Tourist events to go on unless WHO advises otherwise, says DPM
The Deputy Prime Minister said events on a big scale can proceed as usual despite the novel coronavirus (2019-nCoV) outbreak.
“We will see how the situation is. If WHO says we are not allowed to have big gatherings then we will issue statements or directives, ” she told a press conference on Wednesday (Jan 29) after visiting the National Crisis Preparedness and Response Centre here.
She said this when asked if the government intends to restrict Thaipusam celebrations next weekend in Batu Caves, which will be visited by both local and international visitors.
Dr Wan Azizah said the 2019-nCoV virus outbreak is under control and reminded people not to spread false or fake news that can cause uneasiness.
She said 57 hospitals are available for screenings, out of which, 26 have been identified to handle the suspected cases that need further examination and treatment.
Earlier, Dr Wan Azizah held a meeting with several ministries and agencies to discuss the virus situation in the country.
She said among the things agreed in the meeting include enhancing the screening of travellers from China by having a special lane for them.
She also said those with 2019-nCoV symptoms are advised to get themselves checked, especially if they had just returned from China.
Earlier Wednesday, the Health Ministry confirmed three more cases, bringing the total number of such cases to seven.
Health director-general Datuk Dr Noor Hisham Abdullah said two out of the three new cases were from the Patient-Under-Investigation (PUI) group.
Meanwhile, one case was from close contact with infected patients.
All the seven who tested positive are Chinese nationals.
~The Star~
Thursday, January 30, 2020
Coronavirus: Pahang places thermal scanners at three entry points
Coronavirus: Pahang places thermal scanners at three entry points
The Pahang government has placed thermal scanners at its three international entry points in efforts to curb the spread of the 2019 novel coronavirus (2019-nCoV) infection in the state.
Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Wan Rosdy Wan Ismail said the facilities were placed at the Sultan Ahmad Shah Airport (LTSAS), Kuantan Port and the Tekek Jetty on Tioman Island.
He said the decision was made during the Pahang Disaster Management Committee meeting and a special briefing on coronavirus held today.
“The meeting also decided that any sports activities such as international runs involving foreigners must obtain supporting health documents from the Pahang Health Department (JKNP),” he said.
He was speaking to reporters at a get together with the community leaders of the Jerantut district and presentation of letters of appointment to the Village Development and Security Committee (JKKK) chairmen as well as the Pahang government contribution to the JKKK from across the state, here today.
He said the meeting also decided that health screening would be carried out at clinics and hospitals, and proactive monitoring to be conducted at hotels or accommodations which housed tourists from countries at risk.
“Discussions were also held with the Malaysia-China Kuantan Industrial Park (MCKIP), Kuantan Port and LTSAS on other precautionary measures that needed to be taken.
“The state government is very concerned about the issue of coronavirus infection even though there is no such case has been reported in Pahang thus far, as it is very dangerous and can spread quickly,” he said.
Wan Rosdy also said the Health Ministry had selected the Tengku Ampuan Afzan Hospital (HTAA) as the referral hospital to gather capabilities and expertise for the treatment of coronavirus infection.
-- BERNAMA
The Pahang government has placed thermal scanners at its three international entry points in efforts to curb the spread of the 2019 novel coronavirus (2019-nCoV) infection in the state.
Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Wan Rosdy Wan Ismail said the facilities were placed at the Sultan Ahmad Shah Airport (LTSAS), Kuantan Port and the Tekek Jetty on Tioman Island.
He said the decision was made during the Pahang Disaster Management Committee meeting and a special briefing on coronavirus held today.
“The meeting also decided that any sports activities such as international runs involving foreigners must obtain supporting health documents from the Pahang Health Department (JKNP),” he said.
He was speaking to reporters at a get together with the community leaders of the Jerantut district and presentation of letters of appointment to the Village Development and Security Committee (JKKK) chairmen as well as the Pahang government contribution to the JKKK from across the state, here today.
He said the meeting also decided that health screening would be carried out at clinics and hospitals, and proactive monitoring to be conducted at hotels or accommodations which housed tourists from countries at risk.
