With Merdeka right around the corner, plus Malaysia Day and the school holidays coming up next month, individuals and families may be planning to take the opportunity to relax and unwind on a getaway.
With this in mind, travel platform Klook has revealed key insights into Malaysian holidaymakers’ preferences. Here are the findings.
Budget-conscious spending
When it comes to money, 35% of respondents are willing to spend between RM500 and RM1,000 per person on domestic trips, excluding transportation.
This spending range emerged the most popular among respondents, reflecting a preference for affordable yet fulfilling travel experiences.
Additionally, 23% are prepared to spend between RM1,001 and RM2,000, while only 8% would consider spending more than RM3,000.
Domestic or international?
More than half of Malaysians (67%) expressed an equal preference for both domestic and international travel. This balanced interest suggests that while Malaysians are eager to explore various destinations, they remain mindful of their expenses, and often prefer to travel within the country on holidays.
Asian destinations
When it comes to overseas destinations, East Asia – including Japan, South Korea, and China – is the most favoured region, with 74% of respondents expressing a desire to visit next year.
Southeast Asia (Thailand, Vietnam, etc.) follows closely, with 60% of respondents showing interest.
Local states
On the domestic front, 36% of respondents said they travel within Malaysia quarterly. Popular destinations include Kuala Lumpur (58%), Penang (57%), and Melaka (47%), showcasing the enduring appeal of these popular locations.
Top reasons for travel
When it comes to why Malaysians decide to travel domestically, 87% of survey respondents cited relaxation and leisure as their main motivation. Exploring new places follows, with 70% eager to discover fresh experiences within the country.
Visiting family and friends influences 56% of travellers, while adventure and outdoor activities motivate 54%, reflecting a strong interest in active and nature-based tourism.
Digital influence
The survey further reveals that 69% of respondents rely on online reviews and ratings when planning their holiday, making these a key influence on their travel decisions.
Recommendations from friends and family (67%), as well as travel blogs and websites (64%), are also crucial, underscoring the importance of both digital and personal advice in shaping travel plans.