Anantara Desaru Coast Resort & Villas raises funds to support wildlife conservation

 

Anantara Desaru Coast Resort & Villas, in collaboration with JungleWalla Adventures and Wildlife Tours, reports success in its Dollar for Deeds initiative, raising funds for worthy causes through the brand’s CSR programme.

With the introduction of Dollar for Deeds at Anantara Desaru Coast last year, guests were given the option to add five ringgit (US$1.10) per night to their bill, with the property matching the donation ringgit for ringgit. From January to October 2024, guests contributed 74,847 ringgit, an amount matched by the hotel, bringing the total donation to 149,694 ringgit.

The funds raised supported Project Rewild Desaru, an ambitious environmental restoration initiative focused on revitalising the terrestrial and marine ecosystems of Desaru Coast. In response to habitat degradation caused by urbanisation, deforestation, and other human activities, the project runs several key programmes, including bird censuses to track local avian species, tree planting to restore damaged landscapes, camera trap installations to monitor the health and diversity of ecosystems, and seed collecting to preserve local flora. Anantara guests have the opportunity to participate in the latter two activities.

Torsten Richter, area general manager, Anantara Desaru Coast Resort & Villas, said: “We couldn’t have achieved this without the incredible support of our partners from JungleWalla and our wonderful guests. Thanks to their generous donations, Project Rewild Desaru was able to launch hornbill nesting boxes, helping to conserve their populations in areas where tree destruction has made natural nesting impossible.

He added that the remaining funds were used for planting trees, camera trapping, seed collection and building green bridges for wildlife.

-TTG Asia.

MATTA Collaborates With Tourism Malaysia At The World Travel Market 6 - 8 November 2023, London

 

KUALA LUMPUR, 6 NOVEMBER 2023 – In collaboration with Tourism Malaysia, MATTA is working with British Artist Rachel Gray, a recognised British artist of wildlife portraiture to launch the ‘Sustainable Malaysia Initiative’ at the Tourism Malaysia Pavilion at the World Travel Market 2023.

Rachel Gray will produce one large format of the Malaysian tiger, a recognised endangered species. This portrait, through the use of technology, will be converted to Non-Fungible Tokens (NFT’s), which have an intrinsic value and they will be auctioned for sale at a date to be finalized later in the year.

The proceeds from the auction and sale of the Non-Fungible Tokens will go towards supporting sustainable tourism at the Royal Belum State Park in Perak as well as towards sustaining the indigenous communities that live within.

With the eyes of the world upon Malaysia for the few days between 6 - 8 November 2023 at the WTM 2023, it is believed that this event provides unique opportunities for branding and merchandizing and will help Malaysia get the word out about eco-tourism and the sustainable activities that go with it.

“Known and loved for our rich biodiversity, especially from the European market, this initiative is hoped to bring further awareness of Malaysia’s ecotourism products and sustainable tourism, apart from supporting the local communities and their conservation efforts.

This is also in line with our focus to promote Malaysia as the Top-of-the-Mind Ecotourism Destination of the World,” said YBhg. Dato’ Roslan Tan Sri Abdul Rahman, Secretary General of the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture Malaysia.

Nigel Wong also took the opportunity to thank Malaysia Aviation Group for their support in providing a return ticket to London for Rachel Gray for this important campaign at the WTM London.

“The collaboration with Rachel Gray is particularly important as we feel that Rachel’s work tells the perfect story of the beauty of Malaysia’s rich wildlife heritage that we are trying to save and sustain for the benefit of the generations to come but also for us all here and now.” said Nigel Wong, the President of MATTA.

“This is also the first collaboration between MATTA and the British artist and we are proud of our close ties and the journey we are taking together towards a more sustainable future.”

-Tourism Malaysia.

ADEX Sabah Ocean Partnership Summit 2023: Pioneering Global Initiatives in Marine Conservation Excellence

 

SABAH, (August 18, 2023]: The launch of the much-awaited inaugural ADEX Sabah Ocean Partnership Summit 2023 took place today at the Sabah International Convention Centre (SICC), highlighting our dedication to marine conservation. 

With delegates, speakers, and visitors from around the world gathered under one roof, this summit establishes Sabah's pivotal role in global ocean conservation efforts.

In collaboration with Asia Dive Expo (ADEX), a renowned leader in the Ocean Conservation and Dive Industry, this event proudly aligns with the United Nations' "Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development (2021-2030)" agenda. 

This summit promises an intensive exchange of expertise, showcasing over a dozen international speakers from countries like the UK, France, Hong Kong, Philippines, South Korea, Indonesia, Switzerland, and Egypt. 

