BERLIN, March 10 (Bernama) -- The five-day Berlin Tourism Fair opened on Tuesday with a large Malaysian delegation headed by Tourism Malaysia deputy director-general Azizan Noordin aggressively courting tourists. The delegation comprised representatives of 25 travel and tour operating agents, 25 hotels, four states (Terengganu, Penang, Langkawi and Sabah) and Malaysia Airlines and its sister airline, FireFly. Azizan said Malaysia was eyeing the European tourism market because it held promise of providing business for Malaysia.On an overall basis, Europe accounted for some 5.1 per cent growth in traffic to Malaysia in 2009 over 2008. "We would like to further enhance our promotion efforts in the European market which posted good growth last year. Germany alone accounted for a 15 per cent growth with 128,228 tourists last year," Azizan said in an interview with Bernama at the Berlin exhibition hall.
Malaysia's huge pavilion consists of a large space filled with individual tables for each of the exhibitors to receive potential customers and discuss business in private. The pavilion replicates Malaysia's landscape, depicting its natural setting as much as its contemporary landmarks. Since the exhibition hall 26, where Malaysia and other Asean states are located, is bursting at the seams, Malaysia's pavilion has been expanded vertically -- it has an added upper storey where the staff of Tourism Malaysia can receive important visitors. Malaysia is given good chances of attracting visitors from Europe, many of whom love its sandy beaches, flora and fauna, the night life in big cities such as Kuala Lumpur, culture and cuisine and the general warmth and hospitality of the people.
"Malaysia is an exciting place to visit even though some German news media have been incessantly highlighting some negative developments taking place in that country such as the recent caning of the three Muslim women who allegedly violated the Islamic laws," said Reinhard Berger, a Bavarian businessman who regularly visits Asian countries and claims to be "madly in love" with Borneo's fauna and flora. Nevertheless, Malaysia has also benefited from a number of developments taking place in its neighbourhood, such as the Jakarta bombings and the Thai political upheavals, prompting many tourists to turn, instead, to Malaysia to spend part of their vacation there. Like other Southeast Asian nations, Malaysia's attractiveness is greatly enhanced if it is offered as one of two destinations, the other being either Thailand, Singapore or Indonesia.
However, Azizan said that Malaysia was now graduating to the next level of tourism, where it was also interested in promoting luxury tours, cruise tourism, Malaysia My Second Home tourism, contemporary arts tourism. "With an eye on promoting contemporary arts, Malaysia is also hosting a gala evening on March 12, where Malaysian female conductor Ooi Chean-see will conduct a show which blends classical with ethnic Malaysian elements.
Wednesday, 10 March 2010
32 Aussie, Kiwi Travel-trade Managers For Conference In Malaysia
MELBOURNE, March 10 (Bernama) -- Twenty-three senior managers from Australia and New Zealand will attend Tourism Malaysia's second annual travel-trade product conference in Malaysia this month. They will meet at the Shangri-La Hotel in Kuala Lumpur on March 19 and at Tanjung Aru in Kota Kinabalu on March 22 to meet hoteliers and tour operators from throughout Malaysia to find out what Malaysia has to offer to boost business tourism. The event will introduce accommodation contractors from Australia and New Zealand wholesale travel companies to new, alternative and updated hotels in Malaysia, said Shahrin Mokhtar, Tourism Malaysia Sydney director.
The participants will include people directly contracting hotels for the large Australasian markets, including travel companies such as Flight Centre, Creative Holidays and Stella Travel, said Shahrin in a statement. He said more than 30 Peninsular Malaysia hoteliers would attend the business session at Shangri-La Hotel and about 50 from Sabah and Sarawak at the Kota Kinabalu session. The editor of Australia and New Zealand's most widely-read industry publication "eTravel Blackboard" will also attend the conference to file on-the-spot reports for its daily trade e-newsletter. "Australia and New Zealand are important markets for Malaysian tourism, with Australia always in the top 10 for tourist arrivals," said Shahrin.
Despite the global financial crisis last year, 596,386 Australian and New Zealanders visited Malaysia, a 23.4 per cent growth compared with 2008, he said. "They spent RM2.3 billion in Malaysia, an increase of 24.9 per cent compared with 2008".
The participants will include people directly contracting hotels for the large Australasian markets, including travel companies such as Flight Centre, Creative Holidays and Stella Travel, said Shahrin in a statement. He said more than 30 Peninsular Malaysia hoteliers would attend the business session at Shangri-La Hotel and about 50 from Sabah and Sarawak at the Kota Kinabalu session. The editor of Australia and New Zealand's most widely-read industry publication "eTravel Blackboard" will also attend the conference to file on-the-spot reports for its daily trade e-newsletter. "Australia and New Zealand are important markets for Malaysian tourism, with Australia always in the top 10 for tourist arrivals," said Shahrin.
