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~
Monday, January 20, 2020
PLUS issues travel advisory for Chinese New Year journey
PLUS issues travel advisory for Chinese New Year journey
PLUS Malaysia (PLUS) has issued its Travel Time Advisory (TTA) for North-South Expressway (NSE) users ahead of the Chinese New Year celebration starting from Jan 20 to Feb 2, to reduce traffic congestion with volume expected to increase to two million vehicles daily.
In a statement, it urged motorists from the Klang Valley heading towards Perlis, Kedah, Penang, North Perak and Johor to enter the highway before 9am.
Meanwhile, motorists heading to other destinations such as Ipoh, Negeri Sembilan and Melaka are advised to get into the highway after noon.
For the return trip to Kuala Lumpur, PLUS advised its customers to enter the expressway before 9am to ensure the traffic flows in stages from all locations to the Klang Valley.
At the same time, the company said it would temporarily halt highway maintenance and repair works between Jan 22 and Feb 2 and would provide crane and tow truck services at strategic locations on the highway to help travellers enjoy a safe, smooth and comfortable journey.
PLUS will also enhance cooperation with the authorities such as Royal Malaysian Police, Fire and Rescue Department, ambulance, Civil Defence Force, and People's Volunteer Corps (RELA), as well as increasing the number of its personnel in preparation for emergency assistance.
On top of that, it is providing additional public toilets and mobile water tanks at several locations, as well 70 self-service reload kiosks (SSK) to accommodate the increase in traffic.– Bernama
PLUS Malaysia (PLUS) has issued its Travel Time Advisory (TTA) for North-South Expressway (NSE) users ahead of the Chinese New Year celebration starting from Jan 20 to Feb 2, to reduce traffic congestion with volume expected to increase to two million vehicles daily.
In a statement, it urged motorists from the Klang Valley heading towards Perlis, Kedah, Penang, North Perak and Johor to enter the highway before 9am.
Meanwhile, motorists heading to other destinations such as Ipoh, Negeri Sembilan and Melaka are advised to get into the highway after noon.
For the return trip to Kuala Lumpur, PLUS advised its customers to enter the expressway before 9am to ensure the traffic flows in stages from all locations to the Klang Valley.
At the same time, the company said it would temporarily halt highway maintenance and repair works between Jan 22 and Feb 2 and would provide crane and tow truck services at strategic locations on the highway to help travellers enjoy a safe, smooth and comfortable journey.
PLUS will also enhance cooperation with the authorities such as Royal Malaysian Police, Fire and Rescue Department, ambulance, Civil Defence Force, and People's Volunteer Corps (RELA), as well as increasing the number of its personnel in preparation for emergency assistance.
On top of that, it is providing additional public toilets and mobile water tanks at several locations, as well 70 self-service reload kiosks (SSK) to accommodate the increase in traffic.– Bernama
Tuesday, January 14, 2020
Tourism apps 'Melaka eXcess' to be launched in March
Tourism apps 'Melaka eXcess' to be launched in March - Exco
Melaka government will launch an official tourism application 'Melaka eXcess' in March in an effort to drive the state tourism industry to a better future.
State Tourism, Heritage and Culture Committee chairman Datuk Muhammad Jailani Khamis said the application would provide detailed information on tourist attractions, food and beverages, souvenir shops, promotions and discounts to attract tourists and facilitate their access throughout the state.
He said the application, developed in collaboration with a private company, Pilihan Lampiran Swasta Sdn Bhd, would also serve as an e-wallet, navigation system as well as to provide consumer reviews related to the Melaka tourism industry.
“Melaka eXcess will bring together state tourism industry players in various sectors including travel agencies and entrepreneurs to offer their travel services, products or packages.
“The development of the application is in its final stage and registration is still open for interested tourism industry players,” he told reporters after a get-together session in conjunction with the Visit Malaysia 2020 (VM2020) here today.
He said 'Melaka eXcess' has been developed in line with current technological development and with Melaka being one of the states selected to boost the VM2020.
Meanwhile, a total of 185 tourism-related events would be organised across the state during VM2020 and 15 of them would be major tourism events.
“The Melaka government and tourism industry players in the state have been making preparations in various aspects including enhancing tourism facilities and improving the quality of services for tourists to enliven VM2020,” he said.
-- BERNAMA
Melaka government will launch an official tourism application 'Melaka eXcess' in March in an effort to drive the state tourism industry to a better future.