“Discussions were also held with the Malaysia-China Kuantan Industrial Park (MCKIP), Kuantan Port and LTSAS on other precautionary measures that needed to be taken.
“The state government is very concerned about the issue of coronavirus infection even though there is no such case has been reported in Pahang thus far, as it is very dangerous and can spread quickly,” he said.
Wan Rosdy also said the Health Ministry had selected the Tengku Ampuan Afzan Hospital (HTAA) as the referral hospital to gather capabilities and expertise for the treatment of coronavirus infection.
-- BERNAMA
VM2020: 3.2 mln museum visitors expected, 131 events planned
VM2020: 3.2 mln museum visitors expected, 131 events planned
The Department of Museums Malaysia (JMM) is targeting 3.2 million visitors to 22 museums across the country in conjunction with Visit Malaysia 2020 (VM2020).
Secretary-General of the Tourism, Arts and Culture Ministry, Datuk Dr Noor Zari Hamat said he was confident that the target could be achieved through the various programmes and activities planned by JMM.
He said the number of visitors to the museums last year increased by 18.2 per cent to 2.7 million from 2.3 million in 2018.
He added that through the exhibitions held, sale of entrance tickets, book sales and space rental throughout 2019, JMM collected RM3.7 million in revenue compared to RM2.6 million in 2018.
“I see museums as a very big product which we can use to attract people of other countries to visit Malaysia. Therefore, with regard to museums, innovations and creativity are very important,” he said after opening ‘The Lost Kingdoms’ and ‘Enchanting Malaysia’ exhibitions, as well as JMM’s Calendar of Events 2020 at Muzium Negara, here, today.
Meanwhile, JMM director-general Datuk Kamarul Baharin A. Kasim, in his speech, said the department had planned 131 programmes as tourism products in line with the Shared Prosperity Vision 2030.
He said among the programmes were the Paranormal, Snake and Gold exhibitions, besides JMM’s signature programmes, such as ‘Nostalgia Anak Kampung and ‘Denai Malam’.
“All these will give a new life to the era of museums in the country as outlined in the National Policy on Museums 2020.
The ‘Lost Kingdoms’ exhibition runs from last Dec 4 until this April 30 and the ‘Enchanting Malaysia’ exhibition from last Dec 25 to May 23, 2020.
For more information on JMM’s events and programmes, the public can visit www.jmm.gov.my
-- BERNAMA
The Department of Museums Malaysia (JMM) is targeting 3.2 million visitors to 22 museums across the country in conjunction with Visit Malaysia 2020 (VM2020).
Secretary-General of the Tourism, Arts and Culture Ministry, Datuk Dr Noor Zari Hamat said he was confident that the target could be achieved through the various programmes and activities planned by JMM.
He said the number of visitors to the museums last year increased by 18.2 per cent to 2.7 million from 2.3 million in 2018.
He added that through the exhibitions held, sale of entrance tickets, book sales and space rental throughout 2019, JMM collected RM3.7 million in revenue compared to RM2.6 million in 2018.
“I see museums as a very big product which we can use to attract people of other countries to visit Malaysia. Therefore, with regard to museums, innovations and creativity are very important,” he said after opening ‘The Lost Kingdoms’ and ‘Enchanting Malaysia’ exhibitions, as well as JMM’s Calendar of Events 2020 at Muzium Negara, here, today.
Meanwhile, JMM director-general Datuk Kamarul Baharin A. Kasim, in his speech, said the department had planned 131 programmes as tourism products in line with the Shared Prosperity Vision 2030.
He said among the programmes were the Paranormal, Snake and Gold exhibitions, besides JMM’s signature programmes, such as ‘Nostalgia Anak Kampung and ‘Denai Malam’.
“All these will give a new life to the era of museums in the country as outlined in the National Policy on Museums 2020.
The ‘Lost Kingdoms’ exhibition runs from last Dec 4 until this April 30 and the ‘Enchanting Malaysia’ exhibition from last Dec 25 to May 23, 2020.