Despite the global financial crisis last year, 596,386 Australian and New Zealanders visited Malaysia, a 23.4 per cent growth compared with 2008, he said. "They spent RM2.3 billion in Malaysia, an increase of 24.9 per cent compared with 2008".
Tuesday, 9 March 2010
Boosting Tourism With Footwear Fair
KUALA LUMPUR, March 9 (Bernama) -- Besides scenic spots, culture, shopping and food, the Tourism Ministry is embarking on shoes as an attraction to promote Malaysia to the world. Tourism Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ng Yen Yen said a three-day 1Malaysia International Shoe Festival would be held from April 2 to promote the country as the shoe capital of the East.
Malaysian-born world-renowned shoe designer Datuk Jimmy Choo will also showcase his 10 most successful shoe creations and deliver a talk at the event at the Putra World Trade Centre here. Ng said the number of tourists who shopped for shoes in Malaysia increased by 19.9 per cent last year compared to 2008. "We hope that this year, sales will increase by up to 25 per cent and will stimulate the Malaysian economy," she told reporters. The event would be jointly organised by the ministry and the Malaysian Footwear Manufacturers Association. Ng said Peter Chow, a renowned London-based trade buyer and owner of Davina Fashion Shoe boutique, would speak on how to attract more international buyers for Malaysian-made shoes.
The prime minister's wife, Datin Seri Rosmah Mansor, would launch the festival, which would also feature the history of local shoes including Malay Royal Court shoes and intricately-designed beaded Nyonya shoes, she said. "With the support from Jimmy Choo, we believe our dream to establish Malaysia as an international hub for shoe fashion and become a shoe-buying centre is possible. We believe this event will not only create an economic opportunity but will also attract more tourists to the country," she said, noting that Malaysian brands such as Vincci, Bonia, Carlo Rino and Lewre had penetrated the international market.
Malaysian-born world-renowned shoe designer Datuk Jimmy Choo will also showcase his 10 most successful shoe creations and deliver a talk at the event at the Putra World Trade Centre here. Ng said the number of tourists who shopped for shoes in Malaysia increased by 19.9 per cent last year compared to 2008. "We hope that this year, sales will increase by up to 25 per cent and will stimulate the Malaysian economy," she told reporters. The event would be jointly organised by the ministry and the Malaysian Footwear Manufacturers Association. Ng said Peter Chow, a renowned London-based trade buyer and owner of Davina Fashion Shoe boutique, would speak on how to attract more international buyers for Malaysian-made shoes.
The prime minister's wife, Datin Seri Rosmah Mansor, would launch the festival, which would also feature the history of local shoes including Malay Royal Court shoes and intricately-designed beaded Nyonya shoes, she said. "With the support from Jimmy Choo, we believe our dream to establish Malaysia as an international hub for shoe fashion and become a shoe-buying centre is possible. We believe this event will not only create an economic opportunity but will also attract more tourists to the country," she said, noting that Malaysian brands such as Vincci, Bonia, Carlo Rino and Lewre had penetrated the international market.
Lotus Racing Set For Bahrain Grand Prix This Weekend
KUALA LUMPUR, March 9 (Bernama) -- Nearly six months after gaining entry into the 2010 Formula One (F1) World Championship, the Lotus Racing mean machine, T127, will burn out the tarmac at the Sakhir Circuit for the first practice session on Friday for the Bahrain Grand Prix this weekend. The team started its journey to Bahrain from its temporary headquarters in Norfolk, England, on Saturday with six airfreight boxes including the two F1 cars with A 60-strong entourage. As its gears up for the first Grand Prix, the whole team, including the drivers, Jarno Trulli and Heikki Kovalainen, remained upbeat and honest about its expectations for the first few races.
Trulli commented: "It would be nice to score a point, but it is not going to be easy. We have to be realistic."Chief technical officer Mike Gascoyne said: "Our test season was extremely productive -- in general we've had very good reliability, and the team is in very good shape going to the first race." Team principle Datuk Seri Tony Fernandes commented: "We are all looking forward to Bahrain, to have Lotus Racing on the grid will be a momentous occasion for all involved and, indeed, for our fans, whose support has been absolutely fantastic since we launched just under six months ago. "Yes we are a little slower than the major leading teams. However, we will get there with passion, hard work and a clear vision -- our aim for this first Grand Prix will be to finish and steadily but surely improve, race by race."
Bahrain will host the season opening of 2010 Formula One (F1) World Championship from March 12 to 14 before the race moves to Australia on March 28. Sepang will host the third of the 19-leg F1 race on April 4.
www.lotusracing.my
Trulli commented: "It would be nice to score a point, but it is not going to be easy. We have to be realistic."Chief technical officer Mike Gascoyne said: "Our test season was extremely productive -- in general we've had very good reliability, and the team is in very good shape going to the first race." Team principle Datuk Seri Tony Fernandes commented: "We are all looking forward to Bahrain, to have Lotus Racing on the grid will be a momentous occasion for all involved and, indeed, for our fans, whose support has been absolutely fantastic since we launched just under six months ago. "Yes we are a little slower than the major leading teams. However, we will get there with passion, hard work and a clear vision -- our aim for this first Grand Prix will be to finish and steadily but surely improve, race by race."
