The Malaysian Association of Tour and Travel Agents (MATTA) has raised serious concerns over proposed amendments to the Tourism Industry Act 1992 (TIA) following a series of recent tour bus accidents. While supporting the need for increased safety, MATTA is cautioning the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture (MOTAC) against regulations that could unfairly penalize travel agencies.

Among the proposals by MOTAC is a rule requiring tour operators to report bus accidents within 24 hours. MATTA President Nigel Wong acknowledged the intent behind the move but stressed that many agencies rely on third-party transport providers, limiting their direct control over vehicle safety or driver behavior.

Wong warned that revoking a travel agency’s license due to accidents involving outsourced drivers could be both excessive and damaging to otherwise compliant businesses. He also questioned the fairness of proposed blanket driver suspension policies by the Road Transport Department (JPJ), calling for clearer, evidence-based enforcement guidelines.

In response, MATTA has launched a series of national townhall sessions to gather feedback from stakeholders. Sessions in Johor and Kuala Lumpur have already taken place, with more planned in Sabah, Penang, and Terengganu.

“Reforms must be fair, realistic, and crafted through proper consultation,” said Wong. “We support better safety standards, but not at the cost of an entire industry’s viability.”

MATTA reaffirmed its commitment to collaborate with MOTAC, JPJ, and other authorities to ensure Malaysia’s tourism sector remains safe, competitive, and sustainable.