GEORGE TOWN – Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow has called on the travel trade community to fully digitalise their operations to compete in the global travel marketplace.
Bearing in mind that the state’s hotels are recovering well from Covid-19’s aftermath, Chow said that the next step is to embrace technology to enhance the visitor experience.
“Technologies such as virtual tours allow travellers to explore Penang’s offerings before even setting foot on its shores.
“There must be more emphasis on creating a digital experience for visitors,” said Chow when addressing the Malaysian Association of Hotels (MAH) Penang Chapter Biennial Dinner 2023 at St Giles Wembley Hotel recently.
The dinner, themed Mingle and Jingle 4, was an opportunity for the hoteliers to be feted for a change, while providing networking opportunities for those present.
Chow also stressed that sustainability can no longer be an afterthought.
“It must be included in every facet of our industry, Eco-friendly practices, responsible tourism, and conservation efforts are not just buzzwords but essential components of our roadmap ahead,” he said.
“Simultaneously, we must also focus on nurturing talent, as well as providing training and educational opportunities to ensure that our workforce is globally competitive.”
Newly minted state executive councillor in charge of tourism and creative economy, Wong Hon Wai, made his first official public debut at the event, saying that under the leadership of Chow, he wants all stakeholders to work together to enhance tourism here.
Direct chartered flights, better overseas marketing
Meanwhile, MAH president Datin Christina Toh said she is happy to be back in her hometown, and commended the state’s vibrant tourism and hospitality industry.
To further add value to an already booming industry, Toh said that direct chartered flights and better overseas marketing can be considered to boost arrivals.
Toh's MAH counterpart, the Penang chapter chairperson Tony Goh, said that the industry’s recovery process in the state has been a collective effort.
He also singled out Yeoh Soon Hin, Wong's predecessor, for his strong leadership, especially during the challenging Covid-19 period.
Industry insiders said that although tourism is reflecting signs of recovery, it continues to struggle in terms of getting well-trained workers and a resistance to change, brought by technology and a tendency to lure luxury tourists at the expense of budget travellers. – The Vibes, August 20, 2023
