Malaysia to host inaugural PATA Destination Experience Forum and Mart 2023

 

The inaugural PATA Destination Experience Forum and Mart 2023 will be held in Kuching,
the capital city of Sarawak, Malaysia, pictured

The Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) is set to organise the PATA Destination Experience Forum and Mart 2023 (PDFM 2023) from June 21-23 this year. The event will be held in Kuching, the capital city of Sarawak, Malaysia.

Supported by Sarawak Tourism Board, PDFM 2023 will feature four components: destination experiences, a conference, a B2B adventure travel trade show with one-to-one meetings, and various networking opportunities.

The event provides an opportunity for tourism professionals to gain first-hand practical experience and knowledge in marketing and managing attractions, tourism products, and services that are relatively unknown by both trade and consumers to a global audience in a responsible and sustainable manner.

PATA chair Peter Semone said: “As the travel and tourism industry in the Asia-Pacific region is seeing positive signs of recovery, the inaugural PATA Destination Experience Forum and Mart 2023 looks to highlight the best practices in destination marketing and destination management in support of a responsible and sustainable recovery for the region.”

Focusing on Ecotourism, Gastronomy Tourism, Adventure Travel, Wellness (particularly Sensory Nature Activities), Destination Management and Digital Marketing, the three-day programme begins with a one-day destination experience through a choice of technical tours, followed by a conference and travel mart spread across two full days, as well as various networking opportunities throughout the programme.

With gastronomy tourism being one of the themes of PDFM 2023, Sarawak Tourism Board’s CEO Sharzede Datu Haji Salleh Askor said the theme suits Sarawak perfectly, as its capital city Kuching was recognised as the City of Gastronomy by the UNESCO Creative Cities Network in 2021.

Attractions at the host destination include pristine rainforests, orangutans, the world’s largest flower – the Rafflesia, the Borneo Cultures Museum, and the rare proboscis monkey endemic to Borneo at the oldest national park in Sarawak, Bako National Park.

Buyers, sellers, and conference delegates can register and enjoy early bird rates until February 15.

After PDFM 2023, delegates can also extend their stay and visit the Rainforest World Music Festival, which takes place from June 23-25 – they will receive complimentary access to the first night of the festival on June 23 and ticket discounts for the full event.

-TTG Asia.

Tourism Malaysia & MATTA Sales Mission To India 2023

 

Tourism Malaysia Roadshow with MATTA in Mumbai & Ahmedabad on the 6th and 7th of February 2023

In Mumbai, the event was led by Mr. Ahmad Zuwairi Yusoff, Consul General of Malaysia along with Mr. Mohd Amirul Rizal Abdul Rahim, Senior Deputy Director of International Promotion (Asia & Africa), Tourism Malaysia.

Around 247 members from Mumbai travel trade fraternity attended the business session. There was fruitful interaction between the travel industry and the sellers from Malaysia. Also, a healthy interaction was seen between the Bollywood production houses and Malaysian delegates.

Post Mumbai visit, the delegation was welcomed by 182 travel trade industry players in Ahmedabad during the business session.

Malaysia is promoting niche tourism products such as ecotourism, adventure travel and voluntourism to the millennials in India.

The 5-city roadshow was concluded in Ahmedabad, India on the 7th February 2023.

-Tourism Malaysia.

Malaysia Participated In ASEAN TOURISM FORUM 2023 For United Recovery Mission

 

YOGYAKARTA, 8 February 2023 – Malaysia’s delegation to the ASEAN Tourism Forum (ATF) this year comes with a mission to combine effort with all ASEAN counterparts for the recovery of the tourism industry in the region. Malaysia is committed to revitalise tourism and to reopen its doors to international tourists.

Leading the Malaysian delegation to this Southeast Asia’s largest tourism trade event is Tourism, Arts & Culture Minister, H.E Dato’ Sri Tiong King Sing. He is accompanied by Dato’ Saraya Arbi, Secretary General of Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture, and Dato’ Zainuddin Abdul Wahab, Director General of Tourism Malaysia.

H.E Minister will attend the 26th ASEAN Tourism Ministers meeting, and the 22nd ASEAN Plus Three Tourism Meeting’s Meeting. The official opening ceremony of ATF 2023 is set on 3rd January 2023 by the H.E Indonesian President Ir. Joko Widodo at the historical Prambanan Temple.

Joining the Malaysian delegation are representatives from Sarawak Tourism Board, Malaysia Healthcare Travel Council (MHTC) and Malaysia Airlines (MAS).

