MITTA, MOTAC step up efforts to curb illegal tour operators

KUALA LUMPUR: The Malaysian Indian Tour and Travel Agents Association (MITTA) and the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture (MOTAC) are stepping up efforts to curb illegal and unlicensed tour operators following the increase in such activities.

MITTA president Datuk Aruldas Arulandu said the illegal tourism business had increased significantly in the post-pandemic period.

“We have seen a significant increase in illegal tourism operations after COVID-19, and this has become a serious concern for the industry,” he said during the #LegalTourism Safe Tourism Awareness Forum, here, today.

Aruldas said MITTA represents the voices and protects the interests of its members but has limited power to act against illegal operators, as the power lies with the relevant authorities.
Therefore, he said, cooperation with MOTAC is important.

According to him, MITTA is engaging with MOTAC’s enforcement division to highlight the issue, including holding discussions with ministry officials earlier this year and submitting documentation on illegal tourism activities promoted through social media platforms.

“Our committee members have collected evidence, including online advertisements and social media promotions, and submitted it to the ministry for action,” Aruldas said.
He said the ministry had taken steps including blacklisting several unlicensed hotel operators.

“We hope that the collaboration with MOTAC will continue to strengthen enforcement efforts,” he said.

Aruldas also urged consumers to be careful and ensure they only deal with licensed travel agents to protect themselves from being scammed and suffering losses.

The forum, organised by MITTA in collaboration with MOTAC, aims to raise public awareness about legal and responsible tourism practices, while also providing insights into regulatory compliance and consumer protection.

– BERNAMA