Development plan to renew Langkawi as a tourist attraction

Datuk Seri Dr Ng Yen Yen is happy with the Government’s plan to renew and strengthen Langkawi as it is one of the “pearls” of the country. 

The Tourism Minister said continuous efforts were needed to further improve the island as a tourist attraction. “I hope the move to set up a park rangers unit will follow the footsteps of countries like Canada and Australia, where rangers are well-informed and given clear authority to take charge of the parks,” she said.

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak, in tabling Budget 2012, announced that the Langkawi Five-Year Tourism Development Master Plan would be launched to promote tourist arrivals and domestic tourism. Among the initiatives are restructuring the Langkawi Development Authority, setting up a park rangers unit and upgrading museums, beaches and small businesses.

Dr Ng also lauded the Government’s proposal to give pioneer status to hotel operators investing in new four- and five-star hotels. “We need more high-end hotels as we project that the country needs 8,600 five-star rooms and 30,000 four-star rooms by 2020 to attract more high-spending tourists,” she said.

Malaysian Tourist Guides Council chairman Jimmy Leong Wie Kong described the Government’s move to redevelop Langkawi as a “wise move”. “The island has an abundance of potential, especially in eco-tourism. They could build a theme park that co-exists with the environment and encourages eco-awareness,” he said.

Malaysian Association of Tour and Travel Agencies (MATTA) deputy president John Tan said he was disappointed that no incentives were outlined for travel and tour operators this time.

-thestar online.