For more information on JMM’s events and programmes, the public can visit www.jmm.gov.my
-- BERNAMA
Monday, January 27, 2020
No plans to bar China tourists
No plans to bar China tourists
Malaysia has no plans just yet to bar the entry of Chinese tourists, including those from Wuhan, says Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad.
He said many countries were grappling with the novel coronavirus outbreak, but it had yet to reach a critical level here.
“We can’t predict at the moment. Many countries are facing the problem.
“But for now, it is not yet critical to the point where we have to stop tourism, ” he said after attending a Chinese New Year event organised by Finance Minister Lim Guan Eng and Klang Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry at the Hokkien Association Hall here yesterday.
He was responding to journalists on whether Malaysia would follow the Philippines, which is sending back Chinese tourists from Wuhan, where the outbreak started.
Dr Mahathir said it was not easy to detect or stop those infected from entering the country, “so we have to accept that complete control is not possible”.
He added that sending Chinese tourists back may not be feasible as they would come into contact with other people during the process.
“It is better to quarantine them first until they show no signs (of infection) and then send them back, ” he said.
He said Malaysia was currently ensuring that those infected with the virus were quarantined.
“We are isolating them and not allowing them to mix with other people. That is the first step but of course, other people must take preventative action as well, ” he said.
“This includes wearing masks in crowded places.”
He also said it was not viable to immediately quarantine all Chinese nationals who arrive in Malaysia.
“Visitors from China sometimes amount to two million people. Where to keep them? In cowsheds?
“Of course, it cannot be like that, ” said Dr Mahathir.
He added that Malaysian authorities would monitor tourists if they showed any sign of infection.
He said Malaysia was not familiar with novel coronavirus infections and prevention rather than treatment was a priority, as of now.
China’s move to quarantine the 11 million people from Wuhan, although drastic, showed the determination of their government to control the disease, he added.
As for Malaysians who are in China, Dr Mahathir said they would be examined to ensure that they are not infected with the virus before they are allowed to return.
Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad, who was also at the event, said necessary measures were being put in place to counter the infection, which made its way through Singapore recently.
“We are increasing the number of thermal detection scanners (at the entry points), ” he said, adding that Malaysia had to comply with World Health Organisation guidelines when making and implementing decisions.
But it was a challenge as people may generally come in without symptoms that develop much later, he noted.
“Anyhow, we will increase the number of all equipment and our paraphernalia to detect them.
“We are also having a meeting with the Home Ministry to see how we can intensify it further, ” said Dzulkefly.
He said there were now 51 thermal detection scanners at all entry points into Malaysia and that the Finance Ministry has given its commitment to provide the necessary funds to step up surveillance.
~The Star~
Malaysia has no plans just yet to bar the entry of Chinese tourists, including those from Wuhan, says Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad.
He said many countries were grappling with the novel coronavirus outbreak, but it had yet to reach a critical level here.
“We can’t predict at the moment. Many countries are facing the problem.
“But for now, it is not yet critical to the point where we have to stop tourism, ” he said after attending a Chinese New Year event organised by Finance Minister Lim Guan Eng and Klang Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry at the Hokkien Association Hall here yesterday.
He was responding to journalists on whether Malaysia would follow the Philippines, which is sending back Chinese tourists from Wuhan, where the outbreak started.
Dr Mahathir said it was not easy to detect or stop those infected from entering the country, “so we have to accept that complete control is not possible”.
He added that sending Chinese tourists back may not be feasible as they would come into contact with other people during the process.
“It is better to quarantine them first until they show no signs (of infection) and then send them back, ” he said.
He said Malaysia was currently ensuring that those infected with the virus were quarantined.
“We are isolating them and not allowing them to mix with other people. That is the first step but of course, other people must take preventative action as well, ” he said.
“This includes wearing masks in crowded places.”
He also said it was not viable to immediately quarantine all Chinese nationals who arrive in Malaysia.
“Visitors from China sometimes amount to two million people. Where to keep them? In cowsheds?
“Of course, it cannot be like that, ” said Dr Mahathir.
He added that Malaysian authorities would monitor tourists if they showed any sign of infection.
He said Malaysia was not familiar with novel coronavirus infections and prevention rather than treatment was a priority, as of now.