State Tourism, Heritage and Culture Committee chairman Datuk Muhammad Jailani Khamis said the application would provide detailed information on tourist attractions, food and beverages, souvenir shops, promotions and discounts to attract tourists and facilitate their access throughout the state.
He said the application, developed in collaboration with a private company, Pilihan Lampiran Swasta Sdn Bhd, would also serve as an e-wallet, navigation system as well as to provide consumer reviews related to the Melaka tourism industry.
“Melaka eXcess will bring together state tourism industry players in various sectors including travel agencies and entrepreneurs to offer their travel services, products or packages.
“The development of the application is in its final stage and registration is still open for interested tourism industry players,” he told reporters after a get-together session in conjunction with the Visit Malaysia 2020 (VM2020) here today.
He said 'Melaka eXcess' has been developed in line with current technological development and with Melaka being one of the states selected to boost the VM2020.
Meanwhile, a total of 185 tourism-related events would be organised across the state during VM2020 and 15 of them would be major tourism events.
“The Melaka government and tourism industry players in the state have been making preparations in various aspects including enhancing tourism facilities and improving the quality of services for tourists to enliven VM2020,” he said.
-- BERNAMA
Monday, January 13, 2020
Melaka hopes to collect RM25 million from River Cruise this year
Melaka hopes to collect RM25 million from River Cruise this year
The Melaka River Cruise (MCR) is one of many tourists attraction in the state. -NSTP/File pic
The Melaka River and Coastal Development Corporation (PPSPM) targets to collect RM25 million this year from 1.2 million tourists taking the Melaka River Cruise (MCR).
State Tourism, Heritage and Culture Committee chairman Datuk Muhammad Jailani Khamis said last year over one million tourists paid a total of RM20 million for the cruise.
He said in conjunction with Visit Malaysia Year 2020 (VMY2020), PPSPM has been holding monthly lucky draws since August last year and the annual “Cruise & Win” lucky draws had been held since 2017.
Last December RM306,933 was collected in lucky draw, while the Cruise & Win draw fetched RM490,724, he said at the Melaka Grand Cultural Festival 2019 appreciation ceremony here today.
Muhammad Jailani said PPSPM was also beautifying the lamps along the Melaka River and replacing old boats with new ones in a bid to attract more tourists.
He said the state government was also upgrading Melaka’s tourism products and infrastructure to help the federal government achieve its goal of welcoming 30 million tourists to the country and registering RM100 billion in tourism receipts in 2020. - Bernama
The Melaka River Cruise (MCR) is one of many tourists attraction in the state. -NSTP/File pic
The Melaka River and Coastal Development Corporation (PPSPM) targets to collect RM25 million this year from 1.2 million tourists taking the Melaka River Cruise (MCR).
State Tourism, Heritage and Culture Committee chairman Datuk Muhammad Jailani Khamis said last year over one million tourists paid a total of RM20 million for the cruise.
He said in conjunction with Visit Malaysia Year 2020 (VMY2020), PPSPM has been holding monthly lucky draws since August last year and the annual “Cruise & Win” lucky draws had been held since 2017.
Last December RM306,933 was collected in lucky draw, while the Cruise & Win draw fetched RM490,724, he said at the Melaka Grand Cultural Festival 2019 appreciation ceremony here today.
Muhammad Jailani said PPSPM was also beautifying the lamps along the Melaka River and replacing old boats with new ones in a bid to attract more tourists.
He said the state government was also upgrading Melaka’s tourism products and infrastructure to help the federal government achieve its goal of welcoming 30 million tourists to the country and registering RM100 billion in tourism receipts in 2020. - Bernama
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~
Tuesday, December 24, 2019
A perfect getaway for holidaymakers
A perfect getaway for holidaymakers
Shah’s Beach Resort Melaka in Tanjung Kling offers a pristine and scenic ambience, facing the Straits of Malacca.
Holidaymakers can enjoy a two-in-one getaway at a three-star resort here, about 10km from the city area. Shah’s Beach Resort Melaka in Tanjung Kling offers a pristine and scenic ambience, facing the Straits of Malacca.
Resident manager Dennis Samford said there are 50 cosy chalets to offer pleasant memories and a nostalgic feel with rustic ambience, coupled with wood floors and shutters.
Samford said the resort was one of the oldest buildings, having been in existence since 1971.
