Tourism Malaysia Kicks Off First Roadshow In India For 2023 With MATTA

 

CHENNAI, 31st January 2023 – Tourism Malaysia kicks off its first roadshow in India this year, alongside with the Malaysian Association of Tour & Travel Agents (MATTA) across five cities from 30th January to 7th February 2023. The roadshow starts in the city of Chennai, followed by Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Mumbai and Ahmedabad.

The mission is led by Mr. Mohd Amirul Rizal Abdul Rahim, Senior Deputy Director of International Promotion (Asia & Africa) Tourism Malaysia, together with the Malaysian Association of Tour & Travel Agents (MATTA) and supported by 30 organisations, comprises a state tourism body, an airline, six (6) hotel/resort operators, twenty (20) travel agents and two (2) product owners.

The Malaysian sellers and Indian buyers participated in the business matching session and networking dinner, apart from seminars focusing on leisure and niche tourism markets such as meeting & incentives groups (MICE), wedding, golfing, and family fun activities.

India stands and has been one of the top market sources for Malaysia and has contributed 735,309 (+22.5%) arrivals and RM3.6 billion (+33.4%) tourism expenditure in 2019. Apart from its objective to ensure Malaysia remains to stand out on top of the minds among Indians, the roadshow aims to provide a platform for the industry community to steer the tourism sector to greater heights.

“The pandemic has been tremendously challenging for us, but ever since the reopening of our international border in April 2022, I am glad to let you know that we have welcomed more than 7 million international tourist arrivals in 2022. Hence, we are optimistic about achieving higher numbers in 2023 where we target to welcome 15.6 million international tourist arrivals with MYR47.6 billion in tourism receipts.”, said Dato' Zainuddin Abdul Wahab, Director General of Tourism Malaysia.

He added, “Tourism Malaysia is ramping up its marketing efforts globally, including raising Malaysia’s profile in the India market. We do hope this market will continue to play the important role in getting this number”.

“MATTA has successfully organised sales missions to India since 2016, in order to collaborate with our counterparts and promote Malaysia following our recent tourist developments; we believed that this determination, accompanied by an effective promotional message, will improve the cross-promotional connection and create a stronger awareness of the India travel markets,” said MATTA President, Datuk Tan Kok Liang.

MATTA embarks on this continuous effort as an ideal venue for showcasing and promoting Malaysia’s new destinations and our multi-racial cultures, which will contribute to boost tourist arrivals from India while creating more business opportunities for the travel agent members.

India remains an important market for Malaysia. In terms of connectivity, there are currently 169 flights per week from India to Malaysia via Malaysia Airlines, Batik Air (formerly known as Malindo Air), AirAsia, and IndiGo.

Presently Malaysia has recently launched a new eVISA Multiple Entry Visa (MEV) facility consists of fly & cruise, wedding, medical treatment and business visitors purposes for Indian tourists that comes with a six-month validity, a 30-day length of stay (LOS) and costs only INR1,000.00. The visa can be applied online through https://malaysiavisa.imi.gov.my/evisa/evisa.jsp.

-Tourism Malaysia.

Nautical tourism has the potential to bring visitors to Sabah, says Joniston

 

Sabah Assistant Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister Datuk Joniston Bangkuai (left) discussing with Sail Malaysia led by managing director Sazli Kamal Basha (second right) on Sail Malaysia Passage to the East 2023 Yacht Rally and Sabah's potential as a sailing destination.
-Pic courtesy of STB

KOTA KINABALU: Sabah's picturesque coastline has great potential for nautical tourists to prolong their stay in the state which can generate economic spillover.

State Assistant Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister Datuk Joniston Bangkuai said Sabah, which is blessed with abundance of waterways, should tap the recreational activities of the nautical tourism.

He suggested that Sail Malaysia to make Sabah as a benchmark to organise their future sailing event and make the state a destination of choice for sailors.

Joniston said this during a courtesy call by Sail Malaysia managing director Sazli Kamal Basha in his office at Sabah Tourism Board (STB) here yesterday.

Joniston who is also STB chairman was briefed by Sazli on Sail Malaysia Passage to the East 2023 Yacht Rally and to discuss Sabah's potential as a sailing destination.

"I think we should develop Sabah into a vibrant boating culture because we have received many locals and foreigners participating in recreational boating activities.

"Sabah's picturesque coastline, pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and stunning landscapes, combined with good marines for boat docking, provide a visually appealing sailing experience," said Joniston.

He said the state's niche appeal to host sailing and boating exposition can draw boating enthusiasts and create revenue for local shops, restaurants, hotels, and other service industries.

"The success in hosting the events can enhance Sabah's reputation as a nautical tourism destination.

"And the events can generate temporary and permanent employment opportunities for the local community," he said.

Joniston believed the events could also spur investment in local infrastructure like marinas, piers, and boating facilities.

Meanwhile, Sazli said Sabah offers stunning bays on par with other well-known sailing destinations for mooring boats or yachts.

This, he said, is the case with Marudu Bay, which is accessible to rural destinations where sailors can stay longer and explore the surrounding attractions as well as the local community.

According to statistics provided by Sail Malaysia, the passage to the east yacht rally saw 386 participants between 2008 and 2022, including 24 repeat participants.

The list of rally stops in Sabah includes Kota Kinabalu, Kudat, Karakit, Pulau Silingan, Sandakan, Kinabatangan, Pulau Tambisan, Lahad Datu, Silam, Bohey Dulang, and Tawau.

The participants were from Australia, Norway, New Zealand, the Netherlands, the United States, France, Sweden, South Africa, the United Kingdom, and Switzerland, among others.

"This means the rally is a conduit to bring new arrivals to the Sabah. We see a great potential pot because I believe many wish to come here to sail or go boating," Sazli remarked.

According to statistics, the average tourist stays for a week, but those participating in the Sail Malaysia programme typically stay for two years.

-nst online.

Jom 'Travel Sama-Sama' Keretapi Tanah Melayu Berhad

 

Bercuti bersama teman dan nikmati diskaun 25% dengan masukkan kod promo Februari 𝗧𝗥𝗔𝗩𝗘𝗟𝟮𝗦𝗔𝗠𝗔𝗦𝗔𝗠𝗔.

Minimum 4 orang dalam satu transaksi pembelian. Rujuk terma dan syarat penuh di https://bit.ly/3XYnLtI

Dapatkan tiket anda melalui aplikasi KTMB Mobile, Kios Tiket atau https://bit.ly/3kWOQv5 untuk pembelian Go Cashless yang lebih mudah dan cepat.

-KTM Berhad.

FTD Special @ Cruise Tasik Putrajaya & Marina Putrajaya ( 1 ~ 14 Februari 2023 )

 

Promosi tiket Cruise Tasik Putrajaya sempena Sambutan Hari Wilayah Persekutuan 2023. Harga promosi dari 1 Februari hingga 14 Februari 2023.  

