Crowds hunt travel deals at Matta Fair 2026 as Malaysians balance budget concerns with desire for holidays
KUALA LUMPUR: Despite economic uncertainty and global tensions, Malaysians flocked in droves to the Malaysian Association of Tour and Travel Agents (Matta) Fair 2026, hunting for holiday bargains, exclusive packages and a chance to plan escapes at home and abroad.
The Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre (Mitec) buzzed with activity on Saturday. Domestic travel booths were jam-packed with visitors scouring discounted flights, tour packages and holiday experiences. By contrast, the international travel sections drew a quieter but steady stream of curious travellers – a sign of cautious optimism amid conflicts in the Middle East and fluctuating currency rates.
For 28-year-old business development executive Kashful Asrar, the fair was the perfect opportunity to plan a domestic honeymoon.
“I checked prices on websites and apps beforehand, so I had an idea of the deals. The Matta fair offers were really exciting.”
However, he is keeping international travel on hold.
“Considering the current international situation, we decided not to book anything overseas. You really have to be careful with spending now, or it’ll hit your wallet. Inflation, fuel prices, currency changes – it does make me a bit anxious,” he admitted.
Yet, for Kashful, travel remains a reward for himself and his family.
Not everyone is deterred by financial concerns. IT executive Hasan Mujtaba, 26, attended the fair mainly to browse and compare deals.
“I’m aware of the global and local economic challenges but the Malaysian ringgit is relatively strong against certain currencies, so I see this as a good opportunity to travel,” he said, adding that even if the economy worsens, “I’ve already set aside savings for it”.
For Hasan, travel is a personal reward – a chance to explore new cultures despite the uncertainty. For others, travel carries a deeper significance.
Human resources manager Tina Abdullah, 55, attended Matta to secure an umrah package for herself and her children.
“Prices are higher because of global issues, but I’m budgeting carefully. The value and importance of this trip outweigh the cost concerns,” she said.
Tina added that only worsening conditions in the Middle East could deter her plans.
“I’ve had assurances from travel agencies that it is still safe and Saudi Arabia is welcoming pilgrims. I trust both them and the Saudi government,” she said.
The appeal of the fair extends beyond international travel.
Public relations executive Visha Ram, 29, accompanied her mother in search of domestic holiday deals, eyeing destinations such as Semporna, Pulau Tioman and Pulau Redang.
“Domestic travel is still manageable, but it requires more careful planning. Fuel prices are rising, and travelling by car is not as affordable as before. Booking now might mean the trip costs less than later. If we have the chance, we should take it,” Visha added, noting that Malaysians are adjusting their travel choices in response to uncertainty, rather than retreating altogether.
“The economy is on everyone’s mind, but people still want to see the world, especially after the pandemic lull. They’re more selective, but they’re not giving up on travelling.”
Held from April 3 until yesterday at Mitec, Matta 2026 remains Malaysia’s premier travel convention, offering travellers a chance to hunt for deals, explore destinations and plan adventures – a reminder that even in uncertain times, the desire to travel endures.