GEORGE TOWN – Penang’s domestic tourism sector, which was dampened by the Covid-19 pandemic, is now back on track with the presence of local tourists vacationing with their families on weekends.
A survey by The Vibes around George Town today found people returning to patronise some of the popular locations in the city while adhering to the standard operating procedures (SOPs).
Mohamed Almi Seeni Mohamed, the operator of one of the state’s most famous drinks, Ais Tingkap, said that he had to double his ingredients starting today after seeing the influx of visitors since last Wednesday.
“We are happy to see the situation returning to normal but at the same time, we must ensure that every visitor complies with the SOPs and is fully vaccinated,” he said.
The 100-year-old stall, which is strategically located at Chowrasta Market, offers a must-try beverage for both locals and tourists alike. The thirst-quenching drink is made with rose syrup, basil seeds, getah anggur, coconut flesh, and coconut rose. It is then topped with shaved ice.
Meanwhile, Chowrasta Market traders also heaved a sigh of relief as they were visited by tourists shopping for handicrafts there.
Trader Edmund Saw, 39, said that his sales have been getting encouraging responses since the government allowed interstate travel on Monday.
“Now, there are only sales results. Before this, wanting to get RM100 a day was difficult. It was also difficult to pay employees' salaries.
“I hope Penang’s tourism industry can return to the way it used to be because this is our only source of income,” he said.
Local tourist Dina Nora Amalys Mohd Nasir, 22, said she decided to come to Penang because she missed the food and scenic beaches.
Dina, who came from Shah Alam, Selangor, said that she is aware of the influx of tourists, which is expected to increase significantly this weekend.
“I came to Penang with a friend yesterday. But we will go home tomorrow because we know many will start travelling today.”
On Monday, state Tourism and Creative Economy Committee chairman Yeoh Soon Hin said that the state is ready to welcome as many as 50,000 visitors this weekend.
Penang Mayor Datuk Yew Tung Seang has since announced that the Penang Island City Council has frozen the leave of 78% of its staff in anticipation of the tourist influx. – The Vibes, October 15, 2021
