KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA: Malaysians should visit more local destinations during their weekends and leave period instead of travelling abroad.

Tourism Minister Datuk Seri Azalina Othman said with local airlines providing low airfare rates to local destinations the choices for domestic holidays were plenty.

"The ministry is always looking for ways to promote domestic tourism and now with Malaysia Airlines and AirAsia offering low inbound travel fares, the time is just right," she said at the ministry's monthly assembly and the excellent service awards ceremony yesterday.

"Why waste so much money overseas when we can get everything here?

"I'm glad that some people love to travel but am disappointed that they choose other places besides Malaysia."

She said workers especially should take the opportunity to visit interesting places in the country to avoid a stressful lifestyle.

A total of 98 staff of the ministry and Tourism Board Malaysia received awards and RM1,000 each for their outstanding performance and contribution.

She also thanked her ministry's secretary-general Datuk Dr Victor Wee, who is retiring tomorrow.