Bahrain will host the season opening of 2010 Formula One (F1) World Championship from March 12 to 14 before the race moves to Australia on March 28. Sepang will host the third of the 19-leg F1 race on April 4.
www.lotusracing.my
Monday, 8 March 2010
Kuala Lumpur Grand Prix City 2010
10 Major events during Kuala Lumpur Grand Prix City 2010.Events #1
8th KL Vintage & Classic Cars Concours by Kuala Lumpur City Hall
27 Mac (3-6pm)
Petronas Pit Pulse @ Jalan Binjai
50 vintage & classic cars
Assemble at 12 noon at Dataran Merdeka. Lunch
Street parade from Jalan Raja Laut – Bukit Bintang – Jalan Binjai
Judging and public viewing from 3-6.30pm
8th KL Vintage & Classic Cars Concours by Kuala Lumpur City Hall
27 Mac (3-6pm)
Petronas Pit Pulse @ Jalan Binjai
50 vintage & classic cars
Assemble at 12 noon at Dataran Merdeka. Lunch
Street parade from Jalan Raja Laut – Bukit Bintang – Jalan Binjai
Judging and public viewing from 3-6.30pm
Events #2
Gilded Garage Gala Night by Kuala Lumpur City Hall and Petronas
31 Mac (8 – 11pm)
Petronas Pit Pulse @ Jalan Binjai
500 guests (by invitations)
Fashion show. Entertainment. Live performances
31 Mac (8 – 11pm)
Petronas Pit Pulse @ Jalan Binjai
500 guests (by invitations)
Fashion show. Entertainment. Live performances
Events #3
Petronas Pit Pulse by Petronas
27 Mac – 4th April (day/night)
Petronas Pit Pulse @ Jalan Binjai
F1 exhibitions, F1 simulator challenge, live performance, Mercedes Heritage cars demo
27 Mac – 4th April (day/night)
Petronas Pit Pulse @ Jalan Binjai
F1 exhibitions, F1 simulator challenge, live performance, Mercedes Heritage cars demo
Events #4
Petronas Formula One Street Demo by Petronas
31 Mac (6-7pm)
Jalan Binjai
F1 street demo by Micheal Shumacher and Nico Rosberg from team Petronas-Mercedes
31 Mac (6-7pm)
Jalan Binjai
F1 street demo by Micheal Shumacher and Nico Rosberg from team Petronas-Mercedes
Events #5
Ultimate Pit Stops by the Pavillion KL
16 Mac – 4th April
The Pavilion
Cars Pit Stop, Fashion Pit Stop, Dining Pit Stop
16 Mac – 4th April
The Pavilion
Cars Pit Stop, Fashion Pit Stop, Dining Pit Stop
Events #6
Formula 1Malaysian Cultural Festival by Kuala Lumpur City Hall and Ministry of Tourism
2-4th April (5 – 10.30pm)
The Pavilion
Multicultural festival featuring 1 Malaysia
2-4th April (5 – 10.30pm)
The Pavilion
Multicultural festival featuring 1 Malaysia
Events #7
Malaysian Petronas F1 Grand Prix Gala by Sepang International Circuit
2 April @ KLCC
Gala cocktail with Lionel Ritchie concert
2 April @ KLCC
Gala cocktail with Lionel Ritchie concert
Events #8
Stylo Fashion Grand Prix by STYLO International
Mac 26 – April 3
Fashion shows
Mac 26 – April 3
Fashion shows
Events #9
GP Sale by Tourism Malaysia
Mac 6 – April 11
Sales at major leading malls
Mac 6 – April 11
Sales at major leading malls
Events #10
Shoes Festival By Ministry of Tourism
April 2-4
Shoes seminar and exhibitions
April 2-4
Shoes seminar and exhibitions
please check these websites
Sunday, 7 March 2010
Melaka Expects 8 Million Tourist Arrivals In 2010
MELBOURNE, March 7 (Bernama) -- Melaka is delighted with the growth of its tourism industry and expects eight million visitors this year, surpassing the 7.5 million in 2009.
"We are becoming the powerhouse of tourism in mainland Malaysia because we have so much to offer to tourists, especially those from overseas, who are impressed with our historical attractions and our way of life," said Mohd Ariff Shah Abdullah Sani, chief executive of the Melaka International Trade Centre (MITC).
"We are also very fortunate that our chief minister, Datuk Seri Mohd Ali Rustam, supports Melaka tourism 100 per cent and is keen to personally welcome visitors to our state," he told Bernama.
"Datuk Seri understands Melaka's rich history, our historical diversity and amazing cultural mix and he encourages us to promote our wonderful tourism assets," he said.
