疫情反弹导致今年旅游业停摆

  疫情反弹导致今年旅游业停摆 马国料损失逾1000亿令吉旅游收入 

来自 / 联合早报 

发布 / 2020年11月13日 3:30 AM 

马来西亚冠病疫情反弹，旅游业前景不见曙光，政府不得已取消了2020年旅游年活动，马国预计损失超过1000亿令吉（约326亿新元）的旅游收入。（路透社） 

马国新增冠病确诊病例连续三天下降后，昨天回升，新增919起确诊病例，也是连续第五天单日新增确诊人数呈三位数。马国半岛大部分州属已从周一起实施有条件行动管制令，直至12月6日。此措施对各行各业，尤其是旅游业无疑是雪上加霜。 （

吉隆坡综合讯）马来西亚冠病疫情反弹，旅游业前景不见曙光，政府不得已取消了2020年旅游年活动，马国预计损失超过1000亿令吉（约326亿新元）的旅游收入。 马国新增冠病确诊病例连续三天下降后，昨天又回升，新增了919起确诊病例，也是连续第五天单日新增确诊人数呈三位数。 

 卫生总监诺希山昨天召开记者会指出，尽管沙巴依然是新增病例最多的州属，达319起，但西马半岛的情况，尤其是雪兰莪及森美兰州也令人担心，这两个比邻的州属昨天共新增414起确诊病例，分别是森州240起及雪州174起；两州几乎所有县市都已升级为疫情严重的“红区”。 

这显示，虽然沙巴疫情趋向稳定，但西马半岛的情况却恰恰相反，昨天共出现557起新增病例，令全马依旧笼罩在冠病疫情阴影中。 

诺希山也说，昨天再有一名确诊患者不治，累计死亡病例增至303起，死亡率为0.7%。马国至今累计4万3791起确诊病例，同时有1万1419起活跃病例。 

马国半岛大部分州属，除了玻璃市、彭亨及吉兰丹州外，已从本周一起实施有条件行动管制令，为期四个星期至12月6日。此措施对各行各业，尤其是旅游业无疑是雪上加霜。 ADVERTISING 3月实施行管令后 旅游年活动被迫取消 马国旅游部长南希苏克里指出，今年3月18日政府首次实施行动管制令（行管令）后，政府就被迫取消了2020年马国旅游年活动。

这意味着，马国无法达到原定今年内吸引3000万国际游客和1000亿令吉旅游收入的目标。 她昨天在国会下议院，以书面答复砂拉越民都鲁区国会议员张庆信提问今年访马中国游客的情况时指出，去年上半年有155万8782人次的中国游客访马，但今年上半年，受冠病疫情影响，有关人次锐减了74%。 

她说：“国外市场或入境游客方面的损失，比国内旅游市场更严重，因为一般上外国游客的消费力比较强，尤其是在住宿、交通、购物及饮食等方面。” 去年国际旅游收入来源国 中国排第二仅次于新加坡 根据旅游部去年的数据，中国是马国第三大国际游客来源国，仅次于新加坡和印度尼西亚。

在国际旅游收入方面，中国则是第二大来源国，排在新加坡之后。 针对一旦重开边境，旅游部会采取什么措施重振旅游业及吸引外国游客，南希苏克里说，东南亚及东亚国家会是旅游部“复苏策略”中首要关注的对象。 她也说，在成功阻断冠病病毒传播后，旅游部还会通过与各机构紧密合作，重塑“马来西亚，亚洲魅力所在”（Malaysia，Truly Asia）的旅游品牌。

 她补充，旅游部会持续提高与私人界及航空公司的合作，透过数码化营销策略，加强旅游业的社会经济潜力。

PM: CMCO extended till June 9

PM: CMCO extended till June 9

The conditional movement control order (MCO) will be extended for another four weeks until June 9 as public sentiments are also in favour of it, says Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin.

The Prime Minister said mass movements would not be allowed although major festivals – Hari Raya Aidilfitri, Kaamatan and Hari Gawai (the harvest festival in Sabah and Sarawak respectively) – fall within that period.

“On the advice of the Health Ministry, I am announcing that the conditional MCO, which will end on May 12, will be extended for another four weeks to June 9.

“This means all rules and standard operating procedures (SOP) during the conditional MCO will continue to be enforced until June 9. Any changes to the SOP or list of sectors which will be allowed to operate will be announced from time to time.“There is Hari Raya Aidilfitri, the Kaamatan Feast and Hari Gawai. I remind all of you that the ban on interstate movement stays.

