17.38 MILLION TOURIST ARRIVALS DURING JANUARY-SEPTEMBER 2009

Malaysia recorded a total of 17,378,040 tourist arrivals during the first nine months of 2009, indicating a sign of continuous growth of tourists to the country. It represented an increase of 6.4% compared to 16,329,855 for the same period in 2008.

During September 2009, tourist arrivals grew by 24.9% from 1,599,418 in September 2008.

Table 1: Comparison of tourist arrivals to Malaysia

(September 2008 and 2009)

Malaysia has once again made headlines by winning the much-coveted Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) Grand Award in the heritage category and two other prestigious PATA Gold Awards in the marketing media and education andamp; training categories.

Tourism Malaysia clinched the Gold Award in the Marketing Media - Travel Advertisement Print Media category for its andlsquo;Malaysia: Truly Asia - Truly More with Every Visit. It Must Be Malaysia.' campaign. The new campaign is an evolution from the original Malaysia Truly Asia concept, targeted especially to attract repeat visitors to Malaysia and offering more experiences and more value with every visit.

The Director General of Tourism Malaysia, Dato' Mirza Mohammad Taiyab, received the award on behalf of Tourism Malaysia from the Director of Macau Government Tourist Office, Mr. Joao Manuel Costa Antunes and the Chief Executive Officer of PATA, Mr. Greg Duffell on 25 September 2009 in Hangzhou, China.

At the award ceremony, the judging panels described the winning campaign as an excellent marketing campaign which managed to highlight the aspect of the different regions. 'Beautiful photography creates a real desire to be there', added the judges.

Meanwhile, in the Environmental Education Programme category, the Frangipani Langkawi Resort andamp; Spa, Malaysia, won a...

MALAYSIA VOTED, 'BEST TRAVEL and LEISURE SHORT-HAUL DESTINATION'

Malaysia was hounoured with the andlsquo;Best Travel and Leisure Destination (Short-Haul)' award at the 6th TravelWeekly (China) Travel and Meeting Industry Awards 2009 held at the Raffles Beijing Hotel on 7 September.
The annual TravelWeekly (China) Travel and Meeting Industry Awards recognises outstanding achievements and contributions to tourism by travel industry players in the Asia Pacific. Almost 800,000 votes were cast by TravelWeekly China readers both online and magazine as well as industry leaders in all categories.
The online voting contest which began from 26 May and ended on 20 July 2009 witnessed a total of 46 awards were being nominated this year.
The andlsquo;Best Destination' was judged in terms of superior product and excellent service, outstanding efforts and professionalism in catering to the needs of the Chinese travellers. Malaysia won the andlsquo;Best Travel andamp; Leisure Destination (Short- Haul)' with 334 votes, followed by Hokaido, Japan (115 votes) and Cebu andamp; Boracay, Philippines (56 votes).
Tourist Arrivals
Malaysia recorded a total of 2,030,337 foreign tourists in August 2009, an increase of 10.4%, compared to the same month in 2008. Cumulatively, arrivals recorded from January to August 2009 were 15,380,505...

2.03 MILLION TOURIST ARRIVALS TO MALAYSIA IN AUGUST 2009

Malaysia recorded a total of 2,030,337 tourist arrivals for the month of August 2009. It represented an increase of 10.4% from 1,839,235 tourist arrivals for the same month in 2008.

Cumulatively, tourist arrivals recorded from January to August 2009 were 15,380,505, representing an increase of 4.4% compared to 14,730,437 for the same period in 2008.
Table 1: Comparison of tourist arrivals to Malaysia
(August 2008 and 2009)
Henan (CHINA), Weds, 9 Sept -- The Ministry of Tourism, Malaysia, is planning a series of special tourism programs to commemorate the 35 years of Malaysia-China diplomatic relations.
Tourism Minister, Dato' Sri Dr Ng Yen Yen said this cordial relationship can further enhance tourist arrivals from China to Malaysia. The strong and friendly relationship that Malaysia and China enjoyed today are fruits of labor which was planted in 1974, when the late Tun Abdul Razak, the then Prime Minister of Malaysia who visited China as the first Head of Government from ASEAN.
She also said that the Ministry of Tourism, Malaysia would work closely with the Chinese government to further strengthen this relationship, especially on the 35th anniversary of Malaysia-China diplomatic relations.
During her working visit to Henan, Dr. Ng proposed that a joint tourism effort between Tourism Malaysia and Henan Tourism Board be setup in order to promote bilateral tourism investments and travels between the two nations. She said this at the Malaysia-Henan, China Tourism Investment Dialogue organised by the People's Government of Henan Province. Dr Ng, (accompanied by Malaysia's Minister Counselor for Economy, Mr See Chee Kong) called on the Henan tourism entrepreneurs to pay particular focus on the various economic corridors in Malaysia and take advantage of the various...

YEN YEN CONGRATULATES 'HAKKAS'

Henan (CHINA) -- Dato' Sri Dr Ng Yen Yen was the only Overseas Guest invited to speak at the launching of the TV series 'HAKKA' produced by the Henan Provincial People's Government on Tuesday at the Henan Convention Centre. The other speakers included Member of the National Committee of Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference, Mr Dong ZhongYuan, Standing Committee Member of the National People's Congress of China, Dr Tsang Hin Chi and CEO of CCTV.
Dr Ng, being Tourism Minister stole the audience attention by not only congratulating Henan Provincial Government with a population of 100 million for the visionary effort put in to produce the historical TV series ' HAKKA' but went on to 'HARDSELL' Malaysia's Tourism Industry, receiving resounding applause from the audience. Her promotion is broadcasted throughout China through CCTV.
Dr Ng told the audience that Malaysia's global tourism brand 'Malaysia, truly Asia' focuses on the rich cultural diversities of Malaysia's 27 million people, including the Hakkas. The Hakkas in Malaysia have not only retained their Hakka tradition in food etc, but have also excelled in nation building through their hardwork and determination. Today there are many successful Hakkas in Malaysia, including very successful entrepreneurs. Ng proceeded to promote Malaysia as a Food Paradise, a Nature's Paradise. Malaysia is richly endowed with the...

DRAGON INN IN SABAH LISTED AS WORLD'S TOP TEN FLOATING HOTELS
The Dragon Inn Floating Resort, located at Semporna, Sabah, secured the seventh place in the top ten floating hotels list, based on a compilation by a leading menand#39;s lifestyle website that attracts more that 7 million monthly readers, AskMen.com (http://www.askmen.com/).
The website describes the resort as such: 'Built on the sea near Semporna, the Dragon Inn Floating Resort or Semporna Floating, as it is otherwise known - offers guests sumptuous rooms on stilts and a unique paradise island resort with palm-leaf roofing. Not only does the hotel offer every conceivable creature comfort, but the structural design of the hotel affords guests a sense of a traditional Bajau water village. An experience you wonand#39;t find in cloned hotel chains on the mainland. As youand#39;d expect, the hotel offers some of the best diving opportunities on this side of this world, with daily dive trips to the world-famous spots in Sipadan.'
The complete list of the Top Ten Floating Hotels includes some properties that have yet to open:
1) King Pacific Lodge, British Columbia, Canada
2) ReefWorld, Great Barrier Reef, Australia
3) Oberoi Udaivilas, Udaipur, India
4) Aerohotel, Russia
5) Conrad Maldives, Rangali Island, Maldives
6) Floating andamp; Rotating Hotel Tower, Dubai,...

THE PAVILION CRYSTAL FOUNTAIN -- THE TALLEST LIULI CRYSTAL FOUNTAIN

'Three coins in a fountain
Each one seeking happiness
Thrown by three hopeful lovers
Which one will the fountain bless...'
The famous classic song Three Coins in a Fountain conjures up an image of a love-struck couple throwing coins into the Trevi Fountain in Rome as they cast their wishes. The popular fountain ranks among the worldand#39;s most beautiful with its elaborate sculpture design.
Some say that any self-respecting city should have a fountain to call its own - the more colourful and elaborate, the better!
Kuala Lumpurand#39;s latest fountain, located just outside Pavilion Kuala Lumpur, may not exude the same grandeur as the Trevi Fountain in Rome, but is no less eye-catching.
Launched in conjunction with the Malaysia Mega Sale Carnival on 5 July 2009, the Pavilion Crystal Fountain stands 3.6 metres in height and 6 metres in width, and has been acknowledged by the Malaysia Book of Records as the tallest Liuli Crystal Fountain in the country. Its location in the heart of the tourist/shopping belt of the Golden Triangle has made it a popular attraction among both locals and tourists, and is quickly becoming a favourite place to capture photographs.
Conceptualized by Pavilion KL in collaboration with Liuligongfang, an expert in artistic glassware, this latest city landmark was designed with nationalistic ideologies in...

MALAYSIA WINS THREE AWARDS AT 2009 PATA GOLD AWARDS

Malaysia has once again made headlines by winning the much-coveted Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) Grand Award in the heritage category and two prestigious PATA Gold Awards in the marketing media and education andamp;training categories.
The Grand Award winner in the heritage category, the Temple Tree, Langkawi, is a concept hotel that promotes a truly Malaysian holiday experience. It houses several restored and unique antique homes that represent various cultural elements in Malaysia comprising the Malay, Chinese, Indian, Eurasian and Arab. Profits from the resort also help to fund LASSie (Langkawi Animal Shelter and Sanctuary Foundation). The Temple Tree is a worthy winner as it conserves important heritage elements whilst assisting the foundation to carry out its ideals of receiving, rehabilitating and caring for neglected and abused cats and dogs.
The andlsquo;Malaysia: Truly Asia - Truly More With Every Visit. It Must Be Malaysia.' campaign clinched the Gold Award in the Marketing Media - Travel Advertisement Print Media category. The winning campaign is an evolution from the original Malaysia Truly Asia concept, targeted especially to attract repeat visitors to Malaysia and offering more experiences and more value with every visit.
In the Environmental Education Programme category, the Frangipani Langkawi Resort andamp; Spa, Malaysia, won...

TWO NEW MEMBERS FOR TOURISM MALAYSIA BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Tourism Malaysia has appointed two new members to its Board of Directors in June 2009. They are YM Dato' Seri Tengku Dr. Zainal Adlin bin Tengku Mahmod, the Chairman of Sabah Tourism Board, and Y. Bhg. Dato' Robert Geneid, the Managing Director of Borsamulu Resort in Sarawak. The appointments are for a period of two years.
YM Dato' Seri Tengku Dr. Zainal Adlin has served the government for 40 years in various capacities. In year 2000, he was appointed as the Chairman of Sabah Tourism Board by the Sabah State Government. He is also the Vice President, Emeritus WWF-Malaysia.
Tengku Adlin is active in sports and voluntary organisations. He is also the author of numerous books and publications on nature and adventure as he has led and participated in many expeditions since 1996 to unexplored or lesser known interiors of Sabah.
He was conferred an Honorary Doctorate of Philosophy by Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia in 1985; the Langkawi Award by the King of Malaysia in 1999; and the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) Duke of Edinburgh Conservation Medal at Buckingham Palace in 1999.
Y.Bhg. Dato' Robert Geneid was born in Sydney, Australia, and he is a permanent resident of Malaysia. He graduated with a Bachelor of Civil Engineering from the University of New South Wales in 1976 and also graduated with a Bachelor of Laws from...

UNESCO 1, 2, 3 - MoU SIGNED

KUALA LUMPUR: A total of 16 travel and tour operators from Malaysia and Indonesia have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to promote the three UNESCO World Heritage Sites, namely; - Borobudur, Malacca and Penang under one travel package.
The ceremony which was held in Jogjakarta on 9 August 2009 was witnessed by Datuk Dr. Victor Wee (Chairman, Tourism Malaysia). Apparently, the UNESCO 1,2,3 World Heritage Sites Travel Package was a follow-up initiative on the idea personally mooted out by the honourable Datuk Sri Dr. Ng Yen Yen, Minister of Tourism, Malaysia, during her visit to Indonesia recently.
In replying to a media interview, Dr Ng Yen Yen said the package which is expected to be out soon will target heritage and culture enthusiasts in the region as well as senior citizens. 'It is a very special package that provides an unforgettable experience of visiting three heritage sites located in two countries. We will also discuss with airlines special promotions for all three destinations,' Dr Ng said.
Meanwhile, travel agents from both countries have expressed their confidence that this new travel package will help attract more tourists to Jogjakarta, Malacca and Penang. Head of Jogja Provincial Tourism Authority, Bapak Tazbir Abdullah, said the joint promotion would definitely benefit tourism in the two countries. 'The initiative of working...

TOURIST ARRIVALS JANUARY-JULY 2009 REACHED 13.35 MILLION

Malaysia recorded a total of 2,003,724 tourist arrivals for the month of July 2009. It represented an increase of 3.9% from 1,928,082 tourist arrivals for the same month in 2008.
Cumulatively, tourist arrivals recorded from January to July 2009 were 13,350,168, representing an increase of 3.6% compared to 12,891,202 for the same period in 2008.
Table 1: Comparison of tourist arrivals to Malaysia
(July 2008 and 2009)
REDANG ISLAND -- A CORAL PARADISE

With turquoise blue waters and abundance of spectacular marine life, Redang is beyond doubt one of the most beautiful islands in Malaysia. Located about 45 km off the coast of Kuala Terengganu, measuring seven kilometers long and six kilometers wide, Redang is the largest of the group of nine islands dotting the South China Sea off the Terengganu coast.

The other eight islands are Pulau Lima, Pulau Paku Besar, Pulau Paku Kecil, Pulau Kerengga Besar, Pulau Kerengga Kecil, Pulau Ling, Pulau Ekor Tebu and Pulau Pinang (*Pulau is the Malay word for island).
REDANG - A PARADISE FOR DIVING AND SNORKELLING
In order to protect the beautiful marine life and environment in the Redang archipelago, waters up to seven nautical miles surrounding the archipelago were gazetted as Marine Park in 1985. Hence, Redang is abound with magnificent corals and marine life, as well as crystal clear waters and clean white sandy beaches.
The island is a haven for scuba diving, snorkelling and swimming. Other activities that can be enjoyed there include boating, canoeing and jungle trekking. Every dive site on the island offers something different to see and experience.

Among the famous sites include Terumbu Kili, which has rocky seascape encrusted with both soft and hard corals at about 15 metres, and slopes down to 20 metres at the sandy bottom. Big Mount offers divers a...

MALAYSIA MEGA SALE CARNIVAL 2009 WINDOW DISPLAY CONTEST AND SHOPPING CENTRE AWARDS

The Ministry of Tourism and Tourism Malaysia are proud to announce the winners of the Malaysia Mega Sale Carnival Awards 2009, held recently in conjunction with the nationwide sale campaign. The event, which is organised for the first time this year, is aimed at encouraging the retail industry i.e. retailers and shopping centres to decorate their window displays and concourse areas as well as to hype up the sales ambience during the carnival period.
Themed andlsquo;MALAYSIA YOUR SHOPPING OASISand#39;, malls and retailers all over the Klang Valley have been competing for the top prize in two (2) categories i.e. Best Window Display Contest and the Best Shopping Centre Awards.
A total of 2 department stores, 31 outlets including 15 specialty outlets and 1 food and beverage outlet participated in the Best Decorated Window Display Contest. The various sub-categories in this contest are as follows:
Department Stores
Best in Innovative Display
Specialty Stores
Best in Innovative Display
Best in Merchandise Marketing
Best in Sales andamp; Promotions
The various retail outlets which took part in the contest included Elianto at Pavilion KL, Khazanah at 1 Utama, Kitschen, Nichii and Lence at Sunway Pyramid, My Tie Shop at Mid Valley Megamall and PUMA at the Gardens Mall to name a few....

Discover Smiles Zoom! Malaysia

KUALA LUMPUR, July 23 - 8TV together with Esso Malaysia Berhad (Esso), ExxonMobil Malaysia Sdn Bhd (Mobil) and Tourism Malaysia proudly present and#39;Discover Smiles Zoom! Malaysiaand#39;, a travel reality TV show with a difference!
Premiering on 29 July 2009 at 9.30 pm, the show will feature 48 participants who will embark on a treasure hunt and travel across Peninsular Malaysia. Their mission? To discover what makes Malaysians smile. Viewers at home will be able to join the participants as they explore the rich culture and history of the different states.
8TV Chief Executive Officer Encik Ahmad Izham Omar shares his thoughts on the new programme. 'Discover Smiles Zoom! Malaysia is not just a reality show. Aside from the treasure hunting and challenges that the teams face each week, this show also touches on the core reason for the reality show and that is Malaysia and its people,' he said.
'We are very proud and glad to work together with Esso and Mobil and Tourism Malaysia on this project and we hope that our viewers will enjoy this show as it will definitely enlighten them on the uniqueness of Malaysia and its people,' added Izham.
'Esso and Mobil are pleased to be able to help fellow Malaysians discover more about our country while offering the convenience and benefits of our Smiles loyalty card. While the...

PUTRAJAYA FLORIA 2009
PUTRAJAYA FLORIA, the Putrajaya Flower and Garden Festival, will be organised once again in Putrajaya, to showcase the beautiful landscapes, gardens and parks in the Garden City of Putrajaya. The nine-day festival will take place from August 1st until 9th, 2009.
PUTRAJAYA FLORIA is an international event that is owned and jointly-hosted by the Ministry of Federal Territories and Perbadanan Putrajaya (Putrajaya Corporation). The event will showcase a spectacular display of flora creativity as well as local and international garden designs.
This yearand#39;s theme andlsquo;Celebration of Coloursand#39; is based on these reasons:
To reflect the exciting and vibrant colours of flowers and plants.
To celebrate the Malaysian lifestyles with multicultural background.
To display the spectacular landscapes of Putrajaya for photo opportunities.
To inculcate a respect for nature, love for colours, flowers, plants and Gardening among visitors
To establish Putrajaya as one of the main venues for flower show in the region.
Covering an area of 15 acres, Putrajaya Floria 2009 will highlight the following flower and garden attractions;
Garden Bazaar
Floria Showcase Gardens
School and University Show Gardens
Special Orchid...

11.3 MILLION TOURIST ARRIVALS FOR FIRST HALF OF 2009
Malaysia recorded a total of 2,108,328 tourist arrivals for the month of June 2009. It represented an increase of 7.5% from 1,961,355 tourist arrivals for the same month in 2008.
Cumulatively, tourist arrivals recorded from January to June 2009 were 11,346,444, representing an increase of 3.5% compared to 10,963,120 for the same period in 2008.
Table 1: Comparison of tourist arrivals to Malaysia (June 2008 and 2009)

MONTH
TOURIST ARRIVALS 2008
TOURIST ARRIVALS
2009
CHANGE %
JUNE

TOURISM MINISTER: BE CREATIVE AND INNOVATIVE IN ATTRACTING TOURISTS
Drive the tourism industry with creative and innovative products and promotions. This was the clarion call by the Hon. Minister of Tourism, Datoand#39; Sri Dr. Ng Yen Yen, to the Tourism Malaysia overseas directors who are in town for the annual Overseas Directorsand#39; Meeting from 12 to 18 July 2009, held at Seri Pacific Kuala Lumpur hotel and Putra World Trade Centre.
The meeting, coinciding with the Hon. Ministerand#39;s 100^th day in office, was organised to establish and implement new strategies, set the Key Performance Indicators for the Tourism Malaysia offices overseas and identify the 'Big Wins,' or expected medium term results from each station.
With worldwide tourist arrivals down by 8 percent in the first four months of this year, as reported by UNWTO, Malaysia is similarly affected. June arrivals showed declines in certain markets such as China, Japan, Taiwan, and South Korea. The global economic situation and impact of the Influenza A (H1N1) were the main contributing factors.
Among the Ministerand#39;s key messages were for Tourism Malaysia officers to think beyond the ordinary in promoting and packaging Malaysia to their respective markets, re-consider advertising campaigns, as well as to create, and not just comply to, a need among tourists. The Minister cited the Big Think Strategy, developed by Bernd H. Schmitt, in encouraging officers to be bold and courageous in...

TOURISM MINISTER MEETS OVERSEAS DIRECTORS

The Hon. Minister of Tourism, Datoand#39; Sri Dr. Ng Yen Yen is holding a meeting with 43 overseas directors and marketing officers of Tourism Malaysia from 12 to 18 July 2009 in her mission to step up efforts to make Malaysia a preferred tourist destination particularly during the current global economic and health crisis.
The meeting will review current performance, on-going promotional efforts, as well as future marketing strategies and activities to be carried out worldwide by the tourism officers.
Besides the Minister of Tourism, the overseas officers will also be having sessions on the Malaysia My Second Home and Homestay programmes. Tourism Malaysiaand#39;s Acting Director General, YBhg. Datoand#39; Amirrudin Abu, will also be meeting them on Tourism Malaysiaand#39;s Key Performance Indicator and strategic directions.
Tourist arrivals increased by 2.6% during the first five months of 2009 compared to the same period in 2008 i.e. from 9,001,765 in 2008 to 9,238,116 in 2009. Regions that have continued to show growth were ASEAN, West Asia, Oceania and Europe while China, Japan and South Korea registered a decline.
___________________________________________________________
Issued by: Communications andamp; Publicity Division, Tourism Malaysia
Date: 13 July 2009
For further details, kindly contact Encik Wan Zawawi Mohamed, Director of Communications and Publicity...

TOURIST ARRIVALS HIT NINE MILLION FOR THE FIRST FIVE MONTHS

Malaysia recorded a total of 1,894,059 tourist arrivals for the month of May 2009. The figure represents a 0.3% decrease from the 1,899,148 tourist arrivals for the same month in 2008.
Cumulatively, tourist arrivals recorded from January to May 2009 were 9,238,116, representing an increase of 2.6% compared to 9,001,765 for the same period in 2008.
Table 1: Comparison of tourist arrivals to Malaysia
(May 2008 and 2009)
The Malaysia Mega Sale Carnival (MMSC), the country's biggest shopping event, is back again this year offering more exciting bargains, discounts, promotions and activities. This much anticipated annual event promises a grand shopping fiesta for eight weeks from 4 July to 31 August 2009.
During the MMSC, shoppers can look forward to getting a wide variety of products at attractive prices, ranging from haute couture, fashion accessories, jewellery and cosmetics to the latest gadgets, handicrafts and unique curios. All the bargains, promotions, fun activities and contests that will take place throughout the MMSC 2009 offer Malaysians and foreign tourists an exciting shopping experience that will satisfy even the most seasoned shoppers.
THE LAUNCHING OF THE MMSC 2009:
This year marks the 10th anniversary of the Malaysia Mega Sale Carnival, organised by the Ministry of Tourism. It is scheduled to be launched by YABhg. Datin Paduka Seri Rosmah Mansor, the wife of the Prime Minister, on 5 July, 8pm, at the Pavilion Kuala Lumpur.
The launching ceremony will also be attended by 44 foreign journalists and TV crews who have been invited to Malaysia under the Mega Familiarisation programme in conjunction with this event. They are from Australia, Brunei, China, India, Indonesia, Iran, Japan, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, South Korea and the United Arab...

