Malaysia boosts South Africa tourism with rising arrivals and spending

Malaysia is strengthening its role as one of South Africa’s leading tourism source markets in Southeast Asia, supported by steady travel demand, rising visitor numbers and a recovery in visitor spending.

These developments were highlighted during a briefing by South Africa’s Minister of Tourism, Patricia de Lille, as part of her official visit to the region.

According to projections, outbound travel from Malaysia is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate of 8.1 per cent between 2024 and 2030, driven by consistent demand from both leisure and business travellers. In 2025, arrivals from Malaysia to South Africa reached 7,773, representing a 17.3 per cent increase from the previous year. The minister expressed confidence that the upward trend would continue into 2026.

Visitor expenditure has also shown strong recovery. In 2024, Malaysian traveller spending reached ZAR125.9 million (RM30.7 million), surpassing the pre-pandemic level of ZAR125.6 million (RM30.6 million) recorded in 2019. Spending is projected to expand further in the coming years.

De Lille said Malaysia remains a strategic market for South Africa, with travellers showing strong interest in leisure, wildlife, cultural and business tourism.

“The growing appetite among Malaysian travellers reflects a solid recovery and presents opportunities to expand tourism offerings while strengthening bilateral cooperation,” she said.

She added that the visit provided a valuable platform to understand market trends and traveller preferences, enabling South Africa to tailor products such as MICE tourism, halal-friendly services, cultural experiences and wildlife attractions.

Most Malaysian visitors travel for holidays and to visit friends and relatives, while interest in business and conference travel has also contributed to market growth. The rise in first-time visitors and the return of repeat travellers to pre-pandemic levels indicate increasing confidence in South Africa as a long-haul destination.

Tourism growth is further supported by major upcoming events, including Africa’s first LIV Golf tournament in March 2026, the 2027 Cricket World Cup and a World Economic Forum special meeting scheduled next year.

Popular activities among Malaysian travellers include dining, shopping and socialising, followed by visits to natural attractions and beaches. The most visited provinces are Gauteng, Western Cape and Limpopo.

Looking ahead, South Africa aims to expand independent travel marketing, strengthen digital engagement and enhance partnerships with online travel agencies to sustain growth from Malaysia.

-ASEAN FOOD & TRAVEL