“Many apologies and I beg your forgiveness, but for your safety and health, returning to your hometowns across state borders for Hari Raya purposes will not be allowed.

“When the situation improves, Malaysians can go back to their hometowns to visit their parents or relatives,” he said in a live broadcast on national television yesterday.However, he said visiting close neighbours and families in the same state would be allowed during the festivals, provided that there was a maximum of 20 people gathered at any one time.

He also stated that spouses living in separate states would be allowed to travel, as there were husbands and wives who could not meet during the conditional MCO due to work commitments.

“To those who need to cross states in Sabah and Sarawak, I urge the state governments to give them the flexibility. Applications can be made through the Gerak Malaysia app or by applying to the nearest police station,” he said.

He also said the Islamic Development Department (Jakim) was refining its SOP for congregational prayers in mosques, including Hari Raya Aidilfitri prayers.

The SOP, he added, must first be finalised and presented to the Yang di-Pertuan Agong before it could be made public.

He said the SOP for other houses of worship such as churches and temples was also being drawn up.

On another issue, Muhyiddin said the Finance Ministry was extending the appeal period for Bantuan Prihatin Nasional (BPN) to May 31 and the public could go to the Inland Revenue Board counters from today to appeal.

He said he could not promise that all appeals would be approved, but those who qualified would get what was due.

As of today, 10.6 million people have qualified as BPN recipients involving RM11bil.

The Prime Minister also said although almost all districts in the country had been designated as green zones, the people should not be lulled into a false sense of security.“From 1,178 districts, sections, zones, sub-zones and precincts in the country, 1,112 or 94.4% have been categorised as green zones, 62 or 5.2% as yellow zones and only four or 0.34% as red zones.

“You may think you will not be infected because you are in a green zone but this virus is an unseen, silent enemy. It can strike you any time and anywhere,” he said.

The red zone category is for areas with more than 40 Covid-19 positive cases; orange zone (20-40 cases); yellow zone (one to 19 cases); and green zone (no case).

“Only four areas are red zones: Batu in Gombak, Selangor; Batu in Kuala Lumpur; Kampung Baru in Kuala Lumpur; and Pedas in Rembau, Negri Sembilan.

“To those living outside these areas, do not visit these places for the time being to avoid getting infected,” he said.

Muhyiddin also commended the country for ranking fourth out of 105 countries in terms of people’s satisfaction with the government’s efforts in dealing with the Covid-19 outbreak.

This achievement, he said, was reported in a study done by a research agency based in Singapore.

This will be the fourth time the government has extended the MCO. The order has been implemented in phases from March 18 to 31, April 1 to 14, April 15 to 28 and April 29 to May 12.

On May 4, the government imposed the conditional MCO, which allowed almost all economic sectors to reopen.

~The Star~

Public transport and motorbikes can travel, too

Public transport and motorbikes can travel, too

Bukit Aman has decided to allow public transport and motorcycles to make journeys across state lines.

Federal CID director Comm Datuk Huzir Mohamed said the decision was made after assessing the current situation on the roads.

He said police observed and studied the movement on highways and federal roads yesterday and found traffic to be smooth.

Comm Huzir, however, said only public transportation and motorcyclists with approval from the authorities would be allowed to make the interstate trips.

~The Star~

首相慕尤丁宣布 行管令再延至512

首相慕尤丁宣布 行管令再延至512

首相丹斯里慕尤丁宣布，政府继续延长行动管制令两周，直到5月12日。

他说，虽然我国各种对抗新冠肺炎病毒措施有效果，但是我国仍必须继续进行行管令，以全面遏止疫情。

首相于周四晚的电视直播发表斋戒月献词时指出，在延长行管期间，政府将评估卫生部提供的最新数据，以制定下一步行动，不排除行管令在这之后，会再度延长。

“这意味，人们或许不能回乡欢庆斋节、不可以上班，商家仍不能开门做生意，除了那些获得批准运作的领域。”

他说，纵然国内新冠肺炎疫情已趋向好转，确诊病例在今天仍维持在双位数，但政府不能掉以轻心，必须坚持行管直到疫情全面受控。不过，只要疫情持继向好、确诊大幅下降，政府可能会逐步放宽多个领域包括社交，让人们较轻松生活。