"Tourists come to Malaysia not for its tall buildings and other modern showpieces. They are more interested in Malaysia's history, our historical houses and buildings, our heritage, dating back several hundreds years, and all these are found in Melaka.
"That's why Melaka is becoming increasing popular among visitors to Malaysia. We are a big draw-card. Tourism-wise, we are more progressive than any other state in mainland Malaysia," he added.
Mohd Ariff Shah, who attended the 2010 AIME (Asia-Pacific Incentives & Meetings Expo) here this week, said it was the first time that Melaka was taking part in the two-day event.
He said Melaka had tied up about RM2 million worth of business at the expo here.
"We expect more business to flow our way once the convention buyers return to their agencies and draw up their MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conventions and Exhibitions) programmes for the months and years ahead," he said.
"The signs from this expo have been very positive for Melaka. A lot of inquiries have come from India and China. We have met several high-profile buyers from India here in Melbourne. The Chinese are more interested in group tours," he said.
"We can accommodate any number of people who want to visit Melaka. We have about 15,000 hotel rooms and our occupancy rates are very high. We are booked out at weekends."
Mohd Ariff Shah said Melaka's new international airport could soon be a big asset to the state.
"Of course, it's very close to KLIA (KL International Airport) and this has its disadvantages, but Melaka can be an ideal landing place for Asian and other budget carriers, bringing regional visitors to Melaka and Malaysia.
"Australia and New Zealand are also important markets and, because of our close relationships with these two countries, we plan to tap into these markets," he said.
Saturday, 6 March 2010
MAS Portal Airing Exclusive Travelogue
PETALING JAYA: Travellers can now plan their holidays better with Malaysia Airlines’ online travel portal (www.MAStraveller.com), with an exclusive run of Destinasi Bajet Jom MAS! travelogue on the site.
The travel portal is aimed at inspiring travellers with real travel experiences.
“People trust other travellers to provide them with real travel experiences as they appreciate insights from people who have either visited the place or have lived there before,” said Malaysia Airlines senior general manager (communications) Indira Nair.
The site went “live” in January and has more than 11,300 registered members.
Malaysia Airlines was encouraged by the response and decided it was time to take it to a bigger audience.
“As Destinasi Bajet has already captured quite a number of followers since its debut in 2007, we hope that its appeal will generate more traffic into the portal,” said Indira.
The third season of the well-known Destinasi Bajet Jom MAS! travelogue is exclusively aired on MAStraveller.com starting from yesterday.
The collaboration expands Destinasi Bajet’s holiday trips from just Malaysia to Asean nations.
Previously aired on 8TV, Destinasi Bajet’s host Qushairi Mohammed Razali (better known as Qi) will be joined by co-host, actress and TV presenter, Cheryl Samad this season.
Knocking off the notions that travelling with a budget is impossible, Cheryl said: “We are living proof that travelling with a budget is possible and can be done with proper planning.”
In conjunction with the launch, Malaysia Airlines is running a contest starting on March 8. Contestants need to answer a question based on one destination from the show and submit their own travel tip.
A ticket to any Asean or domestic destination will be up for grabs weekly throughout the entire season.
The travel portal is aimed at inspiring travellers with real travel experiences.
“People trust other travellers to provide them with real travel experiences as they appreciate insights from people who have either visited the place or have lived there before,” said Malaysia Airlines senior general manager (communications) Indira Nair.
The site went “live” in January and has more than 11,300 registered members.
Malaysia Airlines was encouraged by the response and decided it was time to take it to a bigger audience.
“As Destinasi Bajet has already captured quite a number of followers since its debut in 2007, we hope that its appeal will generate more traffic into the portal,” said Indira.
The third season of the well-known Destinasi Bajet Jom MAS! travelogue is exclusively aired on MAStraveller.com starting from yesterday.
The collaboration expands Destinasi Bajet’s holiday trips from just Malaysia to Asean nations.
Previously aired on 8TV, Destinasi Bajet’s host Qushairi Mohammed Razali (better known as Qi) will be joined by co-host, actress and TV presenter, Cheryl Samad this season.
Knocking off the notions that travelling with a budget is impossible, Cheryl said: “We are living proof that travelling with a budget is possible and can be done with proper planning.”
In conjunction with the launch, Malaysia Airlines is running a contest starting on March 8. Contestants need to answer a question based on one destination from the show and submit their own travel tip.
A ticket to any Asean or domestic destination will be up for grabs weekly throughout the entire season.
Miri International Jazz Festival: Feel The Beat, Says DCM
MIRI, March 6 (Bernama) -- Deputy Chief Minister Tan Sri Dr George Chan wants the locals to "feel the beat" and appreciate the significance of the Miri International Jazz Festival (MIJF).
He said the locals could benefit from the event by adding value to tourists' experience during their stay here.