Equally commendable, numerous local experts will grace the stage, reflecting a blend of global and local insights. The panel discussions, a cornerstone of the summit, will delve into the critical challenges of marine litter and pollution, aiming to unearth actionable solutions and foster collaborative efforts.

While knowledge and discussions form the core, the summit underscores its dedication to action. Attendees will witness a new generation of ocean heroes in action, as they embark on a non-stop 23-hour marine debris removal initiative. Enhancing the summit's allure, the shores of Sabah will play host to the mesmerizing International ADEX Sabah Mermaid Competition 2023, intertwining enchantment with advocacy.

ADEX together with the Sabah Tourism Board extends a heartfelt welcome to the global ocean community, diving professionals, and all attendees. The summit not only offers a platform for dialogue but also an invitation to experience the rich cultural and natural splendors of Sabah.

-Tourism Malaysia.

Program Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Tourism Malaysia di Pulau Besar, Johor

 

Tourism Malaysia melalui Bahagian Komunikasi Korporat telah menganjurkan program Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) pada 18 Ogos 2023 di Pulau Besar, Johor.

Program ini adalah kerjasama dengan Tengah Island Conservation (TIC) dan Jabatan Perikanan, Johor.

Antara aktiviti CSR yang terlibat ialah pembersihan pantai serta melepaskan anak penyu. Lebih kurang 40 ekor anak penyu berusia sehari telah dilepaskan dalam program ini dan 50 kg sampah dikumpulkan.

Program ini adalah bersempena dengan program KPI Midterm Review dan Marketing Plan 2024/2025.

-Tourism Malaysia.

Tourism Malaysia Joins In Turtle Conservation Effort As Part Of Sustainable Tourism Practices

 

PORT DICKSON, 4 August 2023 – In line with the aspiration to create awareness of turtle conservation and increase the survival rate of turtle hatching, Tourism Malaysia today embarked on an exciting journey under its social corporate responsibility at the pristine beaches of Port Dickson.

Apart from beach clean-up, 24 staff under the Package Development Division also released baby turtles into the ocean near Lexis Hibiscus Port Dickson, thus reflecting Tourism Malaysia’s utmost commitment to environmental conservation and sustainable tourism practices.

Dato’ Dr. Ammar Abd. Ghapar, Director-General of Tourism Malaysia, said: “The event symbolises our hopes for tourists. As turtles return to the spot where they were born to mate and lay their eggs, we hope that tourists will keep flocking back to Malaysia again and again from wherever they have been to.”

“Moreover, Tourism Malaysia's establishment began with the incorporation of the Tourist Development Corporation (TDC) in 1972, in which the addition of the turtle logo was later used in 1986, painted a touch of nostalgia and served as a tribute to the countless remarkable moments and achievements we have celebrated over the years."

The event is also part of the continuing initiative by the Department of Fisheries under its Turtle Showroom at Port Dickson Ornamental Fish Centre to conserve endangered Green Turtle and Hawkbill Turtle species, besides educating the public about the importance of turtles to marine ecosystems as well as preserving Malaysia’s marine biodiversity.

Tourism Malaysia’s social corporate responsibility programme was held in conjunction with the Package Development Division’s 2024 – 2026 Strategic Workshop taking place in Port Dickson from 3 - 5 August 2023. Industry experts, government officials, and conservationists are among the attendees to the workshop to charter the holistic strategies for the upcoming years leading to Visit Malaysia Year 2026.

Their shared expertise and vision will play a pivotal role in shaping the tourism landscape, especially in the niche tourism segments and enhance the overall travel experience for local and international tourists.

-Tourism Malaysia.

Desaru’s Anantara deepens sustainability reach

 

The resort’s on-site bottling plant helped in removing 154,000 plastic bottles from circulation in 2022

Anantara Desaru Coast Resort & Villas in Malaysia has expanded its CSR programme with new initiatives to protect the land and water ecosystems on Desaru Coast.

The resort rolled out the brand-wide CSR programme Dollar for Deeds in June, which matches guests’ donations ringgit for ringgit, with money raised going to ReWild Desaru, a not-for-profit organisation focused on resident wildlife protection.

This effort joins the resort’s on-site water bottling initiative, achieved through its own bottling plant established in 2022, as well as its food sustainability commitment that sees it sourcing from its own hydroponic farm, run by a local vendor. The resort also partners with Rainforest Alliance, a certified fair-trade supplier, which supplies coffee beans for the restaurants. Coffee pods used in guestroom coffee machines are sent back to the manufacturer to be recycled, while food waste is turned into fertiliser for crops.

Christian Gerart, general manager at Anantara Desaru Coast, said team members were mindful of conservation, and would regularly recycle aluminium cans and paper products as well as switch off the lights when leaving the room.