Sila lah bercuti ke Putrajaya sambil menyusuri Kota Putrajaya dengan Cruise Tasik Putrajaya

Promosi Beli 3 Percuma 1 bersempena dengan sambutan Hari Wilayah Persekutuan yang akan berlangsung dari 1 Februari 2023 hingga 14 Februari 2023.

Antara Terma & Syarat

1. Promosi hanya untuk produk Bot Persiaran (Cruise) dan Perahu Dondang Sayang sahaja.

2. Penebusan promosi Percuma 1 adalah mengikut harga tiket yang lebih rendah atau harga tiket yang sama dan penebusan hanya boleh digunapakai pada hari dan waktu yang sama.

3. Lain-lain terma dan syarat boleh rujuk di kaunter.

-Perbadanan Putrajaya.

MATTA targets RM400mil sales turnover for upcoming fair

 

MATTA secretary general Nigel Wong (second from right) said this is double the sales secured during the MATTA Fair held in 2019 of RM210 million. STR/AMIRUDIN SAHIB.

KUALA LUMPUR: The Malaysian Association of Tour and Travel Agents (MATTA) targets to hit RM400 million in sales turnover during the upcoming MATTA Fair.

MATTA secretary general Nigel Wong said this is double the sales secured during the MATTA Fair held in 2019 of RM210 million.

"We are comparing this year's target to the one that was held pre-Covid. Last year, the sales turnover was RM40 million.

"We are expecting the higher sales on the back of the anticipated recovery in the global travel and tourism sectors, driven mainly by China's revenge travel," he told reporters during the MATTA Fair briefing here today.

According to the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC), the industry was expected to achieve an annual growth rate of 5.8 per cent between 2022 and 2032.

This was on the back of the expansion of 2.7 per cent of the global gross domestic product (GDP).

Meanwhile, organising chairman Rocky Kho said MATTA expects some 250,000 visitors during the fair, from 101,789 visitors in Sept 2019 to 43,996 visitors in Sept 2022.

"This event will not only be larger than previous years, but it will also feature more exciting destinations.

"For example, Saudi Arabia is the up-and-coming player in this game. It is now one of our featured destinations to visit," he said.

The MATTA Fair will be held from March 17 until March 19 at a new venue - the Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre (MITEC).

MATTA sponsors and partners include Tourism Philippines, Tourism Perak, Taiwan Tourism, Malaysia Aviation Group, Royal Caribbean International, and AmLeisure Media.

MATTA is the largest national travel Association in Malaysia, with more than 2,500 members and growing, comprising local tour and travel agents and overseas affiliations.

-nst online.

Taman Rahsia Perlis seperti ‘alam fantasi’

 

PADANG BESAR: Sebaik sahaja kaki melangkah keluar dari pintu Gua Kelam sejauh 370 meter, pe­ngunjung pastinya terpegun melihat sebuah taman yang cu­kup indah seolah-olah se­perti berada di ‘alam fantasi’ atau ‘ka­ya­ngan’.

Disitulah terletak Taman Rah­­­sia Perlis atau Secret Garden yang kedudukannya di te­ngah hutan belantara de­ngan me­ngalir sungai di tengah­nya untuk berekreasi selain lanskap­nya yang mempesona dengan pemandangan alam semula ja­di seperti bukit-bukau, su­ngai yang mengalir tenang dan tum­bu­han indah.

Taman tersebut diselenggara dengan cukup rapi dan cantik sebagai nilai tambah di Gua Kelam yang merupakan salah satu lokasi pelancongan popular di negeri ini.

Taman yang indah itu bukan fantasi, sebaliknya ia memang wujud di tengah belantara. Itulah keunikan Taman Rahsia Perlis atau ‘Secret Garden of Perlis’ yang terletak dalam kawasan paling hujung Taman Rekreasi Gua Kelam itu.

Kebelakangan ini, lokasi ber­kenaan mula tular di media-media sosial sekali gus kembali menjadi tumpuan pengunjung ke situ dan difahamkan sempena cuti Tahun Baharu Cina, Gua Kelam diserbu pelancong dari seluruh negara.

Seorang pengunjung dari Jitra, Kedah, Siti Norliayana Rozi, 32, berkata, pemandangan dan suasana di taman berkenaan cukup memukau seolah-olah berada di kayangan

Katanya, cukup berbaloi menelusuri Gua Kelam seterusnya menikmati keindahan taman berkenaan yang terletak di kawasan paling hujung lokasi pelancongan tersebut.

Ujarnya, di hadapan taman ber­kenaan, terdapat sungai yang mengalir tenang dengan air­nya cukup jernih di bawah rimbunan pokok yang menjadi tumpuan aktiviti riadah.

“Taman berkenaan tular di media sosial dan melihat taman tersebut membuatkan kami tertarik untuk berkunjung ke sini. Ternyata taman tersebut sangat indah dan membuatkan kami menikmati suasana cukup mendamaikan.

“Tumbuhan dan bunga yang terdapat di situ juga cukup cantik dan unik. Di Perlis sejak akhir-akhirnya mula menjadi tarikan pelancong yang ingin menikmati keindahan alam semula jadi,” katanya.

Seorang lagi pengunjung yang hanya ingin dikenali sebagai Chuah, 63, dari Kulim, Kedah, berkata, dia mengambil kesempatan berkunjung di lokasi-lokasi indah di Perlis terma­suk Gua Kelam yang menyajikan pemandangan indah.

“Malah, taman yang terdapat di hujung pintu gua tersebut juga sangat cantik yang memberi 1,001 ketenangan dan kedamaian,” katanya.

-utusan online.

Karnival MAIWP 2023 @ Dataran Merdeka Kuala Lumpur ( 28 & 29 Januari 2023 )

 

Jom ke Karnival MAIWP pada 28 dan 29 Januari 2023 bertempat di Dataran Merdeka Kuala Lumpur.

Karnival MAIWP Tahun 2023 bertemakan Empowering and Enterprising - Towards 50 Years MAIWP of Excellence.

> 100 booth yang akan menghimpunkan usahawan asnaf, influencer, selebriti, Institusi Pendidikan MAIWP, rakan korporat MAIWP dalam satu program berskala besar.

> MAIWP RUN yang dijangka akan disertai oleh seramai 10,000 orang peserta daripada semua lapisan masyarakat.

> Majlis Walimatul Urus Perdana yang gilang gemilang ini bertemakan Nostalgia Adat Istiadat Kegemilangan Melayu Islam melibatkan 100 pasangan pengantin di kalangan asnaf.

> Karnival PENDIDIKAN MAIWP

-Majlis Agama Islam Wilayah Persekutuan.

Tourism Malaysia bagged the bronze award at the 2022 Putra Brand Awards

 

13 January 2023 - Tourism Malaysia bagged the bronze award for the Transportation, Travel & Tourism category at the 2022 Putra Brand Awards held at One World Hotel, Petaling Jaya.

