PHOTO: Malaysia was flying high when the country hosted the ASEAN Tourism Forum in Borneo. (Courtesy of ASEAN Tourism Forum)

The Malaysia Tourist Promotion Board went into 2014 with some optimism. In early January, on Kuala Lumpur’s Merdeka Square they unveiled Visit Malaysia Year (VMY) 2014 with fireworks. That celebration was followed by a buoyant hosting of the ASEAN Tourism Forum in Borneo a few days later. Little did they know that the fireworks were only just beginning in what has been a crisis year with a double barrel attack on its flag carrier Malaysia Airlines.

In 2013, Malaysia drew about 25 million visitors earning $20 billion in revenues. And as officials launched Visit Malaysia Year, a goal was set for 28 million visitors and earnings of $24 billion. Then came the loss of Malaysian Airlines jet 370 in March followed by the recent shooting down of MH17. We caught up with Ahmad Johanif Mohd Ali, the Vice President of Tourism Malaysia stationed in New York City.

TravelPulse: Do you think that this incident hurts Malaysia’s tourism brand?

Ahmad Johanif Mohd Ali: This was a tragic terrorist attack that unfortunately involved innocent people. We have seen nothing but overwhelming support from the travel trade industry and local community. We believe that the public can see that MH17 is an incredibly unfortunate and tragic incident, but is not the fault of the airliner or the destination. Just as this attack had nothing to do with the Netherlands, it also should not affect Malaysia as a destination.

TP: Did the other Malaysian Airline calamity have a discernible impact?

AA: Fortunately we have not seen a drop in arrivals from the United States or Canada. Based on reports for the first quarter of the year, we saw a 10.8 percent growth in arrivals from the United States and a 9.5 percent growth in arrivals from Canada. We cannot express how much we appreciate support and love for our beautiful country.

TP: Have your supplier partners seen a dip in bookings?

AA: From this event, some tour operators have seen very few cancelations and postponed trips, the vast majority have told us the business is normal. Tour operators have shared with us that most of the calls have been questions and confirmation of safety for travelers.

TP: Is there anything you’d like to say to the readers of TravelPulse who are both travelers and travel agents about the safety of a vacation in Malaysia?

AA: Malaysia is a beautiful country and overall very peaceful destination with a diverse culture with an array of activities for everyone. It's a place where you can explore your sense of adventure or soak in the sun and relax. We have been incredibly touched by the support the local community and the tourism community have shown for Malaysia.