他表示，国家安全理事会已针对上述情况，制定全面蓝图。

随着新冠肺炎确诊病例大幅下降，他也给滞留校园已久的大专生捎来好消息，政府议决“放宽一点”行管，让10万名大专生以井然有序、没有疫病风险情况下，逐批回返家乡，与家人团聚。

“我重申，是放宽一点，而非完全放宽。政府正在卫生部建议下，研究大专生的回乡流程，并会在最快时限内，作出公布。”

他也强调，所有大专生在回乡前，必须确保没有感染疫病，身体健康。因此，他敦促父母给予政府时间，进行上述行动。

另外，政府也正在考量给滞留在家乡或其他地区的人士，发出“一次性通行”批准，助相关人士返回住家。

“这只开放给在第一次行管令颁布前，不及返回住家，滞留在家乡或其他地区的人们。”

他不讳言，相信有关人数庞大，所以政府正在搜集数据，和研究最好的移动措施。

“一如国防部高级部长伊斯迈沙比里所言，相关人士可通过警方准备的手机应用程序或与最近的警局预约，向警方登记。政府将在最快时间内，公布细节。”

他强调，上述两大宽松措施必须以有序方式进行，避免防疫前功尽弃。

随着这项宣布，我国将进入第4阶段的行管令，政府是于3月16日宣布，我国从3月18日至31日实施行管令。

在第一阶段的行管令结束之前，首相在3月25日宣布延长行管令额外14天至4月14日。

在4月10日，首相再宣布行管令延长14天至4月28日。

~光华日报~

MCO Phase 4 from April 29 to May 12

MCO Phase 4 from April 29 to May 12

The Movement Control Order (MCO), currently in its third phase, has been extended by another two weeks until May 12.

This was announced by Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin in a special televised broadcast today.

Muhyddin also did not rule out the possibility of another extension beyond May 12, subject to how the situation develops.

"During this period, the government will study the latest data from the Health Ministry to determine the next steps.

"I do not discount the possibility that the MCO may be extended beyond May 12, therefore you may not be able to celebrate Hari Raya in your kampung," he said.

Muhyiddin added that if cases continue to show a downward trend, the government may slightly relax MCO regulations in stages to include several sectors including the social sector.

He also said the government will also allow university students in hostels to return home.

The process to facilitate the movement of some 100,000 students, he added, will be done on the advice of the Health Ministry.

Before they are allowed to go home, all students must be healthy and do not display any Covid-19 symptoms.

"The government may consider a one-time journey for Malaysians who have gone back to their hometowns before the MCO was enforced, to return to their homes.

"As this would involve a big number of people, the government is gathering data and studying the best methods to allow this movement."

Muhyiddin said those who needed to do so would need to register online or make an appointment at the nearest police station.

The MCO was implemented by the government on March 18 as a measure to contain the Covid-19 outbreak.

On March 25, Muhyiddin announced that the first phase of the MCO, which ended on March 31, would immediately be succeeded by a second phase, lasting until April 14.

A third phase was then announced from April 15 to April 28.

~New Straits Times~

MAS: All passengers must wear face masks, starting Thursday (April 23)

MAS: All passengers must wear face masks, starting Thursday (April 23)

All Malaysia Airlines passengers are now required to bring and wear their own protective masks effective April 23, 2020, at touch-points such as check-in, boarding, in the aircraft cabin, disembarkation and collection of baggage on arrival to mitigate the spread of Covid-19.

This requirement applies to all passengers (excluding infant) travelling on all Malaysia Airlines’ domestic, international and charter flights, to ensure the comfort and wellbeing of each passenger and airline employee, it said in a statement here Wednesday (April 22).

Malaysia Airlines will not accept passengers that do not have/wear a face mask at the time of check-in and boarding, it stressed.

"For passengers’ own comfort, especially on long haul flights, you are advised to bring additional masks and hand sanitisers for your own use.”

Passengers are also reminded to respect the personal space of others and observe social distancing where required and to comply with other safety measures in our pre-departure and arrival processes to ensure you have a safe journey.

The safety of its passengers and staff is of utmost importance to Malaysia Airlines. - Bernama

Taxis and e-hailing vehicles to operate from 6am to 10pm

Taxis and e-hailing vehicles to operate from 6am to 10pm 

Taxi, e-hailing and delivery services will only be allowed to be on the road for specific hours daily from today during the extended movement control order (MCO), says the Transport Ministry.

“From April 1 onwards, during the MCO, taxis and e-hailing vehicles are allowed to operate from 6am to 10pm.

