HOTEL occupancy rates in Johor Baru and Muar have increased by up to 80% since interstate travel was allowed on October 11, said exco Onn Hafiz Ghazi.

The Johor tourism, youth and sports committee chairman said the average occupancy rate was about 65%.

After months of inactivity following the pandemic, boat operators at the Mersing jetty are busy again with the arrival of visitors.

“People are taking the opportunity to take a break and spend their holidays in Johor after Prime Minister Ismail Sabri Yaakob announced the lifting of interstate travel restriction nationwide beginning October 11.

“I was informed that the tour packages for island hopping in the Mersing district are almost fully booked until mid-November,” he said in a post on his official Facebook page today.

He said the number of local tourists at the Legoland theme park too has increased significantly compared to the pre-pandemic days.

“Thank you Malaysians, for making Johor your choice of holiday destination. God willing, the state will always be a safe destination for you and your family,” he added. – Bernama, October 20, 2021.