This award is also labeled as the people’s choice awards and the most prestigious brand award in Malaysia.

Established in 2010 by the Association of Accredited Advertising Agents Malaysia (4As) and Malaysia's Most Valuable Brands (MMVB), it aims to acknowledge brand building as a vital business investment based on customer preference.

-Tourism Malaysia.

Kawasan pelancongan, pendakian di Dabong kembali beroperasi 1 Februari

 

Mohd. Hariff Ghazali (dua dari kiri) merasmikan Sesi Libat Urus bersama Agensi dan Jabatan Kerajaan serta Penggiat Pelancongan Dabong Tahun 2023 di Pejabat MDD, Kuala Krai, Kelantan
hari ini-UTUSAN/ROSMIZAN RESDI

KUALA KRAI: Lokasi pelancongan dan pendakian di Dabong dekat sini akan kembali beroperasi pada 1 Februari ini selepas ditutup beberapa bulan semasa Monsun Timur Laut (MTL).

Yang Dipertua Majlis Daerah Dabong, Mohd. Hariff Ghazali berkata, pembukaan semula itu kawasan rekreasi itu melibatkan kawasan di kompleks Gua Ikan, Lata Kertas, Sungai Kenerong dan beberapa pusat pelancongan lain.

Menurutnya, pembukaan lokasi-lokasi pelancongan itu dilihat mampu meningkatkan semula kehadiran pelancong di Dabong sekali gus mencapai sasaran seramai 100,000 pelancong sepanjang tahun ini.

“Dabong menerima hampir 80,000 pengunjung pada bulan Mac hingga November tahun lalu.

“Sehubungan itu, kita yakin kawasan pelancongan di Dabong akan terus berkembang memandangkan jenama ‘Train To Dabong’ sudah dikenali dan menjadi fenomena penting untuk ekopelancongan negeri,” katanya selepas Sesi Libat Urus Bersama Agensi, Jabatan Kerajaan Dan Penggiat Pelancongan Dabong Tahun 2023 di Pejabat MDD di sini hari ini.

Mohd. Hariff memberitahu, pihaknya sedang dalam usaha untuk memperkemaskan tahap keselamatan di semua lokasi-lokasi pelancongan di bawah pentadbiran MDD.

Katanya, kekurangan fasiliti terutamanya pagar  di lokasi-lokasi tumpuan menyukarkan MDD untuk melaksanakan kawalan keselamatan.

“Kita bimbang sekiranya berlaku kejadian yang tidak diingini kerana tidak mempunyai data yang lebih terperinci mengenai kemasukan pelancong di sesuatu lokasi.

“Selain itu, MDD juga mahu meningkatkan kemudahan di lokasi-lokasi pelancongan di Dabong dalam usaha kawasan Gua Ikan menjadi lokasi tumpuan pelancong seperti Gua Tempurung di Gopeng, Perak,” ujarnya.

-utusan online.

Muslim Gen Z Travellers seek culture and sustainability in travel: Mastercard-CrescentRating

 

The inaugural Mastercard-CrescentRating Muslim Gen Z: The Next Generation of Travelers report revealed that the Muslim Gen Z population is actively looking to travel, with 69% planning to take two or more trips in the next 12 months, and 32% wanting to stay at their destinations between one and two weeks.

Two thirds are looking for cultural immersion in their chosen destinations, while nature excursions are prioritised just as highly as more conventional “leisure seeking” pursuits, such as shopping and events. They are also developing financial independency with 32% paying for trips from their own pockets as opposed to 16% who rely solely on their parents.

Almost half of the respondents (45%) identify themselves as environmental enthusiasts. Nearly a third are willing to minimise flying, while 11% will pay for carbon offsets and 14% will take holidays closer to home to avoid longhaul flights.

Muslim Gen Z are known as intentional spenders where 77% are willing to spend more on sustainable practices such as reducing air travel, participating in voluntourism (or volunteer tourism), and supporting local businesses. When it comes to payment methods overseas, 73% are more inclined to use a debit or credit card while 57% prefer to use cash.

“Being the first generation born in the digital age, Gen Z are often considered the true digital natives with exposure to the internet, social networks, and mobile devices from a very early age. Gen Z are actively redefining what it means to travel. This report presents clear, actionable findings for tourism operators around the world that can help them to capture this incredibly important demographic,” said Fazal Bahardeen, founder and CEO, CrescentRating and HalalTrip.

Muslim Gen Z women also emerged in the study as important decision makers, with over 70% heavily involved in planning for family travel. Almost 70% prefer cultural immersion activities such as experiencing local traditions, heritage, and cuisine. In addition, 63% seek opportunities to learn something new in their travels. They are also drivers for change, with 76% indicating social causes to be important in their travel plans.

Faith-based services are also important for Muslim travellers, with Muslim Gen Z identifying Halal food services, prayer facilities, and washrooms fitted with water gadgets as “need-to-have” factors when considering destinations.

“We’ve seen that all over the world, consumers are making up for the lost time in travel due to the challenges over the last few years. They are enthusiastically wanting to visit new places and discover new experiences while keeping sustainability top of mind, and this demand will influence consumer choice and spend significantly in 2023,” said Safdar Khan, division president, South-east Asia, Mastercard.

-TTG Asia.

Experience Malaysia - January 2023

 

https://www.tourism.gov.my/files/uploads/newsletter/2023/January/?mc_cid=ad4bf2de2e&mc_eid=cb96acb248

-Tourism Malaysia.

Peluang bertemu 200 spesies burung di depan mata

 

Menikmati kehijauan alam semula jadi dengan ditemani bunyi unggas dan kicauan burung sememangnya mendamaikan jiwa.

Lebih menarik jika kala berehat dan menikmati pemandangan itu, kita terserempak pula dengan pelbagai jenis spesies burung yang kian jarang ditemui termasuk burung pekaka paruh pendek dan kelicap mayang kelapa.

Bagi merealisisasikan perkara tersebut, anda tidak perlu pergi jauh apatah lagi memasuki hutan kerana ada lokasi berhampiran ibu kota yang dikhaskan buat pengunjung untuk ‘bertemu’ dengan lebih 200 spesies burung sedemikian.

Pengarah Bahagian Komunikasi Korporat, Perbadanan Putrajaya (PPj), Norzita Abdul Razak berkata, pihaknya kini menawarkan aktiviti ekopelancongan urban birding pertama di Malaysia bagi mempromosi pusat pentadbiran Kerajaan Persekutuan itu.

Urban birding bermaksud aktiviti bertemu pelbagai jenis burung di dalam bandar secara terbuka.

Kepelbagaian sumber makanan yang banyak selain kawasan hijau yang sentiasa bersih menjadi faktor utama beberapa lokasi di Putrajaya menjadi habitat serta pusat migrasi lebih 200 spesies burung.

“Antara kawasan dijadikan persinggahan dan habitat burung di Putrajaya adalah Tasik Wetland Putrajaya (TWP), Taman Botani, Taman Rimba Alam dan pulau kecil di Presint 16.