“Delivery services are allowed to operate between 8am and 8pm, ” the ministry said in a statement yesterday.

The ministry is encouraging logistics and transportation companies involved with delivering essential goods to do so between 7pm and 7am, the most unhindered movement during the extended MCO.

It said operational hours under the MCO for stage buses, express buses, trains and their terminals continue to be limited to 6am to 10am and 5pm to 10pm as announced previously.

The statement said the restriction, covering the two-week extended MCO period, was necessary in line with the government’s efforts to reduce the spread of Covid-19 infections and put the country on the path to full recovery.

“Several difficult decisions had to be made under the second phase of the MCO from April 1-14.

“For measures related to public transportation, they are aimed to further reduce person-to-person contact on buses, rail services, taxis and in e-hailing services, and break potential chains of infection on these modes of transportation, ” the statement added.

The ministry reminded passengers to adhere to regulations and social distancing practices, including reducing crowding while using public transportation during the extended MCO period.

~The Star~

Covid 19 Updates

KTMB to suspend interstate, intercity train services from Wed

KTMB to suspend interstate, intercity train services from Wednesday (March 25)

Keretapi Tanah Melayu Berhad (KTMB) will be suspending its interstate and intercity train services beginning Wednesday (March 25), and not on Tuesday (March 24) as stated earlier.

According to a statement issued on Monday (March 24), the suspension of the services is until the end of the movement control order (MCO) and the effective date was deferred to Wednesday as many commuters have bought the tickets for tomorrow's train services.

Earlier, its chief executive officer Datuk Kamarulzaman Zainal said with the suspension of the services, only two services - Electric Train Services (ETS) and KTM Intercity - would operate daily, compared to eight in the normal situation.

He said KTM Komuter operation would be reduced to 49 services a day for the Klang Valley and north sector while services of several other trains would be continued to serve certain needs.

"This includes the transporting of medical and food supplies as well as the movement of staff of various critical services involved in the enforcement of the MCO," he said in a statement.

Meanwhile, Kamarulzaman said Skypark Link train services between Kuala Lumpur Sentral Station and Sultan Abdul Aziz Shah Airport in Subang would be reduced to four services daily, against eight before.

However, he said KTMB would fully suspend Ekspres Rakyat Timuran, Ekspres Selatan and Shuttle Tebrau services until the MCO enforcement ended.

"Passengers can make amendments or cancel their tickets via the website www.ktmb.com.my, ” he said.

Meanwhile, Express Rail Link (ERL) in a separate statement, said it would limit its services, effective Tuesday (March 24) until further notice.

ERL said the KLIA (Kuala Lumpur International Airport) Ekspres and KLIA Transit will run as a combined service at 30-minute intervals from 6am to 10am, and 5pm to 10pm daily.

"Please note that there will be no train services at other times,” the statement said.

Also, the journey time between KL Sentral and KLIA will take 35 minutes, while all departures at the KL Sentral Station will be from KLIA Ekspres Departure platform. - Bernama

Restricted movement for 14 days

Restricted movement for 14 days



Public measure: The movement control order will limit congregation at religious, sport, social and cultural events.

PETALING JAYA: A movement control order will be imposed from tomorrow until the end of the month to contain the Covid-19 outbreak, says Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin.

The Prime Minister announced the measure after chairing the National Security Council (NSC) last night.

“The government has decided to enact the measure, starting March 18 until March 31, throughout the whole country.

“This order is being issued under the Prevention and Control of Infectious Diseases Act 1988 and the Police Act 1967, ” he said during a special broadcast.

The measure will restrict the movement and congregation at religious, sport, social and cultural events.

While public and business premises will be closed, Muhyiddin announced that supermarkets, sundry shops and other shops which sell daily essentials will remain open.

Overseas travel for Malaysians will be restricted while those returning to the country must undergo health checks and voluntary quarantine.

Educational centres and schools, including higher learning institutions, will also be closed during this period.

The Prime Minister assured the public that essential services will continue.

These include health services, utilities such as fuel and electricity, along with the Fire and Rescue Department, police and those involved in the food supply chain.

Muhyiddin said he will chair daily NSC meetings and periodic updates will be announced to the public.

He also urged for all Malaysians to be patient during these trying times and to comply with the restrictions.

He assured the public that enough food and essentials are available, including face masks.

But at the same time, he said the Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs Ministry will monitor the supply of these items.

“I realise the public might feel these actions create difficulties and hardships during their day to day lives. However, such action must be taken by the government to contain the outbreak.