CORPORATE TRAVEL BAZAAR

The Corporate Travel Bazaar (CTB) is held for the first time in Malaysia from 23 to 25 June at Hilton Hotel in Petaling Jaya, Selangor.
The event comprises two days of business-to-business sessions and it will be open to the public on the last day.
The Corporate Travel Bazaar is organised by Tourism Malaysia as a platform to highlight corporate travel packages to the domestic business market. It is also in line with the Government's intention to stimulate the growth of domestic tourism, and is a natural step following the promotion of domestic holiday packages to the general public through the Zoom! Malaysia Travel Fair.
Some 100 buyers and sellers from all over Malaysia are taking part in the travel bazaar. They include tour agencies, hotel andamp; resort operators, training consultants, government agencies, multi-level marketing companies, financial institutions, insurance companies, recreational clubs/associations, higher learning institutions and manufacturing industry.
A post tour is organised for the participants, covering major tourist attractions in Selangor and Putrajaya.
By participating in this event, Tourism Malaysia hopes the local business community will choose Malaysia as their next venue for corporate events such as meetings, seminars, company retreats, incentive...

PAVILION KUALA LUMPUR AWARDED WORLD'S BEST RETAIL CENTRE
Pavilion Kuala Lumpur (pic above) has been awarded the prestigious FIABCI Prix dand#39;Excellence Award 2009 in the Retail Category, in which 26 other international entries were also vying. The award gives recognition to projects that excel in the areas of architecture and design, development and construction, community benefits and environmental impact, retail mix, financial and marketing.
At a reception on 29 May, held to celebrate the achievement, Ms. Lisa Kurrass, FIABCI World President, presented the award to YBhg Datin Cindy Lim, Deputy Chairman of Pavilion Malaysia. Also present were Minister of Federal Territories, YB Datoand#39; Raja Nong Chik Datoand#39; Raja Zainal Shah, who officiated the event, as well as YBhg Datoand#39; Ahmad Fuad Bin Ismail, Kuala Lumpur Mayor, YBhg Tan Sri Datuk Seri Zainol Bin Mahmood, Chairman of Urusharta Cemerlang Sdn Bhd, and Mr Omer Abdulaziz Al Hamed from Qatar Investment Authority, which has a 49% stake in the project.
The win is a fitting tribute to Pavilion Kuala Lumpurand#39;s efforts towards providing a world-class shopping experience to visitors. To a larger extent, the award further enhances Malaysiaand#39;s standing as a shopping paradise in the region.
Since its opening in 2007, Pavilion Kuala Lumpur has become an icon in the Kuala Lumpur city landscape. An estimated 48 million visitors have found their way here, many of them shoppers who have helped give Malaysiaand#39;s retail...

TOURISM MINISTER WELCOMES DELEGATES OF THE 6TH WORLD CHAMBERS CONGRESS

The Hon. Minister of Tourism, YB Dato' Sri Dr. Ng Yen Yen, is hosting the 6th World Chambers Congress (WCC) welcome reception for some 1000 local and foreign delegates from 97 countries on 3rd June 2009 at The Royale Chulan Kuala Lumpur, which is also the co-host of the event.
The WCC delegates will experience a taste of Malaysian hospitality such as colourful traditional dances, delectable Malaysian cuisines, as well as a Batik Fashion show during the welcome reception. Besides that, there will be pocket shows such as teh tarik demonstration, massage, caricature, henna and batik painting which will be held concurrently.
Being the first Southeast Asian country to host the 6th WCC from 3 to 5 June at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre, it is another distinction to Malaysia in its effort to become a premier MICE (meetings, incentives, conventions and exhibitions) destination. Federation of Malaysian Manufacturers (FMM) is the local host for the 6th WCC.
Carrying the theme andlsquo;Leading Sustainable Growth and Change', the congress will discuss the global financial crisis issues and challenges to the international business environment. Implications and impacts of the challenges to food, water and energy as well as the economic implications of climate change are also on the 6th WCC agenda.
MICE is an important...

TOURISM MALAYSIA WINS AME GOLD AWARD

Tourism Malaysia has won a gold award in the 'Best Sustained Success' category for its highly-acclaimed 'Malaysia Truly Asia' campaign at the Asian Marketing Effectiveness (AME) Awards 2009 in Hong Kong on 26 May 2009.
Tourism Malaysia Director for Hong Kong, Zaliha Zainuddin, accepted the award on behalf of Tourism Malaysia.
The campaign was launched in 1999 and had since won more than 20 top international awards.
Last year, the Malaysia Truly Asia campaign won the AME gold award in the Best Long-term Marketing Brand category.
The Acting Director General of Tourism Malaysia, Dato' Amirrudin Abu, said that Tourism Malaysia was truly honoured to receive the accolades from AME.
'The award is a significant recognition of the accomplishment by Tourism Malaysia team and our partners in promoting and positioning Malaysia as a destination that embraces the best of Asia. The award is also a reflection of our dedication towards excellence in the hospitality industry,' he said.
BACKGROUNDER
The AME Awards are held annually by the Media magazine and recognise productive marketing campaigns that deliver a return on investment and redefine enterprises.
The awards also focus on presenting...

MALAYSIA STAYS COMPETITIVE AS A VALUE-FOR-MONEY DESTINATION IN GLOBAL TOURISM INDUSTRY 2009
Malaysia has emerged as the fourth most price competitive country in the world in the travel and tourism industry out of 133 countries surveyed. The top three countries listed in the price competitiveness pillar were Egypt, Brunei Darussalam and Indonesia.
Based on the Travel and Tourism Competitiveness Report (TTCR) 2009 published by the Geneva-based World Economic Forum (WEF), the selection of the price competitiveness countries in the global travel and tourism industry is based on many factors, such as the extent to which goods and services in the country are more or less expensive than elsewhere, airfare ticket taxes and airport charges, fuel price level comparison, and taxation in the country as well as the relative cost of hotel accommodations.
In terms of the overall travel and tourism competitiveness index 2009, Switzerland is ranked first out of the 133 countries, followed by Austria and Germany, the same top three countries for the past three years. High marks were given based on their rich cultural resources, tourism and ICT infrastructure, environmental sustainability, ground transport infrastructure, safety and security, quality of human resource and policy, rules and regulations in tourism industry.
Malaysia is ranked 32^nd overall in TTCR 2009, which is behind four Asian countries, namely Singapore (10^th), Hong Kong SAR (12^th), Japan...

TOURISM MALAYSIA GETS NEW CHAIRMAN

Y.Bhg. Datuk Dr. Victor Wee Eng Lye has been appointed the Chairman of Tourism Malaysia effective 6 May 2009.
Datuk Dr. Wee was the former Secretary-General of the Ministry of Tourism from August 2004 until he retired from the civil service in 2008. His appointment, according to the Minister of Tourism, YB. Datoand#39; Sri Dr. Ng Yen Yen, was based on his vast experience in the tourism industry.
During his tenure as the Secretary-General of the Ministry of Tourism, Datuk Dr. Wee has directed the formulation and implementation of the National Tourism Policy, National Eco-Tourism Plan and National Rural Tourism Master Plan, as well as the programmes of 17 State Tourism Action Councils to make Malaysia a prime tourist destination.
He was also the Chairman and overall coordinator for Visit Malaysia Year (VMY) 2007 Campaign, which saw a 19.5% hike in tourist arrivals in 2007 compared to the previous year, as well as an increase of RM10.4 billion in tourist receipts. The VMY 2007 Campaign won a gold award from the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA).
In the international arena, Datuk Dr. Wee is currently the Chairman of the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) Programme Committee. He has also served in various capacities such as the Chairman for the Officials Meeting at the...

EXCLUSIVE RESORT, THE KUDAT RIVIERA, OPENS IN SABAH, MALAYSIA
Sabah is well-known as a destination where people can rough it out. A gruelling climb to the peak of Mount Kinabalu. A wild white water rafting adventure down Padas River. A trek into the wild unknown of the Lost World of Sabah, the Danum Valley.
But then, there is a softer side of Sabah, too. Where one can laze around forever on a private cove, with a personal butler ever-happy to serve. Where exquisite villas are built as private nests, tucked away from public eye. Where one can retreat into utter seclusion and commune with nature.
With the launch of Phase One in July 2009, The Kudat Riviera, in the beautiful northern region of Sabah, is being introduced as an eco-luxury resort that offers such privacy and exclusivity for those who want to live it up in absolute comfort and style, with equal consideration for the conservation of nature.
A retreat here promises luxurious accommodations in villa estates, each occupying between 1 and 8 acres of private grounds, spread over 70 acres of stunning coastline. Each individual property is built upon expansive, manicured private gardens, with a private infinity swimming pool offering a level of space, privacy and seclusion.
All villas at The Kudat Riviera are provided with their own dedicated private butler to offer impeccable and personalised service. Guests may also call upon a private chef to provide truly unique dining in the...

GOLF, SPA and NATURE - A PERFECT COMBINATION

A hidden treasure in the heart of Borneoand#39;s rainforest. Looking around, I couldnand#39;t agree more with this apt description of Borneo Highlands.Resort on its brochure, printed on recycled paper. The call for nature and environmental preservation has become as common as Facebook these days. The number of establishments claiming to be environmentally friendly in recent years is as high as politicians and celebrities jumping on the social networking bandwagon. Itand#39;s not important whether they are doing it out of a sense of green responsibility or merely because itand#39;s the current fad. Whatand#39;s important is that it has to be done wholeheartedly.
Borneo Highlands Resort is another resort that is committed to play a part in sustainable tourism. Printing on recycled papers is a commendable effort. And serving meatless cuisine at its cafandeacute;, the Annah Rais, is equally laudable. I feel enjoying a healthy meal consists of only fresh organic vegetables, herbs and fruits greatly complement my sense of appreciation of the serene natural ambience of the resort. Its eco-friendly attractions and facilities such as the award-winning golf course and rainforest themed spa further testify to its dedication and commitment in environmental conservation.
A NATURAL PARADISE
Sitting atop a jungle clad highlands plateau...

THE KLIAS WETLANDS RIVER CRUISE ADVENTURE
Sabah, rich with eco-treasures from mountain high to ocean deep, is an adventurerand#39;s dream. There are mountains to conquer, marine life to see, jungles to explore. But what if you only had a day to experience the best of Sabah? What experiences would you fill into that single day? Where would you go?
A visit to the Klias Wetlands, near Beaufort, about 100 kilometers south of Kota Kinabalu, is the perfect choice for a day out in Sabah. Just one and a half hourand#39;s drive away from Sabahand#39;s capital city, itand#39;s near enough that you donand#39;t have to spend precious time wasted on the journey, yet exciting enough to fill your remaining hours with a memorable Sabah adventure.
The mangrove and peat swamp forests of Klias Wetlands and the deep river that runs through it provide visitors with numerous 'wow!' moments as day turns to night. It is home to a diverse range of birds, reptiles, mammals and insects. This forest reserve is also important to the ecology and wildlife of Sabahand#39;s coastal areas.
Your adventure at Klias Wetlands begins around 3 pm with a simple afternoon tea of local delights served to you on a deck overlooking the Klias river and mangroves.
For an even better view of the entire area, you are invited to climb up the 30-foot observatory tower at Monkey Tops Safari. From here, you will take in a birdand#39;s eye view of the entire mangrove forest below and perhaps do a spot of...

THE GAWAI DAYAK FESTIVAL IN SARAWAK
The Gawai Dayak festival is a significant event that celebrates the end of the rice harvesting season in June. Despite progress in major cities, for many of the Sarawakians living in the interiors, rice-growing is still a major source of income. At this time, much of the hard work that goes into rice harvesting has been done. The next planting season will only begin in September, and so June is a month of rest and reward for those who had laboured over their rice fields.
The Gawai Dayak festival, officially celebrated yearly on 1 June in Sarawak, is both a religious and social festival. Gawai means ritual or festival and Dayak is a collective name for the tribes of Iban, Bidayuh, Kayan, Kenyah, Kelabit, Murut and more.
The festival is also an extended thanksgiving celebration before the new farming season begins. For the Dayak community, it is a time to make amends for past differences and to rekindle old friendships or form new ones. As Malaysians treasure strong family ties, this festival means family reunions, paying respects to the elderly and making visits to friends and relatives.
Preparations for the festival begin early with the brewing of tuak (rice wine) and traditional delicacies like penganan (cakes from rice flour, sugar and coconut milk). On Gawai eve, glutinous rice is roasted in bamboo.
The celebration starts on...

1,975,776 TOURISTS IN MARCH 2009

A total of 1,975,776 tourists visited Malaysia in March 2009, an increase of 8.6% compared to the same month in 2008.
Cumulatively, tourist arrivals recorded from January to March 2009 were 5,460,184, representing an increase of 2.2% compared to 5,342,291 for the same period in 2008.
Table 1: Comparison of tourist arrivals to Malaysia (March 2008 and 2009)
MONTH
TOURIST ARRIVALS 2008
TOURIST ARRIVALS
2009
CHANGE %

LABUAN INTERNATIONAL SEA CHALLENGE 2009

The Labuan International Sea Challenge 2009 is held from 28 April to 3 May 2009 at the Labuan International Sea Sports Complex.Organised by the Labuan Tourism Action Council, the week-long tournament is Malaysiaand#39;s biggest sea sport event. This year, more than 20 events have been lined up, attracting more than 3,000 local and foreign participants.
To read more, please download the file below.
...

MEGA FAM PARTICIPANTS AT THE LABUAN INTERNATIONAL SEA CHALLENGE 2009

Tourism Malaysia is organizing a Mega Familiarisation Programme (Mega Fam) for 24 participants from 7 countries in conjunction with the Labuan International Sea Challenge (LISC) 2009.
The participants, comprising travel agents, journalists and TV crew members from Brunei, Canada, China, Italy, Singapore, South Africa and the Philippines will attend a tourism seminar at the Grand Dorsett Labuan Hotel in Labuan, on 2 May 2009.
To read more, please download the file below.
...

MAJLIS PELANCARAN ANUGERAH PELANCONGAN NEGARA DAN KONVENSYEN PELANCONGAN
YB Dato Sri Sulaiman Abd. Rahman Abd. Taib secara rasminya melancarkan Anugerah Pelancongan Negara dan Konvensyen Pelancongan pada 30 Mac 2009, jam 2.30 petang di Saloma Teater, Pusat Pelancongan Malaysia (MaTiC), Jalan Ampang.
Anugerah Pelancongan Negara
Anugerah Pelancongan Negara (APN), dahulunya dikenali sebagai andlsquo;Malaysia Tourism Awardand#39; telah diperkenalkan pada tahun 1987 sebagai satu platform bagi menghargai sumbangan dan peranan agensi serta individu yang menyumbang secara langsung terhadap pembangunan industri pelancongan Negara. Disamping itu, penganjuran acara sebegini turut membuka peluang kepada Kementerian Pelancongan dan Tourism Malaysia untuk mengukuhkan hubungan dan kerjasama dengan pihak industri ke arah memajukan industri tersebut.
Anugerah Pelancongan Negara kali ini dijangka akan diadakan pada bulan Disember 2009. Sebanyak 44 anugerah dalam 12 kategori bakal dipertandingkan yang mengambil kira jenis produk, mutu perkhidmatan dan juga sumbangan terhadap industri pelancongan Negara. Para pemenang akan menerima sijil penghargaan, trofi serta lain-lain insentif daripada Kementerian Pelancongan.
Antara kategori dan anugerah Anugerah Pelancongan Negara 2009 adalah seperti berikut:
1. Pengusaha Pelancongan Antarabangsa Terbaik: America, Europe, Middle East/Africa, South East, Far East, Oceania dan ASEAN.
2....

LAUNCHING CEREMONY OF THE REBRANDING OF THE MALAYSIA MY SECOND HOME PROGRAMME
The rebranding of the Malaysia My Second Home Programme (MM2H) was officially launched by His Royal Highness Tengku Mahkota Kelantan Tengku Muhammad Faris Petra Ibni Sultan Ismail Petra on 23rd March 2009, 10.00 am at Saloma Bistro andamp; Theatre Restaurant, Malaysia Tourism Centre (MaTiC), Jalan Ampang, Kuala Lumpur.
Background on MM2H
The Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H) programme, endorsed by the Malaysian Government, was introduced in 2002 to attract foreigners to make Malaysia as their second or holiday home.
The programme is open to all foreigners, irrespective of their age. Participants who meet the programmeand#39;s requirements are given a Social Visit Pass with multiple-entry visa from the Malaysian Immigration Department, valid for 10 years and renewable thereafter. MM2H participants enjoy the freedom of entering and leaving Malaysia as they wish as well as other incentives.
The rebranding of MM2H
The rebranding of the Malaysia My Second Home programme is an effort undertaken by the Ministry of Tourism with the aim of making the MM2H programme more attractive and effective. The new direction of the programme is to attract not only foreigners looking to stay long-term or retire in Malaysia, but also high net-worth individuals looking to invest in Malaysia, either by setting up their business...

MEGA FAM DELEGATES EXPERIENCE F1 FEVER IN MALAYSIA

Tourism Malaysia is organizing a Mega Familiarisation Programme (Mega Fam) for a total of 239 participants from 24 countries in conjunction with the F1 Petronas Malaysian Grand Prix (GP) 2009 that will be held at the Sepang International Circuit from 3 to 5 April.
The participants, comprising travel agents, journalists and TV crew members from Australia, Bahrain, Brunei, Cambodia, China, Denmark, Finland, India, Indonesia, Iran, Japan, Latvia, Mauritius, New Zealand, Russia, Singapore, Spain, South Korea, Sweden, Syria, Thailand, the Philippines, the United Kingdom and United Arab Emirates will attend a tourism seminar at Istana Hotel, Kuala Lumpur, on 2 April 2009.
They will listen to a presentation on medical tourism by YBhg. Dato' Dr Jacob Thomas, the President of Association of Private Hospitals of Malaysia, followed by presentations on Air India and Malaysia Airlines, as well as a presentation on Malaysia My Second Home by Mr. J. Andrew Davison. Later, they will be feted to a dinner hosted by the Hon. Dato' Sri Sulaiman Abdul Rahman Taib, the Deputy Minister of Tourism, Malaysia. The following day, they will witness the F1 Petronas Malaysian Grand Prix at the Sepang International Circuit.
Besides this event, educational visits to selected tourism products and destinations within the country are also conducted for the participants.

?AMBIENCE ZOOM! MALAYSIA AT KLIA

YB Dato' Sri Azalina Dato' Othman Said, the Minister of Tourism, launched the andlsquo;Ambience' ZOOM! Malaysia advertising campaign on 23 March 2009 at the Arrival Hall of the Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA).
The 3D eco-tourism advertisement known as andlsquo;Ambience' features Malaysia's tropical rainforests and some wildlife in the country. A total of eight flora and fauna visuals are being displayed, namely the Borneo Red Flying Frog, Rhinoceros Hornbill, Silvered Langur, Rafflesia, Gaur, Tropical Pitcher Plants or Monkey Cups, Black-winged Stilt, and the Tualang Tree.
The advertising campaign, which will end in December 2009, aims to encourage local and foreign tourists to explore the beauty of the country's rainforests that are rich with unique flora and fauna. It is in line with the Government's efforts to promote Malaysia as an eco-tourism destination, as well as to intensify the promotion of the domestic tourism campaign - ZOOM! Malaysia.

ISSUED BY: Communications andamp; Publicity Division, Tourism Malaysia
DATE: 24 March 2009
For further information, kindly contact Daryl Yep at 03-2615 8188 or email yyldaryl@tourism.gov.my
Website: www.tourism.gov.my
...

MALAYSIA BAGS PRESTIGIOUS AWARDS AT ITB BERLIN

Malaysia was honoured to receive three prestigious awards at the world's largest tourism fair, the International Tourismus-Boerse (ITB), held from 11 to 15 March 2009 in Berlin, Germany.
First, the Malaysia Truly Asia advertising campaign won the gold award in the print advertising category at the Das Goldene Stadttor (The Golden City Gate) international film competition award ceremony on 12 March 2009 at the ITB Cinema.
This year, 94 entries were accepted from all over the world for selection by a 40-member committee consisting of representatives from the marketing, media, film and advertising industries as well as official institutions.
In addition, the Malaysia Pavilion secured the second place in the Best Exhibitor Award in the Asia/Australia/Oceania category at the CBS Best Exhibitor awards. It was organised by the Cologne Business School (CBS), an internationally renowned business school of the European University of Applied Sciences Rhine/Erft, which ranks among the top 10 German universities for business studies.
The winning Malaysia Pavilion, measuring 494 square meters showcased the diversity of Malaysia's tourism products. Representatives from six states i.e. Sabah, Sarawak, Penang, Terengganu, Selangor and Langkawi, 30 hotels, 20 tour Operators as well as Malaysia Airlines participated under the...

PELANCARAN KEMPEN PENGIKLANAN ?AMBIENCE ZOOM! MALAYSIA DI KLIA

YB Dato' Sri Azalina Dato' Othman Said, Menteri Pelancongan Malaysia, telah merasmikan kempen pengiklanan andlsquo;Ambience' Zoom! Malaysia pada 23 March 2009 di Lapangan Terbang Antarabangsa Kuala Lumpur (KLIA).
Pengiklanan andlsquo;Ambience' ini berbentuk tiga dimensi (3D) dan bertemakan pelancongan eko. Ia berlatarbelakangkan suasana hutan hujan tropika yang menjadi aset tarikan pelancongan semulajadi Malaysia. Kempen pengiklanan ini bertujuan untuk mendorong pelancong asing dan domestik supaya menerokai keindahan hutan tropika di negara ini yang kaya dengan flora dan fauna yang unik.
Terdapat lapan jenis visual flora dan fauna yang dipamerkan iaitu Borneo Red Flying Frog, Rhinoceros Hornbill, Silvered langur, Rafflesia, Seladang, pokok periuk kera, black-winged stilt dan pokok tualang. Satu plak penerangan juga ditempatkan di kawasan tersebut bagi menerangkan keunikan serta habitat setiap jenis tumbuhan dan binatang yang dipamerkan.
Pengiklanan andlsquo;Ambience' ini juga dijalankan sepanjang tahun 2009 untuk meningkatkan publisiti kempen Zoom! Malaysia yang giat dipromosikan di seluruh negara.
LATAR BELAKANG KEMPEN ZOOM! MALAYSIA
Kempen ZOOM! Malaysia telah dirasmikan oleh YAB Perdana Menteri pada 14 Mei 2008 untuk meningkatkan lagi pertumbuhan industri pelancongan domestik. Di samping menggalakkan...

