THE proposal by several non-governmental organisations (NGOs) to change the name of some popular destinations in the country, including Port Dickson would likely affect tourist arrivals in that area.
Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture, Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing said a new name would confuse tourists, especially from abroad, because they would assume it was a new destination, when it had actually been around for a long time.
According to him, there were many other more important things that needed to be given attention than changing the names of certain destinations.
"From a tourism perspective, in my opinion, changing the name is unnecessary. There are many more important things that can be done.
"Later, tourists from foreign countries will be confused because they would think it is a new destination and many not be interested in going there, not realising it is actually their old favourite," he told reporters in Seremban as reported by Sinar Harian.
He was commenting on the proposal of several NGOs to change the names of some tourism destinations, including Port Dickson to eliminate the names of colonial relics.
However, Tiong said it was up to the state government to evaluate the proposal and if there was no need, the existing name should be retained.
"Although we can announce the name change on social media, not everyone will read it," he said.
Earlier Negeri Sembilan Menteri Besar, Datuk Seri Aminuddin Harun, slammed the NGOs who were allegedly trying to change the name of Port Dickson to Pantai Dermaga to erase the identity of the British colonial legacy.
He reportedly said that the parties concerned should be open to the name Port Dickson which has its own identity and is already well known. - September 23, 2025
