Kedah Expect Two-Fold Increase In Tourist Arrivals In VMY 2014

Sunset Langkawi. photo: PelanconganKini

BUKIT KAYU HITAM, Jan 1 (Bernama) -- Kedah is targeting a two-fold increase in its tourist arrivals next year as 2014 has been declared Visit Malaysia Year (VMY 2014).

Kedah state exco Aminuddin Omar said Kedah had recorded 2.8 million tourist arrivals last year through its main entry points, Langkawi International Airport, Kuah Ferry Terminal, Sultan Abdul Halim Airport and the Immigration and Customs Quarantine (ICQ) complex in Bukit Kayu Hitam.

Aminuddin said the target of 5.4 million tourist arrivals next year was achievable through proper planning, promotion and preparation, especially by Tourism Malaysia, plus the related agencies in the state and Federal.

He said though duty free Pulau Langkawi which is a popular holiday destination would be the main draw card for tourists, there would be numerous programmes and promotions to attract tourists to the mainland holiday destinations in Kedah.

"The current rapid development, peace and harmony in the country will be a main factor to attract tourists," he told reporters after welcoming tourists in conjunction with the launch of VMY 2014 at the ICQ in Bukit Kayu Hitam, today.

According to Aminuddin, the bombing incidents in Danok, Sadao and Padang Besar, in Thailand would be another factor to draw tourists to Malaysia.

He said a number of seven-star hotels have been build to cater for an increasing demand for luxury hotels while international events have also been lined up throughout 2014 to attract tourists.

Aminuddin said Kedah's VMY 2014 calendar would kick off with the Kedah Sultan's Birthday celebrations on Jan 19.
-bernama.