ATF 2023 will cover two concurrent events, namely the Ministerial and Bilateral meetings in Marriot hotel, while the TRAVEX is in the Jogja Expo Center (JEC) which serves as a platform for suppliers of ASEAN tourism products and services and qualified buyers from around the world to meet through pre-scheduled appointments. Both meeting and travel fair are hoped to boost ASEAN tourism business and bilateral understanding at highest level.

For TRAVEX, Malaysia constructed a beautiful tourism-themed booth, depicts the many attractions that Malaysian tourism has to offer, situated at AS 0.005 Hall B, in Jogja Expo Center (JEC).

“Malaysia tourism is well underway for recovery, as we managed to surpass the target of 9.2 million international arrivals in 2022.” said Dato Sri Tiong.

-Tourism Malaysia.

Tourism Malaysia Returns To 16th Tehran International Tourism Exhibition

 

TEHRAN, 7 February 2023 – Tourism Malaysia set to boost its promotion activities in Iran by participating in the 16th Tehran International Tourism Exhibition (TITEX) from 7 to 10 February 2023, also to reconnect and further develop more partnership in postioning Malaysia as a preferred destination for Iranians.

This four-day exhibition features networking sessions between travel experts, tourism and hospitality sectors that are based in Iran. Tourism Malaysia participation in TITEX this year sees six tourism industry players promoting Malaysia including travel agents, hotels and airlines namely BetterBooking Travel & Tour, Toranj Tour and Travel Company, Gulliver Tour and Travel Company, Siahrood Holiday Sdn. Bhd., IOI Cluster Hotels and Air Arabia.

Malaysia’s participation in the exhibition provides an avenue for Malaysia tourism industry players to network and solicit for new business with the Iran counterparts. It is also a platform to update industry players of Malaysia’s latest tourism developments and strengthen awareness on Malaysia as an ideal holiday destination for this market. Furthermore, TITEX will also give visitors an insight to the many exciting packages and to promote some of the country’s latest attractions and destinations such as Kuala Lumpur, Genting Highlands and Penang for shopping, family fun and theme parks.

Last year’s road show to Tehran which was led by the Director General of Tourism Malaysia, Dato’ Hj Zainuddin Abdul Wahab in May 2022, together with Malaysian travel trade players and officials validated that Malaysia maintains as one of the top of the mind travel destinations for this region.

Tourism Malaysia’s promotion campaign as such is a continuous effort to boost inbound tourism to a greater height in the hope to achieve 15.6 million international tourist arrivals with MYR 47.6 billion in tourism receipts for 2023.

Iran remains one of Malaysia’s top international tourists generating markets in the Middle East before the pandemic. Iran’s strong arrival of 46,559 in 2019 shows that Malaysia is a value-for-money destination for them.

Currently, Iranian travellers will have the chance to travel to Malaysia from other cities like Tehran, Mashhad, Isfahan, Tabriz and Shiraz using Qatar Airways, Emirates, Etihad Airways and Air Arabia.

-Tourism Malaysia.

FLLSPG 2023 bakal catat rekod MBOR, sasar 350,000 pengunjung

 

JOHOR BAHRU: Hampir tiga tahun tidak dapat dianjurkan akibat pandemik Covid-19, Festival Layang-Layang Sedunia Pasir Gudang 2023 (FLLSPG 2023) Ke-25 akan menemui peminatnya pada 22 hingga 26 Februari ini.

Dengan tema Layangkasa Dinamik, FLLSPG 2023 yang meraikan Jubli Perak penganjurannya bakal disertai 716 pelayang tempatan dan antarabangsa, termasuk dari Brunei, Kemboja, Indonesia, Austria, Republic Czech, New Zealand dan Tahiti.

Turut dinantikan, usaha penganjur untuk mencipta rekod dalam Malaysia Book of Records (MBOR) dengan acara menaikkan wau tradisional Malaysia oleh 25 peserta antarabangsa secara serentak pada 25 Februari.

“Ini merupakan simbolik bagi penganjuran kali ke-25 yang menjangkau usia Jubli Perak, festival kali ini bakal mencatat rekod dalam Malaysia Book of Records.

“Menariknya, wakil antarabangsa akan memakai busana tradisi negara kita semasa menaikkan wau tradisional,” kata Presiden Majlis Pelayang Malaysia, Datuk A. Rahim Nin dalam taklimatnya sempena sempena Majlis Prapelancaran FLLSPG 2023, di Atrium Kompleks Pusat Bandar Pasir Gudang, di sini hari ini.

