THE state government can consider providing incentives to non-governmental organisations (NGOs) planning to organise national or international level programmes, says state assemblyman Teh Lai Heng (PH-Komtar).
Teh pointed out that many NGOs aspire to organise programmes, but often face financial constraints.
“Based on my observations, when NGOs organise events in Penang, there is significant interest from individuals outside the state or even abroad, as they have the opportunity to visit Penang while attending these events.
“The participation of these individuals helps to stimulate the tourism ecosystem in Penang.
“Consider a program with 1,000 participants: airlines, hotels, buses, taxis, restaurants, souvenir shops, tourist attractions, convention centres, and many others will benefit,” Teh said during the State Legislative Assembly today.
Teh proposed offering an incentive of RM50 per participant for a 2-day and 1-night programme, and RM100 per participant for a 3-day, and 2-night programme, specifically targeting attendees from outside Penang. The proposed incentive would have a maximum limit of RM100,000 (incentive) per programme.
It is noted that the 2023 state election manifesto includes an allocation of RM2 million per year for NGOs.
Story by Tanushalini Moroter