“Kawasan ini menjadi habitat dan persinggahan burung yang sebahagiannya terdiri daripada burung hijrah yang jarang ditemui,” katanya.

Tambahnya, sebahagian burung berkenaan boleh ditemui sepanjang masa, manakala spesies burung hijrah pula boleh dilihat dengan banyak bermula September hingga November.

“Titian kanopi di Taman Botani adalah pilihan terbaik kepada pemerhati burung bagi mengintai kelibat sebahagian 200 spesies burung yang boleh ditemui di sini.

“Bagi memperluas aktiviti urban birding, PPj bekerjasama dengan Jabatan Perlindungan Hidupan Liar dan Taman Negara (Perhilitan) dan Nature Educational Society (Nest) bertujuan mewujudkan suatu kumpulan komuniti tempatan yang peka terhadap kepelbagaian spesies burung.

“Antara aktiviti disediakan adalah seperti bengkel ‘backyard buddy’ yang dapat memainkan peranan aktif sebagai kumpulan sokongan dalam menjayakan urban birding di Putrajaya,” katanya.

Jelas Norzita lagi, tidak sekadar hanya menikmati keindahan flora dan fauna, peminat burung juga boleh merakam gambar di habitat burung secara terbuka.

Katanya, habitat burung di Putrajaya adalah destinasi yang sempurna untuk dihayati bagi pencinta alam semula jadi yang ingin ‘melarikan’ diri sebentar daripada kesibukan kota.

“Kepelbagaian burung yang terdapat di sini sering menjadi tumpuan kaki burung dan jurufoto untuk merakam gambar haiwan berkenaan di samping menghayati pemandangan menakjubkan.

“Lebih mengujakan, sebuah pulau kecil yang terletak di Presint 16 menjadi tarikan dan destinasi persinggahan bangau sehingga ada yang membuat sarang, sekali gus dapat mempelbagaikan produk pelancongan.

“Bangau dapat dilihat berterbangan sambil mencari makan di tasik berkenaan dan sebelum ini jumlahnya tidak banyak, namun sejak beberapa tahun lalu populasinya semakin bertambah,” jelasnya.

-kosmo online.

MOTAC sasar hingga 6 juta pelancong China melawat Malaysia tahun ini - King Sing

 

SEPANG: Kementerian Pelancongan, Seni dan Budaya (MOTAC) menjangkakan enam juta pelancong dari negara China akan melawat Malaysia pada tahun 2023.

Menurut Menterinya, Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing, sasaran itu dua kali ganda daripada jumlah pelancong China melawat negara ini pada tahun 2019 iaitu 3.1 juta orang.

"Saya berbincang dengan Ketua Setiausaha dan Timbalan Ketua Setiausaha Kementerian, tahun 2019 kita dapat 3.1 juta pelancong, kalau boleh tahun ini kita sasarkan dua kali ganda.

"Yang penting kita kerja keras bersama dan jangan pandang belakang, tetapi maju ke hadapan bersama mempromosikan Malaysia.

"Saya rasa kita boleh dapat, untuk tahun ini boleh dapat sekurang-kurangnya lima hingga enam juta untuk pelancong China," jelasnya.

Beliau berkata demikian ketika ditemui media selepas menyambut ketibaan pelancong dari China sempena perayaan Tahun Baharu Cina di Lapangan Terbang Antarabangsa Kuala Lumpur (KLIA) pada Ahad.

Mengulas lanjut, ujar King Sing, ketika ini negara China telah membuka pintu sempadan kepada kumpulan dalam perkhidmatan perlu (essential services) untuk melancong ke 20 buah negara termasuk Malaysia.

"Sekarang (China) sudah buka kumpulan pelancong yang boleh memohon untuk keluar dari negara China melancong di 20 negara termasuk Malaysia.

"Saya ucapkan terima kasih kepada negara China bagi peluang kepada Malaysia, kita sama-sama dalam situasi menang-menang bagi sektor pelancongan.

"Dalam (fasa) endemik, COVID-19 masih ada mana-mana dunia ini, tapi kita kena percaya dan maju ke hadapan, dan semua pihak kena mainkan peranan terbaik menjaga kawalan kendiri.

"Setakat ini, Malaysia masih selamat, pelancong luar negara masuk dan kita kena ambil peluang ini untuk terus mengorak langkah," jelasnya lagi.

-astro Awani.

Tourism minister: Hopefully more than five million tourists to Malaysia this year

 

KUALA LUMPUR, Jan 22 — Tourism Minister Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing today said his ministry aims to achieve five to six million tourists this year.

Malaysia had 3.1 million tourists last year, he told reporters at the Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) this afternoon.

“Last year we had 3.1 (million tourists), we hope that this year we can get at least five million or six million,” he said.

The Bintulu MP was at KLIA today to distribute goodie bags to tourists arriving on flights from China in conjunction with the first day of Chinese New Year celebrations.

“Our purpose today is to welcome tourists from Asian countries, especially China,” he said.

He expressed his hopes that Malaysia will see many tourists from other Asian countries this year.

He also pointed out the signage around the arrivals area, saying that it will be welcoming tourists in many different languages.

However, the project would be completed in stages and the signage that was currently up was a temporary one.

The goodie bags that were given out to tourists today consisted of black and white pepper from Sarawak, which is where Tiong is from, as well as a pepper grinder.

Tiong previously asked Malaysians not to overreact to tourists arriving from China.

He said should the government take any action on tourists, it would be arrivals from the US.

-malay mail.

Mandatori Pendaftaran Dan Penggredan Premis Penginapan Pelancong Di Bawah Kementerian Pelancongan, Seni Dan Budaya

 

20 Januari 2023 - Kementerian Pelancongan, Seni dan Budaya (MOTAC) meminta semua pengusaha premis penginapan berlesen di bawah Pihak Berkuasa Tempatan (PBT) untuk mendaftar sebagai Premis Penginapan Pelancong (PPP) di bawah MOTAC selaras dengan Akta Industri Pelancongan 1992 [Akta 482].

Ia bertujuan untuk mengawal kewujudan rumah kediaman yang dijadikan rumah penginapan atau inap desa yang semakin bertambah selain membolehkan pengusaha mematuhi syarat yang dikenakan, serta mengelakkan sebarang aduan daripada pihak pengguna. Pelaksanaan ini juga bertujuan untuk mengelakkan premis penginapan pelancongan dijadikan tempat transit kepada penjenayah berikutan ia tidak mempunyai sebarang maklumat keluar masuk pelancong seperti hotel.

