Tashkent

chapter Melaka Matta Fair date 22th to 24th venue MITC, Melaka

MATTA Fair 2014 date 5th to 7th time 10:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m. venue PWTC

Nov

matta fair by chapters 2014 chapter Perak Matta Fair date 5th to 7th venue Ipoh Parade,

APECO 2014 date 16 to 18 venue Pacific Sutera, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah th

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th

chapter Selangor Matta Fair date 12th to 14th venue IDCC, Shah Alam

TravelTech date TBA venue TBA

Travel

Social Bites B

usiness travel is too predictable.

Corporate hotels and nice restaurants may be impressive, but with the unlimited wealth of information available on the Internet we seek to go beyond the experience when visiting a new place, such as having a sashimi meal next to the fish dealer at the Nishiki Market in Kyoto and at the Kuromon Market in Osaka. One can just buy it direct from the stalls and eat it at the common seating area. Kobe beef and sashimi such as toro and fugu are also found at affordable rates.

Most people have the misconception that Japan is expensive, but that is not the case if you are willing to explore the area deeper. During my last trip to Osaka I had checked out the Namba main street, where all the action and food are, and found many cosy sushi bars along the small lanes. We paid just US$10 for a fresh seven-piece sushi set that included half a litre of Asahi beer. There were also many ramen stalls that served bowls of

delicious noodles for cheap. Convenience Stores such as Family Mart sell excellent café latte without hurting the pocket, and because of the high Japanese standards of living even the disposable cups are of great quality. Wi-Fi may not be available, but wouldn’t need it anyway as you will be drooling over that cuppa.

Of late I have been participating in homestays, which I did in Seoul, Amman, Kyoto, and Osaka. Homestays sure are a lovely way to visit a place. My last such experience was with a family including two kids in Osaka. The house was amazingly spacious by Japanese standards and breakfast and even dinner were included.

I enjoyed the interaction with my hosts tremendously and we are now good friends. In fact, I visited them last month with a few friends and added to the dinner menu with lots of fresh sashimi and kobe beef. What a night it was.

It is important that you speak to your travel consultant about what your travelling likes and dislikes are. But, whatever it is, remember to relax and enjoy yourself. Seek out the positive side of every experience and you will find it.

– Boris Chang Managing Director of Global Holidays Sdn. Bhd

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Association Updates Executive Council 2013-2015

(As at 11 July 2014) President Hj Hamzah Rahmat Hon Secretary General Joseph Francis A/L Mariasosay Xavier Hon Treasurer Datin Josephine Low Suet Moi Vice President – Inbound KL Tan Vice President – Ground Transportation Jaya Kumar A/L S. Sannadurai Vice President – Outbound Hj Ab Rahman Mohd Ali Vice President – Ticketing Zarinah Hashim Vice President – Education & Training Uzaidi Udanis Vice President – Research & Technology Nigel Wong Chun Teim Ex-Officio Kudratullah Fatimy Bin Afandi Johor Chapter Chairman Kathryn Lee Hwee Ching Kedah Chapter Chairman Rohaiza Bt Hamzah Kuala Lumpur Chapter Chairman Judy Cheah Kuala Lumpur Chapter Deputy Chairman Mita Lim Swee Kok Kelantan Chapter Chairman Wan Muhd Zamri Wan Salleh Melaka Chapter Chairman Amanda Yau Yee Pay Pahang Chapter Chairman Adi Din Bin Hj Hussien Perak Chapter Chairman Chooi Swee Poh Sabah Chapter Chairman Robert Chong Serawak Chapter Chairman Dayang Azizah Bte Abang Zaidan Selangor Chapter Chairman Hj Helmi Bin Haji Daud Terengganu Chapter Chairman Hj Wan Supian Bin Dato Wan Ishak F.T. Labuan Representative Evelyn Wong Bumiputera Representative Che Mat Dzaher Ahmad Bumiputera Representative Dato’ Hajah Yasmin Dato’ Yazid Co Opted-Special Function Dato Ngiam Foon Co Opted-Asst. Hon. Sec. Gen Rocky Kho

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MATTA Members Approved in may 2014 FEDERAL TERRITORY OF KUALA LUMPUR

GJ Tour & Limousine Services Sdn. Bhd. No. 165-7-2, Wisma Mutiara, 165, Jalan Sungai Besi, 57100 Kuala Lumpur RBA Travel & Service Sdn. Bhd. No. 19, Jalan Suasa 3, Pekan Sungai Besi, 57000 Kuala Lumpur Defender Xperience Malaysia Tours Sdn. Bhd. No.24, Jalan Bunga Tanjung, Taman P.Ramlee, 53000 Setapak, Kuala Lumpur Mayflower Holidays Sdn. Bhd. No 1, Jalan Metro Pudu 1, Fraser Business Park, Off Jalan Yew, 55100 Kuala Lumpur Tijani Norasma Holidays Sdn. Bhd. 2-2-2, 2nd Floor, Jalan Megan Setapak, Taman Sri Rampai, 53300 Setapak, Kuala Lumpur JF Holidays Sdn. Bhd. Block I, 9-2-1, Jalan 3/101c, Mutiara Cheras Central, 56100 Cheras, Kuala Lumpur

JOHOR

BT Tune Holidays & Services Sdn. Bhd. No. 178-01, Jalan Layang 16, Taman Perling, 81200 Johor Universal Tour (M) Sdn. Bhd. No. 32, Jalan Flora Utama3,Taman Flora Utama, 83000 Batu Pahat, Johor Alphalink Tours And Travel Sdn. Bhd. 23-A, Jalan Undan 15, Taman Perling, Johor Bahru, 81200 Johor Jerslin Travel & Tours Sdn. Bhd. No 28, Jalan Keris 10, Taman Putri Wangsa, 81800 Ulu Tiram, Johor

KEDAH

Jauhar Asia Vacations Sdn. Bhd. No A-12A, First Floor, Jalan 2, Cinta Sayang Resort Homes, Sungai Petani, Kedah FMS Travel And Tours Sdn. Bhd. Lot 1557, Kawasan Mata Air, Mukim Ulu Melaka.