The resort also promotes a love for nature among guests with activities such as birdwatching and daily nature walks.

-TTG Asia.

Tourism Malaysia Jayakan Program Tanggungjawab Sosial Korporat & Gastronomi Di Langkawi

 

LANGKAWI, 15 Februari - Tourism Malaysia dengan kerjasama Koperasi Komuniti Kepulauan Tuba Dan Selat Berhad (KOPTUBAS) telah menganjurkan program tanggungjawab sosial korporat (CSR) menerusi aktiviti penanaman anak pokok bakau semalam.

Program yang turut dijayakan oleh penduduk tempatan itu antara lain bertujuan menyemarakkan semangat kesukarelawanan dalam kalangan komuniti setempat sekali gus menyantuni pemain industri pelancongan di Langkawi sewaktu pascapandemik bagi membantu mempromosikan kempen Cuti-Cuti Malaysia.

Pengarah Bahagian Komunikasi Korporat Tourism Malaysia, Encik Zakaria Mohd Nani berkata, serentak dengan penganjuran program tersebut, pihaknya juga mengadakan demonstrasi masakan tradisional menerusi penampilan istimewa Duta Pelancongan, Seni dan Budaya bagi segmen gastronomi, Dato’ Chef Ismail Ahmad di Berjaya Langkawi Resort.

“Antara menu istimewa yang didemonstrasikan oleh Dato’ Chef Ismail pada kali ini ialah resepi tradisional iaitu ayam kalio Negeri Sembilan dan cucur bawang. Demontrasi masakan yang diketengahkan ini bertujuan menarik minat para pelancong serta memperkenalkan sajian istimewa ini khususnya kepada mereka yang menginap di resort mewah berkenaan,”katanya.

Berjaya Langkawi Resort dipilih kerana ia menjadi lokasi pilihan pelancongan antarabangsa yang berinspirasikan keunikan alam semula jadi serta telah merangkul beberapa anugerah bertaraf antarabangsa.

Selain itu, Tourism Malaysia dengan kerjasama Persatuan Pemandu Pelancong Langkawi juga telah menjayakan program seminar dan International Tourist Guide Day Eco Walk di Zero Km Kuah.

-Tourism Malaysia.

DIVEHEART Brings Disabled Divers To Explore The Underwater World Of Perhentian

 

PERHENTIAN, 27 September 2022 – Diveheart, a non-profit organisation run by volunteers to help children, veterans and the disabled through scuba opportunities and scuba therapy, has chosen Malaysia as the host country for its Diveheart Adaptive programme in the Asian region.

Taking place at Mimpi Perhentian Resort, Pulau Perhentian Kecil, Terengganu, from 3rd to 5th September 2022, the programme was a collaborative effort between Diveheart, University Malaya Medical Centre (UMMC), and Tourism Malaysia, bringing together the dedicated UMMC Rehabilitation Medicine Team to assist the disabled divers above and underwater.

Joining the programme were the Diveheart leaders, Mr. Jim Elliott (President), Mr. Syed Abd Rahman (Diveheart Malaysia Ambassador), and Mr. Ernest C. Teo (Diveheart Borneo Lead). The programme was also attended by Datuk Musa Yusof, Deputy Director General (Promotion) of Tourism Malaysia, Prof. Dr. Nazirah Hasnan, Director of UMMC, Dr. Chris Jones from Gold Coast, Australia, and Mr. Max Missbichler from Austria.

Participants were guided throughout the zero-gravity scuba diving and completed the session with kindred spirits. “My sincere appreciation goes to the Diveheart team, especially Mr. Jim Elliot and Mr. Syed Abd Rahman for this unforgettable experience for our non-verbal autistic son. By using the Full Face Mask (FFM), Arash got to scuba dive and thoroughly enjoyed the underwater world,” said Rozie Majid, mother to one of the participants, 17-year-old Mohamad Arash Anique.

Suhaili Yusof, a double amputee PADI-certified scuba diver, also expressed her gratitude: “I am truly thankful to Mr. Syed and the Diveheart team for this opportunity to witness the unmatched beauty of Perhentian Island, its crystal clear waters and colourful marine life. It is indeed one of my most beautiful and meaningful experiences.”

Diveheart continues to dedicate themselves to empowering individuals and building their self-esteem through scuba diving. Mimpi Perhentian Resort is a proud partner that has been working closely with Diveheart on their annual trips this time.

-Tourism Malaysia.

Malaysia earmarks US$576.7m to extend wage subsidy support

 

The Malaysian government has introduced a second wage subsidy scheme worth RM2.4 billion (US$576.7 million) to assist companies that are still affected by the Covid-19 pandemic, while lowering the nation’s unemployment rate.

