GEORGE TOWN – Penang has declared its intention to complement, rather than compete with, other major inbound tourism destinations in the country, as the leisure sector begins its recovery phase following the reopening of the economy.
State tourism exco Yeoh Soon Hin said that in view of the challenges associated with stimulating the growth of tourism, it is best that the various top destinations in Malaysia work together rather than compete against each other.
Following the industry’s shutdown due to the Covid-19 pandemic, the travel industry at present is suffering from complications such as an acute shortage of workers and rising living costs.
Yeoh identified other major inbound tourism destinations such as Langkawi (Kedah), Melaka, Sabah, and Sarawak.
“We need to instil confidence among travellers, so it is best to just work together.
“And if there are political differences, let us cast them aside," said Yeoh after launching the “Welcome to Penang” campaign to greet foreign and local tourists..
HIs remarks drew applause from the private travel trade groups present.
Among them were the Malaysian Association of Tours and Travel Agents Penang chapter chairman Vergis Mathews, state Malaysian Association of Hotels chapter chairman Tony Goh, Penang Global Tourism chief executive officer Ooi Chok Yan, Tourism Malaysia northern region director Shahrul Aman, and Association of Tourism Attractions Penang chairman Ch’ng Huck Then.
Yeoh also said that Penang is willing to work with Kedah even though its menteri besar (Datuk Seri Muhammad Sanusi Md Nor) has been critical of its neighbouring state over issues related to water supply and foreign direct investments.
“In the end, we want tourism to benefit all,” said Yeoh.
He also pointed out that Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow would lead a delegation to visit Melaka, which enjoys a joint listing with Penang as a Unesco world heritage site.
He noted that Melaka Chief Minister Datuk Seri Sulaiman Md Ali had recently extended an invitation to Chow after both state governments met here to discuss propositions for the tourism industry.
Yeoh will also accompany Penang Governor Tun Ahmad Fuzi Abdul Razak on a study tour in Langkawi following an invite from the Langkawi Development Authority next week, as Penang cements more collaborations with other states to promote tourism.
The state, he said, will also diversify its range of attractions from gastronomy, heritage, and ecotourism to culture and arts.
The diversification plans, he said, includes the upgrading of several government quarters to house museums and art centres.
Yeoh also disclosed that the state will continue to focus on promoting tourism in the new districts of Balik Pulau and Seberang Prai.
He added that The Sacred Heart Church in Prai would also be upgraded as it is one of the oldest places of worship for Christians in the state. – The Vibes, June 17, 2022
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