It was owned by the late Tan Sri H.M. Shah, a successful entrepreneur with businesses here and in Klang Valley.
“What is rather unique is a private museum, complete with antique furniture, collection of keris, porcelain, statues and other artefacts.
“Guests can be taken on a guided tour to view all of these priceless items free of charge,” he said.
Other amenities include an open-air restaurant with carved wood interiors and patio dining, a juice bar, an outdoor pool, tropical gardens, conference hall, meeting room, facial and beauty treatments.
Samford said upgrading and refurbishment were being carried out in stages to provide more comfort to guests.
Melaka is one of the states frequented by tourists due to its historical background and attractions such as Stadhuys, A’ Famosa, Melaka river cruise, Baba Nyonya Heritage Museum, Christ Church, Cheng Hoon Teng temple and Jonker Street.
It was declared a Unesco World Heritage site in 2008.
Team-building activities, candlelight dinners, barbecue by the beach and wedding receptions can also be arranged, upon request.
Tonight, for Christmas Eve, the resort will have set dinner at RM85 nett per person, from 7pm to 10pm.
Among the choices for main courses are Grilled Lamb Shoulder topped with Rosemary Sauce and served with mashed potatoes and mixed vegetables, Garlic Butter Pasta topped with Garlic Chicken and served with asparagus, Roast Beef topped with Black Pepper or Mushroom Sauce and served with baked potato and baby corn.
On New Year’s Eve, a course dinner is priced at RM85 nett per person.
The three main courses to choose from are Grilled Half Chicken topped with Lemon Sauce and served on a bed of pasta, Grilled Lamb Chop with Mint Sauce and served with baked potato and broccoli or Pan-Fried Sea Bass Fillet topped with Glazed Shrimp Sauce and served with herb rice and mixed vegetables.
For more information, call 06-315 2120, 06-315 3121 or visit www.shahsresorts.com .
~The Star~
Shah’s Beach Resort Melaka in Tanjung Kling offers a pristine and scenic ambience, facing the Straits of Malacca.
Holidaymakers can enjoy a two-in-one getaway at a three-star resort here, about 10km from the city area. Shah’s Beach Resort Melaka in Tanjung Kling offers a pristine and scenic ambience, facing the Straits of Malacca.
Resident manager Dennis Samford said there are 50 cosy chalets to offer pleasant memories and a nostalgic feel with rustic ambience, coupled with wood floors and shutters.
Samford said the resort was one of the oldest buildings, having been in existence since 1971.
It was owned by the late Tan Sri H.M. Shah, a successful entrepreneur with businesses here and in Klang Valley.
“What is rather unique is a private museum, complete with antique furniture, collection of keris, porcelain, statues and other artefacts.
“Guests can be taken on a guided tour to view all of these priceless items free of charge,” he said.
Other amenities include an open-air restaurant with carved wood interiors and patio dining, a juice bar, an outdoor pool, tropical gardens, conference hall, meeting room, facial and beauty treatments.
Samford said upgrading and refurbishment were being carried out in stages to provide more comfort to guests.
Melaka is one of the states frequented by tourists due to its historical background and attractions such as Stadhuys, A’ Famosa, Melaka river cruise, Baba Nyonya Heritage Museum, Christ Church, Cheng Hoon Teng temple and Jonker Street.
It was declared a Unesco World Heritage site in 2008.
Team-building activities, candlelight dinners, barbecue by the beach and wedding receptions can also be arranged, upon request.
Tonight, for Christmas Eve, the resort will have set dinner at RM85 nett per person, from 7pm to 10pm.
Among the choices for main courses are Grilled Lamb Shoulder topped with Rosemary Sauce and served with mashed potatoes and mixed vegetables, Garlic Butter Pasta topped with Garlic Chicken and served with asparagus, Roast Beef topped with Black Pepper or Mushroom Sauce and served with baked potato and baby corn.
On New Year’s Eve, a course dinner is priced at RM85 nett per person.
The three main courses to choose from are Grilled Half Chicken topped with Lemon Sauce and served on a bed of pasta, Grilled Lamb Chop with Mint Sauce and served with baked potato and broccoli or Pan-Fried Sea Bass Fillet topped with Glazed Shrimp Sauce and served with herb rice and mixed vegetables.
For more information, call 06-315 2120, 06-315 3121 or visit www.shahsresorts.com .
~The Star~
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