In a live telecast on Wednesday (September 23), prime minister Muhyiddin Yassin said the subsidies would be given to companies that have seen a revenue decrease of 30 per cent or more as compared to last year, due to the recovery movement control order (RMCO) which has been extended to December 31, 2020.

Qualifying companies will be given a monthly wage subsidy of RM600 for up to 200 employees each for three months. New applicants that qualify, but have not received assistance earlier under the first wage subsidy programme, will be eligible to receive wage subsidies of up to six months. Applications are open from October 1 until December 31.

When contacted, two major hotel associations told TTG Asia that the government’s announcement was a step in the right direction, but said more needed to be done to help industry stakeholders weather the coronavirus slump.

Malaysian Association of Hotels CEO, Yap Lip Seng, applauded the government’s extension of the wage subsidy scheme, saying that it recognises the impacts of extended border restrictions on the tourism industry.

However, he highlighted that earlier requests by industry players for more assistance, including higher wage subsidies, utilities discounts and special grants, have gone unanswered.

“For the hotel industry particularly, we are hoping for more mid- to long-term support from regulatory requirements and tax incentives to tourism marketing as well as overall tourism development. We hope that the government will take into serious consideration our proposals submitted for Budget 2021,” he said.

“This will in turn facilitate mid- to long-term strategic planning and will set the tourism landscape for Malaysia for the next five to 10 years.”

Similarly, Sri Ganesh Michiel, deputy president, Malaysia Budget Hotel Association, welcomed the government’s latest move and urged its members to apply for the extended moratorium with the banks before the September 30 deadline.

He also appealed to the government to act swiftly in tackling issues that threaten the recovery of the tourism industry, including unfair commercial practices by online travel agents who are not subjected to the same regulations as their traditional counterparts.

He added: “We also see unfair competition in our hotel industry as four- and five-star hotels are reducing their rates, which have forced our budget hotel members to reduce their selling rates as well in order to compete.”

-TTG Asia.

Tourism Malaysia extends Covid-19 food relief

 

Tourism Malaysia’s Singapore office held a food donation drive to assist affected

Malaysian workers in the industry.

As the ongoing pandemic continues to take a toll on the travel and tourism sector, Tourism Malaysia’s Singapore branch office has initiated a food donation drive to assist Malaysians in the outbound travel industry.

Held over the past weekend, the donation drive collection sought for donations of suggested food items which will then be distributed to the recipients on September 13, 2020, in celebration of Malaysia Day.

The Malaysian community in Singapore are faced with the dilemma of returning home to be with their families, or maintaining their jobs in Singapore on a higher standard of living, the organisation said in a statement on the initiative, which is supported by Malaysia’s Ministry of International Trade & Industry.

By invoking the spirit of unity to uplift affected Malaysians, the organisation said it believes they will be driven to overcome this challenging period.

-TTG Asia.

Zoo Negara Adoption Package

Zoo Negara is managed by the Malaysian Zoological Society, a non-governmental organization that survives mainly through its gate collection and sponsorship from individuals, schools and corporate companies.

All our animals are up for adoption and you may help us adopt one by maintaining its annual food, enrichment and veterinary care. In return, you will receive a certificate of adoption stating your selected animal and we will even acknowledge you in our annual report with the amount you have sponsored.

For further details, do contact the Public Relations & Marketing Department at +603-41083422/7/8 or email us at pr@zoonegaramalaysia.my

-https://www.zoonegaramalaysia.my/

Tourism Malaysia counting on state governments to attract 30 million tourists next year

PASIR PUTEH, July 5 (Bernama) -- Tourism Malaysia is counting on all parties, particularly state governments, to help it achieve its goal of 30 million tourist arrivals in conjunction with Visit Malaysia 2020. 

Mohd Nasir Kushairi, senior director (domestic and events) at Tourism Malaysia, said today that while the agency was actively promoting the campaign, it also needed the cooperation of state governments to make the event a success.

Next year's campaign is estimated to generate RM100 billion in returns, he told reporters at a corporate social responsibility programme held at Pantai Bisikan Bayu here, in which 80 participants including 18 Tourism Malaysia officers cleaned the beach area of debris and rubbish.

Mohd Nasir explained that his team was there as part of a visit to the East Coast to update the agency's promotion campaign of attractions in the region, such as the beautiful beaches of Terengganu and Pahang, as well as the rich arts and culture in Kelantan including the Mak Yong, Wayang Kulit and Dikir Barat. 