China’s move to quarantine the 11 million people from Wuhan, although drastic, showed the determination of their government to control the disease, he added.
As for Malaysians who are in China, Dr Mahathir said they would be examined to ensure that they are not infected with the virus before they are allowed to return.
Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad, who was also at the event, said necessary measures were being put in place to counter the infection, which made its way through Singapore recently.
“We are increasing the number of thermal detection scanners (at the entry points), ” he said, adding that Malaysia had to comply with World Health Organisation guidelines when making and implementing decisions.
But it was a challenge as people may generally come in without symptoms that develop much later, he noted.
“Anyhow, we will increase the number of all equipment and our paraphernalia to detect them.
“We are also having a meeting with the Home Ministry to see how we can intensify it further, ” said Dzulkefly.
He said there were now 51 thermal detection scanners at all entry points into Malaysia and that the Finance Ministry has given its commitment to provide the necessary funds to step up surveillance.
~The Star~
Saturday, January 25, 2020
Thursday, January 23, 2020
Bus terminals to implement cashless ticket purchase
Bus terminals to implement cashless ticket purchase
The Transport Ministry is working to get all public bus terminals in the country to implement cashless ticket purchases by using the e-wallet system.
Transport Minister Anthony Loke Siew Fook, said it would be carried out in stages since there are terminals which have yet to implement the centralised ticketing system (CTS).
“If possible, we want all terminals to go cashless, but we also need to look at the facilities available and condition at the terminal, so those without CTS facility will take more time,” he told a press conference at the Southern Integrated Terminal (TBS) today.
He was at a TBS to monitor the “balik kampung” exodus among city folks returning to their hometowns for the Chinese New Year celebration. Also present was Deputy Transport Minister Kamarudin Jaffar.
Loke said for bus companies, especially stage bus operators who received subsidies from the government, they are required to implement a cashless ticket purchase system and it will be implemented in stages.
As for express bus companies, Loke said he believed they would be able to implement the ‘cashless’ ticket purchase system as some major bus terminals had already adopted the system.
Currently, among the bus terminals with facilities for cashless ticket purchases are the Terminal Amanjaya in Ipoh, and TBS, which also began accepting ticket purchase through e-wallet today.
In welcoming the move by TBS, Loke said it was in line with the ministry’s focus on the digitalisation of transport services.
In another development, he said the Land Public Transport Agency (APAD) had approved temporary licence for 316 additional buses for the Chinese New Year celebration. - Bernama
The Transport Ministry is working to get all public bus terminals in the country to implement cashless ticket purchases by using the e-wallet system.
Transport Minister Anthony Loke Siew Fook, said it would be carried out in stages since there are terminals which have yet to implement the centralised ticketing system (CTS).
“If possible, we want all terminals to go cashless, but we also need to look at the facilities available and condition at the terminal, so those without CTS facility will take more time,” he told a press conference at the Southern Integrated Terminal (TBS) today.
He was at a TBS to monitor the “balik kampung” exodus among city folks returning to their hometowns for the Chinese New Year celebration. Also present was Deputy Transport Minister Kamarudin Jaffar.
Loke said for bus companies, especially stage bus operators who received subsidies from the government, they are required to implement a cashless ticket purchase system and it will be implemented in stages.
As for express bus companies, Loke said he believed they would be able to implement the ‘cashless’ ticket purchase system as some major bus terminals had already adopted the system.
Currently, among the bus terminals with facilities for cashless ticket purchases are the Terminal Amanjaya in Ipoh, and TBS, which also began accepting ticket purchase through e-wallet today.
In welcoming the move by TBS, Loke said it was in line with the ministry’s focus on the digitalisation of transport services.
In another development, he said the Land Public Transport Agency (APAD) had approved temporary licence for 316 additional buses for the Chinese New Year celebration. - Bernama
Monday, January 20, 2020
VMY2020:Tourists drawn to Malaysia's diversity
VMY2020:Tourists drawn to Malaysia's diversity
A study by Tourism Malaysia found that foreign visitors are drawn to the country’s rich cultural tapestry through historical walking tours, traditional arts performances and cultural events, including batik-drawing workshops.