Majlis tersebut dilancarkan Pengerusi Jawatankuasa Pelancongan, Alam Sekitar, Warisan dan Budaya negeri Johor, K. Raven Kumar. Yang turut hadir, Datuk Bandar Pasir Gudang, Datuk Asman Shah Abdul Rahman dan Pengarah Tourism Johor, Suhairi Hashim.

Rahim berkata, festival tersebut merupakan anjuran bersama Majlis Bandaraya Pasir Gudang (MBPG), Persatuan Pelayang Johor (PPJ) dan Majlis Pelayang Malaysia (MPM) dengan kerjasama Tourism Johor, Jabatan Kebudayaan dan Kesenian Negara Negeri Johor (JKNNJ) serta Persatuan Pelancongan Pasir Gudang.

Pihak penganjur menjangkakan kira-kira 350,000 pengunjung dari dalam negara dan luar negara memeriahkan festival kali ini.

Bagi memudahkan orang ramai, sekali gus mengurangkan kesesakan, pihak penganjur akan menyediakan khidmat bas percuma dari Stadium Pasir Gudang ke Bukit Layang-Layang, lokasi festival berkenaan.

FLLSPG mula diperkenalkan pada tahun 1995 merupakan acara tahunan berprestij selain disenaraikan dalam kalendar pelancongan Johor negara.

-utusan online.

Tourism Malaysia Participates In Vietnam's Nguyen Hu Flower Street Festival 2023

 

HO CHI MINH, 7 February 2023 – Tourism Malaysia through Ho Chi Minh Office stepping up its effort to promote Malaysia to Vietnam citizens in conjunction with Nguyen Hu Flower Street Festival in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam from 19th – 26th January 2023.

During the 8-day event, Tourism Malaysia took the advantage of featuring Malaysia’s parks and gardens as one of the tourist attractions for Vietnamese to visit.

Malaysia’s national flower – Bunga Raya or Hibiscus, which represents unity in the multicultural country of Malaysia, was the highlight of the decoration to extend our joyous congratulatory messages for the New Year 2023 and the 50th Anniversary of Malaysia and Vietnam diplomatic ties.

Over the past 20 years, the Nguyen Hue Flower Street event in Ho Chi Minh City has become an annual tourism attraction, cultural, and entertainment event to celebrate the Tet Holiday (Vietnam Traditional Lunar New Year). This year, the event welcomed 1.2 million visitors including international tourists from Indonesia, Laos, Thailand, Canada, Australia, and the United States of America (USA).

“In 2019, before the pandemic, we welcomed 400,346 tourist arrivals from Vietnam, while for 2022, about 173,763 Vietnam tourists visited Malaysia. This year, we intend to achieve the arrival target of 15.6 million international tourists with MYR47.6 billion in tourism receipts. Out of that, we are optimistic more than 234,000 tourist arrivals from the Vietnam market. We do hope this market will continue to play the important role in achieving this number,” said Dato' Zainuddin Abdul Wahab, Director General of Tourism Malaysia.

Vietnam remains an important market for Malaysia. In terms of connectivity, there are currently 120 flights per week with more than 21,000 seats from Vietnam to Malaysia via Malaysia Airlines, Vietnam Airlines, VietJet Air, Batik Air (formerly known as Malindo Air) and AirAsia.

-Tourism Malaysia.

ASEAN tourism ministers report improved KPIs for 2022; more to be done

 

Continued destination marketing under the ASEAN banner as well as the progressive relaxation and removal of travel restrictions by member states throughout 2022 have yielded more positive tourism numbers for the South-east Asian region.

At the February 5 press conference concluding the 26th Meeting of ASEAN Tourism Ministers (26th M-ATM) in Yogyakarta, Indonesia, meeting chair Sandiaga Uno, minister of tourism and creative economy, Indonesia, noted that destinations in the economic grouping have altogether achieved a 1,706.61 per cent year-on-year increase in tourism receipts based on preliminary figures for 2022.

Tourism ministers of the 10 ASEAN member states and their economic partners met in Yogyakarta, Indonesia last week during ATF 2023

ASEAN member states have also recorded 1,222.99 per cent year-on-year increase in international arrivals, while hotel rate occupancy has improved by 16 per cent over the same period.