Stating that it would be a great loss to the country if the region's cultural and arts heritage was lost, he appealed to the Kelantan state government in particular to take appropriate measures to upgrade its arts centres and such for the convenience of tourists, and to put in place a systematic promotion of its attractions so that tourist guides in turn, could publicise the same within and outside the country.

He added that Tourism Malaysia was ready to cooperate closely with the state government in the matter.

-bernama.
http://www.malaysia.travel

Together We Can: Millions to Collaborate Worldwide for WORLD OCEANS DAY on June 8

PROVIDENCE, RI – June 4, 2019 – The World Oceans Day Youth Advisory Council will help steer the way this week leading up to World Oceans Day on June 8. With increasing awareness of plastic pollution entering waterways around the globe, millions of people will take action for a better future by eliminating single-use plastics, including straws, bags and bottles. In 2018, over 1,500 events were organized in more than 140 inland and coastal countries, including events hosted by schools, aquariums, zoos and businesses.

“World Oceans Day is the perfect chance to shine the spotlight on the ocean and to celebrate the many ways that oceans sustain people and our planet,” said Jack Johnson, Musician, Surfer and Environmental Activist. “We can all take action on World Oceans Day, joining youth leaders and a global movement, to come together in support of healthy and plastic free seas.”

The World Oceans Day Youth Advisory Council, with 24 members ages 16 - 23 from 20 diverse countries, provides new and unique perspectives, ideas and recommendations for rallying the world for our ocean. With continued engagement year-round, Council members help shape the development of World Oceans Day by inspiring actions, big and small, that provide opportunities for ocean conservation 365 days a year.

“I’m absolutely amazed by the World Oceans Day Youth Advisory Council and have discovered extremely talented leaders from all over the world that are working hard in their local communities to raise awareness in protecting the ocean and marine species,” said Nicolás Chesta, a World Oceans Day Youth Advisory Council representative from Chile. “This group of young people is generating an important impact and I’m really grateful to be a part of it.”

For 2019, the theme, Together We Can, will focus on what we can all do together to create a healthy ocean and better future. Millions of people are expected to virtually join hands around the world to show their support for protecting our shared ocean. Visit:  https://www.worldoceansday.org/action-center to learn more about this year’s theme and ways to get involved.

“Youth are leading the charge to create change,” said Bill Mott, Executive Director of The Ocean Project, the non-profit organization that has coordinated World Oceans Day internationally since 2002. “Whether you live far inland or on the coast, the ocean affects each one of us and our personal decisions affect the ocean. We believe that youth are the key to success and are not only leaders of tomorrow, but also of today. Thanks to our supporters, including Proctor & Gamble and Footprint, we can continue to create opportunities and engage youth and others around the world on World Oceans Day and year-round.”

Thousands of events are happening worldwide! Visit www.worldoceansday.org/events_list to find a celebration near you!

About World Oceans Day: Coordinated and promoted internationally by The Ocean Project since 2002, World Oceans Day is an annual celebration on June 8 as well as a call for ocean conservation action throughout the year. Starting in 2009, World Oceans Day has also been officially recognized by the United Nations. This celebration of our ocean brings together organizations and individuals from schools, universities, aquariums, zoos, businesses, and others, including divers, surfers, sailors, communities of faith, governments, the maritime, recreational and tourism industries. For more information, or to find an event, visit: www.WorldOceansDay.org.

Follow @WorldOceansDay on Facebook, Twitter & Instagram.

Meet the World Oceans Day Youth Advisory Council:

http://www.worldoceansday.org/youth-advisory-council

-The Ocean Project.

Use Natural Heritage In Campuses To Create Tourism Packages - Idris Jusoh

SINTOK, May 22 (Bernama) -- Public universities in Malaysia are encouraged to use the natural heritage in campuses to create educational and ecotourism products that are able to attract local and foreign tourists.

Higher Education Minister Datuk Seri Idris Jusoh said the universities would also able to generate revenue through optimising their natural assets.

"Maybe it is more towards educational tourism, where informal education is provided for visitors," he said after launching Discover UUM 2016 here, today.

He said although UUM is located in a remote area in the north, it had made wise use of surrounding natural resources to attract visitors.

"Although it is located quite far away, UUM has tourism products such as a deer farm and a pet farm with ostriches, geese, and ducks," he said.

UUM, which houses over 20,000 students, also has a 1,061-acre jungle named Hutan Sintok, which is thousands of years old.

It has over 3,000 sandalwood trees and centuries-old trees known as the 'Three Siblings', which would delight nature lovers.

Meanwhile, UUM vice-chancellor Prof Datuk Seri Dr Mohamed Mustafa Ishak said over one million visitors are expected to attend Discover UUM 2016, which offers over 15 tour packages.