07000 Langkawi, Kedah

NEGERI SEMBILAN

Travellers Holiday Travel & Tour Sdn. Bhd. No 168, Jalan Haruan 5/5, Oakland Commerce Square, 70300 Seremban, Negeri Sembilan

PENANG

Timeless Experience Sdn. Bhd. 1-A, Jalan Ross, 10000 Penang Holiday World & Travel Sdn. Bhd. L3-01, ICT @ Komtar, Unit No. 1B & 1D-10.1-4.01 Komtar, Jalan Penang, 10000 Georgetown, Penang Qaliff Travel Sdn. Bhd. No.26 Tingkat 1, Jalan Sembilang 2, Bandar Seberang Jaya, Perai, 13700 Penang Masania Travel & Tour Sdn. Bhd. 54, Tingkat 1, Lorong Sg. Dua Utama 1, Taman Sg. Dua Utama, Sungai Dua, 13800 Butterworth, Penang

PERLIS

Langkawi Packages Holidays Sdn. Bhd. No.10, Jalan Besar, Kampung Perak, 02000 Kuala Perlis, Perlis DCL Travel & Tours Sdn. Bhd. No.13, Tingkat Atas, Taman Simpang 3, Jalan Arau-Kangar, 01000 Perlis

SABAH

Inizio Holidays Sdn. Bhd. Block F, 2nd Floor, Lot F-2-23A, Plaza Tanjung Aru, Jalan Mat Salleh, Tanjung Aru, 88100 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah Asia Green Travel Sdn. Bhd. Lot No. F-40A-2, 2nd Floor, Block F, Pavilion Bundusan, Jalan Bundusan.

88300 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah Avasi Borneo Tours & Travel (S) Sdn. Bhd. Lot 15, 1st Floor, Grace Square 1, Jalan Pantai Sembulan, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah Semporna Blue Reef Dive & Tours Sdn. Bhd. Lot 13, Block C, 1st Floor, Semporna Sea Front Township, P.O Box 181, 91308 Semporna, Sabah Ever Sun Tour & Travel Sdn. Bhd. P O Box 22689, Luyang, 88786 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah

Ocean Paradise Tours Sdn. Bhd. Lot No. D31B-2, 2nd Floor, Block D Pavilion Bundusan, Jalan Bundusan, 88300 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah

SELANGOR

RY Holiday Sdn. Bhd. No.12-1, Jln Kemuning Prima D33/D, Kemuning Utama, 40460 Shah Alam, Selangor Al-Ilmi Travel & Tours Sdn. Bhd. No 32-1, Jalan Ampang Water Front, 68000 Ampang, Selangor Dihnar Travel & Tours Sdn. Bhd. No.50-2B, Block 3, Jalan Pahat G 15/G , Syeksen 15, 40200 Shah Alam, Selangor Aufa Travel & Tours Sdn. Bhd. No 55B, Jalan 3/69, Seksyen 3, Bandar Baru Bangi, 43650 Bangi, Selangor Overseas Holidays Travel & Tours Sdn. Bhd. Lot 3C, Pusat Komersial, Ara Asa Ampang, Jalan Ampang, 68000 Selangor Univisual Travel & Tour Sdn. Bhd. No 41, 2nd Florr, Jalan Dato Hamzah, 41000 Klang, Selangor Lovely Memory Holiday Sdn. Bhd. 1D-3, Jalan Temenggung 27/9, Bandar Mahkota Cheras, Batu 11, 43200 Cheras, Selangor Global Tourism Network Sdn. Bhd. No. 38-1, Jalan 7/7B, Seksyen 7, 43650 Bandar Baru Bangi, Selangor Blue Forest Travel Sdn. Bhd. 5-1, Jalan PJU 5/21, The Strand, Kota Damansara.

47810 Petaling Jaya, Selangor

TERENGGANU

Whe Mumtaz Travel & Tours Sdn. Bhd. 59 B/1, Jalan Tok Lam, 20100 Kuala Terengganu Samsidaa Holiday Sdn. Bhd. A-10 Bazar Maidan, Jalan Bukit Kecil, 21000 Kuala Terengganu Inah Travel & Tours Sdn. Bhd. Hadapan Asrama UMT, Tok Jembal, 21030 Kuala Terengganu

No approved list in June due to AGM. Please log into Membership Directory in MATTA’s official website (www.matta.org.my) to get more contact information.

TOTAL MEMBERSHIP AS AT 21 JULY 2014 FT-KL FT-LABUAN FT-PUTRAJAYA JOHOR KEDAH KELANTAN MELAKA NEGERI SEMBILAN PAHANG PERAK PERLIS PULAU PINANG SABAH SARAWAK SELANGOR TERENGGANU SINGAPORE TOTAL

Total 772 13 6 201 231 41 66 72 67 108 11 187 358 178 502 89 2 2904