PENANG is in the midst of collaborating with other touristy destinations in the country to further promote the state’s tourism.
State Tourism and Creative Economy Committee chairman Yeoh Soon Hin said the state was currently engaging with its tourism counterparts in Sabah, Melaka and Langkawi in Kedah to lift the state’s tourism industry to greater heights.
“We may have political differences but the tourism industry is an exception.
“We need to work together to regain the state’s tourism, especially when the country has eased its restrictions.
“We are excited to welcome travellers to our state as we will elevate the exposure of ‘Welcome to Penang’ branding to promote our tourism industry,” he said at a press conference in St Giles The Wembley Hotel today.
Yeoh said he had visited Sabah recently and would head to Langkawi for a further visit.
“I have been invited by the Langkawi Development Authority and I am looking forward to working with them as well.
“In fact, Penang has always been an attraction for domestic as well as international travellers.
“The recent visit by the Thai delegation, headed by its Tourism and Sports Minister Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn, has been fruitful. He is also looking forward to be back here in the future,” he said.
Meanwhile, Yeoh said the ‘Muslim Travel Guide’ booklet and ‘Jalan-Jalan Pulau Pinang’ brochure have been launched to spread the message that Penang is a friendly destination.
Also present were Penang Global Tourism (PGT) chief executive officer Ooi Chok Yan, Malaysia Tourism Northern Region director Shahrul Aman, Malaysian Association of Hotels (MAH) national vice-president Khoo Boo Lim, MAH Penang chapter chairman Tony Goh, Malaysia Tour and Travel Agents Penang chapter chairman Vergis Mathew and Association of Tourism Attractions Penang (ATAP) chairman Ch’ng Huck Theng.
Story by Edmund Lee
Pix by Alissala Thian