TOURISM MALAYSIA NAMED THE ?EXCELLENT BRAND OF TOURISM PARADISE IN HONG KONG

Tourism Malaysia was awarded the 'Excellent Brand of Tourism Paradise' award for its highly-acclaimed 'Truly My Moment' campaign at the Metro Finance anniversary gala dinner cum Hong Kong Leaders' Choice brand awards presentation on 23 February 2009 in Hong Kong.
The year-long 'Truly My Moment' campaign had been carried out successfully in Hong Kong through print and electronic media advertising such as Headline Daily, Ming Pao Weekly and cable TV and radio stations.
Ms. Zaliha Zainuddin, Tourism Malaysia Director for Hong Kong, accepted the award on behalf of Tourism Malaysia. Tourism Malaysia, the only winning national tourism organisation, was recognised as the best branding in tourism industry by the Hong Kong leaders.
'The year 2008 proved to be a remarkable year for Tourism Malaysia and this award reaffirms our commitment to promote Malaysia as one of the top tourism destinations in the world, through our country's unique splendour and beauty,' said Zaliha.
Malaysia played host to more than 22 million tourists in 2008. Tourist arrivals from the Hong Kong, Macau and Mainland China markets were particularly encouraging. With the successful extension of the 'Visit Malaysia Year' campaign in 2008, the country welcomed nearly one million travellers from these three markets. This represented a year-on-year increase of twenty...

INTERNATIONAL GUESTS CELEBRATE COLOURS OF MALAYSIA AT MERDEKA SQUARE

Tourism Malaysia is organizing a Mega Familiarisation Programme (Mega Fam) for a total of 223 participants from 23 countries in conjunction with the Colours of Malaysia 2009 celebration.

The participants, comprising travel agents, journalists and TV crew members from Australia, Bangladesh, Brunei, China, Denmark, India, Indonesia, Italy, Japan, Laos, Lithuania, Macau, Norway, Russia, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, South Africa, South Korea, Taiwan, Thailand, the Philippines, United Arab Emirates and United States of America will attend a tourism seminar at The Legend Hotel, Kuala Lumpur, on 20 March 2009.

They will listen to a presentation on Malaysian culture by the National University of Malaysia's senior lecturer followed by Malaysia Airlines and Homestay Association Malaysia presentations. Later, they will be feted to a dinner hosted by Dato' Amirrudin Abu, Acting Director General of Tourism Malaysia. The following day, they will witness the official grand launch of Colours of Malaysia 2009 by His Majesty the King of Malaysia at Merdeka Square.

Besides the Colours of Malaysia event, educational visits to selected tourism products and destinations within the country are also conducted for the participants.
BACKGROUND INFORMATION
The Mega Fam programme is organised with the support from local and foreign airlines, Malaysian hotels and state governments. Its main objective...

THE MALAYSIA CULTURE and CUISINE EXTRAVAGANZA
For the month of March, Malaysia is highlighting its rich heritage of cuisine and culture all over the country.
The Malaysia Culture andamp; Cuisine Extravaganza was launched by YB Datoand#39; Sri Azalina Datoand#39; Othman Said, Minister of Tourism, on March 17 at Grand Seasons Hotel Kuala Lumpur. It is part of the Colours of Malaysia year-long celebration to showcase Malaysiaand#39;s exciting events.
From March 18 until 28, local chefs and cultural troupes from the thirteen states in Malaysia will be promoting their authentic food and culture in Kuala Lumpur. Eleven participating hotels - each featuring the food and culture of a particular state - will introduce special menus of some of Malaysiaand#39;s well-loved signature dishes. There will also be a display and sale of handicraft items.
The highlights of the Malaysia Culture andamp; Cuisine Extravaganza include Kelantanand#39;s menora dance performance and nasi dagang and nasi kerabu dishes; Kedahand#39;s gamelan music performance and kuih karas demonstration; Penangand#39;s Nyonya beaded shoes and desserts; and Johorand#39;s laksa and biryani gam dishes as well as ghazal and zapin dance performances.
The eleven participating hotels in Kuala Lumpur are Legend Hotel (featuring Perak, Pahang and Perlis culture and cuisine), Grand Continental Hotel (Kelantan), Dynasty Hotel (Melaka), Quality Hotel (Selangor), Park Royal Hotel (Negeri Sembilan), Citrus Hotel...

ZOOM! MALAYSIA TAKES TO THE SKIES
The Zoom! Malaysia campaign is expected to receive a boost in promotions with the launch of its livery advertising on AirAsiaand#39;s aircraft today.
Held at the Low Cost Carrier Terminal in Sepang, the event was launched by Tourism Minister, YB Datoand#39; Sri Azalina Datoand#39; Othman Said. Also present were AirAsia Berhadand#39;s Chairman, Datoand#39; Abdul Aziz Abu Bakar, its Group Chief Executive Officer, Datoand#39; Sri Tony Fernandes, and Tourism Malaysiaand#39;s Acting Director General, Datoand#39; Amirrudin Abu.
The advertising campaign involves the use of one AirAsia Airbus A320 aircraft which is plane-wrapped with a colourful visual of Malaysiaand#39;s tourist attractions and the Tourism Malaysia logo. It is expected to fly the skies of Malaysia and the ASEAN region for a duration of 18 months.
Datoand#39; Sri Azalina said, 'This smart partnership with AirAsia is among the Ministry of Tourismand#39;s on-going efforts to enforce the awareness for the Zoom! Malaysia campaign among the public. We believe the branding of Zoom! Malaysia with AirAsia will create the interest for Malaysians and those within the region to visit the local destinations and make Malaysia part of their travel plans.'
This is the latest in efforts by the Ministry of Tourism to intensify promotions of the domestic tourism campaign which was launched by the Prime Minister of Malaysia, YAB Dato Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi last May....

MALAYSIA MY SECOND HOME PROGRAMME

If, after a short and memorable holiday in Malaysia, you have been smitten by the people, the culture, the cities, the lifestyle, the modern conveniences and the exotic charm, then there is the Malaysia My Second Home programme to beckon you to Malaysia again and again.
The Government-endorsed programme was introduced in 2002 specifically to attract foreigners wishing to live a meaningful and affordable life in Malaysia for extended periods. It replaced the Silver Hair Programme set up in 1996.
Participants of the programme are given a social visit pass and multiple-entry visa from the Malaysian Immigration Department which is good for ten years, and is renewable thereafter. Both documents give MM2H participants the freedom to enter and leave Malaysia whenever they wish.
Among the incentives are house and car purchases, and tax exemption on pensions and foreign income brought into the country.
Additional improvements were made to the programme in 2009 to attract more foreign participation:
andbull; The Malaysia My Second Home One-Stop Centre now accepts applications directly from interested applicants, instead of through appointed agents. Applicants may still apply through appointed agents if they so wish (for full list, please refer to...

MALAYSIA PROMOTES EDUCATION TOURISM IN VIETNAM

Tourism Malaysia is participating in the 7th International Education and Career Expo (IECE 2009) from 26 to 28 February 2009 at the Saigon Exhibition andamp; Convention Centre, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam.
The Malaysian delegation is headed by Mr. Zulkifly Md. Said, Director of Research andamp; Industry Development, Tourism Malaysia. Joining the delegation to IECE 2009 are the officials from the Ministry of Education of Malaysia, the President of Malaysia Homestay Association, Haji Shariman Hamdan and the representatives from the Malaysian public and private universities.
The participating public universities are National University of Malaysia, Technology Malaysia University, Tun Hussein Onn Malaysia University and Darul Iman University of Malaysia. The private universities comprise of Berjaya University College of Hospitality, Nilai University College, Taylor's University College, University of Kuala Lumpur, Petronas University of Technology and Metro Prima College.
An evening cocktail reception hosted by Tourism Malaysia will be held on 25 February 2009 at The Majestic Hotel where members of the Vietnamese education agencies, media as well as the local education tourism industry players will be briefed on the latest development of education tourism and opportunities in Malaysia.
IECE 2009 provides an excellent...

KUALA LUMPUR GRAND PRIX CITY FESTIVAL 2009
The Kuala Lumpur Grand Prix City Festival 2009 was launched today by the Deputy Minister of Tourism, YB Dato Sri Sulaiman Abdul Rahman Abdul Taib with the presence of the Mayor of Kuala Lumpur, Datoand#39; Ahmad Fuad Ismail at Pavilion KL.
Currently in its sixth year, the KLGP City Festival is an annual hallmark festival for the city, showcasing KL life style and held in conjunction with the Malaysian Formula One Grand Prix. KLGP City Festival 2009 promises more spectacular events than ever before that will be held at various locations around KL for a period of six weeks from the 28th of February till the 5th of April 2009.
The 2009 theme for this annual festival is 'FULLY SEASONED - Attracting the Worldand#39;s Best to KL!' The phrase 'Fully Seasoned' is coined to reflect Malaysiaand#39;s vast experience in hosting the hottest race on earth, the Malaysian Formula One Grand Prix for over a decade (since 1999) and KLGP City Festival for over 5 years. Being seasoned, the KLGP City Festival is now set to spice up the excitements by staging 12 spectacular events, welcoming a wide range of visitors to fully enjoy their KL experience as the Festival soars to a greater height than ever before. KLand#39;s enticing calendar of events is indeed FULL!
The 12 spectacular events are also attracting the worldand#39;s best to KL. Besides the worldand#39;s greatest, current F1 Drivers there will be top internationally renowned performers and DJs,...

MALAYSIA GP SALE 2009

The fever of the F1 Grand Prix is back and with it, the Malaysia GP Sale (MGP) which flags off on 28th February to 5th April 2009. Held as part of the Kuala Lumpur City Halland#39;s andlsquo;Fully Seasoned Kuala Lumpur Grand Prix City 2009and#39; celebrations, the MGP Sale is set to sweep the nation with 37 days of great sales and promotions. Visitors coming to enjoy the hottest race in the region can stay on for more fun with one of the biggest sale events around.

Numerous other events support the cityand#39;s Grand Prix gala including:
* Sunburst Festival 2009 on 21st March

* KLGP City MBB Big Day Out on 21st March

* KL Vintage andamp; Classic Car Concours on 22nd March

* KLGP Festival of Speed from 27th - 29th March

* Stylo 1 World 1 Fashion from 28th March - 3rd April

* KL Design Week 2009 from 28th March - 4th April

* Pavilion Pit Stop Fashion Week from 1st - 5th April

* F1 Gala Dinner on 3rd April (by invitation)

* KLGP City Weekend Festival on 4th April

* Speed Zone Festival on 4th April

Kuala Lumpurand#39;s popular shopping districts are all set to woo visitors with some of the best attractions during this season. Malls nationwide too are joining in with an exciting line up of activities for...

A GREAT START FOR 2009

The year 2009 has begun on a positive note for Malaysia's tourism industry. In January 2009, Malaysia received 1,871,099 tourists, an increase of 5.1% compared to the same period in the previous year.
Table 1: Comparison of tourist arrivals to Malaysia
(January 2008 and 2009)
MONTH http://www.tourism.gov.my/.
Issued by: Communications andamp; Publicity...

CHARTER FLIGHTS TO MALAYSIA DURING CHINESE NEW YEAR 2009

In conjunction with the celebration of Chinese New Year 2009, Malaysia is scheduled to receive 25 charter flights from China, Hong Kong and Taiwan between 23 January and 5 February 2009 which are expected to carry about 3,380 holiday-makers. The points of origin in China are Beijing, Guangzhou, Kunming, and Shanghai.
Sixteen of the flights will land in Kota Kinabalu. The other Malaysian destinations involved in this charter programme are Kuala Lumpur, Kuching, Kuantan and Langkawi,
Last year, a total of 949,864 tourists from China (including Hong Kong and Taiwan) visited Malaysia. This signifies a 20.3 per cent increase compared to 789,568 Chinese tourists in 2007.
NOTE: For other media releases by Tourism Malaysia, please log on to www.tourism.gov.my. Among the latest releases are on Malaysia's tourist arrivals statistics and niche tourism products.
___________________________________________________________
Issued by: Communications and Publicity Division, Tourism Malaysia
Date: 23 January 2009
For more information, please contact Mazita Johari at +603 26158442 or email: mazita@ tourism.gov.my
Website: www.tourism.gov.my
...

22.05 MILLION TOURIST ARRIVALS IN 2008

Malaysia registered 22.05 million tourists in 2008, surpassing the 21.5 million target set by the government under the Ninth Malaysia Plan. This is an overall increase of 5.1% compared to 2007.
The month of December registered the highest number of tourists with arrivals of 2,058,684, an increase of 9.2% compared to the same month last year.

Table 1: Comparison of tourist arrivals to Malaysia
(December 2007 and 2008)
YB Dato' Sri Azalina Dato' Othman Said, Menteri Pelancongan Malaysia merasmikan ZOOM! Taman Tamadun Islam pada 15 Januari 2009 di Taman Tamadun Islam, Pulau Wan Man, Kuala Terengganu, Terengganu. Majlis pelancaran tersebut turut disaksikan oleh Menteri Besar Terengganu, YAB Dato' Ahmad Said.
Penganjuran majlis ini bertujuan memberi fokus kepada Taman Tamadun Islam sebagai sebuah destinasi pelancongan terpilih. Taman seluas 23 hektar ini merupakan taman tema pertama yang mempamerkan kegemilangan tamadun Islam dan kehebatan serta keindahan seni reka bentuk tamadun Islam terdahulu.
Acara ZOOM! Taman Tamadun Islam ini dijangka menjadi tarikan kepada masyarakat tempatan dan juga para pelancong asing. Di samping itu, ia juga dapat mempromosi negeri Terengganu sebagai destinasi pelancongan yang popular di Malaysia.
Acara ZOOM! Taman Tamadun Islam ini merupakan satu lagi acara susulan daripada kempen ZOOM! Malaysia yang dilancarkan pada 14 Mei 2008. Penganjuran acara ini adalah selaras dengan tujuan kerajaan untuk merangsang pertumbuhan pelancongan domestik dan seterusnya menanam budaya melancong di dalam negeri di kalangan rakyat Malaysia.
ZOOM! MALAYSIA:
Kempen ZOOM! Malaysia telah dirasmikan oleh YAB Perdana Menteri pada 14 Mei 2008 bagi memperkenalkan destinasi pelancongan secara lebih fokus.

LAUNCHING OF ZOOM! ZOO NEGARA and VISIT ZOO NEGARA YEAR 2009

YB Dato' Sri Azalina Dato' Othman Said, the Minister of Tourism, today launched the Zoom! Zoo Negara and Visit Zoo Negara Year 2009 at Zoo Negara Malaysia in Hulu Kelang, Selangor.
The two events strongly complement each other in encouraging the public to visit the zoo and also to promote domestic tourism. More importantly, this initiative will forge closer ties between Tourism Malaysia and Zoo Negara.
'The Zoom! Zoo Negara campaign is a timely event to enhance Zoo Negara's image and at the same time it'll also attract more foreign tourists to visit the place,' said YB Dato' Sri Azalina.
'The Government is looking forward to see Zoo Negara to be on a par with other famous international zoos such as the San Diego Zoo, Berlin Zoo and Beijing Zoo. The Government hopes to turn Zoo Negara into one of the biggest attractions in the Klang Valley and wants it to be included in holiday packages,' she added.

In conjunction with the Visit Zoo Negara Year 2009, numerous exciting events have been prepared throughout the year called 100 Days Programmes to help boost Zoo Negara's image as one of the most popular tourist spots in the country for the whole family.

Among the programmes are an animal-inspired fashion show, concerts, wildlife photographer of the year competition, art auction, acrobatic show, seminars, car...

TOURISM MINISTER LAUNCHES ZOOM! MALAYSIA ADVERTISING CAMPAIGN (SMRT TRAIN, BUS and TAXI) IN SINGAPORE

The Hon. Dato' Sri Azalina Dato' Othman Said, the Minister of Tourism, Malaysia today marked the beginning of the New Year by launching a Tourism Malaysia advertising campaign (ZOOM! Malaysia) for SMRT trains, busses and taxis in Singapore.

The launching of the advertising campaign in Singapore is to intensify the promotion of the domestic tourism campaign - Zoom! Malaysia. Under the recent Tourism Malaysia market structure, Singapore and Brunei markets are under the purview of the Domestic Promotions Division.

The launching gimmick of Zoom! Malaysia advertising campaign was carried out at the Toa Payoh MRT station and was witnessed by the media and officials from both countries.

Using the body wrapping advertising technique (with Zoom! Malaysia creative for the Singaporean market) the campaign specifically targets the public transport because it is popular among Singaporeans and foreign tourists.
The campaign is expected to give an extensive exposure to the products, activities and tourism destinations in Malaysia.

BACKGROUNDER

The Zoom! Malaysia campaign is one of the Government's efforts to promote and develop domestic tourism. The campaign encourages Singaporeans to plan their holidays and explore the various places of interest in Malaysia.

Tourist arrivals from Singapore...

MAJLIS PELANCARAN ZOOM! HOMESTAY TERENGGANU

YB Dato' Sri Azalina Dato' Othman Said, Menteri Pelancongan Malaysia merasmikan ZOOM! Homestay Terengganu pada 5 Januari 2009 di Homestay Kampung Teluk Ketapang, Kuala Terengganu, Terengganu. Majlis pelancaran tersebut turut disaksikan oleh Menteri Besar Terengganu, YAB Dato' Ahmad Said.
Penganjuran majlis ini bertujuan memberi fokus kepada program homestay atau pelancongan inap desa sebagai salah satu produk pelancongan terpilih di Terengganu. Sesungguhnya, program tersebut amat dititikberat oleh Kementerian Pelancongan kerana ia selaras dengan aspirasi kerajaan untuk menggalakkan lebih ramai warga desa bergiat dalam industri pelancongan.
Di samping itu, program homestay juga amat berkesan untuk pelancong asing mengenali budaya masyarakat tempatan dengan lebih dekat lagi. Malah, ia juga mampu mewujudkan proses silang budaya yang membolehkan kedua-dua belah pihak mempelajari budaya masing-masing.

YB Dato' Sri Azalina Dato' Othman Said juga akan melancarkan laman web Homestay Terengganu yang dibangunkan untuk menyebar maklumat mengenai homestay di Terengganu ke seluruh dunia.

Acara ZOOM! Homestay Terengganu ini merupakan satu lagi acara susulan daripada kempen ZOOM! Malaysia yang dilancarkan pada 14 Mei 2008. Penganjuran acara ini adalah selaras dengan tujuan kerajaan untuk merangsang pertumbuhan pelancongan domestik dan seterusnya...

PROGRAM SAHABAT ZOOM! MALAYSIA

Program Sahabat ZOOM! Malaysia adalah satu usaha sama antara Tourism Malaysia dengan pihak Karangkraf melalui majalah LIBUR. Objektif utama program ini ialah untuk memupuk budaya bercuti di dalam negara sendiri di kalangan rakyat Malaysia. Program yang diadakan bersempena dengan kempen promosi pelancongan domestik ZOOM! Malaysia ini juga secara tidak langsung dapat memupuk semangat cintakan Malaysia.
Sasaran utama peserta program Sahabat ZOOM! Malaysia ini ialah komuniti pembaca LIBUR yang berminat untuk melancong ke destinasi pelancongan domestik. Seramai 10 orang pembaca LIBUR akan dipilih setiap bulan berdasarkan slogan yang terbaik. Borang penyertaan akan disiarkan di majalah LIBUR bermula dari bulan Januari 2009 hingga Disember 2009.
Program 3 hari 2 malam ini juga melibatkan penyertaan daripada wakil agensi pelancongan, media cetak dan media elektronik tempatan. Setiap bulan, kumpulan Sahabat ZOOM! Malaysia ini akan dibawa meneroka destinasi pelancongan di Malaysia. Pemilihan destinasi-destinasi pelancongan tersebut adalah menjurus kepada keindahan alam semula jadi.
Liputan khas program ini juga akan disiarkan sebanyak enam muka surat di majalah LIBUR pada setiap bulan.

INFO MAJALAH LIBUR
Majalah LIBUR merupakan satu-satunya majalah berkonsepkan pengembaraan dan percutian berbahasa...

MALAYSIA AT THE 28th ATF IN HANOI, VIETNAM

The Malaysian delegation participating at the 28th ASEAN Tourism Forum (ATF) 2009 in Hanoi, Vietnam will be headed by the Hon. Dato`Sri Azalina Dato`Othman Said, Minister of Tourism, Malaysia.
Other members of the delegation include; Datuk Abdul Ghafar A. Thambi (Deputy Secretary-General for Tourism, Ministry of Tourism, Malaysia),
Mr. Amirrudin Abu (Acting Director-General, Tourism Malaysia) senior government officials and state tourism bodies.
Besides providing Buyers with the prospect to meet up with Malaysian business organizations for business opportunities, the Malaysian Pavilion (booth numbers from 63-135) at the Vietnam Exhibition Fair Center, Hanoi will also give visitors insights into the exciting Malaysian destinations and attractions.
During the week-long Forum, Malaysia is scheduled to hold a press conference and media briefing on the 9 Jan 2009 and 11 January 2009 respectively. A Malaysia luncheon hosted by the Hon. Minister of Tourism, Malaysia will also be held on 10 January 2009 (Saturday) at the Vietnam Exhibition Center. Details as follow:

Table 1: Comparison of tourist arrivals to Malaysia
(November 2007 and 2008)

MONTH Issued by: Communications andamp; Publicity Division, Tourism Malaysia
Date: 17 December...