"We can bring in the bands, we can bring in the people (tourists), but it is up to them (the locals) to make the place enjoyable to tourists so that key can keep on coming back," he told a news conference on the progress of preparation for the MIJF which will be held on May 14-15.
Eight bands from the United States, Holland, Brazil, Indonesia, Denmark, Germany and Switzerland will take part in the festival which was incepted in 2005.
Dr Chan said the presence of a substantial number of expatriates here as well as in Brunei, Sabah and Labuan contributed a lot in making up the audience for the festival in the last four years.
Nevertheless, he said the locals could further reap the benefits from the event by adding value to the tourists' stay during the period.
"Treat them well and they will eventually become 'ambassadors' who will tell good things about our country," he added.
Friday, 5 March 2010
Be Extra Careful When Buying Tour Packages, Advises MATTA President
KUALA LUMPUR: Be extra careful and read the fine print when purchasing tour packages that promise the perfect holiday.
This is the advice given by newly-appointed Malaysian Association of Tour and Travel Agents (Matta) president Datuk Mohd Khalid Harun.
“Whatever excitement you are offered, please be a little bit cautious and pay attention to the details of what you are getting into,” Mohd Khalid told The Star yesterday.
“Make sure you observe the terms and conditions of the package and acknowledge them accordingly.”
He said this after receiving a copy of a police report lodged on Tuesday by a group of 23 holiday-makers who claimed that they were not given a full refund totalling RM24,220 after their tour to China was cancelled due to “technical errors” on not being able to secure air fares for the group.
Group member Cheryl Lim said they accepted the deal at the previous Matta Fair but claimed that they were not shown the special terms and conditions of the offer.
Mohd Khalid said he would investigate the matter further but advised consumers to know what they are getting when they paid up.
“Ask your travel agent for a complete payment itinerary and ensure that nothing is hidden,” he added.
Asked on what would Matta do if such a case was reported to it, Mohd Khalid said there are mechanisms to ensure consumers are protected.
“If we find out there is a case for the customer, then the agency have to make a refund. Failing which we can cancel their membership and in serious cases, have their licences revoked upon recommendation to the Tourism Ministry,” he said.
He added that Matta would call the travel agent who also happened to be an exhibitor in this up-coming Matta Fair to show cause why they should not be barred according to the association code of ethics.
Those with complaints are advised to call Matta at 03-9287 6881 or lodge a complaint online at www.matta.org.my.
The Matta Fair will be held from March 12 to 14.
Thursday, 4 March 2010
Hafiz Takes Reins Of Tourism Malaysia's Melbourne Office
MELBOURNE, March 4 (Bernama) -- Mohd Hafiz Hashim has assumed duties as Tourism Malaysia's new director for Victoria and Tasmania based here.
He succeeds the popular Putra Hilmy Elias, who returns to Kuala Lumpur on March 15 to take up a senior position at Tourism Malaysia headquarters after serving five meritorious years in Australia, initially in Sydney and then Melbourne.
Hafiz comes to Melbourne with extensive experience in the marketing and convention divisions which will be a big asset in helping Australian travel retailers and tour operators.
He was posted to Singapore from April 2000 to January 2006 before going to Sydney, where he was tasked with overseeing MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conventions and Exhibitions) promotions for Australian and New Zealand markets.
Before that, Hafiz was involved in MICE promotions in Europe, particularly the IMEX in Frankfurt and EIBTM in Barcelona. IMEX and EIBTM are annual global events for the meetings and incentive industry.
Hafiz, who is married with four children, said he was most excited about his Melbourne posting. "I have been in Melbourne in the past month and I find the city vibrant and the people friendly and helpful," he said.
"I plan to meet people in the Australian travel tourism industry soon and harness their thoughts and ideas to boost tourism to Malaysia.
"I am keen to increase our market profile and at the same time to keep the Australian market in our top 10 market list."
Hafiz said he planned to help increase the Australian arrivals in Malaysia for leisure and hype up the MICE market by taking advantage of the strong Aussie dollar.
"I also plan to further promote Malaysia's niche products such as our homestay, Malaysia My Second Home programme, affordable luxury travel, memorable weddings, unforgettable honeymoons, spa and wellness."
-- BERNAMA
He succeeds the popular Putra Hilmy Elias, who returns to Kuala Lumpur on March 15 to take up a senior position at Tourism Malaysia headquarters after serving five meritorious years in Australia, initially in Sydney and then Melbourne.
Hafiz comes to Melbourne with extensive experience in the marketing and convention divisions which will be a big asset in helping Australian travel retailers and tour operators.
He was posted to Singapore from April 2000 to January 2006 before going to Sydney, where he was tasked with overseeing MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conventions and Exhibitions) promotions for Australian and New Zealand markets.
Before that, Hafiz was involved in MICE promotions in Europe, particularly the IMEX in Frankfurt and EIBTM in Barcelona. IMEX and EIBTM are annual global events for the meetings and incentive industry.
