THE IMPACT OF INTERNATIONAL TOURIST ARRIVALS ON ECONOMIC GROWTH UNDER DENGUE FEVER RISK IN MALAYSIA

Abstract

Dengue fever has long been a public health problem in tropical and subtropical countries. The dengue virus is critical problem for international tourists with a rising number of them returning from dengue‐ endemic countries infected with dengue fever. The aim of the study is to examine the relationship between international tourist arrivals on economic growth moderated by the rise in dengue fever cases in Malaysia from 2014 until 2020. This study was carried out using secondary monthly data for dengue fever cases, gross domestic productivity (GDP) data and data on international tourist arrivals in the country. A correlation test was used to determine the correlation between the independent, dependent and moderating variables. The results reveal a significant correlation among dengue fever cases, tourist arrivals and economic growth. In 2017 and 2018, higher international tourist arrivals lead to a lower Malaysian economic growth following a dengue disease outbreak. Furthermore, dengue fever risks show a positive relationship with international tourist arrivals and vice-versa. In line with the government’s strategy to promote the Malaysian tourism industry, some prevention and recovery policies that take into consideration the number of dengue cases and economic factors should be planned.