PENANG VOTED AMONG WORLD'S BEST ISLANDS IN ASIA

Penang Island was recently honored as one of the top Asian islands in Travel + Leisureand#39;s 2008 Worldand#39;s Best Awards. A first timer on the list, Penang continues to gain popularity among travelers for its lively beaches, interesting architecture, and amazing Asian-fusion cuisine.
The Worldand#39;s Best Awards are voted on by Travel + Leisureand#39;s readers, selecting their favorite hotels, spas, airlines, cruise lines, outfitters, cities, and islands around the globe. This was the magazineand#39;s 13^th poll.
For the island category, readers were asked to rate islands according to five characteristics, i.e. natural attractions, activities/sights, restaurant/food, people and value.
Penang, with its unique blend of cultures and heritage, has always been a favourite holiday destination among foreign travelers. On 7 July 2008, George Town, the state capital of Penang, was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site, putting it in the ranks of such iconic landscapes and monuments as Chinaand#39;s Great Wall, Indiaand#39;s Taj Mahal, the USand#39; Grand Canyon and Australiaand#39;s Great Barrier Reef.
According to UNESCO, George Townand#39;s unique architecture and culture has no parallel anywhere in East and Southeast Asia.
Despite the recent shake-ups in the economy, Malaysia proves that travel dreams can still...

MYCEB: MALAYSIAS ONE-STOP CENTRE FOR MICE

The Minister of Tourism, YB Dato' Sri Azalina Dato' Othman Said, outlined the details of the establishment of the Malaysia Convention andamp; Exhibition Bureau (MyCEB) at a press conference held today at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre.
This followed the announcement made on 3 December by Deputy Prime Minister YAB Dato' Sri Mohd. Najib Tun Abdul Razak to strengthen Malaysia's tourism industry by targeting the MICE (meetings, incentives, conventions and exhibitions) market.
MyCEB will be a one-stop centre in coordinating MICE activities in the country. Its goals are to secure MICE business for Malaysia and establish Malaysia as the preferred MICE destination worldwide.
MyCEB will have an advisory council made up of experienced individuals and leaders from the private and government sectors.
An initial budget of RM5 million will be channeled to MyCEB to initiate its establishment.
About the Malaysian MICE industry:
A total of 1,013,104 tourists visited Malaysia for MICE purposes in 2007. It was an improvement of 23.5% compared to 2006 (820,243 tourists). MICE tourist arrivals contributed 5% of the total 20.7 million tourist arrivals to Malaysia.
These conference delegates collectively contributed a total of RM3.17...

SARAWAK GEARS UP FOR MICE MARKET
With quality tourism services, dedicated service providers and abundance of tourist attractions, Sarawak is poised to position itself as a meetings, incentives, conventions and exhibitions (MICE) destination. This was noted by Datoand#39; Sri Dr. Muhammad Leo Michael Toyad Abdullah, Chairman of the Sarawak Convention Bureau (SCB), recently at an event at Carcosa Seri Negara to recognize the support of their partners and clients.
In his speech, Datoand#39; Sri Dr Muhammad mentioned that with the opening of two new hotels in Kuching next year, there will be an addition of 800 rooms in the city. The Borneo Convention Centre Kuching, the first international purpose built convention centre on the island of Borneo, is also scheduled for opening in mid-2009. He also highlighted the key services that the Sarawak Convention Bureau provided for organizations who are keen to host their events in the state.
The event provided recognition to associations that had supported the East Malaysia State by hosting their events in Sarawak. Datoand#39; Sri Dr Muhammad also presented the special Anak Sarawak awards to Mr Zenorai Rambli, Secretary General of Malaysia Gas Association and also to Datoand#39; ( Dr ) Hj Mustapha Ma, Secretary General of IOGT- PEMADAM.
Some 45 guests, who represented leaders from various key associations, attended the event. Among them were many distinguished medical specialists from various disciplines...

MALAYSIA: TOP 10 VALUE-FOR-MONEY DESTINATIONS

Malaysia was placed 7th for Best Country Brand for Value for Money in a global study conducted by FutureBrand, a leading global brand consultancy, in conjunction with public relations firm Weber Shandwick's Global Travel andamp; Lifestyle Practice.
The report, Country Brand Index (CBI) 2008, also mentioned Malaysia as an example of a country brand that used a regional message to position itself in the global marketplace and set itself apart from other comparable countries in the region. The 'Malaysia Truly Asia' tagline was cited as helping Malaysia gain equity in markets inundated with comparable countries.
The CBI study examines how countries are branded and ranked according to key criteria, and identifies emerging global trends in the world's fastest growing economic sector - travel and tourism, which accounts for US$5.9 trillion of economic activity worldwide this year and more than 238 million jobs.
CBI, now in its fourth year, is a comprehensive study of approximately 2,700 international business and leisure travelers from nine countries, including the US, UK, China, Australia, Japan, Brazil, UAE, Germany and Russia.
This year's index includes rankings and trends as well as travel motivations, challenges and opportunities within the worlds of travel, tourism and country branding.

MEET and EXPERIENCE MALAYSIA

Malaysia is fast emerging as a choice destination for international conventions and exhibitions in this part of the world. This is proven by a remarkable 22 per cent growth in total conference arrivals in 2007. Its growing appeal to convention and exhibition organisers is not surprising in view of the countryand#39;s easy connectivity from most parts of the world.
In the past five years, convention centres and their supporting trades have shown acute growth especially in major Asian capitals, and Malaysia is no exception. Realising the importance and potential of the MICE sector in boosting our arrivals and revenue, Malaysia is moving swiftly to capture a greater share of the international MICE market. This is facilitated by the existing supply situation in the country as many new convention centres and world-class hotels have come on-stream to cater to the growing demand.
As a MICE destination, Malaysia is an attractive choice due to its strategic geographic location, modern integrated infrastructure, political stability, favourable exchange rates, state-of-the-art meeting and conference facilities, and accessibility, complemented by a wealth of natural and cultural pursuits. These contribute towards Malaysia's competitive edge against other countries in the region.

The rapid development of conference and meeting facilities in Malaysia has enhanced its...

INTERNATIONAL GUESTS AT THE LAUNCH OF MALAYSIA SAVINGS SALE 2008

Tourism Malaysia is hosting a total of 192 participants from 23 countries via a Mega Familiarisation Programme (Mega Fam) in conjunction with the launch of Malaysia Savings Sale 2008.
The countries comprise Algeria, Australia, China, Croatia, Denmark, Finland, India, Indonesia, Japan, Laos, Lebanon, Morocco, Norway, Qatar, Singapore, South Africa, South Korea, Sweden, Switzerland, Syria, Thailand, the Philippines and United Arab Emirates.
The participants, comprising travel agents, journalists, TV and radio crew members, will attend a tourism seminar at Crowne Plaza Mutiara Hotel, Kuala Lumpur, on 27 November 2008. They will be briefed about the latest tourism developments in Malaysia as well as listen to the presentations by representatives from Malaysia Airlines and the Shopping Malaysia Secretariat. Later, they will be feted to a dinner hosted by Amirrudin Abu, the Acting Director General, Tourism Malaysia.
The following night, the group will depart for Pavilion shopping mall in Kuala Lumpur to watch the launch of the Malaysia Savings Sale 2008. Previously known as the Malaysia Year-End Sale, the all new Malaysia Savings Sale 2008 or MSS will commence from 29 November 2008 to 4 January 2009, presenting shoppers with 37 days of retail therapy, great dining experiences and fun entertainment.
Besides MSS events,...

THE ALL NEW ....MALAYSIA SAVINGS SALE!

The year-end festivities begin in November with the all new Malaysia Savings Sale 2008 or MSS - a much anticipated shopping event in the country. Previously known as the Malaysia Year-End Sale, this year's shopping extravaganza will commence from 29 November 2008 to 4 January 2009, presenting shopaholics with 37 days of fantabulous retail therapy, great dining experience and fun entertainment.
The Sale is held at an opportune time as the whole population of the country begins their shopping activities in anticipation of the Christmas and New Year celebrations and the new school year. MSS as the name suggests, provides tourists and locals alike with an opportunity to andlsquo;shop and save' as most items from apparels, accessories and home dandeacute;cor to holiday packages as well as leisure and dining activities will be on offer at discounted prices throughout the sale period.
The main launch event will be held in grand style at 8pm on 28 November 2008 at Pavilion Kuala Lumpur at Bukit Bintang and will be officiated by YB Dato' Sri Azalina Dato' Othman Said, the Minister of Tourism. In attendance will be the Secretary General of Ministry of Tourism YBhg Dato' Dr. Ong Hong Peng, Acting Director General of Tourism Malaysia, Mr. Amirrudin Abu, Mr. Tony Mariadass, General Manager of Shopping Malaysia Secretariat and Mr. Jim Cheah, MasterCard Vice President andamp; Senior Country Manager...

99 TO FLY FROM LONDON TO KL

On 25 November 2008, AirAsia X, the low-cost, long-haul affiliate of AirAsia, officially announced its andpound;99 / RM499 flights between London Stansted and Kuala Lumpur International Airport's Low Cost Carrier Terminal.
Booking is open on AirAsia's website beginning 25 November (at 12pm London time, 8pm Malaysia) for the five times weekly direct flights which will be for the travel period between 11 March and 24 October 2009. Fares start from as low as andpound;99 / RM499 for economy seats and andpound;549 / RM1,999 for XL seats respectively. Air travel from London to Malaysia typically costs in the region of andpound;500-andpound;600 / RM2,520-RM3,024.
The new route will be serviced by an Airbus A340 aircraft with a 286 passenger capacity including 30 premium XL seats.
The London-KL route is a major step for AirAsia to realise its European aspirations, and strengthens Kuala Lumpur as the regional aviation hub and gateway into the ASEAN region, China and Australia.
AirAsia Group CEO Tony Fernandes said, 'AirAsia X's London-Kuala Lumpur route is the realisation of a long-held ambition to open up affordable access between Malaysia and Europe for both ASEAN and European communities.
AirAsia X CEO, Azran Osman-Rani described the London route as a significant achievement, allowing...

OCTOBER ARRIVALS REACHED 18 MILLION MARK

Malaysia has recorded a total of 18,148,159 tourist arrivals from January to October 2008 compared to 17,322,214 tourist arrivals for the same period in 2007, representing an increase of 4.8%.
For the month of October 2008, tourist arrivals showed an increase of 8.6% with 1,818,304 tourists compared to 1,673,922 for the same period last year.
Table 1: Comparison of tourist arrivals to Malaysia (October 2007 and 2008)
MONTH

A1GP DRIVERS VISIT KUALA GANDAH ELEPHANT ORPHANAGE

Tourism Malaysia, a sponsor of the A1 Team Malaysia, has organized a trip to Kuala Gandah Elephant Orphanage Sanctuary today for some 25 A1GP drivers and team members.
Held in conjunction with the upcoming A1GP World Cup of Motorsport to be held at the Sepang International Circuit from 21 to 23 November, the sanctuary visit aims to highlight the unique indigenous culture of the Orang Asli and wildlife conservation efforts in Malaysia to the drivers and guests.
The A1GP drivers and team members were welcomed and greeted by the Orang Asli with an indigenous dance. Officials from Tourism Malaysia's Pahang office and the Department of Wildlife and National Parks were also present at the briefing session which was followed by a tour of the sanctuary.
The group was given the opportunity to ride and feed the elephants. An adoption scheme was also introduced to the drivers to adopt an elephant. A media interview session with the A1GP drivers was held during lunch at the sanctuary.
The A1GP drivers who visited the elephant sanctuary were:
andmiddot; A1 Team Malaysia: Fairuz Fauzy and Aaron Lim
andmiddot; A1 Team India: Narain Karthikeyan
andmiddot; A1 Team Ireland : Adam Carroll

ZOOM! MALAYSIA TRAVEL FAIR

YABhg. Datin Paduka Seri Jeanne Abdullah akan merasmikan Zoom! Malaysia Travel Fair pada 21 November 2008, jam 8 malam, di Dataran Car Park, One Utama, Petaling Jaya. Majlis tersebut turut dihadiri oleh Menteri Pelancongan, YB Dato' Sri Azalina Dato' Othman Said.
Zoom! Malaysia Travel Fair bertujuan untuk mempromosikan produk-produk pelancongan domestik secara lebih bersepadu, di samping mempergiatkan lagi promosi Kempen Zoom! Malaysia. Lebih daripada 30 pengusaha pelancongan dari seluruh negara akan menyertai acara ini yang berlangsung daripada 21 hingga 23 November.
Para pengusaha berpeluang untuk menawarkan pakej-pakej pelancongan secara terus kepada pengunjung-pengunjung dengan harga yang kompetitif dan berpatutan. Di samping itu, ia menggalakkan pembangunan dan pemasaran pakej pelancongan domestik secara lebih kreatif, terutamanya bagi destinasi-destinasi yang belum lagi dikenali oleh orang ramai.
Pakej-pakej ini telah digubal bagi memenuhi citarasa berbilang kaum Malaysia dan meliputi segmen-segmen yang telah dikenalpasti iaitu murid-murid sekolah, para pelajar tempatan dan asing, golongan belia, pasangan muda, keluarga, pesara, warga emas dan ekspatriat. Pakej-pakej tersebut meliputi pelbagai tema termasuk pelancongan eko, rekreasi, pusat peranginan tanah tinggi, pulau-pulau, peninggalan sejarah, pakej ibadah qurban dan aqiqah.

CHARTER FLIGHTS BRING IN MORE FINNISH TOURISTS
A flight carrying 225 passengers from Finland has arrived in Penang on 18 November, signaling the first of a series of charter flights to Penang organized by Finland tour operator, Lomamatkay Oy. The effort is in line with the Ministryand#39;s endeavour to boost tourist arrivals from Scandinavia.
The passengers were treated to a warm Malaysian reception at a dinner hosted by Tourism Malaysia at Fort Cornwallis, Penang, on the same night. In her welcome speech, YBhg. Datoand#39; Kee Phaik Cheen, member of Tourism Malaysia Board of Directors, said that though the global crises facing the international population, i.e. rising fuel prices and uncertain economic situation, are affecting the decision to travel long-haul to this region, Malaysia is an attractive option as it is a value-for-money holiday destination with favourable exchange rates.
She also encouraged Lomamatkat Oy to consider organizing charter flights to other destinations in Malaysia.
Lomamatkat Oy, the fourth largest tour operator in Finland, is organising nine charter flights to operate between various cities in Finland and Penang, once every fortnight up until 8 March 2009. Response has been positive, with some flights recording 100 percent, 90 percent and 70 percent capacity. It is expected that more than 2,000 tourists will be brought in via this series of charter flights.
The schedule is as follows:
Flight date...

MAJLIS PELANCARAN ZOOM! CAMERON HIGHLANDS

Kebawah Duli Yang Teramat Mulia Tengku Abdullah Al-Haj Ibni Sultan Haji Ahmad Shah Al-Musta'in Billah, Tengku Mahkota Pahang telah menyempurnakan majlis pelancaran Zoom! Cameron Highlands pada 5 November 2008 di Taman Agroteknologi Mardi, Tanah Rata, Cameron Highlands, Pahang.
Majlis pelancaran tersebut turut disaksikan oleh Menteri Besar Pahang, YAB Dato' Sri Hj. Adnan Yaakob dan Menteri Pelancongan Malaysia, YB Dato' Sri Azalina Dato' Othman Said.
Penganjuran majlis pada hari ini bertujuan untuk memberi fokus kepada Cameron Highlands sebagai sebuah destinasi pelancongan terpilih. Ia juga adalah sejajar dengan tujuan kerajaan untuk merangsang pertumbuhan pelancongan domestik dan seterusnya menanamkan budaya melancong di dalam negeri di kalangan rakyat Malaysia.
Taman Agroteknologi Mardi telah dipilih sebagai tapak pelancaran kerana keistimewaannya sebagai sebuah destinasi pelancongan tanah tinggi dan pusat penyelidikan pertanian yang unggul di negara ini.
Menurut statistik yang dikeluarkan oleh Kerajaan Negeri Pahang (Perbadanan Kemajuan Bukit Fraser), seramai 525,749 orang pelancong telah mengunjungi Cameron Highlands dari bulan Januari hingga September 2008, menyaksikan peningkatan sebanyak 71.89% berbanding 305,855 orang dalam tempoh yang sama pada tahun 2007. Jumlah pelancong domestik yang mengunjungi Cameron...

KEMPEN ZOOM! MALAYSIA DI MEDIA PRIMA

Petaling Jaya, 4 November 2008 -- YB Dato' Sri Azalina Dato' Othman Said, Menteri Pelancongan Malaysia, telah melancarkan satu lagi kempen pengiklanan Zoom! Malaysia hari ini di Sri Pentas, Bandar Utama, untuk meningkatkan profil pelancongan domestik menjadi lebih dinamik, ceria dan aktif.

Pengiklanan Zoom! Malaysia kini boleh disaksikan melalui saluran-saluran televisyen di bawah Media Prima iaitu TV3 dan 8TV. Pendekatan pengiklanan ini dijangka akan melipatgandakan publisiti kempen Zoom! Malaysia yang sedang giat dipromosikan di seluruh negara oleh Kementerian Pelancongan dan Tourism Malaysia.

Kempen Zoom! Malaysia melalui TV3 dan 8TV dijalankan dari 4 November hingga Januari 2009 dan merangkumi :

TOURISM MALAYSIA PARTICIPATES IN ITB ASIA 2008
Tourism Malaysia is participating in the inaugural Asian edition of Internationale Tourimus Bandouml;rse (ITB) from 22 to 24 October 2008 at Suntec Singapore International Convention and Exhibition Centre.
The Malaysia Pavilion at ITB Asia 2008 is located at Booth No. J01, at the main entrance, occupying 54 sq metres. In its bid to increase awareness of Malaysiaand#39;s niche products, Tourism Malaysia will be promoting and highlighting medical tourism, Meetings, Incentives, Conventions and Exhibitions (MICE), education tourism, eco tourism, Malaysia My Second Home and homestay, at the pavilion.
The delegation from Tourism Malaysia will be headed by Madam Chong Yoke Har, the Director of East Asia/North Asia/Southeast Asia. Other members of the delegation include Mr. Azrul Samad, immigration officer for Malaysia My Second Home; and Haji Shariman Hamdan, the President of Malaysia Homestay Association.
Joining Tourism Malaysia to promote the country in ITB Asia are Sabah Tourism Board and Sarawak Tourism Board, as well as members of the private sector including hotels and resorts, and travel agents.
ITB Asia provides an excellent platform for Tourism Malaysia to forge and strengthen ties with tourism partners particularly from the Asia Pacific region. The event enables global travel and tourism trade partners to gain deeper insights into Asian travel trends and network with new business partners from the Asia...

1.59 MILLION TOURIST ARRIVALS TO MALAYSIA IN SEPTEMBER 2008

Tourist arrivals to Malaysia numbered 1,599,418 for the month of September 2008, a -0.1% decrease from last year's September figure of 1,601,016.
Cumulatively, tourist arrivals recorded from January to September 2008 were 16,329,855 representing an increase of 4.4% compared to 15,648,292 for the same period in 2007.
Table 1: Comparison of tourist arrivals to Malaysia
(September 2007 and 2008)
MONTH http://www.internetworldstats.com), approximately over 1.4 billion...

`TWIN CITY` PACKAGE LAUNCHED

Tourism Malaysia in collaboration with the Singapore Tourism Board and Singapore Airlines together launched the `Twin City` package in Dubai recently.
The exclusive travel package valid until November 2008 is designed to boost the Middle East visitor traffic to Malaysia and Singapore. It enables visitors from the Middle East and the United Arab Emirates (U.A.E.) to capture the very best of Singapore and Malaysia - from city attractions and first-rate shopping to tropical rainforests and pristine beaches.
Based on recent visitor arrival figures, many Middle Eastern travellers heading to South-East Asia would combine their trips with stopovers in both, Malaysia and Singapore.
5 D/ 4 N Package
The andlsquo;Twin City' promotion builds on the synergy and on the popularity of the two South-East nations among Arab travellers. An ideal getaway, the convenient 5-Days/4-Nights package starts from only 2,490 dirhams. It includes airfare and hotel accommodation in Singapore plus either Kuala Lumpur, Langkawi or Penang.
'Given the strong tourism links between Singapore and Malaysia, it is a natural fit for us to team up with our valued partners to launch a Fall package that will provide Middle East travellers the opportunity to experience these two special countries,' said Jason Ong, Area Director for Middle East and Africa, Singapore Tourism Board.
'Travellers from UAE...

MALAYSIA PARTICIPATES IN PATA TRAVEL MART 2008

Malaysia will participate in the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) Travel Mart 2008 in Hyderabad, India. This three-day event from 16 to 19 September 2008 will see some 300 sellers and more than 370 buyers from 57 countries from around the world.

The Malaysian delegation is headed by Tuan Haji Azizan Noordin, Director of the South/West Asia, Oceania andamp; Africa Division of Tourism Malaysia.

A presentation of the PATA Gold Awards 2008 will also be held during a luncheon at PATA Travel Mart 2008 on 19 September 2008. Tourism Malaysia has bagged two more Gold Awards in the PATA Gold Awards 2008 marketing media category under the categories 'Marketing Media - Travel Advertisement Broadcast Media for Visit Malaysia Year 2007', and 'Marketing Media CD-Rom, Travel Manual Interactive CD'. Tuan Haji Azizan Noordin will receive the awards on behalf of Tourism Malaysia at the award presentation ceremony.
MALAYSIA PAVILION

The Malaysia Pavilion with an area space of 72 sq. meters is prominently located at stand number D2, in the Hyderabad International Convention Centre. Its design reflects the wealth of nature treasures that Malaysia has to offer the world. Decorated with the greenery scenes and the deep sea wonders of Malaysia, the pavilion is set to attract more visitors this year.
BACKGROUNDER
Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) is the...

1,839,235 TOURISTS IN AUGUST 2008

A total of 1,839,235 tourists visited Malaysia in August 2008, representing an increase of 12.0% compared to the same month in 2007.
Cumulatively, tourist arrivals recorded from January to August 2008 were 14,730,437 representing an increase of 4.9% compared to 14,047,276 for the same period in 2007.
Table 1: Comparison of tourist arrivals to Malaysia
(August 2007 and 2008)
MONTHMalaysia has recorded a total of 12,891,202 tourist arrivals from January to July 2008 compared to 12,404,377 tourist arrivals for the same period in 2007, representing an increase of 3.9%.

