KUALA LUMPUR - The Star reported, Malaysia’s tourism industry is adjusting its strategy amid concerns over a possible drop in Chinese tourist arrivals during a peak travel period.

Flight cancellations from China before the Labour Day holiday have raised concerns about a possible drop in tourist arrivals to Malaysia during a key travel season.

Despite this, tourism players are adjusting by offering flexible travel packages and focusing more on independent travellers and domestic tourism.

Malaysian Inbound Tourism Association President, Mint Leong said the cancellations are mainly due to fuel related issues and airline operational changes.

“It is mainly due to the oil situation from the Middle East conflict as prices and supply are not ­stable. In some cases, there may not be enough fuel supply for ­certain routes,” Mint said.

She said airlines are also reducing flight frequency to better control costs and match demand.

The cancellations come ahead of China’s Golden Week starting May 1, a major five day holiday that usually brings a surge in overseas travel.

Leong said the irregular nature of cancellations has made travel planning difficult for passengers.

“Some airlines would inform early, some at the last minute, and some cancel flights for short ­periods like two weeks or two months, so it is very uncertain.

“If an airline only has one flight per day and it is cancelled, there is no replacement. Travellers can only be refunded or choose ­another destination,” she said.

She added that airfares have increased by about 20% to 30%, which could reduce Chinese tourist arrivals to Malaysia.

However, she said there are new routes from other countries and more focus can be placed on domestic travellers to support the industry.

Malaysian Tourism Federation President, Dr Sri Ganesh Michiel said the industry is closely monitoring the situation but remains cautiously optimistic.

He said government and tourism agencies are actively promoting Visit Malaysia 2026 to support travel demand and reduce the impact of cancellations.

“While the full impact may not be immediately visible, early indicators suggest softer forward bookings and some cancellations within group travel segments,” he said.

He added that continued disruptions could slow tourism recovery and affect industry growth that depends on Chinese arrivals.

He said tourism operators are responding by targeting independent travellers, offering flexible deals, and strengthening online marketing efforts.