Tour guides in Malaysia risk licence revocation for selling tour packages, as the government warns against unregulated pricing ahead of Visit Malaysia Year 2026.
KOTA KINABALU: Tour guides caught selling holiday packages will face stern action, including licence revocation.
Tourism Minister Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing issued the warning, stating the practice leads to problems like unregulated pricing.
“If you are interested and feel qualified to sell tour packages, obtain a licence to become a tourism agent,” he said during an engagement session with Sabah’s tourism industry players.
He urged guides to provide quality service by interacting with guests and explaining site histories knowledgeably.
This is particularly important in the lead-up to Visit Malaysia Year 2026.
Tiong also advised agencies and guides not to limit foreign tourists to specific destinations or shopping areas.
He emphasised that visitors should have the freedom to choose where they wish to go.
“This is important to ensure our tourism, arts, and culture sectors remain free from unhealthy practices,” he said.
Such practices could damage the country’s international image, he added.
He reminded all tourism operators to comply with safety guidelines and maintain professional standards.
Operators should treat guests respectfully and foster positive collaboration.
“Malaysia is internationally recognised as a friendly destination that welcomes all visitors,” Tiong said.
He noted that numerous suggestions and issues were raised by Sabah’s tourism industry players during the session.