For the month of July 2008, tourist arrivals showed an increase of 12.5% with 1,928,082 tourists compared to 1,713,951 for the same month last year.
Table 1: Comparison of tourist arrivals to Malaysia (July 2007 and 2008)

MONTH
TOURIST ARRIVALS 2007

TOURIST ARRIVALS 2008

CHANGE %

JULY

1,713,951

1,928,082

SKYPARK FBO MALAYSIA AND VISTAJET TO BOOST MALAYSIAS AVIATION INDUSTRY

The opening of Skypark Fixed Base Operation (FBO) Malaysia and the introduction of VistaJet's charter services at the Sultan Abdul Aziz Airport (Subang Airport) in Subang, Selangor, on 7 August 2008, marked a new era in Malaysian aviation history.

In a bold move to develop the aviation industry in Malaysia into a significant business aviation player on the world stage, Switzerland's ExecuJet Aviation Group Holdings and Australia's Hawker Pacific have been appointed to operate the world class FBO at the Subang airport.

ExecuJet Aviation Group is a leading global aviation organisation currently expanding throughout the region - Malaysia, Moscow, Mumbai and Beijing. Hawker Pacific, meanwhile, is a market leader in integrated civil and military aerospace sales and product support with 16 offices throughout South East Asia, Australia, the Pacific and the Middle East. The two companies recently signed a joint venture initiative during the EBACE Show in Geneva to include Skypark Malaysia as one of its respective chain of worldwide FBOs.

The joint venture, called Skypark FBO Sdn Bhd will offer full handling facilities plus VIP lounge and fuel provision. Future plans call for each joint venture partner to independently operate Maintenance Repair and Overhaul (MRO) hangars specializing in their respective products and services with aircraft parking hangars as part of the broader vision for Skypark...

MALAYSIA WINS FOUR PATA GOLD AWARDS 2008
Malaysia has clinched a total of four coveted awards from the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA).
The presentation of the PATA Gold Awards 2008 will be held during a luncheon at PATA Travel Mart 2008 in Hyderabad, India, on 19 September 2008.
Out of the 22 Gold Awards given to the international travel industry this year, Malaysia has won in the following categories:-
Marketing Media Awards - Travel Advertisement Broadcast Media
'Visit Malaysia Year 2007' - Tourism Malaysia
Marketing Media Awards - CD-ROM
Travel Manual Interactive CD - Tourism Malaysia
Marketing Media Awards - Promotional Travel Video
'Recharge in a New World' - Sarawak, Borneo
Sarawak Convention Bureau
(www.sarawakcb.com)
Education andamp; Training Award
Empowering Youths for a Brighter Future
Taylorand#39;s School of Hotel...

MALAYSIA WINS TRAVELWEEKLY (ASIA) AWARDS 2008
Malaysia received four accolades at the TravelWeekly (Asia) Industry Awards 2008 held at the Marriott Hotel in Singapore on 17 July. The four categories won were for:
Best Ecotourism Destination
Best Brand Campaign for Tourism Malaysiaand#39;s Visit Malaysia Year 2007 campaign
Best Convention and Exhibition Centre for Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre
Best Travel Agency (Malaysia) for Reliance Pacific Berhad
The awards were among sixty presented to travel trade members in Asia and they were determined by some 2.2 million votes cast via electronic platform by readers and industry professionals. The awards were given out under six categories, i.e.Tourism Products and Services, Travel Agencies, Personality, Online and Technology, Marketing Promotion and Best Employer.
Director General of Tourism Malaysia, Datoand#39; Mirza Mohammad Taiyab, said, 'Receiving (the) TravelWeekly (Asia) Industry Awards is a great honour for Tourism Malaysia. It is a reflection of the winning combination of government and private sector partnership that we are so fortunate to have with our travel trade in Malaysia and their counterparts overseas. I would like to thank our partners and associates for their great support. We are very happy to receive this recognition. It will certainly inspire us to do more for the industry.'
For more information, visit :

Flora Parade

The highlight of Flora Fest 2008, the Flora Parade, will take place on 26 July 2008 at Dataran Bandaraya, Johor Bahru, Johor.
Some 17 floral-decorated floats from state governments, local authorities, private organisations and foreign participants will compete for awards in six categories - Premier Trophy, Theme Trophy, Creative Trophy, Parade Special Trophy, Special Jury Trophy and International Jury Award. This yearand#39;s theme is 'Colours of Harmony.'
To add excitement to the event, the parade will be interspersed with marching bands and street performances.
After the parade, visitors can view the floats at an air-conditioned tent from 26 to 28 July at Danga Bay, Johor Bahru. Apart from viewing the floats, visitors may also buy flowers, gardening and landscaping items, handicrafts and other agricultural products at the Flowers Bazaar located at the same venue.
Visitors are advised to take free shuttle buses which are specially provided for the event. The pick up points are at City Square (at the back), Plaza Angsana, the Persada/Puteri Pacific area, Larkin Stadium, the Johor Bahru City Council Stadium, Danga City Mall, and hotels throughout the city (Selesa, New York, Mutiara, Crystal Crown, The Zon, Grand Bluewave, Naza and Suria City).
Backgrounder
Flora Fest 2008 is the second edition of the Malaysia Flora Fest following...

TOURISM MALAYSIA HOSTS MALAYSIA FLORA FEST 2008 MEGA FAM
Some 154 participants comprising travel agents, journalists, TV and radio crew members, and corporate executives from 16 countries are here in Malaysia as part of the mega familiarisation (Mega Fam) programme organised by Tourism Malaysia in conjunction with the celebration of the Malaysia Flora Fest 2008.
The countries comprise Singapore, Indonesia, Laos, Cambodia, Thailand, Japan, South Korea, China, Macau, Sri Lanka, United Arab Emirates, India, Bangladesh, Spain, Ukraine and Russia.
The participants will attend a tourism seminar at Hyatt Regency Hotel, Johor Bahru, on 25 July 2008, where they will be briefed about the latest tourism developments in Malaysia, listen to a presentation by Malaysia Airlines and learn about the Malaysian homestay programme. Later, they will be feted to a dinner hosted by the Honourable Datoand#39; Sri Azalina Datoand#39; Othman Said, Minister of Tourism.
The following morning, they will witness the official grand launch of the Malaysia Flora Fest 2008 by His Majesty the King of Malaysia at Dataran Bandaraya. Other VIPs expected at the launch are the Hon. Prime Minister of Malaysia, the Hon. Deputy Prime Minister of Malaysia, the Hon. Chief Minister of Johor, the Hon. Minister of Tourism, the Hon. State Secretary of Johor and the Hon. Secretary General of Tourism.
The Mega Fam programme is organised with the support from local and foreign airlines, Malaysian hotels and state...

MALAYSIA ANNOUNCES WEBSITE OF ITS PAVILION IN EXPO ZARAGOZA 2008
Zaragoza - 18 July, 2008 - Malaysia announces the website for its Pavilion in EXPO Zaragoza 2008: http://www.malasia-zaragoza-2008.com/. The site, which is available in Spanish, English and French, was launched with the aim of showing visitors the many attractions of the Malaysia pavilion.
According to Dr. Victor Wee, Commissioner General of Section for the Malaysia Pavilion at Expo 2008, 'The website provides a window for visitors to discover the many wonders of Malaysia, a tropical paradise with countless natural treasures. It will allow visitors to appreciate the role of wetlands in a country where water is its living essence'.
The website will be a helpful tool for those planning to visit Expo Zaragoza 2008 in the forthcoming weeks and those who had visited the Malaysia pavilion to recall their nice experience.
It shows images of what visitors can experience in the Malaysia pavilion at Expo Zaragoza 2008 as well as what they can enjoy in Malaysia as a destination for eco-tourism activities, unspoiled beaches, a mix of contemporary and tradition set in a colorful natural scenario.
The website gives information on the pavilion, such as the calendar of activities and an interactive map showing the main attraction where water is integrated with sustainable elements. It also provides links to organizations where more...

HUMAN FLOWERS WAFTING THROUGH THE BOTANICAL GARDENS
AYER KEROH, MELAKA, 20 July 2008 - The Florathon 2008 is one of the 7 components of the Malaysia Flora Fest 2008, and takes place in the Botanical Gardens, Ayer Keroh in Malacca this year. This colourful event is organized by the Ministry of Tourism Malaysia, in collaboration with the Malacca State Government and the Historical City of Malacca Municipal Council (MBMB).

The Florathon 2008 sees over 2000 creatively clad participants brisk walking over a span of 3 kilometres through the Botanical Gardens. The Malacca Chief Minster, YAB Datuk Seri Hj. Mohd Ali Rustam and other government-based officials will join in and walk along with the participants in the event.
The aim of this event is to not to see which participant can complete the circuit in the quickest time, but rather to select the participant that is the most uniquely dressed in their eye-catching floral themed costumes.
In tandem with the Minister of Tourismand#39;s directive of promoting the ecological side of Malaysia, this homage to Malaysiaand#39;s natural surroundings is indeed one such endeavour.
The Florathon itself will be divided into 2 main categories; the Florathon and the Bunga Raya Waiterand#39;s Race. Within these two categories, 7 sub-categories within the Florathon and 2 sub-categories within the Bunga Raya Waiterand#39;s Race is further accentuated.
The Florathon...

CITRARASA MALAYSIA

MORE FOOD, FUN AND GAMES AT
CITRARASA MALAYSIA
The Food andamp; Fruits Fiesta launch on July 4 in Sabah marked the beginning of an exciting month of gastronomic delights all around Malaysia. It continues with Citrarasa Malaysia - a national event celebrated in Kuala Lumpur that brings together professional chefs, food lovers, fruit dandeacute;cor artists, food traders and the public for the sake of food!
Citrarasa Malaysia will be launched at the Malaysia Tourism Centre (MTC), Jalan Ampang, at 8 pm, on July 18 by the Agriculture Minister, Y.B. Datuk (Dr.) Effendi bin Norwawi. The event will continue for three days until July 20.
The event will also be attended by the Mayor of Kuala Lumpur, YBhg. Datuk Haji Mohmad Shaid bin Mohd. Taufek and other Cabinet Ministers.
After the official launch, the Mayor, the Minister and other guests will be given a tour of the exhibits and food and fruit stalls set up for the threeday event. Cultural performances and concerts by local celebrities including Jamal Abdillah, Ogy Ahmad Daud, Valerie Wong and Sharmila are also...

1,961,355 TOURISTS IN JUNE 2008

A total of 1,961,355 tourists visited Malaysia in June 2008, representing an increase of 8.7% compared to the same month in 2007.

Cumulatively, tourist arrivals recorded from January to June 2008 were 10,963,120 representing an increase of 2.6% compared to 10,690,426 for the same period in 2007.
Table 1: Comparison of tourist arrivals to Malaysia (June 2008 and 2007)

MONTH

TOURIST ARRIVALS 2007

TOURIST ARRIVALS

2008
...

SARAWAK RAINFOREST WORLD MUSIC FESTIVAL 2008
The Sarawak Rainforest World Music Festival 2008 will be held from 11 to 13 July 2008 at the Sarawak Cultural Village in Santubong, a 45-minute drive from the Stateand#39;s capital, Kuching.
Organised by the Sarawak Tourism Board (STB) and presented by Celcom, the award-winning festival is one of Malaysiaand#39;s best-known event. It is a unique festival that brings together on the same stage renowned world musicians from all continents and indigenous musicians from the interiors of Borneo.
Entering its 11^th year, the Sarawak Rainforest Music Festival has evolved into a must-attend music festival. With 16 groups of local and foreign musicians performing this year, festival-goers can expect various genres of world beat ranging from Celtic fusion, Socca, folk, Baul, fusion and traditional.
The performers hail from all corners of the world comprising New Rope String Band (United Kingdom), Yakande (Gambia/Guinea), Pinikpikan (The Philippines), Adel Salameh (Palestine), Ross Daly Quartet (Greece), Fadomorse (Portugal), Kasai Masai (Congo), Hiroshi Motofuji (Japan), Cholo Valderamma (Columbia), Oikyataan (India), Beltaine (Poland), Sheldon Blackman and The Love Circle (Trinidad andamp; Tobago).
Malaysia is represented by four bands comprising Anak Jati Bisaya Orchestra, Kanand#39;id, Senida and Tuku Kame. Both Senida and Tuku Kame are the resident band and performers of Sarawak Cultural...

FOREIGN MEDIA COVERS RAINFOREST WORLD MUSIC FESTIVAL
Tourism Malaysia is hosting a total of 110 participants from 19 countries to a mega familiarisation programme (Mega Fam) in conjunction with the Sarawak Rainforest World Music Festival 2008.
The Mega Fam participants are from Australia, Brunei, Cambodia, Canada, Denmark, Finland, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Ireland, Japan, Laos, Norway, the Philippines, Singapore, Sweden, Thailand, United Kingdom and United States.
The participants, comprising travel agents, journalists, TV and radio crew members will attend a tourism seminar at Merdeka Palace Hotel andamp; Suites, Kuching on 10 July 2008, where they will be briefed about the latest tourism developments in Malaysia as well as listen to the presentations by Malaysia Airlines followed by the Sarawak Tourism Board. Later, they will be feted to a dinner hosted by YBhg. Datoand#39; Mirza Mohammad Taiyab, Director General of Tourism Malaysia.
On 11 July, the group will depart for Sarawak Cultural Village in Santubong to watch the Sarawak Rainforest World Music Festival performances. The festival which is held from 11 to 13 July is an award-winning festival that brings together on the same stage, renowned world musicians from all continents and indigenous musicians from the interiors of Borneo
The Mega Fam programme is organised with the support from local and foreign airlines, Malaysian hotels and state governments. Its main objective is to offer the participants a...

TRAXXFMS 24 HOURS LIVE BROADCASTING
TRAXXfm - Malaysiaand#39;s freshest radio station will be taking the countryand#39;s airwaves by storm with bright, brilliant, and thrilling ideas for its listeners.

Through its 24-hour LIVE broadcasting, fans and listeners alike of Malaysiaand#39;s leading radio station will discover that TRAXXfmand#39;s sparkling new approach aims to provide its listeners with better knowledge of Malaysia through informative and interactive banters, exciting quizzes and contests, as well as great prizes to give away daily.
TRAXXfm will be the station to provide a one-stop holiday guide that will enlighten locals and visitors alike about all the wonderful places to see and things to do in Malaysia.
The station will also serve as a Holiday FM that is fun, informative, and entertaining when it re-launches in July, providing interactive and informative guide on domestic tourism and destinations.

Listeners will find the station to be interesting and will be enlightened on important geographical and historical facts of the country while getting travel tips and information on holiday packages in Malaysia.
TRAXXfmand#39;s team will also cover and broadcast major tourism events in the country as well as provide listeners with the latest and best information on food and beverages, fashion and beauty, living and lifestyles, as well as shopping and nightlife.
Listeners will find out more about...

MELAKA AND GEORGE TOWN ON UNESCO WORLD HERITAGE LIST
The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organizationand#39;s (UNESCO) World Heritage Committee has inscribed Melaka and George Town, Penang, into the UNESCO World Heritage List on 7 July 2008. The two Malaysian capitals now join the ranks of Gunung Mulu National Park and Kinabalu Park, both inscribed into the list in 2000.
Malaysiaand#39;s inscription into the UNESCO World Heritage List joins other iconic landscapes and monuments such as Chinaand#39;s Great Wall, Indiaand#39;s Taj Mahal, the USand#39; Grand Canyon and Australiaand#39;s Great Barrier Reef.
The press statement on the UNESCO website describes Melaka and George Town as 'historic cities of the Straits of Malacca, Malaysia, (which) have developed over 500 years of trading and cultural exchanges between East and West in the Straits of Malacca. The influences of Asia and Europe have endowed the towns with a specific multicultural heritage that is both tangible and intangible. With its government buildings, churches, squares and fortifications, Melaka demonstrates the early stages of this history originating in the 15th-century Malay sultanate and the Portuguese and Dutch periods beginning in the early 16th century. Featuring residential and commercial buildings, George Town represents the British era from the end of the 18th century. The two towns constitute a unique architectural and...

DIRECT CHARTER FLIGHTS TO LANGKAWI FOR HONG KONG SUMMER HOLIDAYS

Tourism Malaysia has teamed up with leading Hong Kong travel agency EGL to offer charter flights direct from Hong Kong to Langkawi, Malaysia, for the popular summer season. The direct flights, bypassing the usual stop in Kuala Lumpur, mean tourists will fly a mere 3.40 hours to this favourite destination.
For sale only through EGL offices, the 18 charter flights will be operated by Hong Kong Airlines, with eight flights scheduled in July (July 14, 18, 22, 23, 26, 27, 30 and 31);and another ten in August (August 3, 4, 7, 8, 11, 12, 15, 19, 23 and 27).
Group tours will be on sale from today for HK$3,988. EGL is also offering special 5-day, 4-night return flight and accommodation packages for as little as HK$3,799. Accommodation choices are at Sheraton Langkawi Beach Resort, Meritus Pelangi Beach andamp; Spa Resort, Langkawi Lagoon Resort, Awana Porto Malai Resort, Holiday Villa Beach andamp; Spa and Bayview Hotel.
'These charter flights are fantastic, as they mean Hong Kong travellers to Langkawi will be able to start their holiday even sooner,' said Zaliha Zainuddin, Director, Tourism Malaysia, Hong Kong.
Almost 14,000 Hong Kong residents took advantage of the summer charter flights last year and it is expected even more travelers will take-up the special flights and travel packages this year.
Steve Huen, Executive Director, EGL Tours said, 'EGL...

KARNIVAL ZOOM! DESARU 2008
YB Datoand#39; Sri Azalina Datoand#39; Othman Said, Minister of Tourism, will officiate the launch of the Karnival Zoom! Desaru 2008 on 12 July, 8pm, at Tanjung Balau in Desaru, Johor.
This carnival is set to attract 15,000 visitors throughout the two-day event which starts at 3 pm on 11 July. The main highlights of Karnival Zoom! Desaru 2008 are the Desaru Seafood Nite 2008, Klasik FM Concert on 11 July and Zoom! Concert on 12 July.
Besides that, the 33 villages around Desaru will each have a booth at the carnival to promote and sell their local products such as home-made snacks, handicrafts, batik, woven products and many more.
Tickets to the carnival can be purchased at the entrance counters for RM5 per person. It entitles visitors to an all-you-can-eat seafood grill and steam-boat spread during the Desaru Seafood Nite on 12 July as well as participation in the various games and competitions. Some of the games and competitions are the fishing competition, cooking competition sponsored by Maggi, tug-of-war competition, and kids colouring competition. The public can begin registering for the games and competitions from 3 pm on 11 July. Exciting cash and prizes are up for grabs.
The Friday night Klasik FM Concert will start at 8pm with a great selection of Malaysian oldies performed by local artistes...

CHARTER FLIGHTS TO INCREASE ACCESSIBILITY TO MALAYSIA

In a joint effort with Tourism Malaysia to increase accessibility and boost arrivals into the country, several airlines and tour operators are working together to offer charter flights to Malaysia. Currently, at least 52 charter flights have been confirmed to service Malaysia between June 2008 and March 2009.
Leading Hong Kong travel agency, EGL, together with Hong Kong Express Airlines, are offering 18 charter flights direct from Hong Kong to Langkawi between 14 July and 27 August. Some 3,000 tourists from Hong Kong are expected.
Cathay Pacific has two charter flights flying to Langkawi on 30 July and 3 August.
Working with Club Med and Taiwanand#39;s travel agencies, China Airlines is providing 23 charter flights direct from Taipei to Kuantan beginning 16 June until 12 September. The first three flights that arrived in Kuantan brought in 460 Taiwanese tourists.
Another nine charter flights by Finnair are scheduled fortnightly between November 2008 until March 2009, servicing Finland and Penang, bringing in an expected 2,043 tourists.
In addition, there are a total of 32 extra flights from Saudi Arabia in July and August with seat capacity of 9,184. They include Saudi Airlines flights from Riyadh (8 flights) and Jeddah (16 flights) to Kuala Lumpur, with another eight flying from Riyadh to Kuala Lumpur via Dammam. Malaysia Airlines is also carrying 2,626 additional seats on its...

LAMAN 2008 PROMISES A BIGGER AND BETTER SHOWCASE OF LANDSCAPE AND GARDEN FESTIVAL
The biennial Malaysian International Landscape and Garden Festival or better known as LAMAN will be held from 19 July 2008 to 27 July 2008 at Taman Tasik Perdana, Kuala Lumpur. It promises a bigger and better showcase of landscape and garden show in terms of component and size.
This yearand#39;s event, which is organised by the National Landscape Department , Ministry of Housing and Local Government and hosted by the City Hall of Kuala Lumpur will carry the theme 'Rhythm of Nature'.
'The theme will focus on nature and the environment, instilling a sense of love and appreciation of nature. With the recent highlights of the effects of global warming, it is timely that Malaysians as a community, jointly work together towards preserving nature in all its splendor for the benefit of future generations,' said Datoand#39; Hamzah Zainudin, Deputy Minister, Ministry of Housing and Local Government.
The Festival is aimed at
enhancing the quality of the countryand#39;s landscape development by creating awareness, interest and knowledge among the public on the art of landscaping and gardening,
providing a platform to disseminate and acquiring the latest technology and designs in landscape and courtyard development as well as creating opportunities for the exchange of information among landscape operators,
opening of...

TOURISM MINISTER LAUNCHES MY TAXI CAMPAIGN

KUALA LUMPUR, 17 June 2008 - Being front liners in the tourism industry, taxidrivers play an important role in projecting a good image of our country. The qualityof their services can also enhance the pleasures of oneand#39;s vacation in our country, and boost visitor arrivals.
To improve the services of our taxi, Minister of Tourism YB Datoand#39; Sri Azalina bin Othman Said launched the My Taxi Campaign today at Malaysia Tourism Centre, Jalan Ampang, Kuala Lumpur.
The campaign will run for the next five consecutive Tuesdays to coincide with thepeak period of Middle East tourist arrivals. The Minister of Tourism will have the Meet and Greet session with the taxi drivers every Tuesday at MATIC to listen and discuss matters to develop them as the countryand#39;s 'ambassador'.
The launch was attended by the foreign diplomatic corp of Middle East countries,heads of taxi associations, heads of tourism related associations such as MAH and MAHO and other NGOs.
Two hundred taxi drivers were also present, all spruced up in appearance, anddriving vehicles with spick and span interiors. Car seat posters were also installed in all vehicles.
The core of the briefing was to instill in taxi drivers five important principles; namely, be courteous, be friendly, keep your taxi clean, be honest and be knowledgeable. After having being briefed, the taxi drivers were flagged...