Merujuk kepada statistik MOTAC, hanya 4,771 premis telah berdaftar sebagai PPP sedangkan masih banyak premis penginapan berlesen dan beroperasi di seluruh negara belum memohon pendaftaran di bawah MOTAC. Pendaftaran di bawah MOTAC adalah mandatori seperti ketetapan Akta 482. Oleh itu, MOTAC menggalakkan semua premis penginapan ini untuk berdaftar sebelum sebarang tindakan penguatkuasaan di ambil pada masa akan datang. Pendaftaran ini boleh dilaksanakan secara atas talian melalui Sistem Pelesenan & Penguatkuasaan Pelancongan atau Tourism Licensing and Enforcement System (TOURLIST) atau www.tourlist.gov.my.

Pada masa yang sama juga, MOTAC mengingatkan semua premis penginapan yang telah berdaftar sebagai PPP dan memenuhi syarat penggredan diminta untuk mengemukakan permohonan penggredan kepada Pejabat MOTAC Negeri berkenaan. Pelbagai insentif akan dapat dinikmati oleh premis yang telah diberikan penggredan oleh MOTAC.

Antaranya adalah pengambilan pegawai dagang atau pekerja asing, insentif cukai daripada Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA), bantuan kewangan daripada Kerajaan dari masa ke semasa dan juga membantu mempromosikan premis sama ada di dalam atau di luar negara.

Oleh itu, MOTAC menyeru semua pengusaha premis penginapan yang layak untuk pendaftaran dan penggredan PPP mengambil peluang ini untuk berdaftar dan seterusnya diberikan penggredan di bawah MOTAC. Garis Panduan Pendaftaran Premis Penginapan Pelancong, Garis Panduan Penggredan Premis Penginapan Pelancong dan Kriteria Penggredan boleh dirujuk di lama sesawang MOTAC.

-MOTAC.

Memperkasakan pelancongan agro Selangor melalui aktiviti berasaskan komuniti

 

PETALING JAYA: Pelancongan agro dan pelancongan berasaskan komuniti merupakan antara fokus utama negeri Selangor bagi memperkasakan industri pelancongan untuk tahun 2023.

Melalui amanat Menteri Besar Selangor, Datuk Seri Amirudin Shari ketika pembentangan belanjawan negeri Selangor bagi tahun 2023, kerajaan Negeri Selangor akan menyalurkan sebanyak RM 500,000 bagi pembangunan pelancongan agro di bawah Pelan Transformasi Agro Selangor atau PeTA yang menjadi teras kepada sektor pertanian negeri Selangor.

Pelancongan Agro Sungai Panjang di Sabak Bernam merupakan antara produk pelancongan agro baharu, yang diperkenalkan bagi membangunkan ekonomi di daerah tersebut.

Dikendalikan oleh Sungai Panjang Agro Tourism Sdn Bhd (SPAT) dan dikelola oleh Persatuan Integrasi Komuniti Usahawan Muda (PIKOM), inisiatif ini tertumpu kepada peningkatan sosio-ekonomi penduduk setempat khusnya golongan belia dan wanita di Sungai Panjang dan kawasan sekitarnya.

Pelancong boleh merasai sendiri aktiviti berkonsepkan pelancongan berasaskan komuniti seperti lawatan ke kebun-kebun yang diusahakan oleh lebih 25 pengusaha ladang komersial (agro), di samping melawat kehijauan sawah padi dengan berbasikal dan menaiki trem atau dengan menggunakan ATV yang disediakan oleh pengusaha inap desa berdekatan.

Pelancongan Agro melalui aktiviti berkonsepkan pelancongan berasaskan komuniti bukan sahaja mampu memberikan pengalaman melancong yang menarik kepada para pelancong, malah berpotensi meningkatkan ekonomi penduduk setempat, seperti lawatan ke Industri Kecil Sederhana, di mana pelancong boleh mempelajari proses pembuatan kerepek, di samping merasai kehidupan masyarakat Jawa dan Banjar melalui makanan tradisi yang terdapat di kedai-kedai dan restoran yang tersedia di sekitar kawasan Sungai Panjang.

Keberhasilan pelancongan agro ini dapat dilihat dengan pengiktirafan Ladang Melon Selangor (MeloSel) yang pertama di Sungai Besar, Sabak Bernam oleh Tengku Permaisuri Norashikin binti Abdul Rahman.

Ladang Melon Selangor di Sungai Besar ini merupakan Ladang Melon Selangor yang pertama dikomersialkan dengan menggunakan kaedah pertanian pintar, di mana julung kalinya telah dibuka kepada orang awam pada tahun ini.

Ketua Pegawai Eksekutif Tourism Selangor, Azrul Shah Mohamad dalam satu  kenyataan berkata, sebagai agensi promosi pelancongan rasmi Negeri Selangor, Tourism Selangor amat menggalakkan penglibatan komuniti dan agensi-agensi dalam memperkasa pelancongan agro di negeri Selangor.

Sepanjang tahun 2022, Tourism Selangor telah bekerjasama dengan 21 Hos Komuniti Selangor dan 6 Pihak Berkuasa Tempatan bagi Program Hos Komuniti Setempat Selangor.

Pelancongan berasaskan komuniti dijangka mampu meningkatkan industri pelancongan di negeri Selangor dengan pembawakan konsep yang berbeza kepada para pelancong, bukan sahaja dari dalam negara malah luar negara juga.

Dengan penglibatan pelbagai agensi dan Pihak Berkuasa Tempatan bagi pembangunan dan promosi pelancongan agro di negeri Selangor seperti Sungai Panjang Agro Tourism (SPAT), pelancongan agro melalui aktiviti berkonsepkan pelancongan berasaskan komuniti dijangka mampu dipacu bagi meningkatkan ekonomi negeri Selangor, khususnya bagi sektor pertanian, pertenakan, Industri Kecil Sederhana dan pelbagai lagi.

Selain daripada Sungai Panjang Agro Tourism, terdapat juga Persatuan Kemajuan Pelancongan Sekinchan, Persatuan Kebajikan Rakyat Mukim Dengkil, Homestay Sungai Sireh di Kuala Selangor, Homestay Hj. Dorani dan Homestay Banghuris yang berpotensi membangunkan pelancongan agro di Negeri Selangor. 

-utusan online.

Kota Belud gibbon rehab centre to officially open on Saturday

 

A gibbon rehabilitation centre in Kota Belud is expected to be in operation this Saturday.
- Pic courtesy of Gibbon Conservation Society Website.

KOTA BELUD: The Borneo Gibbon Rehabilitation Project (Borneo GReP) at Kiau village here will begin operations this Saturday.

The project will focus on rehabilitating two endangered species of gibbons – the North Bornean Gibbon (Hylobates funereus) and the Abott's Gray Gibbon (Hylobates abbotti).

Both singing primates species, categorised as endangered by the IUCN Red List, are important seed dispersers in Malaysia's tropical rainforest.

Gibbon Conservation Society (GCS) president Mariani Ramli or Bam, a Sabahan, stated that she was excited to start serving and caring for the wildlife in her home state.

"The project currently houses five North Bornean Gibbons (Hylobates funereus), who arrived on Jan 17. Most of these gibbons are former pets.