UUM has recorded 300,000 visitors since January and expects to generate revenue of up to RM5 million, said Mohamed.

The packages include Sintok package, Cengal package, Students package, recreation and tourism packages.

Visitors will be taken around UUM to see attractions such as the ostrich and deer parks, golf course, go-kart circuit, in addition to jungle trekking activities.

At the event, UUM also launched UUMWiFi, which offers free Wi-Fi for local communities in four locations around Changlun and Sintok.
-bernama.
http://ebrochures.malaysia.travel/storage/myfile/ebrochures/20160121142654%7Cadmin/101edutourism//index.html#54

Mutiara Media Club And Penang Tourism Malaysia Branch Organise Treasure Hunt To Assist NASOM

GEORGE TOWN, Dec 14 (Bernama) -- The Penang Mutiara Media Club (Mutiara) has once again come forward to help the needy through a Fun Drive Treasure Hunt 2015 which was held on Saturday.

The director of the programme Rudy Syareme Sheriffudin who is also the Mutiara publicity bureau said products like Milo, sugar, milk contributed by the 40 teams that took part in the Treasure Hunt was donated to the National Autism Society of Malaysia (NASOM), Penang branch.

"The objective of Mutiara is to assist in the welfare of the home and we are glad our aim was fulfilled with the help of the Penang Tourism Malaysia's support.

"We will continue to carry our corporate social responsibility initiatives with the support of corporate bodies," he told reporters after handing out the contributions, here Monday.

The contributions and RM650 cash was handed to the branch coordinator R. Gengespari by Penang Tourism Malaysia director Harun Pilus.

Gengespari said it was the first time the home which houses about 30 children living with autism, had received such a major contribution.

The Fun Drive Treasure Hunt 2015 organised by the Penang Tourism Malaysia and Mutiara saw 40 teams from the media, tourism industry and government agencies take part.
-bernama.

Tourism Malaysia Pulau Pinang Anjur Program Countdown Amal 2015 Untuk Bantu Mangsa Banjir

GEORGE TOWN, 31 Disember 2014 – Tourism Malaysia Pulau Pinang dengan kerjasama pelbagai agensi swasta telah menganjurkan program Countdown Amal 2015 bermula hari ini hingga 9 Januari bagi membantu mangsa-mangsa banjir di Kelantan, Terengganu, Pahang, Kedah, Johor dan Negeri Sembilan.

Sehubungan dengan itu, Tourism Malaysia Pulau Pinang turut melahirkan rasa simpati terhadap mangsa-mangsa banjir di negeri-negeri tersebut.

Program yang melibatkan kerjasama PLUS Cawangan N6 (Jambatan Pertama Pulau Pinang), Stesen Petrol SHELL AMN Cawangan Mak Mandin (Butterworth), Syarikat Elang Wah Sdn Bhd (pengendali bas city tour, Penang Hop on Hop Off) dan Stesen radio Pi Mai FM ini telah menjalankan kutipan derma melalui Tabung Kemanusiaan Mangsa Banjir.

Pejabat Tourism Malaysia Pulau Pinang yang beralamat di No 11, Lebuh Pantai, 10300 George Town, bertindak sebagai pusat pengumpulan sumbangan daripada orang ramai. Sumbangan kutipan derma berbentuk wang ringgit atau barangan keperluan akan disalurkan kepada mangsa-mangsa banjir melalui pertubuhan Mercy Malaysia.

Sebagai hebahan kutipan amal Tabung Kemanusian Mangsa Banjir, sumbangan kolateral oleh Tourism Malaysia bersama risalah maklumat kutipan derma telah diedarkan kepada para pengguna Tol Jambatan Pertama Pulau Pinang bermula jam 12.00 tengah hari hingga 2.00 petang dan turut diedarkan kepada pembeli-pembeli petrol di Stesen SHELL AMN Mak Mandin (Butterworth) bermula jam 3.00 petang hingga 5.00 petang. Program ini turut dijayakan dengan bantuan 10 orang peserta Voluntourism dari UiTM Permatang Pauh.

Syarikat Elang Wah Sdn Bhd, pengusaha bas city tour Penang Hop On Hop Off turut menyumbang usaha dalam hebahan program ini dengan mengedarkan risalah kutipan derma tersebut di dalam bas mereka.

Untuk sebarang maklumat lanjut, sila hubungi Cik Haryanty Abu Bakar, Timbalan Pengarah, Tourism Malaysia Pulau Pinang di talian 04 261 0058 atau emel haryanty@tourism.gov.my.
-Tourism Malaysia.