“We cannot wait any longer for the situation to turn more dire. Drastic measures have to be taken immediately, ” he said.

He urged the public not to panic and remain calm.

“I believe that with these measures, we will be able to contain the outbreak soon, ” he said.

Muhyiddin also thanked those directly involved in combating the Covid-19 outbreak, including health officers and public servants who have been working around the clock.

“I pray that you will remain strong in performing your duties for the country to ensure public safety, ” he said.

~The Star~

318至331 全国行动管制

318至331 全国行动管制

新冠肺炎日益严重，为有效遏止疫情，首相丹斯里慕尤丁宣布，大马施行行动管制，日期从3月18日至3月31日！

他于今日通过电视台发表冠病疫情时说，当局是援引1988年预防和控制传染病法及1967年警察法令，有关禁令实施后，国内所有群聚行动皆禁止进行，包括宗教活动、体育活动、社交及文化活动。

他指出，这段期间所有宗教场所及商业单位都必须关闭，至于超市、巴刹、杂货店及售卖日常生活品的商店可以继续营业。 

“这期间全体国民被禁止出国，也限制外国游客入境，从外国回马的公民必须接受自我隔离。”

他指出，关闭所有幼儿园，政府和私立学校，包括日间学校、寄宿学校、国际学校，宗教学校和其他小学，中学和大学先修班。

”同时也关闭全国所有公立和私立高等教育机构（HEIs）和技能培训机构。“

他也透露，关闭所有政府和私人场所，但涉及基本服务的场所除外（水、电、能源、电信、邮政、运输、水利灌溉、石油、天然气、燃料、润滑油、广播、金融、银行、卫生、药剂、消防、监狱、港口、机场、保安、国防、清洁，零售和食品供应。）

限制令的6大重点：

1. 全国禁止集会，包括宗教、运动、社会及文化活动。为了执行这项禁令，所有宗教场所、商业单位强制关闭，不过，超市、杂货店及及售卖日常用品的商店则不受影响。特别是伊斯兰教徒，在清真寺及祈祷室的所有宗教活动，包括周五祈祷必须展延。

2. 限制国民出国，国人返国后必须进行14天的自我隔离。

3. 限制外国游客和访客入境。

4. 关闭幼儿园、政府及私人学校，包括寄宿学校、国际学校、宗教学校，以及其他中小学与预科班。

5. 关闭所有本地及私立大专，以及技职学院。

6. 关闭政府及私人界场所，但攸关国家利益的服务（基本服务）不受影响，包括水供、电供、通讯、邮寄、运输、水利、汽油、石油气、燃料、润滑品、广播、金融、银行、卫生、药剂、消拯局、监狱、港口、机场、保安、国防、清洁、零售、食品供应。

他说，了解民众会觉得政府采取的这个措施，会让大家造成不便，但政府必须执行这措施，以便有效的遏止新冠肺炎继续散播。

他透露，可以看到新冠肺炎在其他国家迅速蔓延，短期内感染人数从数十人到数百人，相信大家也不愿意这情况在我国发生。

“我们没有更多时间等待了，以免情况变得更令人担忧，政府必须立即采取这种激烈措施，限制民众行动阻止疫情蔓延，这是也唯一的方式来避免更多民众感染新冠肺炎。”

他也促请国民不要恐慌、慌张及保持冷静，相信政府现在所采取的措施，在短时间内有效的遏止新冠肺炎继续散播。国民也可以参考其他国家如中国，该国感染新冠肺炎人数在逐渐下降中。

“我给予保证，国内食品、日常用品及卫生用品如口罩绝对足够，我已指示贸消部在这段封锁期间,监督及执法确保食品及日常用品充足。”

他也透露，特别国家安全会议将每天举行，以便监督国内疫情的进展，他也将亲自主持该会议，并向国民汇报疫情的进展。 

他呼吁人们遵守上述禁令，因为作为关注家人社会及国家的人们的一项集体责任。

民众有任何有关施行行动管制问题可以从周二中午12时开始，联络国家行动管理中心热线03-88882010。

~光华日报~

MATTA: Malaysia is safe for travellers

MATTA: Malaysia is safe for travellers



Fair bargains: (From left) Only World Group Holdings Bhd founder Tan Sri Richard C.K. Koh, Kho and Phua at the media conference to announce the Cuti-Cuti Malaysia programme.