Hafiz, who is married with four children, said he was most excited about his Melbourne posting. "I have been in Melbourne in the past month and I find the city vibrant and the people friendly and helpful," he said.
"I plan to meet people in the Australian travel tourism industry soon and harness their thoughts and ideas to boost tourism to Malaysia.
"I am keen to increase our market profile and at the same time to keep the Australian market in our top 10 market list."
Hafiz said he planned to help increase the Australian arrivals in Malaysia for leisure and hype up the MICE market by taking advantage of the strong Aussie dollar.
"I also plan to further promote Malaysia's niche products such as our homestay, Malaysia My Second Home programme, affordable luxury travel, memorable weddings, unforgettable honeymoons, spa and wellness."
-- BERNAMA
Wednesday, 3 March 2010
Tourism Fair In May To Promote Domestic Tourism
KUALA LUMPUR, March 3 (Bernama) -- The Malaysian Domestic Tourism Fair 2010 (MDTF'10) will be held at the Putra World Trade Centre from May 14 to 16 to promote domestic tourism.
Datuk Shamsul Falak Abd. Kadir, Deputy President of the National Tourism Council of Malaysia (NTCM), the organiser, said that the fair, with the tagline "Think Local, Plan Local and Go Local", was aimed not only at attracting local visitors but also the foreign communities living in the country.
"It is the second year we are organising MDTF. We are expecting 25,000 visitors to attend the fair," he told a news conference here on Wednesday.
In conjunction with the fair, the NTCM would also organise a PhotoChallenge Competition themed "1Malaysia-Communities and Destinations" to be launched later this March, besides introducing the Bridal Tourism Extravaganza.
Shamsul said the number of booths at the had been from 150 last year to 250 to enable tourism stakeholders and players from all segments of the industry to showcase and market their products and services.
Tourism Malaysia's Deputy Director-General (Marketing) Datuk Amirrudin Abu said that it fully supported MDTF'10 to promote interesting destinations within the country.
"This year we (Tourism Malaysia) will taking more than 40 booths. To me, the fair is good for our tourism industry. Many destinations in Malaysia are worth visiting and this fair will help to promote domestic tourism," he said.
-- BERNAMA
Datuk Shamsul Falak Abd. Kadir, Deputy President of the National Tourism Council of Malaysia (NTCM), the organiser, said that the fair, with the tagline "Think Local, Plan Local and Go Local", was aimed not only at attracting local visitors but also the foreign communities living in the country.
"It is the second year we are organising MDTF. We are expecting 25,000 visitors to attend the fair," he told a news conference here on Wednesday.
In conjunction with the fair, the NTCM would also organise a PhotoChallenge Competition themed "1Malaysia-Communities and Destinations" to be launched later this March, besides introducing the Bridal Tourism Extravaganza.
Shamsul said the number of booths at the had been from 150 last year to 250 to enable tourism stakeholders and players from all segments of the industry to showcase and market their products and services.
Tourism Malaysia's Deputy Director-General (Marketing) Datuk Amirrudin Abu said that it fully supported MDTF'10 to promote interesting destinations within the country.
"This year we (Tourism Malaysia) will taking more than 40 booths. To me, the fair is good for our tourism industry. Many destinations in Malaysia are worth visiting and this fair will help to promote domestic tourism," he said.
-- BERNAMA
Malaysia Aims To Be Among The Top Five Asia-Pacific Mice Destinations By 2015
KUCHING, March 2 (Bernama) -- Malaysia has set a target to be among the top five Meetings, Incentives, Convention and Exhibition (MICE) destinations in the Asia-Pacific region by 2015.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak said based on the International Congress and Convention Association 2008 ranking, Malaysia were ranked in eighth place in the Asia-Pacific region and 32nd in the world ranking.
"Malaysia has all the inherent ingredients to be successful, such as growing accessibility, competitive pricing, leading edge infrastructure, multicultural attraction and professional expertise," he said at the opening of the RM200 million Borneo Convention Centre Kuching (BCCK), here Tuesday.
Najib said with with the establishment of the Malaysia Convention and Exhibition Bureau (MyCEB) under Tourism Malaysia last year, the country's ranking in the Asia-Pacific region could be improved.
"We are confident that with the combined efforts of all stakeholders led by MyCEB, our international and regional rankings will improve further in the future," he said.
Sarawak Chief Minister Tan Sri Abdul Taib Mahmud, who also spoke at the opening, said the state government had targeted five-years to make an impact in the MICE sector.
Taib said he hoped the Federal Government would support the state's tourism sector including the development of Unesco world heritage site Mulu in northern Sarawak.
"In future we may see the development of more hotels including in Mulu," he said, adding that the state government had no intention to build road to Mulu out of environmental concerns.
Since its opening in Aug 2, 2009, BCCK has hosted 52 events and welcomed over 30,000 delegates. It is strategically located and managed by Borneo Isthmus Development Sdn Bhd, a Sarawak state-owned company.
