According to stakeholders, the fact that 12 Malaysian cities were included in a recent Oxford Economics survey's list of the top 1,000 worldwide cities should help the country's tourist industry.

According to Datuk Tan Kok Liang, head of the Malaysian Tourism Federation, the listing may raise interest and intrigue among prospective travellers, increasing the likelihood that they will select Malaysian cities as their holiday destinations.

When contacted, he stated, "The listing also enhances Malaysia's brand as a desirable travel destination, potentially attracting more international events, conferences, and business travellers."

Tan emphasized that to improve visitors' perceptions of Malaysia, several important areas need to be improved.

This covers improving connectivity and infrastructure, promoting and preserving cultural practices, and implementing sustainability programs.

"Easier mobility inside and between cities is ensured by improving road and air connectivity. To make Malaysia's rich cultural legacy a differentiator, we also need to showcase it through events, museums, and cultural excursions.

"To attract environmentally conscious travelers, eco-friendly tourism practices and sustainable developments should be promoted similarly," he continued.

Tan stated that to improve the entire experience of visitors, tourism destinations should also be kept up and safe. "Make an investment in digital marketing campaigns and keep up a strong online presence to showcase the variety of attractions Malaysia has to offer to a global audience," he stated.

Twelve Malaysian cities were included in the top 1,000 list of the Oxford Economics Global Cities Index 2024, which covered 163 nations.

The rankings for Kuala Lumpur were as follows: 135; George Town, Penang; Melaka; Johor Baru, Johor; Butterworth-Bukit Mertajam, Penang; Kota Kinabalu, Sabah; 412; Kuantan, Pahang; 419; Kuching, Sarawak; 433; Seremban, Negri Sembilan; 447; Kuala Muda, Kedah; and Ipoh, Perak.

Each city receives an overall score based on the five categories of the Index: economy, human capital, quality of life, environment, and governance.

According to Nigel Wong, President of the Malaysian Association of Tour and Travel Agents (MATTA), the ranking positively portrayed Kuala Lumpur and would sway some travelers' opinions.

"It provides a rough idea of how the capital would appear in comparison to other significant, well-known urban centers in the area.

According to him, "It may also communicate a sense of a city's affordability, amenities, and safety." According to Wong, there are numerous ways to promote Malaysia as a travel additional parking for authorized tourist vehicles.

He declared, "We need to showcase all of Malaysia's exciting new attractions, including upgraded facilities, to the world."