Oleh Zareef Muzammil
PETALING JAYA, Nov 22 — The colourful and rich heritage of the various ethnicities and cultures in Selangor bodes well for the Visit Malaysia 2020 (VMY2020) campaign.
Deputy Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Muhammad Bakhtiar Wan Chik said due to the said existing factors, the Federal government’s 30 million target of foreign tourists into the country in 2020 would be achievable.
He said a total RM100 billion revenue is also projected to be collected from foreign tourists, which would, in turn, heighten both the state and national economy.
“With the Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) being the gateway into the country, Selangor is one of the top three states in attracting foreign visitors.
“Therefore, we will be collaborating with the state government through Tourism Selangor in boosting the promotion in eco-tourism, cultural tourism and several of the rich heritage in Selangor, such as the Mah Meri Orang Asli village,” said Muhammad Bakhtiar at the launch of Visit Malaysia 2020 (VMY2020) at the Selangor state level at Eastin Hotel Kuala Lumpur, here last night.
Also present were Selangor Culture, Tourism, Malay Customs and Heritage committee chairman Datuk Abdul Rashid Asari and Motac Selangor director Syed Mohd Fariz Syed Mansor.
Muhammad Bakhtiar had presented strategic partnership certification to 17 recipients from local authorities (PBT), tourism association, hotels, and private companies that are committed to promoting the VMY2020 campaign.
“The Federal government has offered several incentives to help the tourism industry in Selangor. This includes the Galakan Melancong Malaysia (GAMELAN Malaysia 2019), Tourism Infrastructure Development Fund and Special Tourism Fund.
“We hope Tourism Malaysia and Tourism Selangor will continue to collaborate in promoting tourism activities, especially in the state,” he said.