Destination marketing efforts fuelling the return of tourists to the region include social media content, digital campaigns and activities bearing the new brand and tagline, A Destination for Every Dream.

The Meeting emphasised the need for member states to deepen their collaboration with relevant partners in the areas of destination marketing. It also commended initiatives that were supported by external partners, such as the Intra-ASEAN Tourism Recovery Campaign, which received support from the Canadian Trade and Investment Facility for Development, as well as ASEAN’s collaboration with regional travel trade publisher and event organiser TTG Asia Media and the Sub-Regional Secretariats to amplify the call to visit South-east Asia.

Focus ahead will be on accomplishing even more key measures under the Post-Covid-19 Recovery Plan for ASEAN Tourism. These include developing regional cruise tourism and the promotion of new and lesser known destinations in the region.

Sandiaga recognises that connectivity improvements – not just within South-east Asia but also from markets outside of the region – are crucial for ASEAN member states to achieve these joint tourism goals.

In the case of Indonesia, direct flights to and from India are still lacking despite the latter being the “lowest of the low-hanging fruits” for tourism.

Philippine Tourism secretary Christina Garcia-Frasco said tourism heads have agreed to work on boosting air lift by identifying airports that can be used to operate additional direct flights for the purpose of driving tourism flow into both key and emerging destinations.

She added that some of the new flights – either scheduled or chartered – may be launched this year for routes within South-east Asia as well as to and from ASEAN-Plus Three partners China, India and South Korea.

Tourism development across the region will also consider responsible and inclusive growth for all, and the need for greater digitalisation.

-TTG Asia.

Sepang MotoGP Official Test @ Sepang International Circuit, Malaysia ( 10 ~ 12 February 2023 )

 

-Sepang Circuit fb.

Malaysia Aviation Group Airlines Invites Travellers to Discover More and Fly Malaysia with Exciting All-In Fare Offerings

 

KLIA, 2 February 2023 – Airline subsidiaries under Malaysia Aviation Group (MAG), Malaysia Airlines, Firefly and MASwings, invite travellers to explore the wonders of Malaysia, with attractive deals to domestic destinations for immediate travel until 31 August 2023.

Malaysia Airlines is offering travellers enticing deals starting from RM89 all-in one-way within Peninsular Malaysia via the airline’s Economy Lite fare, which includes a cabin baggage allowance of 7kg, complimentary snacks or meals and beverages, and in-flight entertainment. Those looking to indulge in the full premium travel service experience can opt for the Business Class fare which starts from RM429 all-in one-way and comes with a check-in baggage allowance of 40kg, two cabin baggage allowances of 7kg each, free seat selection, complimentary meals, priority check-in, boarding and baggage, and access to the airline’s top-notch lounges at KL International Airport.

Fares from Kuala Lumpur to Sarawak and Sabah start from RM119 and RM169 all-in one-way on Economy Class and RM799 and RM899 on Business Class respectively. Those looking to travel between Sabah and Sarawak can enjoy fares starting from RM99 on Economy Class or RM429 on Business Class.

To ensure seamless connectivity within the country, sister airlines Firefly and MASwings will also be offering attractive deals for travellers to discover more of Malaysia and plan their travels for the months ahead.

Firefly is offering fares from RM69 to RM159 for immediate travel until 31 August 2023, which will be operated by its ATR72-500 and Boeing 737-800 aircraft. Domestic flights on ATR 72-500 from Subang offers the convenience of city airports, the complimentary baggage allowance of 20kg, in-flight refreshments and many more valuable offerings. 

Meanwhile, domestic flights operated by its Boeing 737-800 will offer unbundled fares from RM69 all-in one-way to destinations including Kota Kinabalu (BKI), Kuching (KCH), Langkawi (LGK) and Johor Bahru (JHB). Passengers travelling on Firefly’s Boeing 737-800 will have the flexibility to customise their flights based on their preferences, including various add-on choices for in-flight meals, baggage allowance, travel protection, and more.

For those eyeing adventures across Borneo, MASwings is offering fares starting from RM136 all-in one-way to destinations including Miri (MYY) to Mulu (MZV), Sandakan (SDK) to Lahad Datu (LDU), and Bintulu (BTU) to Sibu (SBW), serviced by its ATR72-500 aircraft. Travellers can also enjoy fares from RM146 all-in one-way from SDK to TWU, BKI to Labuan (LBU), and MYY to LBU, BTU and Limbang (LMN).

