Kuala Lampur, May 12 -- Tourism is a vital pillar of Malaysia's economy, contributing approximately 15 per cent to GDP. It is a major source of foreign exchange, jobs, and infrastructure development. It drives growth through the multiplier effect in hospitality, transport, and retail, while diversifying the economy beyond manufacturing. It serves as the second-largest foreign exchange earner, significantly strengthening the national balance of payments.

The industry is labour-intensive, creating numerous jobs directly in hotels and travel agencies, as well as indirectly in retail, food, and handicraft sectors. Money spent by tourists circulates through the local economy, benefiting small and medium enterprises (SMEs), such as local resta...