23 CHARTER FLIGHTS TAIPEI-KUANTAN TO PROMOTE CHERATING

Tourism Malaysia in collaboration with Club Med, China Airlines and Taiwanand#39;s travel agencies, is promoting Cherating, Kuantan, as a favourite summer holiday destination for Taiwanese tourists.
A five-day four-night package to Club Med Cherating at only RM3,558.20 (NTD33,800) is being promoted from June to September.
As a partner in this promotion, China Airlines will provide 23 charter flights direct from Taipei to Kuantan beginning 16 June until 12 September 2008. The first three charter flights which already arrived in Kuantan on 16^th, 20^thand 24 June 2008 carried a total of 460 Taiwanese tourists.
Last year, 201,311 Taiwanese tourists visited Malaysia. For the first five months of this year, arrivals from Taiwan numbered 78,228 tourists, an increase of 2.1% compared to 76,649 tourists for the same period of 2007.
For more information, please contact:
(a) Director of North and East Asia Division, Tourism Malaysia
Telephone: 03- 2614 8651, Fax: 03- 26924576
(b) Director of Tourism Malaysia Taipei,
Mr. Muhamad Nasir Pahmi
Tel: 00886225149704/9734, Fax: 00886225149973
E-mail: mtpb.taipei@tourism.gov.my, nasir@tourism.gov.my
Issued...

MINISTER OF TOURISM, MALAYSIA, LAUNCHED 'XCAPE HOLIDAYS' CAMPAIGN

The Minister of Tourism, Malaysia, YB Datoand#39; Sri Azalina Datoand#39; Othman Said launched 'XCAPE Holidays' campaign at Golden Beach Resort in Desaru, Johor, on 28 June 2008.
The campaign was an extension of the Zoom! Malaysia campaign which was launched by the Prime Minister of Malaysia, last May. It was part of the Ministry of Tourismand#39;s effort to introduce more focused and trendy domestic holiday packages to replace the Cuti-Cuti Malaysia holiday packages.
The new domestic holiday packages are divided into three special segments comprising andlsquo;Xcape Holidaysand#39; (leisure holidays), andlsquo;Xplore Holidaysand#39; (adventure holidays) and andlsquo;Xperience Holidaysand#39; (unique holiday experiences like scuba diving).
They are expected to appeal to the interests of the various market segments in Malaysia, i.e. school children, local and foreign students, youths, young married couples, families, retirees, old folks and expatriates.
The holiday packages promoted include eco-tourism, recreation-based, highland, island and homestay products.
andlsquo;Xcape Holidaysand#39; will not only encourage Malaysians to plan their holidays and explore the diverse attractions within Malaysia but also to encourage national integration. The packages are open to foreign visitors and flyers are available at Tourism Malaysia information centres.
For more...

DISCOVER MALAYSIA CAMPAIGN SM VIETNAM

A andlsquo;Discover Malaysiaand#39; campaign was launched in Vietnam on 27 June 2008 by the Hon. Datoand#39; Dr. Ong Hong Peng, the Secretary General of the Ministry of tourism, Malaysia.

This campaign aims to publicize Malaysia as a top-of-mind destination to the Vietnamese tourists as well as to introduce new tourism products.

A micro-site (www.khamphamalaysia.com) on andlsquo;Discover Malaysiaand#39; will be uploaded on the internet from 20 July in order to disseminate the campaign information and other tourist destinations in Malaysia to online users. Other information available on the website include calendar of events, travel tips, send a greetings card, online tour booking and the latest news updates. The link will also be posted on Vnexpress, websites or blogs of the celebrities.
The andlsquo;Discover Malaysiaand#39; campaign is also in partnership with the Vietnamese media, namely Thanh Nien Newspaper and its magazine as well as the Saigon Tiep Thi (a travel magazine with 145,000 readerships) to publish editorial writings of ten hottest tourist spots in Malaysia on a weekly basis. Readers will also get a chance to vote for the most popular destination via Short Message Service (SMS) or through online. They may stand a chance to win the attractive packaged tour prizes to Malaysia.
An extravaganza showcase of Malaysiaand#39;s most...

PENANG NATIONAL PARK

Penang National Park, believed to be the smallest national park in the world, is home to a rich natural heritage comprising 417 flora and 243 fauna species. Gazetted in 2003, the park was formerly known as Pantai Acheh Forest Reserve.

The park, spanning 2,562 hectares of land and sea, was set up to preserve and...

?DISCOVER MALAYSIA CAMPAIGN LAUNCHED IN VIETNAM

A andlsquo;Discover Malaysiaand#39; campaign was launched in Vietnam on 27 June 2008 by the Hon. Datoand#39; Dr. Ong Hong Peng, the Secretary General of the Ministry of tourism, Malaysia.

This campaign aims to publicize Malaysia as a top-of-mind destination to the Vietnamese tourists as well as to introduce new...

MALAYSIA MEGA SALE CARNIVAL 2008

...

MTV ASIA AWARDS 2008 COMING TO GENTING- CITY OF ENTERTAINMENT, MALAYSIA FOR THE FIRST TIME

SINGAPORE/HONG KONG - 28 May 2008: MTV Networks Asiaand#39;s flagship show - MTV Asia Awards (MAA) 2008 is all set to take over the Malaysian music scene! The highly anticipated pan-regional music event is back for the 6^th year running, bringing music excitement to all music fans in over 9 markets in Asia. For the first time, the Awards show that celebrates and pays tribute to regional and international music talent will be held at the Arena of Stars in Genting- City of Entertainment, Malaysia on 2 August 2008 and will be hosted by Jared Leto of 30 Seconds to Mars. The MTV Asia Awards 2008 will be broadcasted to over 291 million homes across the region, and promoted on MTV Asiaand#39;s web-site. Portions of the programming will be carried on MTV channels worldwide, reaching more than a billion viewers across 162 countries.
This yearand#39;s host Jared Leto is an accomplished singer and actor. In 1998, Jared Leto formed the band 30 Seconds to Mars in which he is the lead vocal and guitarist. Their second album A Beautiful Lie was certified platinum by RIAA in 2006. Since then, the band has picked up the MTV2 Award at...

MALAYSIA INTERNATIONAL DIVE EXPO 2008 (MIDE) IS BACK!!!!
Take pleasure in diving the warm waters of Malaysia and to be impressed with the hidden
beauty of our planets seas. The awe-inspiring of the oceans can leave us breathless as we
ponder how spectacular our underwater world of treasure is. Want to know more......
Visit The Malaysia International Dive Expo 2008 (MIDE) which is back for bigger and better
this time and will be staged Putra World Trade Centre (PWTC), Kuala Lumpur from 4 to 6 July 2008.
The Organizers, AsiaEvents Exsic Sdn Bhd, intends to bring the focused and targeted visitors to explore the industry to exchange ideas and share opinion through trade of products and services. The unanimous responds to last year, has prompted MIDE 2008 to propel and to garner a bigger splash to showcase and promote a wide range of international brands and products, technical developments, training programme and market opportunity in the diving industry.
An exhibition for Diving, Water Sports andamp; Travel Adventure, this exhibition...

1,899,148 Tourists in May 2008

A total of 1,899,148 tourists visited Malaysia in May 2008, representing an increase of 3.1% compared to the same month in 2007.
Cumulatively, tourist arrivals recorded from January to May 2008 were 9,001,765, representing an increase of 1.3% compared to 8,886,832 for the same period in 2007.

For May 2008, Singapore maintained its position as the biggest tourist generating market for Malaysia with 1,011,090 Singaporeans visiting the country. Others in the top ten list are Indonesia (189,157), Thailand (125,715), China (including Hong Kong andamp; Macau) (78,538), Brunei (75,245), India (74,422), the Philippines (36,729), Japan (30,560), Australia (28,432) and South Korea (22,457).
For the first time, the monthly arrivals from India reached a record 70,000 figure in the month of May.
Most major markets also recorded double digit growth in the month of May 2008 compared to the same month in 2007. They are Russia (96.7%), South Korea (69.8%), South Africa (66.5%), the Netherlands (56.9%), Canada (52.7%), Switzerland (48.2%), New Zealand (48.2%), Australia (42.7%), France (39.7%), Cambodia (38.9%), China (including Hong Kong andamp; Macau) (38.2%), the United Kingdom (35.3%), Germany (35.1%), India (32.5%), Japan (31.2%) the...

PASSAGE TO THE EAST YACHT RALLY OFFICIALLY STARTS FROM JOHOR

PRESS RELEASE

Embargo : 8 June 2008

PASSAGE TO THE EAST YACHT RALLY OFFICIALLY STARTS FROM JOHOR

Sebana Cove Marina, Johor - Sail Malaysia has officially...

TOURISM MALAYSIA PARTICIPATES IN TOURISM FUTURES NATIONAL CONFERENCE 2008

The Director General of Tourism Malaysia, YBhg. Datoand#39; Mirza Mohammad Taiyab, gave a glimpse of Tourism Malaysiaand#39;s future direction and goals tokey industry players at the sixth Tourism Futures National Conference.Held at the Crowne Plaza Royal Pines Resort on the Gold Coast inQueensland, Australia, from 2 to 4 June, the conference was organised...

1,760,326 Tourist in April 2008

A total of 1,760,326 tourists visited Malaysia in April 2008, a drop of 0.3% compared to the same month in 2007.
Cumulatively, tourist arrivals recorded from January to April 2008 were 7,102,617, representing an increase of 0.8% compared to 7,044,962 for the same period in 2007.

For April 2008, Singapore maintained its position as the biggest tourist generating market for Malaysia with 867,087 Singaporeans visiting the country. Others in the top ten list are Indonesia (186,492), Thailand (137,229), China (including Hong Kong andamp; Macau) (81,415), Brunei (59,583), India (43,144), Australia (33,967), the Philippines (33,521), United Kingdom (31,952) and Japan (30,609).
Most major markets also recorded double digit growth in the month of April 2008 compared to the same month in 2007. They are the Netherlands (60.9%), Cambodia (56.2%), Russia (51.5%), New Zealand (47.8%), France (43.1%), Canada (39.3%), Australia (36.5%), Germany (32.0%), South Korea (30.8%), China (including Hong Kong andamp; Macau) (29.7%), the United Kingdom (24.5%), India (18.7%), Indonesia (17.6%), Italy (16.8%), Japan (14.4%) and Taiwan (11.6%).
The top ten tourist generating markets from January to April 2008 were Singapore...

PRIME MINISTER LAUNCHED ZOOM! MALAYSIA

The Prime Minister, YAB Datoand#39; Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi, launched andlsquo;Zoom! Malaysiaand#39;, a domestic tourism campaign for 2008/2009, on 14 May 2008 at the Saloma Bistro in the Malaysia Tourism Centre, Jalan Ampang.
The campaign urges Malaysians to give priority to local holiday destinations and encourages them to look at Malaysia with a fresh perspective. It is set to spark interest among Malaysians and foreign tourists to visit popular holiday spots in the country, as well as lesser-known and new places of interests, thus contributing to the socio-economic development of the country. andlsquo;Zoom! Malaysiaand#39; will create greater exposure for local tourism products and bigger presence for domestic tourism.
The launching of andlsquo;Zoom! Malaysiaand#39; is in line with the governmentand#39;s effort to strengthen and stimulate domestic tourism by motivating Malaysians to plan their holidays and explore the diverse attractions within Malaysia, besides encouraging national integration. The campaign will also strengthen alliances with the public and private sectors to jointly promote tourism products, attractions and events.
...

23RD SABAH DRAGON BOAT RACE 2008

23RD SABAH DRAGON BOAT RACE 2008

One of the worldand#39;s most popular water sports comes to life on 15 June 2008, at Likas Bay, Kota Kinabalu in the andlsquo;land below the windand#39;; Sabah. The 23rd Sabah Dragon Boat Race running for the 23rd time is organized by the Sabah Tourism Board.

Taking in teams of 24 people, consisting of a coach, a drummer, a coxswain, 18 rowers and three reserves, the registration fee for this race is set at RM100, with prize money...

MALAYSIAN PAVILION AT ATM 2008 OFFICIALLY LAUNCHED
Tourism Malaysia's pavilion at the Arabian Travel Mart (ATM) 2008 was officially launched this morning by Datoand#39; Mirza Mohammad Taiyab, the Director-General, of Tourism Malaysia.

The colourful event commenced a few minutes after the official launching of the Arabian Travel Mart by His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al-Maktoum, the
Vice President, Chairman of the Department of Civil Aviation of the United Arab
Emirates (U.A.E.) and Chairman of Emirates Airlines.

With a floor area of 5,000 square metres, the pavilion provides ample space to accommodate all the 86 organisations from Malaysia. This year, Malaysia is set to attract more tourists from West Asia to visit the country.

'The West Asian market is a growing market and as such, we can expect more West Asian visitors to visit Malaysia, especially during the Arabian summer month holiday period. Overall, we are targeting some 300,000 visitors from West Asia, of which 100,000 visitors would come from the United Arab Emirates alone,' Dato and#39;Mirza said to an response to an interview with The Gulf Today.

'As far as accommodation is concerned, Malaysia is able to accommodate 17 million visitors at any one time, provided that it is for just one room night only', he continued.

Tourism Malaysia has been a strong supporter of the Arabian Travel Mart since it was...

A WHOLE NEW MEANING TO THE APPRECIATION OF NATURE

KUALA LUMPUR, 5 May 2008 - Watch as various parts of Kuala Lumpur transform into a myriad of colours with the second edition of the Malaysia Flora Fest 2008. Taking inspiration from the many awards and accolades Malaysia has garnered from the world renowned Pasadena Tournament of Roses Parade in the USA, Malaysia Flora Fest is set to be one breathtaking experience for all. Aptly themed, and#39;Colours of Harmonyand#39;, the festival focuses on appreciating nature in all its raw untouched beauty. The Malaysia Flora Fest is lined up as one of the major events in the Visit Malaysia Year Calendar of Events.
The festival has started from as early as 1stMarch and comes to a close on 3rdAugust. The 4 month Flora Fest is divided into 7 different segments; Flora Photography Competition, Flora Photography Exhibition and Prize Giving, Flora Workshop, Florathon (Flora Run), Flora Design Arrangement/Decoration Competition, Floral Parade and Flora Float Showcase andamp; Bazaar.
Taking the lead from her prerogative of using eco-tourism as one of the major platforms in promoting Malaysia as a must-see destination, the Tourism Minister is a strong supporter of such festivals. With Malaysia's flora collection running into the thousands, Malaysian's and foreigners alike will have an opportunity to see the flora kingdom from the more known strains to flowers they never knew existed in Malaysia. An educational and aesthetically pleasing experience...

GAWAI DAYAK FESTIVAL

The Gawai Dayak festival is celebrated yearly on 1 June in Sarawak, is both a religious and social festival. Gawaj means ritual or festival and Dayak is a collective name for the tribes of Iban, Bidayuh, Kayan, Kenyah, Kelabit, Murut and more.
Tracing its roots back to as early as 1957, the Gawai Dayak festival was formally gazetted on 25 September, 1964 as a public holiday in place of Sarawak Day. The first official celebration being on 1 June, 1965, Gawai Dayak became a symbol of unity, aspiration and hope for the Dayak community and is an integral part of Dayak social life today.
Preparations for the festival begin early with brewing of tuak (rice wine) and traditional delicacies like penganan (cakes from rice flour, sugar and coconut milk). On Gawai eve, glutinous rice is roasted in bamboo known as ngelulun pulut.
The celebration starts on the evening of 31 May with a ceremony called Muai Antu Rua (to cast away the spirit of greediness), signifying the non-interference of the spirit of bad luck in the celebrations. Two children or men each dragging a chapan (winnowing basket) will pass each family's room in the Iban longhouse with each family throwing unwanted articles into the basket. The unwanted articles are then tossed to the ground from the end of the longhouse for the spirit of bad luck.
Around 6pm, the offering ceremony known as miring will take place, with ritual...

JAPAN GT

The only leg of the Japan GT Championship Series to be held outside Japan since 2002, the Super GT International Series Malaysia is hosted at the Sepang International Circuit. This year's edition of the Super GT International Series runs from 20 to 22 June, 2008. A race highly supported by car enthusiasts, this series which is the biggest series in Japan has a strong following of fans in the Asian region.
The race cars, which are the sports cars that people admire, are driven by first-class drivers from Japan and foreign countries covering a total distance of 300 kilometres on the Sepang International Circuit.. To add spice to this intense event, spectators are greeted by the familiar and anticipated sight of the race queens. With over 100 race queens gracing the Sepang International Circuit during the Super GT International Series, fans are not only rewarded with a race to remember, but race queens to remember too.
The 2007 Sepang leg of the Super GT International Series saw drivers JPL De Oliveira and Seiji Ara in a Woodone Advan Clarion Z winning the GT500 class and drivers Kazuya Oshima and Hiroaki Ishiura in a Apr MR-S winning the GT300 class.
Tickets for the Super GT International Series 2008 will commence sales in April, and is available through a few ticket agents and outlets. The ticket agents are the Japan Travel Bureau (JTB), Orex Travels andamp; Tours and Sunrise Tours andamp; Travel. The...

FIESTA SAN PEDRO

From 23 to 29 June, holidaying tourists flock to Portuguese Settlement in Malacca to commemorate the annual feast of the fishermen; Fiesta San Pedro.
The Portuguese Settlement lies along the coastline of Malacca overlooking the Straits of Malacca. The village is situated approximately 2 kilometers south of Malacca town and is home to over 1,000 residents who are the descendants of the former Portuguese rulers in Malacca.
The Fiesta San Pedro commemorates the Feast Day of St Peter, the patron saint of the fishermen; the trade the Portuguese were traditionally steeped in. The official day for the Fiesta San Pedro is June 29, however the festivities run for a week before-hand, which has been running for the last 67 years, highlighting the traditional significance of the fishing trade to this seaside community.
The celebrations will culminate on June 29, the actual feast day of Saint Peter. Evening falls, and High Mass is celebrated in the Settlement church in honour of the saint. Following the Mass, the statue of the saint is carried in a procession around the Settlement, when the priest blesses the fishing boats.
A diversity of colours, sounds and activities mark the week-long fiesta. Bazaars, blaring music, flashing lights, amusements rides are among part of the festivities. When the night falls, live bands perform on the main stage. Cultural performances showcase the...

THE KL WORLD MARCHING BAND COMPETITION 2008

KUALA LUMPUR, Saturday - Kuala Lumpur will once again play host to one of the most prestigious international marching band competition in the South East Asian Region - the Kuala Lumpur World Marching Band Competition (KLWMBC) 2008. Today, the soft launch of the KLWMBC 2008 is graced by the Minister of Tourism Malaysia, YB Dato' Seri Azalina Othman Said at the Pavilion, Kuala Lumpur.
It is estimated that over 20 Marching Bands from North America, Europe, Africa, the Asia Pacific region and the Far East are expected to converge in Kuala Lumpur from 30 July until 3 August 2008 during the KLWMBC 2008. More than 2000 participants will take part, 6000 meals per day will served and more than 50 busses will transport participants to the various venue. It involves the participation of Ministry of Tourism, Dewan Bandaraya Kuala Lumpur, Kuala Lumpur Traffic police and many others to organise a successful Kuala Lumpur World Marching Band Competition 2008.
Organised by Present Malaysia Productions Sdn. Bhd., the KLWMBC is part of an international circuit of marching band competitions sanctioned by the World Association of Marching Show Bands (WAMSB). In addition to that, KLWMBC will be held annually and is supported by the Ministry of Tourism, Ministry of Youth and Sports, the Ministry of Education as well as the Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL).

The famous local band FlopPoppy with their popular singer Andy is...

THE 8th GENTING WORLD LION DANCE CHAMPIONSHIP

The 8th annual installation of the ever-popular Genting World Lion Dance Championship comes roaring through with greater intensity and competitiveness as some of the world's topmost lion dance troupes battle it out onstage for honour and glory.

To be held at the Arena of Stars in Genting Highlands, Pahang on 18th - 20th July 2008, global participation will see the converging of troupes from as far away as China, USA, Australia, Hong Kong and Taipei to the neighbouring Southeast Asian countries of Vietnam, Thailand, Indonesia, Brunei and Singapore.

Malaysia's very own troupe from Johor, the Kun Seng Keng Dragon and Lion Dance Association almost always play as crowd favourites, having garnered more than 20 world championships under their belt.

This year's purse offers close to USD30,000.00 in cash prizes, making it one of the most lucrative lion dance competitions in the world. Prizes are as follows:

Champion USD10,000.00, 1 trophy andamp; 10 medals
1st Runner-up USD6,000.00, 1 trophy andamp; 10 medals
2nd Runner-up USD3,000.00, 1 award, 1 trophy andamp; 10 medals
Excellent teams 5 troupes, not in any particular order, USD1,000.00 award
Eastern Lion King 1 trophy
Western Lion King 1 trophy

Located a little over 50km from...

RAINFOREST WORLD MUSIC FESTIVAL 2008

Held against the magnificent backdrop of Sarawak's Mount Santubong, the Rainforest World Music Festival is one of the state's most popular and renowned events that never failed to perform to sell-out crowds since its introduction in 1997.

For three-days of tuneful bliss, world music performers from the world converge at the Sarawak Cultural Village to strut their musical prowess to tens of thousands of enthusiastic fans flooding the venue.

Again, this year is expected to offer yet another spectacular show. Performers that have to date confirmed their participation are:

andbull; Ross Daly Quartet (Greece)

andbull; Kasai Masai (Congo/UK)

andbull; Hiroshi Motofuji (Japan)

andbull; Oikyataan (India)

andbull; Cholo Valderamma (Colombia)

andbull; New Rope String Band (UK)

andbull; Yakande (Gambia/Guinea)

andbull; Pinikpikan (Philipppines)

andbull; Adel Salameh (Palestine)

andbull; Fadomorse (Portugal)

andbull; Anak Jati Orchestra (Sarawak)

andbull; Sarawak Cultural Village (Sarawak)

andbull; Kaniand#39;d (Sarawak)

Event...