Meanwhile, fares from BKI to LDU, MZV and from MYY to SBW start from RM186, whereas fares from KCH to LMN and MZV start from RM206 all-in one-way. Passengers travelling via MASwings will enjoy the convenience of 20kg of check-in baggage and light refreshments for a comforting journey. Holidaygoers can enjoy the promotion from now until 28 February 2023, for travel between 5 February to 31 August 2023.

As members of the Travel Safe Alliance Malaysia (TSAM), the sister airlines are dedicated to ensuring safe and seamless travel for customers by adopting the highest safety and hygiene standards across all end-to-end touchpoints of the traveller journey so passengers can continue to Fly Confidently.

Whether to plan for the upcoming festivities, school holidays, or take a relaxing solo trip, there is no better time than now to rediscover the country’s travel trove of diverse culture and cuisines. For more information and to book your next getaway, visit the official Malaysia Airlines, Firefly, and MASwings website. 

-Malaysia Airlines.

Tourism Malaysia Collaborates With Jagadish Tours To Initiate Mural Display Campaign Featuring Miss SHOPhia Go Travel At Bengaluru

 

BENGALURU, 3 February 2023 – Tourism Malaysia through Chennai Office is stepping up another initiative to feature mural display campaign in conjunction with Tourism Malaysia roadshow to India from 30 January to 7 February 2023.

The campaign that features Miss SHOPhia Go Travel initiated in collaboration with Jagadish Tours which aims to promote Malaysia Packages through mural display advertisement. The main objective is to create awareness of Malaysia and arouse an interest of the public to ensure Malaysia remains stand out on top of the minds among Indians.

The three (3) Murals in the size of 20 width x 40 height are located along Sankey Road and Brigade Road in the city of Bengaluru for the period of three months beginning February 2023. This will attract the public as well as corporate offices, leisure travellers and shoppers around the area. To intensify collaboration with Jagadish Tours, they also organised Malaysia Food Festival at TAKI-TAKI Restaurant from 2 to 16 February 2023.

Tourism Malaysia’s promotion campaign as such is a continuous effort to boost inbound tourism to a greater height in the hope to achieve 15.6 million international tourist arrivals with MYR 47.6 billion in tourism receipts for 2023.

India remains an important market for Malaysia. In terms of connectivity, there are currently 169 flights per week with more than 29,000 seats from India to Malaysia via Malaysia Airlines, Batik Air (formerly known as Malindo Air), AirAsia, and IndiGo.

At present, Malaysia has recently launched a new eVISA Multiple Entry Visa (MEV) facilities 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 INR 1,000.00. The visa can be applied online through https://malaysiavisa.imi.gov.my/evisa/evisa.jsp.

-Tourism Malaysia.

Tourism Malaysia & MATTA Sales Mission to India : Bangalore

 

photo: Tourism Malaysia

Bangalore, 1st February 2023 - Tourism Malaysia & MATTA continues their Sales Mission to Bangalore as the second city with the buyer’s attendance of 150 companies.

Bangalore also known as the Silicon Valley of India was the centre of India’s hi-tech industry. Its elevation is the highest among the major city in India.

The market is suitable for meetings, incentives, conventions and events (MICE) as well as luxury packages.

-Tourism Malaysia.

Hari Moyang Laut simbol martabat dan jati diri kaum Mah Meri

 

PETALING JAYA: Suku kaum Mah Meri yang dikenali dengan seni kraf ukiran topeng telah menetap di Pulau Carey, Negeri Selangor semenjak 300 tahun yang lalu dan kini terdiri daripada lima buah perkampungan.

Seni ukiran Topeng oleh suku kaum Mah Meri diibaratkan umpama nyawa mereka yang digunakan dalam pelbagai istiadat termasuklah penyembahan, merawat pesakit dan menolak bala.

Keunikan hasil seni ukir kaum Mah Meri yang berbentuk seperti dewa, manusia, tumbuh-tumbuhan serta haiwan telah mendapat pengiktirafan United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) dan hasil seni yang dibeli dari kawasan ini memegang sijil ketulenan UNESCO yang tersendiri.

Selain hasil seni ketara (tangible arts) yang dihasilkan oleh suku kaum Mah Meri, tradisi dan warisan yang dikira sebagai sebuah seni tidak ketara (intangible arts) yang sangat bernilai ini, memainkan peranan yang amat penting bagi industri pelancongan di negeri Selangor.