Deputy Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Muhammad Bakhtiar Wan Chik said with this in mind, 198 exciting cultural activities had been lined up in conjunction with Visit Malaysia Year 2020 (VMY2020).
‘With global trends pointing towards experiential tourism as a preferred way to travel, tourists want to experience a destination that offers rich cultural heritage and great creative expressions from the local community.’
Bakhtiar said the recent launch of Tourism Malaysia’s Kuala Lumpur (KL) Heritage Food Trails package, among other exciting new initiatives, would continue to bring visitors to places like Kampung Baru, Petaling Street and Brickfields in pursuit of authentic local experiences.
‘In Brickfields itself, there are many houses of worship, such as the Buddhist Maha Vihara Temple (built in 1894), the Three Teachings Chinese Temple, Sri Kandaswamy Hindu Temple and the Holy Rosary Church with its well-preserved Neo-Gothic style,’ he said after launching the VMY2020 Happenings@KL Sentral.
Among the events lined up are the East Coast Craft Textile Festival (Jan 23-Feb 2) showcasing batik-painting and songket-weaving, International Aborigines and Indigenous Arts Festival (Aug 5-Aug 9) and Malaysian Games Festival (Sept 25-Sept 27).
Bakhtiar said a reliable transport system was crucial to ensure that tourists get the most out of their stay.
He said the Express Rail Link (ERL) service, connecting KLIA and klia2 to KL Sentral, was currently working on a travel pass for tourists with RapidKL called the KL Travel Pass.
‘The pass would cover airport transfer and two-day unlimited rides on LRT, MRT and KL Monorail lines to cater to tourists’ travel needs.’
Bakhtiar said the high number of transit passengers at KLIA would have a positive impact on the tourism industry.
The VMY2020 Happenings@KL Sentral, held in collaboration with the National Department for Culture and Arts, is a twice-monthly cultural performance that showcases Malaysia’s heritage to visitors at KL Sentral.
‘I would like to urge more industry players and operators in the travel and tourism ecosystem to come forward and join us in ensuring a successful VMY2020 campaign,’ Bakhtiar added.
He welcomed the initiative to introduce Transit Without Visa (TWOV) to citizens from Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, India and Pakistan.
‘They can take advantage of the TWOV and we can offer them a package to tour around Kuala Lumpur or Selangor within the 120 hours (five days).’
Meanwhile, ERL chief executive officer Noormah Noor said the company would be organising a monthly KLIA Express Ride & Win Campaign starting from Feb 1, in collaboration with the Tourism Ministry.
For the complete list of events that covers all states and various traditions and cultures, visit www.malaysia.travel.
Malaysia has set a target of 30 million international tourist arrivals this year, with an expected revenue of RM100 billion from the industry.
~New Straits Times~
A study by Tourism Malaysia found that foreign visitors are drawn to the country’s rich cultural tapestry through historical walking tours, traditional arts performances and cultural events, including batik-drawing workshops.
Deputy Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Muhammad Bakhtiar Wan Chik said with this in mind, 198 exciting cultural activities had been lined up in conjunction with Visit Malaysia Year 2020 (VMY2020).
‘With global trends pointing towards experiential tourism as a preferred way to travel, tourists want to experience a destination that offers rich cultural heritage and great creative expressions from the local community.’
Bakhtiar said the recent launch of Tourism Malaysia’s Kuala Lumpur (KL) Heritage Food Trails package, among other exciting new initiatives, would continue to bring visitors to places like Kampung Baru, Petaling Street and Brickfields in pursuit of authentic local experiences.
‘In Brickfields itself, there are many houses of worship, such as the Buddhist Maha Vihara Temple (built in 1894), the Three Teachings Chinese Temple, Sri Kandaswamy Hindu Temple and the Holy Rosary Church with its well-preserved Neo-Gothic style,’ he said after launching the VMY2020 Happenings@KL Sentral.