The Malaysian Association of Tour and Travel Agents (MATTA), which is seeking to shore up domestic tourism, is assuring travellers that Malaysia is safe for holidaymakers.

“Malaysia is safe to travel. And for Malaysians, if the price is right there will be action,” said Rocky Kho, chairman of the oversight committee on MATTA Fair’s Cuti-Cuti Malaysia.

He cited the Finance Ministry’s personal income tax relief of up to RM1,000 on expenses for domestic tourism, which was part of Stimulus Package 2020 announced last month.“That is an incentive for Malaysians to travel domestically,” he told a press conference yesterday that was focused on Cuti-Cuti Malaysia events by MATTA Fair, which will be held on April 4 and 5 at the KL Convention Centre.

MATTA said the event would be the first-ever fully local tourism-centric event under its banner.

While there are no plans to have temperature checks during the event, medical personnel will be on standby.

Amid the drop in the tourism industry globally in view of the Covid-19 outbreak, Kho said the domestic tourism market was there to tap into.

“We really don’t know when this outbreak will be over. We’re praying hard that things will pick up again by May. We are hearing news from China that the numbers would be coming back by the end of April, hopefully,” he said.

MATTA chief executive officer Phua Tai Neng said they would follow guidelines set by the Health Ministry in combating the spread of the Covid-19 virus.

“We are always guided by their advice,” he said.

On another matter, MATTA congratulated Datuk Seri Nancy Shukri for her appointment as Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister.

“We have met with YB before and I think she is a very good minister. She’s very open,” said Phua.

~The Star~

New Tourism Minister pledges effective solutions to boost industry

New Tourism Minister pledges effective solutions to boost industry



New Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Datuk Seri Nancy Shukri is committed to coming up with effective solutions and long-term measures for the tourism sector.

The Batang Sadong MP said she was aware that many industry players, including airlines, were facing trying times from Covid-19 and falling oil prices.

"With the apparent impact of Covid-19 on the world economy, businesses and routines are adversely affected. Coupled with the downward trend of crude oil prices, it is clear that we have to work harder to overcome the challenges ahead.

"I believe our economy is resilient enough to face these challenges.

"With this new Cabinet line-up, we shall take advantage of all opportunities available to persevere through this crisis," she said in a statement on Tuesday (March 10).

Nancy thanked Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin and Sarawak Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Tun Openg for their trust in appointing her to the Cabinet.

She pledged to put the needs of the country and people first in her ministerial duties and to uphold the principles of fairness and equity.

"I shall endeavour to continue serving the people of Malaysia regardless of race, religion and political alliances.

"My focus will be on delivery with the notion of accountability to the rakyat," she said.

She also assured Sarawakians that Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) would remain focused on preserving and safeguarding the state's constitutional rights and the Malaysia Agreement 1963.
v "To my constituents in Batang Sadong, I am still the same Nancy Shukri you know and will continue to serve you in my capacity as the Member of Parliament of Batang Sadong," she added.

~The Star~

Curry puff

A curry puff (Malay: Karipap, Epok-epok; ) is a snack of Southeast Asian origin. It is a small pie consisting of curry with chicken and potatoes in a deep-fried or baked pastry shell. The curry is quite thick to prevent it from oozing out of the snack.



A common snack in Malaysia and Singapore, the curry puff is one of several "puff" type pastries with different fillings, though now it is by far the most common. Other common varieties include eggs, sardines, and onions or sweet fillings such as yam.

Curry puffs are enjoyed throughout Brunei, Malaysia, Indonesia, Singapore, Myanmar and Thailand. It also shares many similarities with the empanada, a popular pastry in Spanish- and Portuguese-speaking countries.

In Malaysia, curry puffs are commonly found sold freshly fried at many Malay, Chinese and Indian food stalls and even at trendy cafes.

Another Malay version of this snack is known as epok-epok and teh-teh which is smaller than the curry puff. The curry puffs from Indian bakeries differ from epok-epok in the use of 'layered' pastry that creates a flaky crust. Other varieties of the epok epok are filled with a half boiled egg instead of chicken. Another alternative is tinned sardines.There are also vegetarian curry puffs that are in fact not spicy and made from shredded radish, tofu, potatoes and grated carrots. They are often eaten with sweet chili sauce. There is also relatively large and nice looking version of curry puff called shell curry puff sold in shopping malls of Isetan and AEON and others in Malaysia.

Manufacturers have developed a version of the curry puff that can be frozen and later reheated by the consumer. These are suitable for the export market and can be produced in volume for shipment to various regions, such as the Middle East, where there is demand. In addition, new fillings have been experimented with, including tuna and black pepper.

