GEORGE TOWN – The impact of the conditional movement control order (CMCO) in Kuala Lumpur, Selangor and Putrajaya can be felt states away, with Penang’s tourism sector, now dependent on local visitors, taking a huge hit.
A survey of popular tourist spots in Batu Feringghi and here found them to be eerily quiet.
Lebuh Armenian and some popular nasi kandar restaurants, where tourists previously flocked, are largely deserted.
Laksa trader Aminah Siddek, 40, said she has seen a decline in revenue since the CMCO in the Klang Valley took effect two weeks back.
“Previously, on the weekends, this beach would see an increase in visitors, especially those from Kuala Lumpur, Selangor and Putrajaya. But since the CMCO came into force, the number of visitors can be counted with one hand.”
On Wednesday, Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow said the movement curbs have hurt domestic tourism, which Penang has been relying on for recovery since Covid-19 struck and ground global travel to a halt.
Tourism exco Yeoh Soon Hin said the state government is rolling out travel packages through partnerships and engagement with various sectors, with the offers listed on penangtraveldeals.com.
“The Penang government is also holding a Responsible Tourism campaign to remind everyone not to be complacent and to always comply with the SOPs when leaving the house, even for official business or travel.” – The Vibes, November 2, 2020
