DIGITAL TOURISM: A POSSIBLE REVIVAL STRATEGY FOR MALAYSIAN TOURISM INDUSTRY AFTER COVID-19 PANDEMIC

This conceptual paper examines the severe impact of COVID-19 on the Malaysian tourism industry and proposes Digital Tourism as a strategic solution for recovery. The researchers argue that digital transformation can serve as a "saviour" for the industry by leveraging modern technologies to restore value. The study is grounded in two theoretical frameworks: the Theory of Virtual Reality and the Theory of Digital Tourism. While literature specifically linking pandemic recovery to digital tourism was scarce at the time of writing, the paper bridges this gap by demonstrating how digital adoption creates competency and value. The findings provide critical insights for policymakers and government agencies in Malaysia for future strategic planning and management.