In Indian food stalls in Malaysia, it is quite common to find vegetarian curry puffs with potatoes, carrots and onions as fillings.

~Wikipedia~

Sup Kambing (Mutton Soup)

Sup Kambing or Sop Kambing is a mutton soup from Indonesia, commonly found in Indonesian cuisine and Malaysian cuisine. It is prepared with goat meat, tomato, celery, spring onion, ginger, candlenut and lime leaf, its broth is yellowish in colour.



In Malaysia, sup kambing is associated with Muslim Malaysian Indian community and believed to be of Indian origin. In Singapore, the dish is also associated with the Muslim Indian community of the island.

Ingredients

There are many versions of sup kambing recipes, however there are two main groups of sup kambing traditions; the Indonesian version are derived mainly from Arab, and to some extent, Dutch influences, while Malaysian and Singaporean version is often called as sup kambing Mamak which solely derived from Muslim Indian influences. Other main differences are the Malaysian and Singaporean version consists of the chunks of goat meat in yellowish, rather thick and oily broth with rich spices; while in Indonesian version, the goat meat often also includes its bones (ribs or leg bones), has a lighter broth and balanced spices, and it also contains slices of vegetables including tomato, leek, celery, carrot and sometimes potato.

A simple sup kambing recipe uses goat meat, slices of tomato, leek, celery, and ground spices which includes; ginger, pepper, garlic, shallot and salt. However, another elaborate recipes might add more complex spices, which might includes cardamom, cinnamon, candlenut, nutmeg, clove and star anise to add aroma and taste.

~Wikipedia~

New landmark Kuantan 188 is the pride of Pahang

New landmark Kuantan 188 is the pride of Pahang


Kuantan 188, formerly known as Menara Teruntum, is the latest landmark to be completed in the East Coast Economic Region.

KUANTAN: The Kuantan 188 tower, formerly known as Menara Teruntum, has been handed over to the Pahang government.

East Coast Economic Region Development Council (ECERDC) chief executive officer Baidzawi Che Mat said the council was proud to hand over Kuantan 188, following the successful completion of the iconic and strategic public infrastructure in September last year.

“This new landmark is the pride of Pahang, being the tallest tower in the East Coast and second tallest tower in Malaysia, after KL Tower.

“I am confident that this new icon will be able to spur tourism in the state as well as bring about spillover socio-economic activities that will benefit the people, ” he said at the handover ceremony held at the tower.

Mentri Besar Datuk Seri Wan Rosdy Wan Ismail received the keys to the tower from Baidzawi during the ceremony.

Baidzawi said the Federal Government, through ECERDC, had been working closely with the Pahang state government to implement various high-impact public projects in the effort to realise the government’s vision of Shared Prosperity.


Wan Rosdy (right) and Baidzawi (middle) taking a tour of the tower.

“We are proud to have played a role in realising the construction of this iconic Kuantan 188 project. It is part of our strategy to create destinations by laying the foundation needed to generate interest and add value to surrounding areas that could boost tourism and other economic activities, ” he added.

Kuantan 188 is the latest landmark to be completed in the East Coast Economic Region (ECER).

The design concept of the tower, with its upright and tapered profile, is inspired by the shape of the traditional Malay spear tips as found on the Pahang state coat of arms.

The design of the tower’s viewing deck is inspired by the flowers and leaves of the white teruntum plant.

The tower is part of a series of projects to enhance the Kuantan Waterfront and is designed to be a major tourist attraction for both local and foreign tourists.

“Kuantan 188 will complement other tourism attractions that showcase the richness of Pahang’s history and heritage, as well as its natural endowments.

“With its viewing decks, restaurant and other activities available in the tower, as well as the surrounding attractions in the wider Kuantan Waterfront development, it will be a tourist magnet for years to come. This will further spur the socio-economic development of ECER, particularly in Pahang, ” said Baidzawi.

He said apart from Kuantan 188, other tourism projects in Pahang implemented by ECERDC that had been completed last year included the upgrading of facilities at the National Elephant Conservation Centre in Kuala Gandah, the interactive Rainforest Discovery Centre at Taman Negeri Endau-Rompin and Temerloh Titik Tengah Semenanjung.

As for the name change from Menara Teruntum to Kuantan 188, Wan Rosdy explained that the latter was more catchy.