MALAYSIA TO WOO WEST ASIAN VISITORS AT ATM 2008

Malaysiaand#39;s participation at the Arabian Travel Mart (ATM) 2008 is set to attract more tourists from West Asia to visit Malaysia.
The West Asian market is a growing market and as such, more West Asian visitors are expected to visit Malaysia, especially during the Arabian summer month holiday period. Some 135 participants from 86 organisations are in Dubai to sell packages and woo tourists from the region to visit Malaysia.
'There are a number of exciting events lined-up for visitors to experience. For example events like Colours of Malaysia, the Mega Sale, the Rainforest World Music Festival are some f the events not to be missed. Malaysia is also currently emphasizing on ecotourism and the many ecotourism products in Sabah , Sarawak, and in Peninsular Malaysia are good value-for-money attractions for the Middle East tourists,' said Dato' Mirza Mohammad Taiyab, director-general, Tourism Malaysia during a media conference at the Jumeirah Beach Hotel, Dubai held in conjunction with the ATM 2008.
Other than providing delegates the prospect to meet up with Malaysian business organizations for potential business opportunities, the Tourism Malaysia booth (AS 740) at the Dubai World Trade Centre will also give visitors an insight to the many exciting packages and calendar of events plus a cross section of the Malaysian cultural heritage, exotic destinations and other products and services.
Last...

MALAYSIA PROMOTES MICE PRODUCTS AT IMEX, FRANKFURT

Malaysia participated in IMEX, a worldwide exhibition for incentive travel, meetings and events, IMEX from 22 to 24 April 2008 in Frankfurt, Germany.

Headed by Tourism Malaysia, the mission seeks to establish potential business ventures with foreign operators of meetings, incentives, conventions and exhibitions (MICE) as well as to promote Malaysia's MICE products and services to buyers.

Tourism Malaysia's IMEX partners comprise Malaysia Airlines, Sarawak Convention Bureau, Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre, Matrade Exhibition andamp; Convention Centre, Nexus Resort
Karambunai (Kota Kinabalu), Meritus Pelangi Beach Resort andamp; Spa, Shangri-la Hotels andamp; Resorts, YTL Hotels andamp; Properties, Asian Overland Conventions andamp; Events, Asia Experience, Mayflower Acme Tours, Discovery Overland Holidays, Borneo Adventure, Borneo Passages and Kalao Voyages.

In conjunction with IMEX, Tourism Malaysia organised a 'Meet andamp; Experience Malaysia Truly Asia' dinner on a cruise ship on the Main river. It was attended by more than 60 guests comprising
event organisers, incentive houses and media who took the opportunity to network with the Malaysian partners.
Tourism Malaysia's Advertising and Publicity Division director and head of the delegation, Mr Amiruddin Abu said that Malaysia's tourism industry had performed well and received a steady growth in tourist...

MALAYSIA AT ARABIAN TRAVEL MART 2008

A 135-member Malaysian delegation (from 86 organisations) will be participating at the Arabian Travel Mart (ATM) in Dubai, United Arab Emirates from 5th to 10thMay 2008. This year marks Malaysiaand#39;s 15th year of participation at the ATM, the largest trade and consumer travel show in the Gulf region.

The Malaysian delegation to Dubai is led by Dato` Mirza Mohammad Taiyab, Director General, Tourism Malaysia while the Sales...

ITALY MICE MARKET REGISTERS STRONG INTEREST IN MALAYSIA

Some 65 incentive houses, seven tour operators and 20 media representatives from Italy attended a recent seminar introducing Malaysia as a venue for meetings, incentives, conventions and exhibitions, otherwise known as MICE to industry players. It was conducted by Mr. Amirrudin Abu, Tourism Malaysia Director of Advertising and Publicity, at Terrazza Martini in Milan on 15 April 2008.
The seminar was part of a MICE sales mission he led to Italy and The Netherlands in conjunction with Malaysia's participation in IMEX 2008 in Frankfurt from 22 to 24 April. Other members of the delegation are Malaysia Airlines, Nexus Resort Karambunai (Kota Kinabalu), Mayflower Acme Tours, Discovery Overland Holidays, Synergy Tours and Inno Travel andamp; Tour Services.
The seminar clearly succeeded in its objectives and drew interest from the MICE market in Italy. After attending the seminar, Gianfranco Pintaldi e Angelo Campagnoli of INandamp;OUT incentive and business travel resolved to propose Malaysia as the only MICE destination for an upcoming incentive group.
Massimo Alboreto, responsible for the incentive branch in Domina Group, noted Malaysia's potential as a MICE venue and was happy for the opportunity to work with Tourism Malaysia and Malaysia Airlines to promote MICE in Malaysia.
A Hotelplan tour operator was also impressed with Malaysia's originality and diversity as a MICE venue, saying,...

200 TAIWANESE TOURISTS VISIT MALAYSIA FOR GOURMET and

A total of 200 Taiwanese tourists are currently in Malaysia for a five-day gourmet and spa tour from 24 to 28 April.
Led by Ms. Yu Mei Ren, a famous Taiwanese TV personality and book-writer, they will get a chance to taste some of the exotic Chinese, Malay, Indian and Nyonya cuisines in Malaysia as well as experience the most relaxing spa services that the country has to offer.
Supported by Tourism Malaysia, the inaugural gourmet andamp; spa tour is a special programme launched in March 2008 targeting the Taiwanese market. This programme aims to tap into the luxury niche market by showcasing the vast array of cuisines and world-class spa facilities that are available in Malaysia.
The five-day trip incorporated cooking demonstrations, food tasting, shopping and visits to a few tourist destinations, such as Kuala Lumpur, Seremban, Melaka, Port Dickson, Batu Caves, Bukit Bintang, Bintang Walk and Royal Selangor.
For more information, please contact the ground handler, EZT Tours andamp; Travel Sdn Bhd, the Executive Director, Angie Ng at tel: 03- 21441418 / 21442428, fax: 03- 21442439 / 21442429.
...

1,819,689 TOURISTS IN MARCH 2008

A total of 1,819,689 tourists visited Malaysia in March 2008, a drop of 4.5% compared to the same month in 2007.
Cumulatively, tourist arrivals recorded from January to March 2008 were 5,342,291, representing an increase of 1.2% compared to 5,280,094 for the same period in 2007.

Table 1: Comparison of tourist arrivals to Malaysia (March 2007 and 2008)
MONTH
TOURIST ARRIVALS
2007
TOURIST ARRIVALS
2008 CHANGE %
MARCH
1,906,304
1,819,689
-4.5
Source: Immigration Department of Malaysia

Table 2: Comparison of tourist arrivals to Malaysia (January - March 2007 and 2008)

THE ANCIENT KINGDOM OF BUJANG VALLEY

The total silence at Bukit Batu Pahat (Batu Pahat Hill) in Mukim Merbok, Kedah, save the whisper of the gentle wind, belied the fact that the place was once part of the busiest trading centre in Southeast Asia. Nonetheless, this hill which is located at the foot of Mount Jerai has become a silent witness to the 1,500-year-old history of the Old Malay Kingdom centered in Bujang Valley.
This prosperous ancient kingdom had a mixture of various civilizations with a colourful combination of culture and traditions of the locals (Malays), Indians, Chinese, Srivijayan, Khamer Empire and West Asia.
It also had many names. The ancient Indian poet from the 2nd century A.D. called it Kalagam or Kadaram. To the Arab traders in the 4th century A.D., it was known as Qalha or Kalah. The famous Chinese traveler, I-Tsing, who visited the kingdom in the 7th century A.D., named it Chieh-Cha. The kingdom was also mentioned in the ancient Sanskrit drama in the 7th century A.D. as Katahanagara. In the Hikayat Merong Mahawangsa, an ancient Malay literature, it was known as Langkasuka.
Bujang Valley which spreads over 450 square kilometers was the centre for international trade and shipping passing through the Straits of Melaka. It stretched from Mount Jerai in the north to the Muda River in the south and the Straits of Melaka in the west.
It was the imposing peak of Mount Jerai that first captivated the travel weary...

MALAYSIA CELEBRATES COLOURS AND FLAVOURS OF MALAYSIA

This year marks the 10th year of 'Citrawarna,' better known as the Colours of Malaysia celebrations, to showcase the countryand#39;s multi-ethnic, multi-cultural and multi-traditional society. In past years, the promotion of Malaysiaand#39;s best loved food and fruits was also incorporated into the celebrations via Citrarasa Malaysia (Flavours of Malaysia).

This year, in a rebranding exercise to better promote the two events, the celebration has been renamed 'Colours and Flavours of Malaysia' with the theme 'Celebrating 50 years of nationhood - one golden celebration.'

The celebrations will kick off with a national-level parade on 24 May, 2008 at Dataran Perdana in Putrajaya. It will be officiated by their Majesties, the King and Queen of Malaysia. More than 50,000 spectators and 1,600 performers are expected to witness the event.

This yearand#39;s parade will feature a dramatic shift from its previous yearsand#39; format and combine both theatrical and street performance into one nightand#39;s activities. While the main event of laser shows, fireworks, live celebrity performers, cultural dancers and musicians take to the centrestage beginning 8.30pm, the 'real-party' or the Post Show begins after 10.30pm where the audience will be able to take to the large boulevard to join in the dancing and merry-making.

Needless to say, this yearand#39;s celebration marks a paradigm shift...

MALAYSIAS LARGEST CELEBRATION OFFERS MORE 'BANG!' FOR ITS DIAMOND ANNIVERSARY

KUALA LUMPUR, 8 April 2008 - This year marks the 10th year of 'Citrawarna', better known as the Colours of Malaysia celebrations, an initiative undertaken by the Ministry of Tourism, Malaysia to showcase the countryand#39;s multi-ethnic, multi-cultural and multi-traditional society in its most colourful and vibrant form - with street performances, music and dances.
This also includes a showcase of some of Malaysiaand#39;s best loved food and delicacies that originates from various states throughout Malaysia. These will be featured through the scores of food stalls that will be set up alongside and in complement to the celebration.
Needless to say, this year's celebration marks a paradigm shift towards the Ministryand#39;s new vision to better promote a fair distribution of benefits and wealth from the tourism industry towards grassroots, especially for SMIs and SMEs.
Along with this, greater emphasis will be thus be placed on 'home-grown' assets ranging from homestays to eco-tourism. In all, it is a process of returning to the core basic fundamentals of the tourism industry. That is, for the mutual benefit of all Malaysians.
As in the words of Malaysiaand#39;s Minister of Tourism, YB Datoand#39; Sri Azalina Othman Said: 'No longer will our country take a passive interest in the promotion of itself. The time has come to take a global approach towards showcasing all thatand#39;s...

MALAYSIA AMONG WORLDS TOP 5 MEDICAL TOURISM DESTINATIONS

Malaysia is among the worldand#39;s top 5 medical tourism destinations which present the most attractive opportunities for medical tourists and foreign investors alike, according to Nuwire Investors, an online source for news related to real estate investment and other investment opportunities. These markets were selected based on quality and affordability of medical care as well as receptiveness to foreign investment. Based on these criteria, Malaysia was ranked third.
TOP 5 MEDICAL TOURISM DESTINATIONS
1. Panama 2. Brazil 3. Malaysia 4. Costa Rica 5. India
According to Nuwire Investors, Malaysiaand#39;s medical tourism industry has seen staggering growth over recent years. The number of foreigners seeking healthcare services in Malaysia has grown from 75,210 patients in 2001 to 296,687 patients in 2006. The large volume of patients in 2006 brought approximately US59 million or RM203.66 million in revenue. The Association of Private Hospitals Malaysia has projected that the number of foreigners seeking medical treatment in Malaysia will continue to grow at a rate of 30 percent a year until 2010. Malaysia offers a wide array of medical services and procedures including dental, cosmetic and cardiac surgeries at ...

1,742,468 TOURISTS IN FEBRUARY 2008

Kuala Lumpur - A total of 1,742,468 tourists visited Malaysia in February 2008, an increase of 5.5% compared to the same month in 2007.
Cumulatively, tourist arrivals recorded from January to February 2008 were 3,522,602, representing an increase of 4.4% compared to 3,373,790 for the same period in 2007.
Table 1: Comparison of tourist arrivals to Malaysia (February 2007 and 2008)

MONTH
MONTH
TOURIST ARRIVALS
2007 TOURIST ARRIVALS
2008
CHANGE %

FEBRUARY

1,652,004

1,742,468

5.5
Source: Immigration Department of Malaysia

Table 2: Comparison of tourist arrivals to Malaysia (January - February 2007 and 2008)

MONTH

SARAWAK CONVENTION BUREAU WINS AWARD

Sarawak Convention Bureau (SBC) won a Diamond Award for its new MICE video commercial at the prestigious Das Goldene Stadttor (the Golden City Gate) Film Competition in Berlin. The film competition was held in conjunction with the ITB Berlin, the largest and premier tourism fair for the global tourism industry.
The award-winning commercial was among multiple entries submitted by 32 countries for eight different categories. The four-minute commercial entitled 'Recharge in a New World' was selected as the best overall entry by the international jury.
SBCand#39;s Chief Executive Officer, Jill Henry said her team took a different approach in their first production to stand out and be noticed. 'We chose to produce a story-lined TV commercial leavened with a touch of 'tongue in cheek' humour instead of the usual showcase of the whole destination,' she said.
She also added that the honest approach they adopted in making the video commercial may have worked to their advantage. 'We did not shy away from the fact that many international meeting planners do not know where Sarawak is located. Hopefully, that will all be changed as we embark on an intensive profile building exercise in the lead up to the opening of our new convention centre next year,' she said.
The story line of the commercial featured Sarawak's Iban community and the set up of the climactic meeting between the overseas MICE...

QUEEN VICTORIA MAIDEN CALL AT PORT KLANG, MALAYSIA

As part of her 2008 World Cruise - Pathway to the Explorers - Queen Victoria (QV) entered Malaysian waters and anchored at Port Klang on 19 March 2008.
Queen Victoria is Cunard Line's newest cruise liner and one of the world's most opulent passenger vessels. Queen Victoria carries on Cunard's distinctive heritage and is hailed as the most luxurious Cunarder ever built.
Upon her first-ever arrival at Port Klang, a warm welcome reception awaited the 2,000 passengers and 1,003 crew members who disembarked for their shore excursions to Kuala Lumpur and Selangor.
To celebrate this historic occasion, VIP guests and members of the media were welcomed onboard to witness the traditional plaque exchange ceremony between the ship and Star Cruises Terminal. The guests of honor included Director-General of Tourism Malaysia, Dato' Mirza Mohammad Taiyab; British High Commission Director of Trade andamp; Investment, Mr Trevor Lewis; Chairman of Port Klang Authority, Dato' Chor Chee Heung; and Star Cruises Senior Vice President of Marine Operations, Mr Gustaf Gronberg. Other than the VIP guests and media, past passengers and members of the travel trade also had the privilege of being among the first Malaysians to board the majestic ship for an exclusive tour followed by a lunch reception.
The Queen Victoria set sail on...

KL GP CITY CELEBRATES 8 ON TEN!

This March, the city of Kuala Lumpur will be celebrating 10 exciting years of Formula 1 motor racing by showcasing eight fantastic events.

This month-long celebration will show case a variety of spellbinding and explosive music festivals, spectacular fashion shows, exciting bargains from shopping at the KLGP Sale, plus sensational...

INTERNATIONAL GUESTS AT THE F1 PETRONAS MALAYSIAN GRAND PRIX 2008

Tourism Malaysia is hosting a total of 458 participants from 27 countries to a Mega Familiarisation Programme (Mega Fam) in conjunction with the F1 PETRONAS Malaysian Grand Prix 2008.
The countries comprise Australia, Bangladesh, Brunei, Cambodia, China, Denmark, Finland, India, Indonesia, Italy, Japan, Kuwait, Laos, Nepal, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, South Africa, South Korea, Sweden, Thailand, the Philippines, United Arab Emirates, United Kingdom, USA and Vietnam.
The participants, comprising travel agents, corporate executives and members of the international media, will attend a business presentation and dinner reception on 20 March at Hotel Istana, Kuala Lumpur. This will be followed by participation in the Malaysia GP Sale 2008 Shopping Run on 21 March at Bukit Bintang. They will watch the F1 PETRONAS Malaysian Grand Prix on 21 and 22 March at the Sepang International Circuit.
Besides F1 events, educational visits to selected tourism products and destinations within the country are also conducted for the participants.
Mega Fam is organised with the support from local and foreign airlines, Malaysian hotels and state governments. Its main objective is to heighten awareness among foreign media and tour operators about tourist destinations, products and ...

MALAYSIA WATER FESTIVAL 2008 SET TO CREATE WAVES IN APRIL

KUALA LUMPUR, 18 March 2008 - With the tourism industry fast growing into one of Malaysiaand#39;s largest earners for the economy, the Ministry of Tourism has envisioned highlighting Malaysia's best resources into an attraction to be shared within the domestic and international markets.
The Malaysia Water Festival is one of these visions displaying and harnessing a love for your natural surroundings, in this case the water element and a promotion of unity in the community through the use of nature.
The Ministry of Tourism, Malaysia, is set to greet another edition of the Malaysia Water Festival this year at two of Malaysia's famed sea front destinations - Langkawi and Labuan.
The Langkawi chapter of the Malaysia Water Festival will commence on 3 April 2008 and come to a close three days later on 5 April 2008, at Pantai Chenang in Langkawi. Registration for the activities on a daily basis is at 9:00 a.m. with the first set of activities starting at 10:00 a.m., and ending with the last activity at 7:00 p.m.
A total of 155 beach and sea activities will be played in Langkawi over this span of three days, with an aim of setting a record in the Malaysia Book of Records this year.
Main activities in Langkawi will include Scarecrow, Wet andamp; Wild, Holidays On...

A GOOD START FOR 2008

The year 2008 has begun on a positive note for Malaysiaand#39;s tourism industry. In January 2008 Malaysia received 1,780,134 tourists, an increase of 3.4% compared to the same period in the previous year.

Table 1: Comparison of tourist arrivals to Malaysia (January 2007 and...

ISLAMIC CIVILISATION PARK, KUALA TERENGGANU

The Islamic Civilisation Park is the latest tourist attraction in Terengganu. It was officially opened by the Prime Minister, YAB Dato' Seri Abdullah Haji Ahmad Badawi on 3 February 2008.
Located on Pulau Wan Man (Wan Man Island) in Kuala Terengganu, the 23-hectares Park is part of a project under the East Coast Economic Region (ECER) to further boost Kuala Terengganu as a waterfront city. Combining entertainment and education, the Park is expected to attract 1 million visitors during the Visit Terengganu Year 2008.
The Islamic Civilisation Park is divided into two zones: the Islamic Civilisation Complex and the Public Zone.
The Islamic Civilisation Complex features the first theme park that glorifies the achievements of Islamic architecture. When fully completed, the Park will feature 21 replicas of Islamic monuments and architecture from around the world. The main attractions of this theme park are five interactive monuments, namely Malaysia's National Mosque, the Dome of the Rock of Palestine, the Sacred Mosque of Saudi Arabia (Masjidil Haram), Al-Hambra Citadel of Spain and the Taj Mahal of India.
At press time, a total of eight replicas have been fully completed. They are; the Kalyan Minaret of Uzbekistan, Abu Nasr Shrine of Afghanistan, Samarra Winding Minaret of Iraq, Mohd Ali Mosque of Cairo, Qairawan Great Mosque of Tunisia, Agadez Great Mosque of Nigeria, Aleppo Citadel of Syria,...

TOURISM MALAYSIA WINS 3 AWARDS AT PHILIPPINES TRAVEL FAIRS

Tourism Malaysia bagged three prestigious awards at the Philippines Travel Fairs held last February in Bacolod, Davao and Manila. Tourism Malaysia was awarded andlsquo;The Most Popular Booth' at the Bacolod Travel Exchange (1-3 February) and the Davao Travel Show (22-24 February).
Tourism Malaysia also bagged two other prestigious awards at the Philippines Travel Agencies Association (PTAA) 15th Travel Tour Expo which was held from 15 to 17 February in Manila. The awards were for andlsquo;The Best Booth Design' (Grand prize) and andlsquo;The Best Marketing Effort' (Second prize).
At hand to receive the awards was Mr. Zakaria Nani, Regional Director of the South East Asia Division, Tourism Malaysia.
The Philippines is one of the top ten markets for Malaysia. A total of 327,140 tourists from the Philippines visited Malaysia in 2007. This is an increase of 55%, compared to 211,123 in 2006.
...

2008 KLIA TRANSIT F1 TRANSFER PACKAGE FOR F1 FANS

Formula 1 racing fans will be pleased to note that the Express Rail Link (ERL) and the Sepang International Circuit (SIC) have jointly announced the KLIA Transit F1 Transfer Package, a specially-designed package for transferring F1 fans to watch the race live.
Officially launched on 4 March 2008, this value-for-money package costs RM80.00 per person on Race Day and only RM120.00 for the entire 3-Day Package.
Tickets
Tickets for the package are available onboard the KLIA Transit and the fare includes a two-way high speed train ride on KLIA Transit train plying between KL Sentral and Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) plus a two-way bus shuttle between KLIA and Sepang International Circuit, the race venue.
Tickets can also be purchased at all ERL stations except at Salak Tinggi.
For further information: Please log on: www.KLIAekspres.com
Or call ERL Customer line at (03) 2267 8000
...

THE ESSENCE OF MALAYSIAN CUISINE

Melaka was once a famous trading port and a very busy commercial hub for merchants and traders from China, India, Europe and the Arab nations.
In retrospect, the Straits of Melaka was often busy with merchant ships and spice barges, laden with jute sacks of herbs and spices from the spice islands in the Celebes, plying through its waterways.
Today, evidence of the indelible past can be seen etched not only in the architecture and language of present-day Malaysia, but even in the very food we consume.
Lemongrass
The herbs and spices used in Malaysian cooking lend a fragrant and flavourful taste to many local dishes. One such ingredient, often used in Malaysian cooking, is lemongrass (citronella) known as serai in Malay. Lemongrass gives dishes a lemony fragrance, inducing a mouth-watering sensation in anticipation of the first taste. It can be added to steamed fish dishes and soups and used as a marinade for chicken and other meats. Sometimes, a lemongrass stalk is crushed to release flavour and fragrance and added whole to soups. At other times, it is chopped thinly and stir-fried with other spices. Lemongrass is also an ingredient in the very healthy nasi ulam or herb rice. In this recipe, cooked rice is mixed with a variety of finely chopped fresh herbs and leaves, including lemongrass which gives a refreshing zing to the dish. ...