Celebrities, Media & Tour Agents From ASEAN Participate In The Explore Quest Malaysia 2013 To Boost VMY 2014

KUALA LUMPUR, 11 Nov 2013 – A total of 92 celebrities, media and tour agents from ASEAN gathered in Malaysia to participate in the week-long ASEAN Explore Quest Malaysia 2013, which begins today until 17 November.

The programme, specially organised by Tourism Malaysia for the first time, marks an effort to ensure the continual growth of tourist arrivals from the ASEAN market especially during the celebrations of Visit Malaysia Year (VMY) 2014. 

The ASEAN Explore Quest Malaysia 2013 is a combination of exploring, corporate social responsibility, homestay, and photography competitions. The participants will be travelling from Kuala Lumpur to Perak and Langkawi  by train and bus, while engaging in various activities along the way. 

They will get to enjoy city tours, visit KidZania and Kellie’s Castle, experience rail tourism, witness a mock traditional Malay wedding ceremony, and participate in community activities and traditional games. 

In conjunction with the event, a press conference chaired by the Director General of Tourism Malaysia, Dato’ Mirza Mohammad Taiyab, was held today at the Seri Pacific Hotel Kuala Lumpur. It was followed by a welcome dinner to thank all the participants for their support to the programme. 

“As in previous years, the ASEAN market was the largest contributor of tourist arrivals to Malaysia in 2012, recording 18.8 million visitors. It encompassed 75.1 percent of the country’s total arrivals,” said Dato’ Mirza.

“As such, Tourism Malaysia will continue to carry out promotions to constantly excite the markets with new attractions and holiday ideas to rejuvenate their interest in returning time and time again,”  he continued.

The programme offers the media and travel agents first-hand information on the country’s tourism products, which will enable them to promote and sell Malaysia better and with more confidence. Other elements like culture, people, and nature will also be given emphasis in all the activities especially for the photography competition.

Through the tours, it is hoped that travel agents can provide more exciting and attractive holiday packages, while the media can share their first-hand experiences with their readers.

The ASEAN Explore Quest Malaysia 2013 also involves the participation of ASEAN celebrities, who will help to boost the promotion of the country’s tourist destinations and raise the awareness of VMY 2014 through social media and their fan clubs. They include supermodel and singer Phan Le Ai Phuong from Vietnam, TV host and choreographer Sheenalyn Vera Cruz from the Philippines, actress Chaw Chaw Yu Mon Kyaw Tint from Myanmar.

In order to ensure the success of this programme, Tourism Malaysia has forged a smart partnership with The Star and Star Radio Group which comprises Suria FM, Capital FM, Red FM and 988 (the official media partners), Malaysia Airlines (the official airline), and AirAsia (the official low cost carrier). 

In addition, Tourism Malaysia also received support from various organisations, which include the Perak State Government, the Langkawi Development Authority (LADA), and Malayan Railways (KTM), as well as DiGi, KidZania Kuala Lumpur, Munchy’s, Nippon Paint, Pensonic and Pepsico.

In 2012, a total of 18.8 million tourists from ASEAN countries visited Malaysia. For this year, the country has set a target to attract 19.9 million tourists from this region. For the first half of 2013, Malaysia has already received 9.2 million tourists from ASEAN countries. 

-Tourism Malaysia.

Malaysia Airlines, Firefly and MASwings Contribute RM638,555 to Tabung Wira Lahad Datu Media Prima

Petaling Jaya, 24 April 2013 : Malaysia Airlines and its wholly owned subsidiaries Firefly and MASwings today announced a total contribution of RM638,555 towards the Tabung Wira Lahad Datu Media Prima established to commemorate the services of security personnel who were injured and perished in line of duty defending the sovereignty of Malaysia.

At the cheque presentation ceremony today, Malaysia Airlines (MAS) Head of Strategic Communications Dato’ Najmuddin Abdullah expressed the company’s appreciation to the security forces who had sacrificed their lives in protecting the nation’s sovereignty. “The whole of Malaysia was affected and deeply saddened by the militant intrusion in Lahad Datu. As a responsible corporate citizen, Malaysia Airlines felt compelled to contribute towards this fund which will be directed to families of the fallen heroes as well as injured security personnel. This also symbolises our overall commitment in supporting the government’s efforts in maintaining safety across our borders.”

“The East Sabah region has some of the world’s best eco-tourist attractions that are very popular amongst foreigners. There are also many support industries vital for both foreign tourist arrivals and improving the livelihood of our locals. Like all Malaysians, we are relieved that the battle with the intruders has come to an end and the affected areas have been declared safe,” added Dato’ Najmuddin.