Among the events lined up are the East Coast Craft Textile Festival (Jan 23-Feb 2) showcasing batik-painting and songket-weaving, International Aborigines and Indigenous Arts Festival (Aug 5-Aug 9) and Malaysian Games Festival (Sept 25-Sept 27).
Bakhtiar said a reliable transport system was crucial to ensure that tourists get the most out of their stay.
He said the Express Rail Link (ERL) service, connecting KLIA and klia2 to KL Sentral, was currently working on a travel pass for tourists with RapidKL called the KL Travel Pass.
‘The pass would cover airport transfer and two-day unlimited rides on LRT, MRT and KL Monorail lines to cater to tourists’ travel needs.’
Bakhtiar said the high number of transit passengers at KLIA would have a positive impact on the tourism industry.
The VMY2020 Happenings@KL Sentral, held in collaboration with the National Department for Culture and Arts, is a twice-monthly cultural performance that showcases Malaysia’s heritage to visitors at KL Sentral.
‘I would like to urge more industry players and operators in the travel and tourism ecosystem to come forward and join us in ensuring a successful VMY2020 campaign,’ Bakhtiar added.
He welcomed the initiative to introduce Transit Without Visa (TWOV) to citizens from Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, India and Pakistan.
‘They can take advantage of the TWOV and we can offer them a package to tour around Kuala Lumpur or Selangor within the 120 hours (five days).’
Meanwhile, ERL chief executive officer Noormah Noor said the company would be organising a monthly KLIA Express Ride & Win Campaign starting from Feb 1, in collaboration with the Tourism Ministry.
For the complete list of events that covers all states and various traditions and cultures, visit www.malaysia.travel.
Malaysia has set a target of 30 million international tourist arrivals this year, with an expected revenue of RM100 billion from the industry.
~New Straits Times~
Malaysia, China toast 2020 Year of Culture and Tourism
Malaysia, China toast 2020 Year of Culture and Tourism
The ‘Malaysia-China Year of Culture and Tourism 2020’ will further boost ties and strengthen friendship between the two Asian nations, said Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad.
In his congratulatory remarks read out by Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Datuk Mohamaddin Ketapi at the Malaysia-China Year of Culture and Tourism 2020 event here tonight, Dr Mahathir said that the relationship between the two countries can be traced back to the 15th century.
"In 2018, Premier Li Keqiang and I were of the opinion that it is a good time to celebrate the close relations enjoyed by the two nations, and to focus on a people-to-people exchange, via culture and tourism.
"It is a relationship that is rooted in the 15th century, during the golden era of the Melaka Sultanate and the Ming dynasty, and it has flourished since.
"Fast forward to the modern day, and Malaysia and China were the first nations in the region to establish diplomatic ties which bloomed into a relationship that is based on respect and trust.
"May the year of the Metal Rat symbolise the re-affirmation of Malaysia and China’s friendship and cooperation, as well as the beginning of new and firm strides ahead," the Prime Minister said.
Dr Mahathir pointed out that Malaysia is a melting pot of cultures, and that Malaysians of Chinese descent play a significant role in the nation, in all aspects.
"I am also sure that our guests from China will be able to relate (to our diverse) practices, food, customs and cultures, and will probably be able to trace them to specific provinces in China.
"Of course, other cultures, from India and the indigenous groups from Sabah and Sarawak, have a significant influence on (Malaysia). We are proud of our diversity and we believe that what we have is a significant display of multi-culturalism, which has worked and helped us flourish," he said.
Dr Mahathir added that as Malaysia and China’s cultures are tied, so too are their economies.
"For the record, in 1974, Malaysia-China trade was recorded at US$159 million. This rose by almost 700 times to US$108 billion in 2018.
"Malaysia and China will continue to work together for the benefit of both its peoples. With a vision of shared prosperity, we aim to create an economy that is balanced and sustainable, (and ensure) fair and equitable wealth distribution," he said.
Meanwhile, in his speech, Mohamaddin said that Chinese tourists can now enjoy a free visa for up to 15 days in conjunction with Visit Malaysia Year 2020.
"This year will be a very special year for Malaysia in the travel and tourism industry. It is Visit Malaysia Year 2020.
