FridayOL

PETALING JAYA: The Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture (MOTAC) has reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to tourist safety, asserting that the mandatory 24-hour accident reporting rule for tour operators will remain in place, despite facing external pressures. Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture, Dato’ Sri Tiong King Sing, made this clear, emphasizing the importance of swift reporting in ensuring timely assistance and preventing further incidents.

The rule, which requires tour companies to submit a detailed report within 24 hours of any accident involving tourists, was implemented to enhance safety protocols and improve response times in critical situations. This proactive measure aims to provide immediate support to affected tourists, gather crucial information for investigations, and identify potential areas for improvement in tour operations.

“The ministry will not compromise on this matter. Tourist safety is our top priority, and this reporting rule is a vital component of that commitment,” stated Dato’ Sri Tiong King Sing. He stressed that the ministry has received various forms of pressure regarding the rule, but remains resolute in its decision to maintain it.

Why the 24-Hour Rule is Essential:

• Rapid Response: The immediate reporting allows for a swift response to accidents, ensuring that injured tourists receive prompt medical attention and support.
• Accurate Information Gathering: Detailed reports provide crucial information for investigations, helping to determine the cause of the accident and prevent similar incidents from occurring.
• Accountability and Transparency: The rule promotes accountability among tour operators and ensures transparency in handling accidents.
• Enhanced Safety Standards: By requiring prompt reporting, the ministry can identify and address potential safety gaps in tour operations, leading to improved safety standards across the industry.

The ministry acknowledges that the rule might require adjustments and improvements over time, but the core principle of prioritizing tourist safety will remain unchanged. They are open to feedback and suggestions from tour operators on how to streamline the reporting process while maintaining its effectiveness.

This firm stance from MOTAC demonstrates the government's dedication to ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for all tourists visiting Malaysia. It sends a clear message to tour operators that adherence to safety regulations is non-negotiable and that the well-being of tourists is paramount. The ministry intends to continuously monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of the rule, making necessary adjustments to ensure it remains a valuable tool in safeguarding tourist safety.

Dato’ Sri Tiong King Sing further encouraged tour operators to embrace this rule as an opportunity to enhance their safety practices and demonstrate their commitment to providing a secure and memorable travel experience for visitors. He also reiterated the ministry’s willingness to collaborate with industry stakeholders to further strengthen tourism safety measures in Malaysia.