Tiong: Govt monitoring diesel price impact on tourism transport sector

SIBU (March 21): The government is closely monitoring the recent increase in diesel prices and its impact on the tourism transport sector, said Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing.

He called on all parties to remain calm and act prudently, assuring that the government would seek balanced, compromise-based solutions that take into account overall feasibility and the long-term interests of the industry.

“The Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture is closely and carefully monitoring the recent increase in diesel prices and its pressure on the tourism transport sector.

“We fully understand the challenges faced by operators, especially the sudden increase in operating costs for those who rely heavily on diesel,” Tiong said in a statement posted on his Facebook page on Saturday.

The Bintulu MP pointed that if the matter is not properly addressed, it could have a chain effect on inbound tourism, businesses as well as the overall stability of the tourism ecosystem.

He added that he had instructed the ministry to begin immediate consultations with the Ministry of Finance Malaysia after receiving feedback from associations and stakeholders.

“These discussions will focus on the current situation and consider targeted measures, including temporary time-bound support to help reduce short-term pressures arising from the current situation, partly influenced by developments in the Middle East,” Tiong said.

Tiong emphasised that the tourism transport sector remains a key pillar of the country’s tourism industry.

“Our goal is to help operators navigate this challenging period while encouraging gradual improvements in the sector, including vehicle renewal, appropriate financial support and overall enhancements to the regulatory framework,” he said.

Tiong stressed that the government’s objective is not only to mitigate immediate impacts but also to build a more resilient and competitive tourism transport system.

“Any form of support introduced will be designed with the industry’s long-term development in mind, not just temporary solutions or one-off fixes,” he said.

He also urged industry players to maintain close engagement with the government.

“Only through cooperation can we stabilise this sector in the current environment and lay a strong foundation for the success of Visit Malaysia 2026,” he added.