Perayaan Hari Moyang laut disambut oleh suku kaum Mah Meri setiap tahun selepas tahun baru Cina yang diadakan bertujuan bagi memohon perlindungan, pengampunan dan kesejahteraan kepada keluarga dan penduduk-penduduk di sekitar dengan memberi penghormatan kepada leluhur dan roh nenek moyang ketika tahun baru.

Perayaan yang berlangsung selama lima hari ini melibatkan beberapa upacara seperti;

Hari Pertama: Upacara perayaan Datuk Panglima Hitam

Hari Kedua: Persiapan menghias Balai Moyang dengan seni anyaman

Hari Ketiga: Upacara memanggil moyang dan tepung tawar \

Hari Keempat: Perarakan ke Sungai Teluk Tanjung bagi upacara Hari Jadi Moyang Laut dan menjamu makanan di Sangga untuk arwah roh Moyang di setiap rumah di Kampung Sungai Judah serta memohon restu di laut dan sungai di sekitar Pulau Carey

Hari Kelima: Perarakan ke Pantai Bangkong bagi merayakan sambutan Perayaan Hari Moyang Laut dan persembahan tarian Jo’oh kepada para pengunjung

Tourism Selangor berpeluang menyertai sebuah dokumentari Eksplorasi Budaya Perayaan Hari Moyang Laut oleh para pelajar dari Fakulti Pengurusan Seni Budaya dan Warisan dari Akademi Seni Budaya dan Warisan  Kebangsaan (ASWARA) dan menyelami keunikan budaya Kaum Mah Meri yang menjadi antara tarikan pelancongan negeri ini.

Sekumpulan pelajar tahun tiga ijazah Sarjana muda Fakulti Pengurusan Seni Budaya dan Warisan dari Akademi Seni Budaya dan Warisan Kebangsaan (ASWARA) telah mengambil peluang merakamkan sebuah dokumentari bertajuk Eksplorasi Budaya Perayaan Hari Moyang Laut selama lima hari, disokong oleh beberapa rakan kerjasama seperti Tourism Selangor, Kakiseni, Arkib Negara, Jabatan Warisan Negara serta Jabatan Muzium Malaysia.

Dokumentari Eksplorasi Budaya Perayaan Hari Moyang Laut ini telah ditayangkan di Pawagam Jalan Ampas, LokaKarya, ASWARA dengan persembahan khas dari komuniti suku kaum Mah Meri.

Dekan fakulti Pengurusan Seni Budaya dan Warisan, Dr. Zulkifli Ab Rashid, dalam satu kenyataan berkata, keunikan yang ada pada perayaan yang dirayakan oleh suku kaum Mah Meri ini perlulah dititikberatkan oleh semua pihak supaya ianya kekal terjaga dan menjadi sebuah khazanah yang berharga buat negara ini.

Dengan penglibatan pemain seni tempatan, Tourism Selangor yakin bahawa negeri Selangor mampu mencapai visi dalam menjadikan negeri Selangor sebagai sebuah hab industri kreatif. Tourism Selangor menggalakkan orang awam terutamanya para  pelancong serta pusat pendidikan untuk menyertai acara-acara seperti Perayaan Hari Moyang Laut bagi mempelajari lebih lanjut tentang budaya dan warisan tempatan.

Para pengunjung boleh berhubung terus dengan Mah Meri Cultural Village di https://www.mmcv.org.my/ bagi mendapatkan informasi lanjut tentang lawatan ke perkampungan suku kaum Mah Meri di Pulau Carey.

-utusan online.

Pahang eyes 13m tourists this year with slew of new tourism events

 

Pahang Unity, Tourism and Culture Committee chairman Leong Yu Man (centre) during the event with Pahang tourism industry players. - NSTP/FARIZUL HAFIZ AWANG

KUANTAN: As the tourism industry in Pahang slowly recovers, the state government is targeting the arrival of 13 million tourists to visit holiday destinations here this year.

Pahang's tourist arrivals totaled 10.18 million as of Dec 31 last year compared with 2 million in 2021 when the country's borders were closed due to Covid-19 restrictions.

State Unity, Tourism and Culture Committee chairman Leong Yu Man said as post-pandemic tourism initiatives move into top gear, the Pahang government was looking at marketing strategies and programmes to lure domestic and international visitors.

"Last year, tourists spent about RM9.14 billion in Pahang compared with only RM1.9 billion in 2021. I am confident holidaymakers will return this year. We can achieve our target as we have attracted some 10 million visitors last year despite the country's borders only opening on April 1, 2022.

