Tour operators to be educated on social media

KUALA LUMPUR: Social media will be part of the Tourism Ministry's education programme for tour operators and travel guides.


Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ng Yen Yen said social media must be included to ensure the travel industry is up to date with current trends. “When they apply for a licence to operate, they need to undergo a two-day compulsory training course while those who want to renew their licences have to attend a one-day continuous education course.

“So, the social media aspect will be included in both these courses as it is important in improving the services and products provided to tourists,” she said after launching the two-day 2nd Malaysia International Tourism Bloggers Conference and Awards 2013 at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre yesterday.

Dr Ng pointed out that the ministry had come out strong in utilising social media in its promotional activities with the Cuti-Cuti Malaysia's Facebook page receiving 1,365,925 likes.

On another matter, Dr Ng gave an assurance that Sabah was not affected by the Lahad Datu siege, and that tourists could still travel there. Dr Ng added that she received news from Malaysia Airlines that tourists are still coming but were changing their destination to places like Langkawi instead of Sabah.

In a travel advisory posted on the Sabah Tourism Board's website, its general manager and board director Datuk Irene Benggon Charuruks said all islands in the state are open and safe to visit.
-thestar online.