GEORGE TOWN – Penang’s tourism authorities are keen to promote museums as places of interest, complementing the traditional range of attractions in the state in order to raise the state’s stature in the tourism sector.
State executive councillor for tourism Yeoh Soon Hin said that museums help to provide focal references for the historical, cultural, commercial and artistic aspects of the state.
So, it is important to recognise the role of museums in the tourism context, he said after a press conference on an upcoming exhibition titled ‘Dari Gabenor ke TYT’.
The exhibition will be held at the Dewan Sri Pinang here from July onwards to mark the 73rd birthday of the Yang di-Pertua Negri Tun Ahmad Fuzi Abdul Razak.
The exhibition will also be brought to district public libraries in Kepala Batas, Butterworth, Bukit Mertajam, Nibong Tebal and Balik Pulau.
It will highlight the achievements of all the state’s governors from the colonial era to the present.
Yeoh said that the exhibition will expose the public to the functions and role of the governor.
Penang Museum board director Haryany Mohamed said that some of the former governors’ personal items will be showcased at the exhibition.
“Even those who have passed on, their families have allowed the state to showcase some of their belongings and memorabilia,” she said.
Touching on the matter of easing travel restrictions between Malaysia and Singapore, Yeoh reiterated the state’s intention for a vaccinated travel lane (VTL) arrangement with the island republic.
He said that Penang International Airport (PIA) is set to welcome flights under the Penang– Singapore VTL.
According to Yeoh, Malaysia Airports Bhd has conducted the necessary spatial planning in PIA to ensure smooth facilitation of the Penang–Singapore flights.
“The spatial planning included designating a dedicated aerobridge and airport apron for passengers to disembark,” he said.
“Meanwhile, PIA has also established a medical laboratory for swab testing purposes,” he said after visiting PIA to inspect the final stages and progress of its VTL preparations.
Yeoh added that passengers who test negative upon screening after arrival will be allowed to enter Penang, whereas passengers who test positive will be sent to the special isolation area for further measures.
He emphasised that the Penang government remains committed in curbing the virus’ spread to ensure that the VTL scheme can help in the state’s economic recovery. – The Vibes, March 1, 2022
