COVID-19 sends Malaysia’s retail tourism in a downward spiral

COVID-19 sends Malaysia’s retail tourism in a downward spiral

COVID-19 sends Malaysia's retail tourism in a downward spiral

COVID-19 sends Malaysia's retail tourism in a downward spiral

Areas like Bukit Bintang in the center of Kuala Lumpur suffered a massive blow due to the closures. The retail segment has taken a big hit in the country. (Reuters/File)

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COVID-19 sends Malaysia's retail tourism in a downward spiral

Retailers' association of the country says 2020 worst period in three decades

Updated 18 July 2020

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KUALA LUMPUR: As the Asian market paces through its rebound from lockdowns implemented following the coronavirus outbreak, the retail segment has taken one of the biggest hits because of the pandemic.

Malaysia imposed a mandatory nationwide lockdown on March 18 under the Prevention and Control of Infectious Diseases Act 1988 and the Police Act 1967.

Prime Minister Muhyiddin Yassin declared a general prohibition of movement and gathering, or the Movement Control Order (MCO), which included the closure of business premises except for supermarkets, public markets, grocery stores and convenience stores with essential goods.

The government also imposed strict restrictions on the entry of all tourists and foreign visitors into the country.  

Areas like Bukit Bintang in the center of Kuala Lumpur, where businesses rely on tourist expenditure, suffered a massive blow due to the