It is an economic model supply and demand game, therefore, rates and prices will be adjusted once bookings flow in

by NUR HANANI AZMAN / pic by TMR FILE

HOTELS in Langkawi are slashing their prices amid a surge in demand from domestic visitors as the local authorities expect at least 200,000 tourists between September until year-end.

Malaysian Association of Hotels Kedah and Perlis Chapter chairman Eugene Dass said although it is still early to tell, he is optimistic for the business flow to increase as hotel bookings have picked up between 15% and 20% since the tourism sector reopened on Sept 16.

He said it is an economic model supply and demand game, therefore, rates and prices will be adjusted once bookings flow in.

“The beach resorts seem to be the choice from what we see. We are also confident over time the flow of people coming in will comb the whole island and hotels of all ratings should enjoy good bookings.

“Not all hotels in Langkawi are fully booked yet, some of the luxury ones seem to have positioned their packages attractively, hence, they become the choice venues,” he told The Malaysian Reserve (TMR).

He said hotels at the moment offer discounts on their rates and add on for example free lunch, surprise gifts and airport transfers to attract customers.

“We see a positive vibe on the whole. Individual hotels have their own booking systems that are able to track pick-ups,” he added.

Pelangi Beach Resort & Spa Langkawi marketing and communication manager Priya Maniam said the bookings are encouraging with weekends being busier than the weekdays.

“We are looking at an average of 70% and more during the weekends and around 40% during the weekdays. Pelangi Beach Resort & Spa Langkawi is currently offering attractive rates via the Cuti-Cuti Malaysia promotion,” she told TMR.

According to Priya, recreational activities such as pools and tennis courts are all open for guests to use with standard operating procedures (SOPs) in place, while gym facilities have a limitation of five people per time.

“We provided breakfast on the buffet which is served by our food and beverage (F&B) associates at the table to reduce crowding in one place.

“100% of our staff are fully vaccinated and ready to be of service,” she said.

Bernama reported Langkawi MP Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad said that he is generally satisfied with the progress of the Langkawi tourism bubble pilot project, but the former prime minister feels that there are still many things that can be improved to ensure the success of the initiative.

According to Dr Mahathir, among the things that the government should give attention to is the SOPs related to the process of entry of tourists to the island and compliance with SOP by tourists.

He said the frequency of flights or ferry trips should be increased to reduce passenger capacity at any one time because according to him, about 2,000 tourists come to Langkawi using air travel and 700 use ferry services every day.

“So the number coming in by air is very big and they are sitting very close together as if normal. Although there are a lot of actions being taken to prevent people from getting infected, but when we discussed it, we feel that we should reduce the number of passengers so they are able to seat far apart,” he said.

Meanwhile, Four Seasons Hotel public relations director Kanchana Ganglani said they have received an overwhelming response with bookings so far — weekdays and weekends.

She said Four Seasons Resort Langkawi offers a special package set includes a 30% off bed and breakfast rate.

“Guests can also avail up to RM350 in F&B credit. In addition, sip complimentary cocktails by the waves at Rhu Bar and enjoy special savings on relaxing massages.

“We have some exciting food and beverage offers. The team has spent time revamp the menu,” she told TMR.

She said most of its facilities are open, however, they are mindful of the capacity and ensure SOPs are followed.

“Our resort in Langkawi doesn’t really have a buffer except for breakfast. However, until further notice, the breakfast buffet is also suspended. We serve a la carte breakfast,” she said.