Air and bus tickets to Malaysia soar in price as demand for travel during Chinese New Year increases.
SINGAPORE – Travellers planning to visit Malaysia during the Chinese New Year period in 2024 can expect to pay nearly three times the usual price for airfares and bus tickets due to the sharp increase in demand.
As the festive occasion on February 10 and 11 approaches, many Singaporeans are already booking their tickets to avoid paying inflated prices. For example, Cheyenne Lim, who bought return AirAsia tickets for her family to Penang in March 2023, paid $273 per person. However, as of November 2023, the same flight now costs $526. Ms. Lim highlights the price hike and the need for early booking to avoid even higher fares closer to the event.
A Jetstar Asia spokesperson confirmed that air ticket demand for Malaysia routes has tripled during this period, with flights from Singapore to Kuala Lumpur becoming one of the busiest services. Meanwhile, budget carrier Scoot noted that flights from Singapore to Ipoh could range from $183 to $513 during the week leading up to the festival, compared to $89 to $214 just a week before.
In addition to airfares, bus ticket prices have also surged. Sri Maju Group, a prominent bus operator, reported that 60% of their tickets for travel between February 8 and 10 have already sold out, with prices ranging from $33 to $188, significantly higher than usual. The operator cited reasons such as the shortage of bus drivers and expected traffic jams at the Causeway for the price increase.
Similarly, Causeway Link, another bus operator, warned that prices could rise by 30%, accounting for longer travel times and higher driver compensation. For example, a one-way ticket to Kuala Lumpur that normally costs $35 will be sold for $45 during the Chinese New Year period.
The Causeway’s heavy traffic, especially during peak times, is prompting many to seek alternatives, such as chartering private vehicles. VIP Holidays Transport has raised their rates to $500 for a ride to Kuala Lumpur, compared to the usual $300 fare.
As demand continues to surge for travel between Singapore and Malaysia, it’s clear that the Chinese New Year period will be a costly time for many travellers.
