Special Iranian deals up for grabs

KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysians can expect special deals and attractive packages during the MATTA fair in September for trips to Iran.

The Iranian government is working aggressively to boost its local tourism industry and to dispel the misconception that Iran is a dangerous place to visit, said Iranian Third Counsellor of Investment Behzad Khakour. “Much of this is driven by fear of widespread violence that was sensationalised and distorted by some sections of the media. “Our country is safe and we want Malaysians to experience our unique culture and visit tourists spots in Teheran, Isfahan and Shiraz,” he said during a joint press conference orga nised by MATTA and the Embassy of Iran to foster closer tourism ties between the two countries yesterday.

The next MATTA fair will be held from Sept 7 to 9 at the Putra World Trade Centre (PWTC).

Behzad estimated that some 135,000 Iranians visited Malaysia each year and hoped that the number of Malaysians visiting Iran would increase this year. “At the moment, Malaysian citizens still need to apply for travelling visas and it only takes two days to be approved,” he said.

MATTA fair treasurer Razali Md Sham said some 50 Malaysian companies have agreed to collaborate with its Iranian counterparts to provide the best deals for Malaysian travellers to visit Iran. “Iran has so many beautiful historical cities, mosques with exquisite designs, world-class hotels and infrastructure. “Most importantly, it is safe for tourists to travel there,” he said.

Razali added that many people did not realise that travellers from all over the world came to Iran to go ice-skiing during the year end. “The peak season is in March which is the new year for Iranians as well as during summer which is in June,” he said.

-thestar online.