"Over the next few weeks, the Borneo GReP team will gather data on each individual gibbon to assess their psychological state and needs, in order to create a rehabilitation plan for each of them.

"Rehabilitation takes many years depending on each gibbon's experienced trauma and ability to relearn their natural behaviours.

"We hope that all five gibbons will be able to be released one day."

Borneo GReP will also be the first eco-edu tourism centre in Malaysia that opens its doors for primate research, tourism, job opportunities for locals.

For the last 10 years, Bam has been running the Malaya Gibbon Rehabilitation Project (Malaya GReP), located in Raub, Pahang and focusing on the three gibbon species of Peninsular Malaysia - the Lar Gibbon, the Agile Gibbon and the Siamang.

Bam has won many awards and received many accreditations including being the only Malaysian member of the IUCN Section on Small Apes (Captive Care), winning the 2018 American Society of Primatologist's Conservationist Award in recognition of her exceptional work to protect primates in Malaysia, being acknowledged as Malaysia's Eco Champion by Jane Goodall, receiving the Edge's Inspiring Young Leader Award 2019, the Star Golden Heart Award 2022 and more.

On Saturday, Entrepreneur Development and Cooperative minister and Kadamaian assemblyman Datuk Ewon Benedick and several key leaders are expected to attend the launch.

-nst online.

Malaysia Positions Itself As A Sustainable Destination At FITUR And Presents For The First Time The Ecotourism Offer Of The State Of Sabah

 

MADRID, January 19th, 2023 – Malaysia will be presented at Fitur 2023 as a sustainable destination, with the state of Sabah as the main representative of ecotourism in the Asian country. For this purpose, the Malaysian Tourism Promotion Board will be accompanied by Dato’ Akmal Che Mustafa, Ambassador of Malaysia in Spain, as well as Ms Noredah Othman, CEO of Sabah Tourism. In addition, Lotus Asia, Malai Adventure, EXO Travel and Asia Exotica will be present to show the main attractions of the South Asian country.

During the fair, Malaysia will present its offer of nature tourism, sustainable tourism and slow travel for those travellers interested in discovering this Southeast Asian country in the most authentic way.

Sabah is one of Malaysia's most important ecotourism destinations. Located in the far north of Borneo, it is one of the most authentic regions of the South Asian country, known for its lush tropical forests, spectacular coral reefs, as well as the famous Mount Kinabalu, the highest peak in the country at 4095 metres.

This year, Malaysia wants to highlight its natural and sustainable side, offering visitors an authentic ecotourism experience. This is demonstrated by the launch of the National Ecotourism Plan 2016-2025 under the slogan "tourism protects, preserves and conserves nature, culture and heritage". In this way, Malaysia aims to create synergies between local communities, the economy and tourism to encourage respectful interaction between locals and visitors, where visitors can discover Malaysian culture through locals and with a positive impact on the community.

In Malaysia, there are several regions where travellers can experience a real ecotourism adventure, such as the aforementioned Sabah, where a visit to the Sepilok Orangutan Sanctuary is a must; Sarawak (Borneo Island) and Mulu National Park, with its caves and karst formations within a vast mountain jungle; Belum Rainforest Resort in Perak (northern Peninsular Malaysia); and the Rantau Abang Turtle Hatchery in eastern Peninsular Malaysia. At all these stops, conservation efforts to promote and raise awareness of the importance of sustainability are globally recognised.

A country full of Magic

Malaysia is a country full of attractions, where tradition and nature form an unforgettable blend. Among those that most attract the attention of Spanish travellers are its lush tropical rainforest, exotic culture and delicious cuisine. Each region of the country offers a different experience; both Peninsular Malaysia, where the capital Kuala Lumpur is located, and East Malaysia, on the island of Borneo.

Malaysia is one of the twelve most biologically diverse countries in the world, with at least 15 000 species of flowering plants, 1500 species of terrestrial vertebrates and some 150 000 species of invertebrates, as well as countless micro-organisms.

Malaysia's national parks range from vast forests and mangrove reserves to marine parks. Thanks to this rich landscape, the lush rainforests and warm oceans provide the perfect backdrop for observing wildlife in its natural habitat.

-Tourism Malaysia.

Festival Kraf Tekstil Pantai Timur 2023 @ Kuantan, kuala Terengganu & Kemaman ( 19 ~ 29 Januari 2023 )

 

Mari beramai-ramai berkunjung ke Festival Kraf Tekstil Pantai Timur 2023 (FKTPT 2023) yang akan berlangsung pada 19-29 Januari 2023, dari pukul 10.00 pagi - 10.00 malam di tiga lokasi pusat beli-belah.

-> East Coast Mall (ECM), Kuantan

-> KTCC Mall, Kuala Terengganu

-> Mesra Mall, Kemaman

Dapatkan pelbagai produk kraf tekstil yang menarik. Datanglah beramai-ramai!

-Kraftangan Malaysia.

Jepun, Malaysia destinasi pilihan pelancong Asia

 

PETALING JAYA – Jepun, Malaysia dan Thailand menduduki carta tertinggi dalam data carian platform Agoda sekali gus menjadi destinasi pilihan utama pelancong Asia.

Merujuk data carian platform percutian digital global, Agoda, Jepun muncul sebagai destinasi dengan carian tertinggi diikuti Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia, Singapura, Vietnam, Korea Selatan dan Filipina.

Ketua Pegawai Eksekutif Agoda, Omri Morgenshtern, berkata, pada tahun ini, data menunjukkan bahawa ramai pelancong memilih percutian ke destinasi berhampiran di negara jiran untuk perayaan sempena sambutan Tahun Arnab.

“Ia merupakan perkembangan yang sangat baik kerana keyakinan pelancong terhadap percutian antarabangsa dapat dikembalikan terutamanya dalam pasaran Jepun, Korea dan Taiwan yang baru dibuka.

“Kami menjangkakan berlaku lonjakan dalam perjalanan dari negara China, apabila Thailand, Macau, Taiwan, Hong Kong dan Jepun kembali dalam senarai destinasi idaman bagi Tahun Baru Cina ini,” jelasnya menerusi satu kenyataan hari ini.

Walau bagaimanapun, kata beliau, ia mungkin terlalu awal untuk menjangkakan pemulihan yang sepenuhnya memandangkan cabaran yang melibatkan kapasiti dan harga penerbangan.

Di Malaysia, tarikan warisan budaya dan suasana kota yang meriah menjadikan Kuala Lumpur sebagai destinasi paling popular, diikuti dengan Melaka dan Pulau Pinang yang menduduki tempat kedua dan ketiga.

Manakala di Thailand, Bangkok berjaya menduduki tempat pertama, diikuti oleh bandar pesta pantai Pattaya dan Chiang Mai yang kaya dengan budaya.

