Airbnb: Malaysia Digital Nomad Program marks a progressive, exciting way forward

PETALING JAYA (Oct 29): Airbnb Southeast Asia has lauded the government initiative of introducing Malaysia Digital Nomad Program in catalysing the industry’s recovery as it paves a new era for the tourism industry.

In a statement today, Airbnb Southeast Asia head of public Policy Mich Goh (pictured) said the industry is entering a new era where travel and living are increasingly blurring, and that the Malaysia Digital Nomad Program marks a progressive and exciting way forward for tourism in the country.

The program functions to build a national ecosystem and community of digital nomads as a catalyst for tourism recovery, Goh explained.

Noting Budget 2022’s allocation made for the tourism industry, a total of RM1.6 billion have been allocated for tourism rejuvenation efforts.

Of which, RM60 million have been allocated for domestic tourism as well as an additional RM1,000 tax relief incentive to encourage domestic travel while rejuvenation efforts have also included landmarks such as Penang Hill Biosphere Reserve.

“Looking ahead, Airbnb hopes to see the expansion of ongoing initiatives, and implementation of new incentives for the short-term residential accommodation industry, which continue to play an essential role in contributing to Malaysia’s tourism economy,” said Goh, who added that the impact from the pandemic has shown a resurgence of travel appetite.

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