Work with ministry to promote events, NGOs told

KUALA LUMPUR: Non-governmental organisations must work with travel agencies and the Tourism Ministry to promote tourism products abroad, said minister Datuk Seri Dr Ng Yen Yen. She said NGOs organised many cultural events and activities that could be promoted at international level but the ministry was not informed about them. “We need to know six months ahead to promote it to the world through the media like television or radio,” she said. Dr Ng added that the cooperation would enable the ministry and tour agencies to strengthen the country's tourism products and include the activities in the tourism calendar. She also suggested that organisations compile data and statistics on local and foreign tourists who attend the events. “The data will give an indication on how strong these tourism products are,” she said, adding that the ministry was looking forward to such a collaboration. She also urged tour and travel agencies to improve the variety of packages offered to foreign tourists. “We hope these agencies will be more creative, innovative and aggressive to introduce and offer new packages,” she said. Earlier, Dr Ng witnessed the Thean Hou temple successfully making its way into the Malaysia Book of Records (MBR) for setting up the “biggest outdoor silk lantern and highest iron tower” during Chinese New Year. Also present were Selangor and Federal Territory Hainan Association president Datuk Woo Ser Chai and MBR founder Datuk Danny Ooi. -thestar online.