Published on : Friday, November 16, 2018
With all due respect, we’re not putting in the right effort to enhance tourism. I’m speaking from my own experience and observations from Australia where I live. The common public in Australia is relatively familiar with Malaysian food. In addition that, there is nothing much they are aware about Malaysia. When asked if they have visited Malaysia, the reply would invariably be, “No, I have not but I’ve been to Singapore!”
The reason for this is quite straightforward – we are not endorsing Malaysia quite well in the international market. I miss the old days when I saw big billboards displaying the “Malaysia Truly Asia” advertisements in Hong Kong.
I recognize that we have been trying really hard to make a foray into the Chinese market but we cannot entirely depend on one country for tourist money.
Malaysia cannot depend on Malaysians living overseas to boost up our country. We need the Tourism, Arts and Culture Ministry to study more creative and innovative ways to attract greater number of tourists to actually visit Malaysia rather than just transiting it.
Tags: malaysian tourism