"In this regard, we have taken the initiative to extend a free visa of up to 15 days to Chinese tourists (who will) enjoy the many exciting events planned in the country for tourists from all over the world.
Present at the event were China’s Culture and Tourism vice-minister Zhang Xu and China’s Ambassador to Malaysia, Bai Tian.
~News courtesy of New Straits Times~
The ‘Malaysia-China Year of Culture and Tourism 2020’ will further boost ties and strengthen friendship between the two Asian nations, said Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad.
In his congratulatory remarks read out by Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Datuk Mohamaddin Ketapi at the Malaysia-China Year of Culture and Tourism 2020 event here tonight, Dr Mahathir said that the relationship between the two countries can be traced back to the 15th century.
"In 2018, Premier Li Keqiang and I were of the opinion that it is a good time to celebrate the close relations enjoyed by the two nations, and to focus on a people-to-people exchange, via culture and tourism.
"It is a relationship that is rooted in the 15th century, during the golden era of the Melaka Sultanate and the Ming dynasty, and it has flourished since.
"Fast forward to the modern day, and Malaysia and China were the first nations in the region to establish diplomatic ties which bloomed into a relationship that is based on respect and trust.
"May the year of the Metal Rat symbolise the re-affirmation of Malaysia and China’s friendship and cooperation, as well as the beginning of new and firm strides ahead," the Prime Minister said.
Dr Mahathir pointed out that Malaysia is a melting pot of cultures, and that Malaysians of Chinese descent play a significant role in the nation, in all aspects.
"I am also sure that our guests from China will be able to relate (to our diverse) practices, food, customs and cultures, and will probably be able to trace them to specific provinces in China.
"Of course, other cultures, from India and the indigenous groups from Sabah and Sarawak, have a significant influence on (Malaysia). We are proud of our diversity and we believe that what we have is a significant display of multi-culturalism, which has worked and helped us flourish," he said.
Dr Mahathir added that as Malaysia and China’s cultures are tied, so too are their economies.
"For the record, in 1974, Malaysia-China trade was recorded at US$159 million. This rose by almost 700 times to US$108 billion in 2018.
"Malaysia and China will continue to work together for the benefit of both its peoples. With a vision of shared prosperity, we aim to create an economy that is balanced and sustainable, (and ensure) fair and equitable wealth distribution," he said.
Meanwhile, in his speech, Mohamaddin said that Chinese tourists can now enjoy a free visa for up to 15 days in conjunction with Visit Malaysia Year 2020.
"This year will be a very special year for Malaysia in the travel and tourism industry. It is Visit Malaysia Year 2020.
"In this regard, we have taken the initiative to extend a free visa of up to 15 days to Chinese tourists (who will) enjoy the many exciting events planned in the country for tourists from all over the world.
Present at the event were China’s Culture and Tourism vice-minister Zhang Xu and China’s Ambassador to Malaysia, Bai Tian.
~News courtesy of New Straits Times~
Thursday, January 2, 2020
The dos and don’ts for VM2020
The dos and don’ts for VM2020
Beautiful attraction: Sky Mirror in Kuala Selangor is gaining popularity among tourists.
PETALING JAYA: It’s Visit Malaysia 2020 (VM2020), so here’s a dummy guide to exploring the country.
Observe cleanliness, respect flora and fauna and do not over-bargain during your shopping jaunt.
“When visiting the rural areas, obey the local culture and traditions. Also, don’t bargain so much until the prices become so cheap. How can they (rural sellers) make money if you over-bargain?” said Malaysian Association of Tour and Travel Agents (MATTA) president Datuk Tan Kok Liang.
He said that both domestic and foreign tourists should be mindful of their behaviour.
Observe the simple “no litter rule”, he said.
“Tourists should also reduce the use of plastic, ” he said yesterday.
Although places such as Penang and Langkawi remain top destinations with their food and island charm, Tan said lesser-known spots, such as Sky Mirror in Kuala Selangor, were rising in popularity.
Tourists were looking to experience rural tourism and experiential travel with each market having its own preferred activities and destinations, he said.
