Monday 22 April 2019

Orang Asli reps to be included in Tourism Malaysia, Kraftangan Malaysia BOD

The Tourism, Arts and Culture Ministry will appoint Orang Asli representatives
to be part of the board of directors (BOD) in Tourism Malaysia and Kraftangan Malaysia. (NSTP/LUQMAN HAKIM ZUBIR)

PUTRAJAYA: The Tourism, Arts and Culture Ministry will appoint Orang Asli representatives to be part of the board of directors (BOD) in Tourism Malaysia and Kraftangan Malaysia.

Its minister Datuk Mohamaddin Ketapi said this was done by taking into account eco-tourism products and quality crafts produced by the Orang Asli community.

He said the move was in line with Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad's call, wanting more Orang Asli craft products to be promoted and sold at tourist areas.

"This is what the prime minister raised in his speech during the 2019 Orang Asli National Convention today," said Mohamaddin in a statement.

In this respect, the minister said, the inclusion of Orang Asli representatives in the board of directors would be done as soon as possible.

"Further discussions will be held among relevant agencies to identify the board of director posts that can be filled by the Orang Asli.

"Having them to be part of the promotion drive and in development planning with these agencies will secure the Orang Asli's economy as what the prime minister wanted.

"We need to have Orang Asli representatives with us so that we can exchange ideas and market their craft products in a holistic manner."

Mohammaddin added the ministry focused on eco-tourism and craft products because they were sought after by tourists.

"The tourists are not here to see the `concrete jungle' because they have abundant of such attractions in their own countries especially in Europe.

"They are here to admire and enjoy our tropical forests and the Orang Asli are the experts of such surroundings and their settlements are located at hilly areas, which will make it the best eco-tourism product," he said.
-nst online.

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