Namun begitu, trend ini tidak ketara dalam kalangan pelancong dari China dan Jepun yang menggemari destinasi percutian beriklim panas dan lebih memilih Thailand sebagai destinasi pilihan berbeza dengan pelancong dari Thailand yang menggemari negara beriklim sejuk.

-kosmo online.

Herbal Asia 2023 @ Royale Chulan Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia ( 13 ~ 14 March 2023 )

 

HERBAL ASIA IS BACK!

Warm greetings from Herbal Asia Secretariat.

The 16th Editions Herbal Asia - Asia's Premier Herbal, Green and Natural Exhibition and Conference will be held in Kuala Lumpur on 13 -17 March 2023. This new year comes with great demand for healthy, natural and green products. Natural, Green & Herbal Product & Services received good feedback from consumers, trade buyers, professionals, and industry players. As the herbal industry continues to gain popularity and importance in the international market and particularly in Asia, HERBAL ASIA repeats this year, to catch the rising waves in time with the official theme 'Exploring An Untapped ASEAN Market – “Towards a Sustainable Marketplace.

DATE & VENUE

The event will be held from 13-14 March 2023 at The Royal Chulan Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, supported by the MATRADE and MyCEB.  Herbal Asia is the only exhibition and conference that focuses on supply and demand in herbal, green and natural related industries since 2004. This annual event once again will introduce the latest and best herbal products, innovation and related services in the market from a well-known brand within local and international companies, 2 days International Conference featuring renowned speakers in the industry, Business Matching, Investor Exchange and additional new program highlight on Herbal Tourism Week and Technical Tour.

ABOUT THE EVENT

This annual event is the global platform for products, manufacturers, researchers, inventors, healthy food and industry-related professionals to come together on a single platform and establish the business relationship to make the industry moving forwards toward globalization. The event will be focusing on ;

EVENT HIGHLIGHT

> 2 Days International Herbal, Green & Natural Conference and Business Dialogue

> 100 booths, Business Matching,

> 5 Days Herbal Wellness Week at Official Hotels

> Investor Exchange & Networking Dinner

> Herbal Innovation Competition & Start-up Pitch 

CONTACT

Email: herbalasia2030@gmail.com

Website: www.herbalasia.asia

-Herbal Asia.

Nautical Insight, Swiss-Belhotel to jointly manage over 10 hotels with 2,000 rooms in Malaysia

 

The new company will adopt Nautical Insight’s expertise and insight into Malaysia’s hospitality demands and Swiss-Belhotel’s expertise in global hotel management to manage over 10 existing hotels with 2,000 hotel rooms in the country. NSTP/HAIRUL ANUAR RAHIM

KUALA LUMPUR: Nautical Insight Sdn Bhd and Swiss-Belhotel International Ltd have formed a new 50:50 joint venture company (JV) to manage more than 10 existing hotels in Malaysia.

The new company will adopt Nautical Insight's expertise and insight into Malaysia's hospitality demands and Swiss-Belhotel's expertise in global hotel management to manage over 10 existing hotels with 2,000 hotel rooms in the country.

Swiss-Belhotel chairman and president Gavin M Faull said the move to create the JV company whose official name would be announced soon, was aimed at expanding and increasing the value of existing hotels in the country with international standard services and standards.

"The collaboration allows us to better understand the country's market. We see tremendous growth potential for our respective companies in Malaysia and will aggressively pursue development opportunities across the country," Faull said at the memorandum of understanding signing ceremony today.

Faull said the tourism and hospitality industry was known for its important role as an important catalyst for global economic growth in driving Malaysia's socio-economic development.

"In addition, this initiative is also set to expand the job market and create more job opportunities for Malaysians in the hospitality industry.

"Through this joint venture, Nautical Insight and Swiss-Belhotel predict an extraordinary increase in their revenue projections, with an increase in the value of real estate and local hotel brands by 2025," he said.

The initiative aims to elevate and enhance the value of existing hotels in the country with international standards, alongside an international brand name.

Swiss-Belhotel has penetrated the Malaysian market over the years starting with Swiss-Belhotel Kuantan and its newest Swiss-Belexpress Nilai, which will soon open its doors.

Through hotel guest surveys, the Swiss-Belhotel name has succeeded to attract local and loyal international guests for its international-level standard operating procedures.

Nautical Insight-owned La Crista Hotel Melaka - a Muslim-friendly hotel in the heart of Melaka which also houses Novoid Arena, the largest e-sports arena in the southern region of Malaysia - will be the first hotel to experience the benefits of the joint venture.

The local hotel will be provided with new and improved international-quality staff training, facilities, marketing strategies and more.

Nautical Insight managing director Datuk Rosthman Ibrahim looks forward to combining the strengths of both its companies.

Rosthman believes that LaCrista's better understanding of local culture and requirements can benefit the partnership in providing exquisite services to the customers.

"With the local knowledge and extensive networking that Nautical Insight has in Malaysia, we are confident that the partnership will deliver guests the exceptional hospitality that the brand is known for with outstanding products perfectly suited for the local market," he added.

-nst online.

Pembangunan Pekan Lama Ipoh tidak roboh bangunan warisan

 

IPOH: Pembangunan di lokasi tumpuan pelancong di kawasan Pekan Lama di sini akan mengekalkan bangunan warisan yang sedia ada.

Pengerusi Jawatankuasa Pelancongan, Industri, Pelaburan dan Pembangunan Koridor negeri, Loh Sze Yee berkata, kerajaan negeri dan Majlis Bandar Raya Ipoh (MBI) dalam perancangan untuk membangunkan kawasan itu bagi menarik lebih ramai pelancong.

Menurutnya, pembangunan lebih sistematik sedang dirangka di kawasan pekan lama Ipoh.

“Antaranya kami sedang cuba memindahkan beberapa aktiviti pelancongan ke Lorong Seni dan sebanyak 15 gerai akan dibuka di sini.

“Apabila kita merancang, kita perlu melihat kesan kepada kawasan itu. Pekan Lama masih mempunyai banyak pejabat dan mungkin ada masalah jika semua aktiviti tertumpu di sana,” katanya kepada pemberita pada perasmian Bazar Tahun Baharu Cina di Lorong Seni di sini hari ini.

Menurutnya, Gerbang Komersial Paloh yang telah dilancarkan pada Jumaat lalu juga akan menjadi satu lagi destinasi pelancongan di negeri ini.

Sementara itu, Datuk Bandar Ipoh, Datuk Rumaizi Baharin berkata, Pekan Lama Ipoh tetap akan menjadi kawasan bersejarah dan struktur lama di kawasan itu tidak akan dirobohkan.

“Struktur luar bangunan tetap akan dipelihara kecuali bahagian dalaman yang akan dimodenkan mengikut trend semasa,” katanya.

Rumaizi berkata, MBI juga sedang menaik taraf kawasan Segi Tiga Pelancongan Ipoh bagi memulihkan industri pelancongan tempatan bagi menarik pelancong tempatan dan asing.

