Melaka Expects 8 Million Tourist Arrivals In 2010

MELBOURNE, March 7 (Bernama) -- Melaka is delighted with the growth of its tourism industry and expects eight million visitors this year, surpassing the 7.5 million in 2009.

"We are becoming the powerhouse of tourism in mainland Malaysia because we have so much to offer to tourists, especially those from overseas, who are impressed with our historical attractions and our way of life," said Mohd Ariff Shah Abdullah Sani, chief executive of the Melaka International Trade Centre (MITC).

"We are also very fortunate that our chief minister, Datuk Seri Mohd Ali Rustam, supports Melaka tourism 100 per cent and is keen to personally welcome visitors to our state," he told Bernama.

"Datuk Seri understands Melaka's rich history, our historical diversity and amazing cultural mix and he encourages us to promote our wonderful tourism assets," he said.

"Tourists come to Malaysia not for its tall buildings and other modern showpieces. They are more interested in Malaysia's history, our historical houses and buildings, our heritage, dating back several hundreds years, and all these are found in Melaka.

"That's why Melaka is becoming increasing popular among visitors to Malaysia. We are a big draw-card. Tourism-wise, we are more progressive than any other state in mainland Malaysia," he added.

Mohd Ariff Shah, who attended the 2010 AIME (Asia-Pacific Incentives & Meetings Expo) here this week, said it was the first time that Melaka was taking part in the two-day event.

He said Melaka had tied up about RM2 million worth of business at the expo here.

"We expect more business to flow our way once the convention buyers return to their agencies and draw up their MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conventions and Exhibitions) programmes for the months and years ahead," he said.

"The signs from this expo have been very positive for Melaka. A lot of inquiries have come from India and China. We have met several high-profile buyers from India here in Melbourne. The Chinese are more interested in group tours," he said.

"We can accommodate any number of people who want to visit Melaka. We have about 15,000 hotel rooms and our occupancy rates are very high. We are booked out at weekends."

Mohd Ariff Shah said Melaka's new international airport could soon be a big asset to the state.

"Of course, it's very close to KLIA (KL International Airport) and this has its disadvantages, but Melaka can be an ideal landing place for Asian and other budget carriers, bringing regional visitors to Melaka and Malaysia.

"Australia and New Zealand are also important markets and, because of our close relationships with these two countries, we plan to tap into these markets," he said.