“We had a discussion on the tower’s name. Some felt that Menara Teruntum has no commercial value and we chose Kuantan 188 that signifies the height of the tower, ” he said.

~The Star~

Pisang Goreng - Fried Banana

Pisang goreng (fried banana in Indonesian/Malay) is a snack made of banana or plantain, covered in batter or not, being deep fried in hot cooking oil, and is popular in Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, and Brunei.



Pisang goreng is most often associated with Indonesia, and indeed the country has the largest variety of pisang goreng recipes. However, this fried banana snack is also considered native to neighbouring countries; particularly Malaysia, Brunei and Singapore. 

It is consumed as a snack in the morning and afternoon. In Indonesia and Malaysia, pisang goreng is often sold by street vendors, although some sellers have a storefront from which to sell their wares.

~Wikiepdia~

旅游局集中火力推本地游

旅游局集中火力推本地游

为应对新型冠状病毒疫情所带来的影响，大马旅游局将把火力集中在本地旅游，以推动2020大马旅游年。

该局总监拿督慕沙尤索夫说，此举能够提高收入，因为数据显示，全国酒店的86%入住者是大马人。

他说，本地旅客去年在购物、娱乐、体育和住宿，花费超过700亿令吉。

他接受马新社专访时说，旅游局将专注在两大组别的本地旅游，即是家庭度假，以及为本身的雇员策划活动的国内公司。   

“这方面的本地旅游非常重要，因为它是由大马人本身所促成，不管是大家庭还是小家庭，会于学校放假、佳节和庆典期间，在国内的行程花费，参观国内景点。

“此外，我们也鼓励公司为雇员在酒店举行团建、家庭日或培训，酒店的设备齐全，可展开这些活动。”

慕沙尤索夫指出，雪兰莪、吉隆坡、柔佛和槟城4州被列为旅客来源州，州内的许多居民喜欢外出旅游，而马六甲、吉兰丹、登嘉楼、沙巴和砂拉越，则是接收大量旅客的州属。

他也促请全国旅游业者推出具吸引力和公道的旅游配套，以一同促成2020大马旅游年，进而提升国家旅游业。

他说，2020大马旅游年要取得成功，不能只是单靠一个市场，反之，旅游局也将跟东南亚国家肩并肩，以提升区域的旅游水平，因为69%到访大马的旅客是来自本区域。

“大马跟其他东盟国家尤其是新加坡、印尼和泰国展开密切合作，也就是我们打造‘双目的地计划’，结合两个国家的景点，以鼓励旅客游走于两个国家。

“此外，大马也与其他东盟国家推出2019-2020年东盟旅游配套，以推广东盟，这当中有69个旅游配套，每一配套会有超过一个东盟国家。”

他补充，旅游局保证旅客可安心游马，因为政府已采取防范措施，以对抗新冠病毒疫情。

~马新社~

疫情影响中国游客来马·旅游部重组旅游年策略

疫情影响中国游客来马·旅游部重组旅游年策略

随着新型冠状病毒疫情影响中国游客来马，旅游、艺术及文化部将重组2020年旅游年宣传策略，转向其他国家市场。旅游部长拿督莫哈末丁哥达比指出，该部发现武汉疫情已导致中国游客人数剧降，而去年来马的中国游客占11%。

“令人关注的是我国人民特别是从事旅游业者，对于游客来马带来感染风险及负面影响的反应及担忧。”他主持旅游复苏行动委员会会议后，在记者会上这么说。

莫哈末丁提到，旅游年宣传将专注在新市场如欧洲、澳洲、中东、中亚、俄罗斯，以及东亚如日本及韩国，以吸引有素质及高消费的游客到我国。他说，该部也为东盟国家市场拟定“速赢”（Quick Win）策略，作为恢复国家旅游业的替代方案。该部将于2月10日至3月，在数个州属举办与民对话会，以获取旅游业者对于恢复旅游业的反馈。“此外，我也将与雪兰莪、槟城、柔佛及沙巴州政府商讨及寻找最佳方案，恢复各州旅游业。”

大马旅游局也受指示，与业者推广“旅游大马”活动，巩固本地旅游及平衡外国游客人数减少情况。 “旅游部也将与马航、马印航空及亚航深入商讨开拓新航线，尤其是欧洲、中东及中亚市场，因为目前许多飞往中国航班已暂停。”

~马新社~

Tourist events to go on unless WHO advises otherwise

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~

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

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

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~

Happy Chinese New Year 新年快乐

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