“Pembangunan di Pekan Lama Ipoh ini akan tertumpu kepada dua aspek iaitu berkaitan dengan pelancongan warisan dan ‘hipster’.

“Kita akan fokus kepada aspek ini untuk menarik lebih ramai pelancong ke negeri ini. Kita telah mewartakan bangunan lama di Pekan Lama Ipoh, jadi kita mesti memeliharanya.

“Sebagai contoh di London, semua struktur luar bangunan lama dikekalkan tetapi bukan bahagian dalaman,” katanya.

Katanya, beberapa hotel dan pusat penginapan di sini juga akan direka bentuk semula dengan menggunakan konsep yang sama.

“Pekan Lama Ipoh adalah bahagian asal bandar raya Ipoh yang dibangunkan pada tahun 1880-an.

“Kawasan Segi Tiga Pelancongan Ipoh ini merangkumi kawasan Gunung Lang, Ipoh Padang, Taman Dr Seenivasagam termasuk Pekan Lama Ipoh, Kampung Kuchai dan Masjid Paloh,” katanya.

Rumaizi berkata, pelan Segitiga Pelancongan Ipoh dijangka siap pada 2025, dengan peningkatan dan pengubahsuaian berterusan.

“Bagi kos pembiayaan adalah daripada inisiatif pihak kerajaan termasuk swasta dan Pihak Berkuasa Pelaksanaan Koridor Utara (NCIA),” katanya.

-utusan online.

Pekan Lama Arau bakal berubah wajah, berpotensi jadi tarikan pelancong

 

TUANKU Syed Faizuddin Putra Jamalullail (empat dari kiri) bersama Tuanku Hajah Lailatul Shahreen Akashah Khalil serta Sharifah Khatreena Nuraniah; Sharifah Farah Adriana dan Syed Sirajuddin Areeb Putra Jamalullail pada majlis perasmian Karnival Tahun Baharu Cina Pekan Lama Arau, Perlis hari ini.- UTUSAN/IZLIZAN OTHMAN

ARAU: Pekan Lama Arau yang mempunyai rumah-rumah kedai merangkumi kepelbagaian kaum berpontesi menjadi salah satu produk pelancongan baharu di negeri ini menerusi pelaksanaan Projek Diraja Transformasi Komuniti Pekan Lama Kota Raja Arau.

Raja Muda Perlis, Tuanku Syed Faizuddin Putra Jamalullail bertitah, pelaksanaan pembangunan projek berkenaan dijangka mengambil masa dua tahun dan berpotensi untuk menarik lebih ramai pelancong luar ke kawasan berkenaan.

Titah baginda, peniaga dan pemilik kedai di kawasan berkenaan juga perlu bersama-sama memainkan peranan dalam membantu memastikan pembangunan di Pekan Lama Arau itu dapat direalisasikan selepas ini.

“Kawasan ini boleh dibangunkan semula untuk menarik pelancong dengan memberi penekanan terhadap aspek kebersihan, pengurusan sampah, lalu lintas, pengindahan dan sebagainya,” titah baginda selepas berkenan merasmikan Karnival Tahun Baharu Cina Pekan Lama Arau di sini hari ini.

Berangkat sama pada majlis berkenaan, Raja Puan Muda Perlis, Tuanku Hajah Lailatul Shahreen Akashah Khalil bersama anakanda-anakanda baginda, Sharifah Khatreena Nuraniah; Sharifah Farah Adriana dan Syed Sirajuddin Areeb Putra Jamalullail.

Dalam pada itu, Tuanku Syed Faizuddin bertitah, keluasan kawasan itu juga tidak terlalu besar untuk diuruskan dan mempunyai peniaga berbilang kaum terdiri daripada Melayu, Cina dan India.

“Beta berharap agar usaha bagi membangunkan kawasan ini tidak terhenti malah selepas ini pihak berkaitan perlu duduk bersama dan bincang semula secara lebih teliti,” titah baginda.

Titah baginda, Pekan Lama Arau itu boleh dibangunkan semula sebagaimana Projek Transformasi Diraja Kampung Nelayan Warna-Warni Seberang Ramai yang kini semakin menjadi tumpuan pengunjung luar.

“Jika projek transformasi di sana boleh berjaya, di Pekan Lama Arau ini juga dapat melakukan perkara sama dengan keunikan tersendiri,” titahnya.

-utusan online.

Exploring waterfalls in Sabah, adrenaline rush for adventure seekers

 

Participants scaling down one of the eight cascading waterfalls in the Monggiland route.
-Pic courtesy of Sabah Tourism Board

KOTA KINABALU: Exploring waterfalls or canyoning along hiking trails in Sabah is high on the checklists for many adrenaline junkies.

What used to be an obstacle for people commuting along jungle trails, hikes including waterfalls, are now becoming a popular itinerary across the state.

In Kelawat, Tamparuli such an activity is attracting many to its trails, particularly the 40m high Monggiland cascades, known for its canyoning route among enthusiasts.

The Monggiland Waterfall Eco-Tourism initiative was first opened by the community in 2019, featuring a trail loop that descends down a hill, past village farms and houses before leading them to forest routes where the waterfalls are located.

It was gaining traction but the Covid-19 pandemic in 2020 put a damper to efforts to promote the community tourism attraction in the area located some 60km north of here.

On Saturday, Assistant Tourism, Culture, and Tourism Minister cum Sabah Tourism Board chairman Datuk Joniston Bangkuai flagged off about 100 hikers to mark the relaunch of the Monggiland Waterfall Eco-Tourism initiative.

Hikers get to see eight different waterfalls of Bermusim, Tutuhunon, Munduk Sirung, Pangoh, Nagas, Monggiland, Taralasak and Dupil in the area.

Monggiland Waterfall Eco-Tourism chairman Rubby James said the Taralasak and Dupil cascades were the latest to be discovered and he estimated that there are at least 20 hidden waterfalls in the forest.

"People come here to experience hiking, navigating down the Monggiland waterfall, and taking a refreshing dip in the pool. For more easy canyoning, they can do it at Nagas waterfall, which is about 60 feet tall.

"Foreign travellers had also come to explore the Monggiland trail in 2019. However, just as it was beginning to gain traction, we had to close the trail because of the pandemic," he said.

Since the trail's reopening in August of last year, Rubby, who is also a member of the Mountain Search and Rescue (Mosar) team, noticed the increasing number of visitors.

Meanwhile, Joniston said Sabah's abundance of hiking opportunities made it an ideal destination for eco-tourists and adventurers.

He added that the Monggiland hiking route was a welcomed addition to the area as the trail is connected to other established paths such as the Murug Turug waterfall trail.

"Hiking is growing in popularity, and the Sabah Tourism Board have been making efforts to promote it because of the revenue it could potentially bring to the local community.

"While we encourage outdoor exploration, we must also make sure our travellers feel comfortable and ensure they have access to facilities like restrooms and shelters along the hiking trails," he said.

-nst online.