Tourism Malaysia realigning programmes to attract tourists

 

KUALA LUMPUR: Tourism Malaysia is realigning its programmes to reposition Malaysia back on the world travel destination map.

Tourism Malaysia strategic planning senior director Syed Yahya Syed Othman said these measures were necessary as the country had revised its expected tourist arrivals to 4.5 million visitors with RM11.1 billion in revenue for this year.

"Our focus is on reviving the country's economy through domestic tourism and promoting the country as one of the top holiday destinations.

"We have been actively promoting domestic tourism through various campaigns in an effort to encourage Malaysians to travel for the local hospitality sector," he said at the launch of 'World Top Gourmet Awards 2022' at Berjaya Times Square Hotel in Jalan Imbi.

Present were Sunway Group director Puan Sri Susan Cheah, World Gourmet president Peggy Chong and 'International Celebrity Chef (Eating-For-Health) 2022' chef Daniel Green.

Syed Yahya was confident that events like the 'World Top Gourmet Awards 2022' would stimulate the economy by inciting growth of the food and beverage sector, as well as promote cross learning, networking, and economic opportunities for the industry operators.

"The hospitality, food and beverages industry can contribute to boost Malaysia's tourism by providing authentic, fusion and fine dining experiences in the region, making Malaysia a top holiday destination domestically and internationally.

"Hence, hosting the 'World Top Gourmet Awards' can contribute significantly to the tourism industry and introduce Malaysia's delicious local and world-class cuisine to people all around the world, " he said.

Syed Yahya said the event would not be limited to just a culinary award.

"It will honour restaurants for their cuisine, service and dining experiences. It would also give the country's unique neighborhood eateries and enterprising business models the recognition they deserve as they play a vital role in being the spark of interest in Malaysia's unique culture, tourism and heritage," he said.

Meanwhile, Chong said Malaysia, with its multicultural roots, was a food paradise with a rich melting pot of culinary heritage.

She said there was overwhelming response for the awards from industry players, including restaurants and chefs.

"We aim to present 80 awards to restaurants and chefs on Oct 27, including a total of 60 titles for restaurants and 20 titles for chefs and individuals - in appreciation to those who have made significant efforts and contributions to the industry.

"The awards will inspire and be an impetus for the industry to stimulate growth and interest, while promoting cross-learning, networking, and economic opportunities among industry players," she said.

She said the global Covid-19 pandemic had drastically affected the industry severely with disruptions to the supply chain.

"The challenges made them consolidate their businesses, transform or reinvent themselves via new digital marketing channels to survive and grow stronger with a new breed of enterprising operators emerging - bringing in new concepts, ideas and business models," said Chong.

-nst online.