"Beaches, islands, nature tourism spots and highlands in Pahang will continue to become among the favourite holiday destinations. Besides the existing annual international and domestic activities in the Pahang tourism calendar, we will promote new activities and destinations," she said after an event with Pahang tourism industry players here today.

Meanwhile, Leong said besides the annual Royal Pahang Billfish International challenge, Start in Tioman (diving) and Southeast Asia's longest-running International Bird Race event — the Fraser's Hill International Bird Race, the Tasik Bera International canoe festival would make its debut in July.

"Each of the 11 districts in Pahang has its own unique attraction. For example, the enchanting Mossy Forest in Cameron Highlands and Lipis Geopark are among the new attractions that will be extensively promoted this year along with other existing ones," she said.

On promotions, she said the state government had agreed to set aside a budget for unique tourist attractions in Pahang to be featured in Going Places, the inflight magazine of Malaysia Airlines.

"We will have advertisements promoting the top destinations and our tourism calendar in 57 aircrafts belonging to Malaysia Airlines, which will fly to various parts of the world. There will be seven series featured in the magazine, starting April," she said.

Present at the event was Tourism Pahang general manager Kamaruddin Ibrahim.

-nst online.

Enggang Jambul Putih muncul di Perlis

 

PADANG BESAR: Sekumpulan spesies burung enggang jambul putih (white crowned hornbill) ditemukan di Taman Negeri Perlis di Wang Kelian di sini.

Penemuan itu berjaya dira­kam­kan menerusi program Survei Hidupan Liar (Burung) di bawah dana Tabung Amanah Konservasi Sumber Asli Nasional (NCTF) Kementerian Sumber Asli, Alam Sekitar dan Perubahan Iklim (NRECC) baru-baru ini.

Penemuan burung dari spesies Berenicornis Comatus di kawasan tersebut dianggap unik memandangkan habitat asalnya lebih tertumpu di hutan Semenanjung, Sabah dan Sarawak.

Burung berkenaan bergerak secara berkumpulan dan mempunyai keunikan bulu berwarna putih pada bahagian jambulnya serta berekor panjang.

Program dilaksanakan oleh Pertubuhan Kelestarian Ekosistem Alam (NEST) melibatkan kakitangan unit taman negeri berkenaan, Jabatan Perhilitan dan Pencinta Hijau dan Hidupan Liar Perlis (PNW) bermula 13 sehingga 19 Januari itu juga membawa kepada penemuan beberapa spesies burung yang jarang ditemui seperti Beberek Janggut Merah.

Empat spesies burung Beberek yang direkodkan pernah dirakamkan di Semenanjung sebelum ini.

Bercakap kepada Utusan Malaysia, Pengarah Teknikal NEST, Ismail Mamat berkata, terdapat lebih 100 spesies berjaya dicerap sepanjang program itu dilaksanakan terdiri daripada keluarga burung seperti Merbah, Belatuk, Kelicap, Takur dan Helang.

“Dalam program itu, cerapan juga dilakukan pada waktu malam di mana kami menemui beberapa spesies burung iaitu burung hantu dan burung tukang.

“Agak menarik di Taman Negeri ini juga terdapat burung-burung hijrah berhenti sebentar atau singgah di hutan ini,” katanya.

Dalam pada itu, Ismail berkata, penemuan spesies-spesies burung yang unik dan menarik di kawasan hutan itu berpotensi dalam membuka peluang untuk mempromosikan sektor eko-pelancongan berasaskan Avi Tourism.

Katanya, objektif utama program itu adalah untuk merekodkan spesies yang terdapat di taman negeri bagi membina satu pangkalan data burung yang lengkap dan terkini.

“Program ini dirasmikan oleh Pengerusi Jawatankuasa Alam Sekitar negeri, Megat Hashirat Hassan bersama Pengarah Jabatan Perhutanan negeri, Awang Shaffie Awang Ahmadni dan Presiden NEST, Sulaiman Salikan,” katanya.

Menurutnya, program tersebut juga dirancang dilaksanakan di beberapa taman negeri lain selepas ini iaitu Taman Negeri Bukit Wang, Kedah, Gunung Telapak Buruk, Negeri Sembilan, Suaka Burung Panti, Johor dan Taman Negeri Endau Rompin.

-utusan online.

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.

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-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

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-Perbadanan Putrajaya.