It is located eight kilometres from the city centre and aims to organise and attract local and international concerts, events, exhibitions, and conventions to Sarawak.
Borneo Convention Centre Kuching website
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak said based on the International Congress and Convention Association 2008 ranking, Malaysia were ranked in eighth place in the Asia-Pacific region and 32nd in the world ranking.
"Malaysia has all the inherent ingredients to be successful, such as growing accessibility, competitive pricing, leading edge infrastructure, multicultural attraction and professional expertise," he said at the opening of the RM200 million Borneo Convention Centre Kuching (BCCK), here Tuesday.
Najib said with with the establishment of the Malaysia Convention and Exhibition Bureau (MyCEB) under Tourism Malaysia last year, the country's ranking in the Asia-Pacific region could be improved.
"We are confident that with the combined efforts of all stakeholders led by MyCEB, our international and regional rankings will improve further in the future," he said.
Sarawak Chief Minister Tan Sri Abdul Taib Mahmud, who also spoke at the opening, said the state government had targeted five-years to make an impact in the MICE sector.
Taib said he hoped the Federal Government would support the state's tourism sector including the development of Unesco world heritage site Mulu in northern Sarawak.
"In future we may see the development of more hotels including in Mulu," he said, adding that the state government had no intention to build road to Mulu out of environmental concerns.
Since its opening in Aug 2, 2009, BCCK has hosted 52 events and welcomed over 30,000 delegates. It is strategically located and managed by Borneo Isthmus Development Sdn Bhd, a Sarawak state-owned company.
It is located eight kilometres from the city centre and aims to organise and attract local and international concerts, events, exhibitions, and conventions to Sarawak.
Borneo Convention Centre Kuching website
www.bcck.com.my
Tuesday, 2 March 2010
2nd Putrajaya International Hot Air Ballon Fiesta 2010
Date: 18 - 21 March 2010
Coincide with school holidays to capture the children and parents from all around Malaysia.
Venue: Putrajaya
Precinct 2, adjacent to the Monument Alaf Baru.
Time: To stretch the event time from 7am to 9pm.
Number of Hot Air Balloons: 23
Normal shaped : 18
13 hot air balloons for free flying
5 hot air balloons for public tethered rides
Special shaped: 5
Participating countries
The pilots that attended the 1st Putrajaya International Hot Air Balloon Fiesta 2009 are excited to come back next year!
Countries involved were Belgium, USA, the Netherlands, France, Switzerland, Malaysia and Japan.
More pilots from other countries also requested to attend the event.
Theme: "1World, 1Malaysia, 1Fiesta"
In line with our Prime Minister’s 1MALAYSIA campaign, the fiesta would be the perfect avenue in promoting unity.
As proven in the inaugural fiesta, it could be seen that the fiesta attracts everyone regardless of their nationality, race, age, gender and profession.
ONE WORLD: balloonists from around the world will be participating in the fiesta, also we hope to attract international tourists into Malaysia.
ONE MALAYSIA: fans or spectators from around Malaysia, regardless of race.
ONE FIESTA: hot air balloons being the highlight of the event, there will also be many activities and entertainment that is conducive for all.
Coincide with school holidays to capture the children and parents from all around Malaysia.
Venue: Putrajaya
Precinct 2, adjacent to the Monument Alaf Baru.
Time: To stretch the event time from 7am to 9pm.
Number of Hot Air Balloons: 23
Normal shaped : 18
13 hot air balloons for free flying
5 hot air balloons for public tethered rides
Special shaped: 5
Participating countries
The pilots that attended the 1st Putrajaya International Hot Air Balloon Fiesta 2009 are excited to come back next year!
Countries involved were Belgium, USA, the Netherlands, France, Switzerland, Malaysia and Japan.
More pilots from other countries also requested to attend the event.
Theme: "1World, 1Malaysia, 1Fiesta"
In line with our Prime Minister’s 1MALAYSIA campaign, the fiesta would be the perfect avenue in promoting unity.
As proven in the inaugural fiesta, it could be seen that the fiesta attracts everyone regardless of their nationality, race, age, gender and profession.
ONE WORLD: balloonists from around the world will be participating in the fiesta, also we hope to attract international tourists into Malaysia.
ONE MALAYSIA: fans or spectators from around Malaysia, regardless of race.
ONE FIESTA: hot air balloons being the highlight of the event, there will also be many activities and entertainment that is conducive for all.
www.myballoonfiesta.com
Showcasing Malaysia On Two Wheels
Malaysian Motorcycle Getaways Sdn Bhd (MMG), a registered licensed inbound MOTOUR travel agent specialised as a niche bike tour operator in Malaysia. Established in 2007, MMG are the pioneer in tailor-made biking holidays, and have invested significantly to equip with latest, safest and trendy superbikes as well as the technical know-how in bike tour operations. MMG offer to the world the latest of Malaysia tourism product - with the best of personalised vacation on two wheels. Todate MMG have brought in participants mainly from Europe, United States, Canada, India and Australia.