The national airline serves the East Sabah region with direct B737 flights between Kuala Lumpur and the cities of Sandakan and Tawau, while its subsidiary MASwings’ ATR-72 flights link the Sabah caiptal of Kota Kinabalu with Lahad Datu, Sandakan and Tawau.

Besides that, Malaysia Airlines also flies to Kota Kinabalu from Kuala Lumpur, 89 times weekly and from Kuala Lumpur to Kuching, 77 times weekly.

-Malaysia Airlines.

www.malaysiaairlines.com

Dato’ Siti Nurhaliza & LEGOLAND® Make Dreams Come True For Malaysia’s Bravest Children

Mohd Riza Sidek (IJN) Dato Siti Nurhaliza and Thila Munusamy (LEGOLAND)

Johor, 28 March 2013 – Several of Malaysia’s bravest children made a trip to LEGOLAND® Malaysia today as special guests of international superstar Dato’ Siti Nurhaliza. They have recently recovered from heart surgery. The funds for their treatment were raised through the SimplySiti Di Hati 2012 CSR initiative with the National Heart Institute Foundation (IJN Foundation). 

As well as sampling the 40 interactive rides, shows and attractions with the children and their families, Dato’ Siti held a joint press conference with LEGOLAND. During the event she presented the IJN Foundation with a cheque for RM 57,166 that was raised through a nationwide campaign to fund the heart surgery for the three selected children.  

“I am delighted to be here today because LEGOLAND is a place where children’s dreams can come true. The children visiting today have displayed immense bravery over the past months and really deserve to enjoy their day in this unique theme park. My deepest appreciation goes out to everyone who has participated in the SimplySiti Di Hati 2012 campaign to raise funds for these children, who thankfully are healthy after the surgery. I hope there will be more contributions to IJN foundation so many more underprivileged children suffering from heart disease in Malaysia will get the care they need,” Dato’ Siti said. 

In support of Dato’ Siti Nurhaliza’s contribution, LEGOLAND Malaysia also made a special donation. On behalf of the international theme park Thila Munusamy, Director Sales and Marketing, contributed 1,000 complimentary entrance tickets to IJN Foundation.  

“LEGOLAND greatly admires the work that Dato’ Siti carries out and we share her aspiration to help children who are seriously ill, disabled or disadvantaged. We provide on-going support through the Merlin’s Magic Wand; a worldwide charity dedicated to providing magical experiences to these children. Initiatives in the local community are also an integral part of our corporate social 

responsibility. To show our support for Dato’ Siti and children in Malaysia with heart disease we would like to present 1,000 LEGOLAND tickets to the IJN Foundation,” said Munusamy.  

Dato Siti Nurhaliza and her special guests at LEGOLAND

During her visit to LEGOLAND Malaysia Dato’ Siti also became the latest guest to participate in the Minifigure Swap currently taking place in the Park. Since its launch two weeks ago more than 6,000 children and visitors have played their part in Asia’s first ever Minifigure Swap, a Park tradition that involves the trading of small LEGO® figurines to encourage interaction between Model Citizens (LEGOLAND Staff) and Park visitors.

-www.legoland.com.my

Voluntourism a hit with longhaul travellers to Malaysia

Traditional longhaul markets to Malaysia have developed an appetite for volunteer tourism, with travel consultants reporting growing interest in the niche segment.

Diethelm Travel Malaysia’s managing director, Manfred Kurz, said: “Traditionally, CSR programmes appeal only to meeting and incentive groups from European markets. But we have seen growing interest from the FIT segment over the last couple of years.”

To harness rising demand, Diethelm Travel will work with established tour operators in Germany to promote more volunteer tourism programmes in Sabah and Sarawak for the FIT market this year.

Sarawak-based Masama JS Adventure Tours’ business development manager, Marco Wunsch, said: “In 2012, we saw 30 per cent year-on-year growth (in the number of participants) for our turtle conservation programme at Talang-Talang Island, with the most requests coming from FITs from the Netherlands.”

Masama works with the Sarawak Forestry Corporation for this programme. 

Wunsch said: “This year, we would like to develop more conservation tours in Sarawak, especially those with the rare Irrawaddy dolphins in the Santubong area.”

Alex Lee, CEO of Terengganu-based Ping Anchorage Travel & Tours, explained the difference between the regular leisure tourist and a volunteer tourist. “The FIT tourist involved in volunteer tourism spends at least 50 per cent more than the average tourist, as they even pay the locals a fee to be involved (in activities).

“This year, we plan to develop more volunteer programmes in Terengganu, involving local culture, heritage and nature. Tourists will be able to decide on the programmes they wish to be involved in, based on their budget and length of stay.”

-TTG Asia.