Langkawi Island, known for its breathtaking beauty and natural charm, celebrated the Deepavali holiday with a remarkable influx of more than 10,000 tourists. This surge in visitors not only defies pessimistic narratives but also underscores the island’s enduring appeal as a premier holiday destination. Let’s delve into the details of this robust tourist turnout.
Diverse Travel Preferences
The statistics from this Deepavali holiday period showcase a diverse array of travel preferences among the visitors. A total of 6,252 tourists opted for the passenger ferry service, while 675 chose the passenger/vehicle ferry (RoRo). Additionally, an impressive 3,500 visitors arrived on the island via air travel.
Ferry Services Thrive
Konsortium Langkawi Ferry Line Ventures Sdn Bhd (Ferry Line) played a pivotal role in facilitating the arrival of tourists. Operations assistant manager Norhafiz Abd Wahid reported that 2,406 visitors entered Langkawi through six ferry trips from Kuala Kedah, while an additional 3,846 visitors arrived via seven ferry trips from Kuala Perlis.
RoRo Ferries Gain Popularity
Langkawi Port Sdn Bhd (Langkawi Port) also contributed to the tourist influx, with 675 visitors traveling to Langkawi via RoRo ferries from Kuala Perlis. Notably, RoRo ferry services have been gaining popularity, with 1,807 passengers arriving on the island via RoRo ferries the previous day.
Air Travel Buzz
Langkawi International Airport (LIA) experienced a surge in air travel during the Deepavali holiday. A total of 26 inbound flights operated today, connecting Langkawi with major cities like Kuala Lumpur, Penang, Johor Bahru, and Singapore. This bustling travel activity highlighted Langkawi’s accessibility by air.
Positive Impact on Accommodations
The increased tourist arrivals had a positive impact on Langkawi’s accommodations. Adya Hotel Langkawi’s manager, Syed Muhammad Firdaus Syed Putra, reported a 70 percent occupancy rate for the day. The hotel is optimistic about maintaining over a 60 percent occupancy rate throughout the year, with bookings coming from both domestic travelers and tourists from various international destinations.
Langkawi’s ability to attract over 10,000 tourists during the Deepavali holiday showcases its timeless allure and resilience in the face of challenges. With diverse travel options, including ferry services and air travel, and a range of accommodations, Langkawi continues to be a top choice for holidaymakers seeking a memorable experience on this Malaysian gem of an island.
