NEW Zealand is exploring collaboration opportunities with Penang.
High Commissioner of New Zealand to Malaysia Pam Chong Dunn said New Zealand was interested in Penang’s smart city efforts, tourism, and heritage.
Dunn said Penang is attractive to foreign tourists due to its lifestyle.
“We understand that the tourism (services) sector is one of the important sectors to Penang’s economy,” she said during a courtesy visit to Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow today.
Also present was High Commission of New Zealand to Malaysia first secretary Finlay Fraser Milne.
Chow said the state’s tourism sector was impacted by Covid-19.
“Most hotels are currently facing labour shortage, while registering strong support from domestic tourists,” he said.
Dunn asked about the possibility of having a Penang international travel bubble, similarly to the Langkawi international travel bubble.
“The decision lies with the Federal Government. There are still concerns pertaining to Covid-19,” Chow replied.
Dunn said the New Zealand border was still close.
Among the topics which were discussed include Covid-19 vaccination and its booster programmes, investments in Penang, and transnational crime.
Story by Christopher Tan
Pix by Alissala Thian