KUCHING, Oct 21: Digitalisation policies and support must also reach village homestays, food stalls and handicraft businesses as the tourism industry embraces digital technologies, Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture Malaysia Dato Sri Tiong King Sing said.

In a Facebook post, Tiong said these small operators were an essential part of the Malaysian visitor experience but often lacked the funding, technical capacity and manpower available to larger hotels.

“They are an essential part of the Malaysian visitor experience, but often lack the funding, technical capacity and manpower available to larger hotels.

“Policies and digital platforms must take into account their needs. This includes targeted digital grants, simpler registration processes and community-based training to help small operators use e-wallets, stock-management systems and online booking tools.”