Matta Expects 16 Per Cent Increase In Malaysian Tourists To Boracay

KUALA LUMPUR, March 10 (Bernama) -- The Malaysian Association of Tour and Travel Agents (Matta) expects an increase of 16 per cent in the number of Malaysian tourists to Boracay, in the Philippines, this year, from 20,000 people last year. Matta Fair organising chairman, S. Jayakumar, said he expected an increase in Malaysians going to the island, which is about an hour flight from Manila, following the attractive package, of as low as R339 (not including airfare) per person for a four day and three night stay there. He said the package included airport transfer to place of accommodation and scuba diving. "The Philippines, just like Malaysia, is rich with its natural wonders and biodiversity. It is known as a major tourist destination because of its ocean view and white sandy beaches," he told reporters here Monday. Jayakumar said that based on records, Malaysia was the main contributor to the Philippines tourism industry He said the Matta fair, to be held at the Putra World Trade Centre (PWTC) from March 13 to 15, would feature more than 1,120 booths. The Philippine Tourism Department will be taking two booths at the fair. -- BERNAMA