However, she said no time frame has been set.

Nancy’s statement came as Prime Minister Ismail Sabri Yaakob said the government will not open the country’s borders arbitrarily to foreign travellers, as permission for entry will depend on the Covid-19 situation in their countries of origin.

Ismail told the Dewan Negara that only those fully vaccinated are allowed to enter the country, but borders are still closed for tourists.

Speaking at an Asean Leadership and Partnership forum today, Nancy said Langkawi reopened for domestic visitors on Sept 16 and has recorded more than 38,000 arrivals, with an excess of RM15 million received in tourism receipts.

“This travel bubble was successful and, therefore, we are working towards allowing international travellers to visit Langkawi,” she said.

She said it was vital for the country to be prepared with recovery plans to accelerate the tourism industry as it has suffered severely due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

“We need to restrategise to gain a competitive edge, particularly within the region.

“Market insiders have predicted that the choice of travel for people will be to destinations closer to home.

“If we can ensure sustainability and survivability together with industry players, we will succeed.”

Nancy said several areas within the national recovery plan had been highlighted to rejuvenate the industry.

This includes embracing digital and innovative solutions to provide reliable and seamless access to information for travellers, like information on quarantine.

“The communication and collaboration across countries, especially between the private and public sectors, must be there as well.

“The tourism sector provides income and employment to many people, supporting one in four jobs.

“Despite the current restrictions, there has been positive progress and we look forward to moving on from here,” she said.