The big bikes available are:
KAWASAKI VERSYS 650
SUZUKI BANDIT 1200
HONDA CBR600F3
HONDA CBR600F4i
SUZUKI SV1000
HONDA BLACKBIRD 1100
www.ridemalaysia.com.my
The big bikes available are:
KAWASAKI VERSYS 650
SUZUKI BANDIT 1200
HONDA CBR600F3
HONDA CBR600F4i
SUZUKI SV1000
HONDA BLACKBIRD 1100
www.ridemalaysia.com.my
Monday, 1 March 2010
Malaysian hotels reject proposed two-tier rate system
Two hotel associations have poured cold water on the Tourism Ministry's recent proposal that hoteliers introduce a two-tier rate system. Tourism Minister, Dr Ng Yen Yen, proposed having a lower rate for locals and a higher one for foreigners to allow hotels to raise their rates to reflect their service standards, without burdening domestic travellers. Shaharuddin M Saaid, executive director of the Malaysian Association of Hotel Owners, said the system would not work since the cost of furnishing rooms and providing guest services were the same for all guests, irrespective of their nationality. He added that a two-tier system was open to abuse. He proposed instead that Tourism Malaysia develop strategies to attract more high-yield tourists who would opt for five-star and luxury properties. "Once the (rates of) five-star properties go up, four- and three-star properties can move up as well." Malaysian Association of Hotels vice president Ivo Nekvapil said market forces should dictate hotels' average room rates. He said the association had made a study last year on a two-tier system and the findings were not favourable.
Source: TTG Asia
Source: TTG Asia
Malaysia Airlines adds capacity for summer, expands fleet
Malaysia Airlines (MAS) will add frequencies to Jakarta, Bangkok, Saigon and Bangalore from March 28 as part of its expanded northern summer schedule.Additional flights are also planned for Perth, Auckland, Paris and Johannesburg but dates have yet to be confirmed. MAS Managing Director and CEO, Tengku Azmil Zahruddin, said the airline is also evaluating the feasibility of introducing new destinations and assessing route profitability. The airline is focusing on fleet modernisation and network expansion this year. It will take delivery of three B737-800s this year and will complete its fleet expansion programme by 2015. MAS' new fuel efficient and environmentally friendly fleet will comprise up to 17 ATR72-500s, 55 B737-800s, 25 A330-300s and six A380s. The A380s will serve key longhaul destinations such as London and Sydney, the A330s will ply medium-haul routes, while the B737-800s will be deployed on domestic and regional services. MAS reported an operating profit of RM3.8 million (US$1,115,023) for the last quarter of 2009, with its traffic increasing by 12 per cent.
Source: TTG Asia
Source: TTG Asia
Malaysian International Furniture Fair 2010 (MIFF 2010)
MIFF 2010 scheduled from 2nd March to 6th March 2010.
Time: 0930 hrs ~ 1800 hrs
Venues:
KLCC - Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre
PWTC - Putra World Trade Centre
MECC - MATRADE Exhibition & Convention Centre
www.miff.com.my
Time: 0930 hrs ~ 1800 hrs
Venues:
KLCC - Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre
PWTC - Putra World Trade Centre
MECC - MATRADE Exhibition & Convention Centre
www.miff.com.my
Le Tour De Langkawi 2010
Le Tour De Langkawi is the biggest cycling race in Malaysia, from 1st March to 7th March 2010.
Stage 1 - 1st March 2010
Kota Bharu ~ Kuala Berang 174.5 km
Stage 2 - 2nd March 2010
Kuala Terengganu ~ Chukai 182.3 km
Stage 3 - 3rd March 2010
Pekan ~ Mersing 145.6 km
Stage 4 - 4th March 2010
Mersing ~ Parit Sulong 163.5 km
Stage 5 - 5th March 2010
Muar ~ Port Dickson 111.5 km
Stage 6 - 6th March 2010
Putrajaya ~ Genting Highlands 102.8 km
Stage 7 - 7th March 2010
Kuala Kubu Baru ~ KL Loop 133.7 km
http://www.tdl.com.my/index.asp
Stage 1 - 1st March 2010
Kota Bharu ~ Kuala Berang 174.5 km
Stage 2 - 2nd March 2010
Kuala Terengganu ~ Chukai 182.3 km
Stage 3 - 3rd March 2010
Pekan ~ Mersing 145.6 km
Stage 4 - 4th March 2010
Mersing ~ Parit Sulong 163.5 km
Stage 5 - 5th March 2010
Muar ~ Port Dickson 111.5 km
Stage 6 - 6th March 2010
Putrajaya ~ Genting Highlands 102.8 km
Stage 7 - 7th March 2010
Kuala Kubu Baru ~ KL Loop 133.7 km
http://www.tdl.com.my/index.asp
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