Tan said Chinese tourists were into shopping and photo stops while Europeans preferred nature and frequented ecotourism spots in Kota Kinabalu and Kuching.
Tourism Minister Datuk Mohamaddin Ketapi had also said that places such as Sky Mirror in Kuala Selangor, the majestic Mount Kinabalu and the Danum Valley forest in Sabah would be promoted this year.
Tan said the Danum Valley forest had been a consistent high-yield demand product and “very stable in receiving high demand from Europe”.
And Mount Kinabalu had always been in high demand for climbers, he added.
“Sky Mirror is also getting very popular for the domestic and also China market, ” he said.
Sky Mirror is a sand bank in the middle of the sea only revealed on particular days, typically during low tide.
The exposed sand bank creates an unusual backdrop that reflects the sky, which is good for photo opportunities.
At night, visitors can take a boat ride to the sea to watch “blue tears”, a natural night phenomenon caused by bioluminescent organisms, which glow in a blue hue.
Sky Mirror Tour & Travel Sdn Bhd managing director Dyven Wong said tourists must observe cleanliness and avoid disturbing the habitat when taking the Sky Mirror and “blue tears” tour.
“Tourists are not allowed to take back any ocean marine life such as clams.
“You can see, you can take pictures, but you can’t bring back anything from there, whether dead or alive, ” he said.
Wong said the number of tourists going for the Sky Mirror and “blue tears” tours was on the rise.
“Every month, we have at least 3,000 to 5,000 people going for the tour with our
company. And the number is increasing, ” he said.
~The Star~
Beautiful attraction: Sky Mirror in Kuala Selangor is gaining popularity among tourists.
PETALING JAYA: It’s Visit Malaysia 2020 (VM2020), so here’s a dummy guide to exploring the country.
Observe cleanliness, respect flora and fauna and do not over-bargain during your shopping jaunt.
“When visiting the rural areas, obey the local culture and traditions. Also, don’t bargain so much until the prices become so cheap. How can they (rural sellers) make money if you over-bargain?” said Malaysian Association of Tour and Travel Agents (MATTA) president Datuk Tan Kok Liang.
He said that both domestic and foreign tourists should be mindful of their behaviour.
Observe the simple “no litter rule”, he said.
“Tourists should also reduce the use of plastic, ” he said yesterday.
Although places such as Penang and Langkawi remain top destinations with their food and island charm, Tan said lesser-known spots, such as Sky Mirror in Kuala Selangor, were rising in popularity.
Tourists were looking to experience rural tourism and experiential travel with each market having its own preferred activities and destinations, he said.
Tan said Chinese tourists were into shopping and photo stops while Europeans preferred nature and frequented ecotourism spots in Kota Kinabalu and Kuching.
Tourism Minister Datuk Mohamaddin Ketapi had also said that places such as Sky Mirror in Kuala Selangor, the majestic Mount Kinabalu and the Danum Valley forest in Sabah would be promoted this year.
Tan said the Danum Valley forest had been a consistent high-yield demand product and “very stable in receiving high demand from Europe”.
And Mount Kinabalu had always been in high demand for climbers, he added.
“Sky Mirror is also getting very popular for the domestic and also China market, ” he said.
Sky Mirror is a sand bank in the middle of the sea only revealed on particular days, typically during low tide.
The exposed sand bank creates an unusual backdrop that reflects the sky, which is good for photo opportunities.
At night, visitors can take a boat ride to the sea to watch “blue tears”, a natural night phenomenon caused by bioluminescent organisms, which glow in a blue hue.
Sky Mirror Tour & Travel Sdn Bhd managing director Dyven Wong said tourists must observe cleanliness and avoid disturbing the habitat when taking the Sky Mirror and “blue tears” tour.
“Tourists are not allowed to take back any ocean marine life such as clams.
“You can see, you can take pictures, but you can’t bring back anything from there, whether dead or alive, ” he said.
Wong said the number of tourists going for the Sky Mirror and “blue tears” tours was on the rise.
“Every month, we have at least 3,000 to 5,000 people going for the tour with our
company. And the number is increasing, ” he said.
~The Star~
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