FRASERS HILL INTERNATIONAL BIRD RACE 2008

The Fraserand#39;s Hill International Bird Race 2008 will be held on 21 and 22 June 2008. The event this year is the 21st in its series. A brainchild of the Selangor Bird Group of the Malaysia Nature Society and the Fraserand#39;s Hill Development Corporation and inaugurated in 1988 with only five teams of three birdwatchers, the Fraserand#39;s Hill International Bird Race has become an important annual get-together amongst bird watchers and nature lovers worldwide. It has been featured in the bird watchersand#39; maps all over the world.
Fraserand#39;s Hill is often been referred to as a first-class bird watching destination in this region, since this highland paradise is home to more than 250 species of wild birds. Come November and December each year, the virtually untouched mountainous forests of Fraserand#39;s Hill will receive many species of newcomers, that is the migratory species that fly across from places as far as northern Siberia of Russia and islands north of Japan and neighbouring land mass, to seek new feeding grounds as well as to escape the freezing winter up north.
The sightings of Siberian thrush from Siberia are often reported and they are truly a rare treat to ardent bird watchers. Normally these migratory species stay around in Fraserand#39;s Hill for a few months before migrating southwards to Australia and New Zealand. They will fly home to the north in March...

20.97 MILLION TOURIST ARRIVALS IN 2007

Tourist arrivals to Malaysia in 2007 reached 20.97 million surpassing the 20.1 million target set by the government. This figure represents an increase of 19.5% compared to the same period in 2006. The total tourist receipts for 2007 was RM46.1 billion which has surpassed the targeted figure of RM44.5 billion.

The month of December 2007 recorded yet another overwhelming number of tourists to Malaysia with tourist arrivals totaling 1,886,022, indicating an increase of 22.5% compared to the same period in 2006.

Table 1: Comparison of tourist arrivals to Malaysia (December 2006 and 2007)

MONTH
TOURIST ARRIVALS 2006

TOURIST
ARRIVALS 2007

CHANGE %

DECEMBER...

20.97 MILLION TOURIST ARRIVAL IN 2007
...

CHARTER FLIGHTS TO MALAYSIA DURING CHINESE NEW YEAR 2008
...

MALAYSIA RECEIVED 1,764,586 TOURISTS IN NOVEMBER 2007
...

ASIA INTERNATIONAL TOURISM EXPO 2008 (AITE 2008)

The Asia International Tourism Expo 2008 (AITE 2008) will be held for the first time in Malaysia from 22 until 25 May at Hall 4, Putra World Trade Centre in Kuala Lumpur.
It is jointly organised by the Malaysian Association of Tour and Travel Agents (MATTA), Malaysian Chinese Tourism Association, Bumitra Malaysia and Malaysian Indian Tourism Association. The trade show will comprise two days of business-to-business sessions and will open for the public on its last day.
The objective of the expo is to showcase Malaysia and International tourism products to attract local and international buyers and sellers. It will help to increase tourist arrivals and tourism-related businesses and activities in the region.
The expo also aims to support and enhance the MICE sector in Malaysia. It will provide a great platform for the local private sectors to explore new marketing trends and learn more about foreign tourism products.
Some 200 buyers and sellers will be taking part in the expo. They include:-

andbull; Airlines
andbull; Car Rental Companies
andbull; Cruise Lines
andbull; Health Resorts andamp; Spas
andbull; Hotel andamp; Accommodation Providers
andbull; MICE Organizers and Venue...

MALAYSIA CLINCHED ASEANTA AWARDS FOR EXCELLENCE IN TOURISM 2008

Tourism Malaysia received the ASEAN Tourism Association (ASEANTA) Awards for Excellence in Tourism 2008 for the Best ASEAN Marketing andamp; Promotional Campaign category for its highlyacclaimed'The Time Is Now,The Place Is Malaysia' campaign. The award was presented during the opening ceremony of the 27 th ASEAN Tourism Forum on 22 January 2008 at the IMPACT International Exhibition andamp; Convention Centre in Bangkok, Thailand.

The organiser presented five awards at the ceremony which include Best ASEAN Travel Article, Best ASEAN Poster, Best ASEAN New Tourist Attraction, and Best ASEAN Airline Programme.

ASEANTA received 48 entries for this year's awards. President, Mr. Felix Cruz, said there were many good entries but only the best were chosen. He hoped that there would be winners for next year's Best ASEAN Tourism Photo, Best ASEAN Tour Package, Best ASEAN Conservation Effort and Best ASEAN Cultural Preservation Effort categories.

The ASEANTA Awards for Excellence in Tourism is granted to organisations
and individuals that have excelled in their contribution to the development and
promotion of tourism in ASEAN. This year mark ed the 22 nd time that the ASEANTA awards ceremony has been organised. The awards ceremony host country is rotated...

VISIT TERENGGANU, KELANTAN AND KEDAH 2008
...

TOUR PACKAGES TO MISA and PUTRAJAYA
...

MALAYSIA VOTED BEST INTERNATIONAL TOURISM DESTINATION
...

H.E. DATUK DR.VICTOR WEE APPOINTED CHAIRMAN OF PROGRAMME COMMITTEE FOR UNWTO
...

SALES MISSION TO BOOST ARRIVALS FROM CHINA
...

1673922 TOURIST VISITED MALAYSIA IN OCTOBER 2007
...

THAIPUSAM - A DIVINE HINDU CELEBRATION

Ancient mythology has it that, in the month of Thai in the Hindu calendar (January 15 - February 15) at an astronomically significant point of time, namely Pusam, Lord Murugan (also known as Lord Subramaniam) taught his father (Lord Shiva) the meaning of the word Aum.

Aum is a highly potent terminology in Hinduism that signifies the primeval sound of creation. The significance here is based on the moment when a son turned teacher to his father.

The Celebration
Customarily, Thaipusam is celebrated during the month of Thai when the moon waxes to its zenith (full moon). Apparently, there are several places in Malaysia where this celebration takes place, but if you are visiting Malaysia for the first time, the celebration can best be viewed at the Batu Caves in Selangor and The Sri Maha Mariamman Temples both in Penang and Kuala Lumpur.

On the eve of the celebration, devotees would gather at the Sri Maha Mariamman temple in Bandar Road, Kuala Lumpur as early as 1 am to witness the ceremonial 'bath' of Lord Muruga. The deity is then dressed with elaborate offerings and colourful flowers before being placed on a silver chariot drawn bytwo oxen. The chariot is then taken on a pilgrimage from the Sri Maha Mariamman Temple to shrine at the Batu Caves Hindu temple.

VISIT MALAYSIA YEAR 2007

Malaysia celebrates 50 years of independence in 2007. The
population of 26 million Malaysians will showcase to the world the nationand#39;s
success at building peace and harmony among a people of diverse races,
cultures and creeds.

To commemorate the golden jubilee, 2007 has been designated as
Visit Malaysia Year (VMY). The Malays, Chinese, Indians and other ethnic
communities in Malaysia welcome visitors from all over the world to
celebrate this important milestone in the nationand#39;s history.

There will be a lineup of spectacular and exciting events that reflects
the nationand#39;s unique array of cultures and traditions. The country will come
alive with colourful parades, carnivals and events that highlight Malaysiaand#39;s
natural landscapes, rich culture and heritage, delicious cuisines, bustling
cities, scenic countryside, and more. The list of events includes a varied mix
of sports, culture, cuisine, shopping and sightseeing experiences.

Kicking off the yearand#39;s celebrations is the Floral Festival with a parade
of gailydecorated floats and music bands in Malaysiaand#39;s modern and
beautiful administrative capital, Putrajaya. Fashioned after the Pasadena
Tournament of Roses Parade, the Malaysian Flora Fest promises to be an

EXPLORING THE WILDS OF SABAH, BORNEO

EXPLORING THE WILDS OF SABAH, BORNEO
A narrow laterite road carved through the Lahad Datu oil palm plantations serves as the only access route into its interiors. The two-hour journey, a bumpy ride that could displace the contents of a weaker stomach, seemed to go on forever and after passing the fifth oil palm plantation, one begins to seriously doubt the existence of a wildlife reserve promised by the glossy brochures.

Perhaps it is true that one must go through hell and high water before reaching paradise. Perseverance in getting through this rough passage is rewarded with a lush, green landscape of the tropical paradise known as Tabin Wildlife Reserve.

Tabin used to be a heavily-logged area in the 1970s and 1980s. During this period, however, a core area of about 8,600 hectares of forest was left intact. After a hard trek into the jungle, reward yourself with a dip in the cool waters of Lipad Waterfall

After the logging activities were halted, and the area was declared a wildlife reserve in 1984, it was left to naturally regenerate itself.
Today, Tabin, located in east Sabah, Malaysia, has grown to become a green pocket of primary and secondary...

VISIT KEDAH YEAR 2008

Malaysia's One Golden Celebration continues with three states declaring 2008 as their visit state year. The northern state of Kedah, known as the rice bowl of Malaysia, has come up with a much hyped up Visit Kedah Year 2008 campaign.

The Visit Kedah Year 2008 is held in conjunction with the golden jubilee celebrations of the reign of the Sultan of Kedah, Sultan Abdul Halim Mu'adzam Shah. A total of 70 events, including 29 to be hosted in Langkawi, have been planned to help the state achieve its target of 3.88 million tourists next year. Among the national and international events that will be held in Kedah in 2008 are:

Royal International Langkawi Regatta (5 - 11 January)

Kedah Hot Air Balloon (18 - 23 March)

The Launch of National Water Festival 2008 (4 - 6 April)

International Jet Ski Competition (9 - 10 May)

Islanders Music andamp; Dance Festival Langkawi 2008 (30 May - 1 June)

Kedah International Media Hunt (29 - 30 June)

International Tomoi Competition (13 - 16 August)

Jerai International Mountainbike Challenge (7 - 9 November)
...

WORLD DRUMS FESTIVAL 2007

The World Drums Festival 2007, a colossal cultural show with a variety of percussion and drum music from all over the world, will be held from 27 until 31 December 2007 in Kuala Lumpur. The Hon. Datuk Seri Tengku Adnan Tengku Mansor, Minister of Tourism, Malaysia, will launch the grand opening ceremony of the World Drums Festival 2007 at Dataran Merdeka, Kuala Lumpur on 29 December, 8.00pm.
Held for the first time in Malaysia, the World Drums Festival will presents a variety of percussion and drum music from seven participating countries, namely Japan, Indonesia, Thailand, Sri Lanka, Vietnam, Singapore and Malaysia. Themed andlsquo;Beat The World', this festival gathers the best percussionists and dancers to perform the world's most basic instrument against a backdrop of the historical Independence Square of Malaysia.
Being one of the major events held in conjunction with the Visit Malaysia Year 2007, World Drums Festival will assemble a wide range of artists brandishing traditional instruments from their homelands and contemporary drum music performance. Admission is free.
The festival will kick-off with pocket shows, first at Sungai Wang Plaza on 27 December (from 4.00pm to 6.00pm) followed by Central Market (from 8.00pm to 10.30pm) on the same day and at Berjaya Times Square on 28 December (from 4.00pm to 7.00pm).

Details of the...

MALAYSIAN SPA WINS MOST INNOVATIVE SPA AWARD

Spa Village Tanjong Jara gains recognition as the Most Innovative Spa at UKand#39;s Tatler Spa Awards held in Vogue House in London on 11 September 2007. This accolade is a testament to the unique nature of the Malay healing culture found only in the east coast of Malaysia.

Tatlerand#39;s Bodyandamp;Soul Guide covered 106 of the best spas in the world yet only presented five Spa Awards. The...

THE OFFICIAL LAUNCH OF SITI MALAYSIA, TOURISM MALAYSIAS BRAND AMBASSADOR

Tourism Malaysia officially launched its brand ambassador, aptly named `Siti Malaysia` at the Le Meridien Hotel in Kuala Lumpur, today. The event was officiated by Yg Bhg Datoand#39; Mirza Mohammad Taiyab, director general, Tourism Malaysia.

CHINA UNIONPAY LAUNCHES ATM CASH WITHDRAWAL SERVICE IN MALAYSIA

The China UnionPay (CUP) has tied-up with the Malaysian Electronic Payment System (MEPS) to allow its cardholders to make cash withdrawals in Malaysia. The collaboration was launched by the Hon. Datoand#39; Donald Lim Siang Chai, Deputy Minister of Tourism recently.

This service allows Chinese visitors who are on holiday,...

MALAYSIA AWARDED THE GOLF DESTINATION OF THE YEAR 2008

Malaysia was conferred the andlsquo;2008 Asia and Australasia Golf Destination of the Yearand#39; award from the International Association of Golf Tour Operators (IAGTO) during the 2007 annual awards gala dinner held at the Gran...

DEEPAVALI OPEN HOUSE 2007

METhe Deepavali Open House will be held at KL Sentral parking lot in Jalan Tun Sambathan, Brickfield in Kuala Lumpur on 11 November 2007 starting from 10 am to 6 pm midnight.

Deputy Prime Minister of Malaysia, YAB Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak will officiate the event. Other dignitaries who...

ONE GOLDEN CELEBRATION

The success of the Visit Malaysia Year (VMY) 2007 has spurred the Malaysian government to extend the campaign well into Year 2008 with the theme One Golden Celebration in line with the year-long celebration of Malaysiaand#39;s 50^thyear of independence.

The VMY 2007 campaign launched early this year marked the beginning of non-stop festivities to attract international tourists to Malaysia. The campaign was timed to enhance and internationalise Malaysiaand#39;s brand image as a global tourist destination of choice.

While the VMY 2007 campaign was more events-driven, featuring more than 240 international-level events and activities, the One Golden Celebration campaign promotions will be more destinations-focused. In line with this, the state governments of Terengganu, Kelantan and Kedah are aggressively promoting their states as leading tourist destinations in 2008 with their own campaigns.

Visit Terengganu Year 2008

An idyllic destination for total relaxation, Terengganu is blessed with pristine islands, an abundance of marine life, untouched rainforest and a unique culture.
With its tagline, 'Terengganu ... Where...

HARI RAYA AIDILFITRI WITH THE PRIME MINISTER OF MALAYSIA

HARI RAYA AIDILFITRI WITH THE PRIME MINISTER OF MALAYSIA

Eid-ul-Fitr is a Muslim celebration that marks the end of Ramadhan, the fasting month. It signifies the victory of personal human self-restraint and abstinence, and symbolizes purification and renewal.

In Malaysia, Eid-ul-Fitr is known as Hari Raya Aidilfitri or simply Hari Raya. The celebration normally begins with a special prayer at mosques followed by a gathering of family members and relatives to enjoy dishes specially prepared for the occasion. Muslims also visit their friends and neighbours and seek forgiveness from each other.

Although Hari Raya is generally celebrated by Muslims, the celebration in Malaysia is unique, as it is also enjoyed by fellow Malaysians of other religions and faiths. The unique tradition of 'open house' - where Malaysians literally open their doors to welcome friends and family into their homes - is extended to everyone from all walks of life and is seen as a symbol of unity among the multi-racial Malaysians.

In conjunction with the auspicious event and in true Malaysian tradition of hospitality, Prime Minister...

MALAYSIA IS TOP CHOICE FOR LONG-STAY PROGRAMME

MALAYSIA IS TOP CHOICE FOR LONG-STAY PROGRAMME

Malaysia emerged as the top choice for long-stay programmes among the Japanese in a recent poll on 2006 preferences conducted by the Long Stay Foundation of Japan.
...

LANGKAWI INTERNATIONAL FASHION ZONE

Deputy Prime Minister, YAB Datuk Seri Najib Tun Abdul Razak, launched the Langkawi International Fashion Zone (LIFZ), the latest shopping outlet in the duty-free island of Langkawi, on 7 December 2007.

Langkawi International Fashion Zone (LIFZ) is a one-stop multi branded factory emporium outlet that houses world class brands ranging from menand#39;s, ladies wear and accessories. Located at Oriental Village, Langkawi, the factory emporium outlet aims at making Langkawi a gateway to elite shopping experience, further enhancing its duty-free status.

Managed by Nathena Lifz (M) Sdn Bhd, LIFZ is set to take centre stage as the biggest one-stop fashion house in the region, promoting world and Asian designs. With its branded products, LIFZ targets high-profile tourists and visitors with higher purchasing power.

LIFZ offers more than 70 designer brands, all of which are authentic and affordable. The brands include Hugo Boss, Gucci, Versace, Prada, Armani, Valentino, Broni, Zegma and Gianco Ferre.

For more information, please contact Mr Gary Ranai, Managing Director of Nathena Lifz (M) Sdn Bhd at:

...

MINISTER CALLS FOR INTENSIVE TOURISM PROMOTIONS EFFORTS
...

SEPTEMBER ARRIVALS REMAIN HIGH
...

MALAYSIA HOSTSTHE 35TH DERTOUR REISEAKADEMIE 2007
...

LOK KAWI WILDLIFE PARK, SABAH

As there are many tourist attractions spread out in Sabah, one has to have a well-planned itinerary to experience Sabah to the fullest. There is no doubt that visiting the islands, mountains, jungles and city is time consuming and one may have to sacrifice one trip for the other.

HEALTH TOURISM IN MALAYSIA

Malaysia is fast becoming a strong competitor in the global health and medical tourism sector. Given the potential of health tourism as a foreign exchange earner, the government has taken a series of proactive measures to enhance Malaysia as a preferred health tourism destination.

Health tourism in Malaysia consists of two main categories which are medical tourism and wellness programme. Patients can opt for medical treatments in one of our internationally recognised hospitals, and stay on during the convalescence or recovery period. Or they can come for a holiday by exploring the various forms of wellness programmes that are available in Malaysia.

Competitive medical fees and modern medical facilities are two vital factors that make Malaysia a popular destination among health tourists. Patients can undergo treatment and recuperate in any part of the country for much less than what it would cost them for a treatment in other countries. For example, a normal cardiac bypass surgery (CABG) in Malaysia would cost only between US$6,000 and US$7,000.

Malaysia offers a wide choice of state-of-the-art private medical centres boasting an impressive array of sophisticated diagnosis, therapeutic and in-patient facilities. These...

PENANG INTERNATIONAL LANTERN FESTIVAL 15 September - 31 December 2007

The Auto City in Juru, Penang comes alive with a fascinating interplay of lights, vibrant colours and intricate designs of magnificent lanterns.
The four-hectare area is dramatically illuminated by 20,000 bulbs that light up beautifully decorated and intricately crafted lanterns every night for three consecutive months.
Come and see Hello Kitty and her friends in lantern form at the Penang International Lantern Festival from 15 September until 31 December. Themed Hello Kitty and Friends in Penang Safari, visitors get to see a spectacular display of 2,000 individual lanterns in all kind of forms.
These bright and colourful works of art were meticulously designed and built by 48 craftsmen from Zigong prefecture in Sichuan province, China. All the materials and equipment were also brought from China.
The lanterns are grouped into seven sections namely Penang Bridge with Hello Kitty, Hello Kitty and Friends, Animals at the Water Front, The Wild, Hello Kitty at Elephant Rides, Land of Dinosaurs and Hello Kitty Walkway.
The 30-metre replica of the Penang Bridge with Hello Kitty has become the festivaland#39;s centrepiece because it represents one of Penang islandand#39;s famous...

FLORAL PARADE 2007

The highlight of Flora Fest 2007, the Floral Parade, takes place on 27 January 2007 at Persiaran Perdana, Putrajaya. The colourful parade at 8 am will be officiated by His Majesty Sultan Mizan Zainal Abidin Ibni Almahrum Sultan Mahmud AlMuhtafi Billah Shah. The event will be attended by cabinet ministers, foreign dignitaries, invited guests and members of the public.
At the parade, 18 floral decorated floats from state governments, local authorities and private organisations will compete for awards in five categories - Premier Trophy, Theme Trophy, Creative Trophy, Parade Trophy and Jury Award. Imaginative creations such as 'Wings of Dreams' (Penang) and 'Sarawak Rhapsody' (Sarawak) will bring to life the Flora Festand#39;s theme of 'Colours of Harmony'.
To add excitement to the event, the parade will be interspersed with marching bands and street performers. A total of 19 bands including 15 school bands will entertain the audience in between the floats. A special prize will be awarded to the best school band performance.
After the parade, visitors can view the floats at an airconditioned tent from 27 to 29 January. Tickets to the static display are RM2 for adults and RM1 for children. The static display is open from 12 noon to 10 pm on 27 January and from 10 am to 10 pm on 28 and 29 January. Apart from viewing the floats, visitors may also buy flowers and other agricultural products at the Floral Bazaar located...

FLORATHON 2007

Florathon, the first event for the Flora Fest 2007 on Saturday, 20 January 2007, is a brisk 3km walk and participants will be judged not by speed but by floralthemed costumes. The route covers Jalan Raja, Jalan Parlimen, Jalan Cenderawasih, Jalan Tembusu, Jalan Cenderasari and back to Jalan Raja.
All Malaysians and foreign tourists aged 13 years and above are eligible to enter. Participants are divided into nine categories: Junior Men, Junior Women, Men, Women,...

FLORA HUNT 2007

21 January 2007, Persiaran Perdana, Putrajaya
An actionpacked event, Flora Hunt 2007 organized by Tourism Malaysia Recreational Club is on Sunday, 21 January 2007. The flagoff will be at 8 am at Persiaran Perdana, Putrajaya.
The hunt will take participants around Putrajaya, Klang Valley and Selangor. During the hunt, each team is required to answer a series of questions to find the 'treasure'. Flora Hunt offers cash prizes of RM3,000, RM2,000 and RM1,000 for the top three winners. Fourth to the tenth winners will get RM500, while 11 th to 30 th winners will receive hampers. There will also be lucky draws for flight tickets, hotel accommodations, hitea vouchers and electrical items.
The entrance fee is RM50 per person. The minimum participation for each team is 2 and maximum is 4. The fee is inclusive of a gift, hitea and tickets to view the static display at the airconditioned tents after the floral parade on 27 January 2007.
In conjunction with VMY 2007, the sponsors include Alla Fonte mineral water and Nestle.
For more information, please contact:
Encik Zakaria Mat Atan, telephone: +603 2615 8252, fax: +603 2693 5884 or email: zakaria.matatan@tourism.gov.my;
Encik Rusni Supaat, telephone: +603 2615 8254; or
Encik Kazarul Izzham Nordin,...

AFC AND TOURISM MALAYSIA COLLABORATE TO PROMOTE AFC ASIAN CUP 2007

15.12.2006 KUALA LUMPUR: The Asian Football Confederation (AFC) and Tourism Malaysia today announced their collaboration to promote the AFC Asian Cup 2007 final competition, starting with the Final Draw to be held at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre on Tuesday 19 th December 2006.
AFC President Mohamed Bin Hammam, Director General of Tourism Malaysia Datoand#39; Mirza Mohammad Taiyab and AFC Asian Cup Host Association, the Football Association of Malaysia (FAM)and#39;s General Secretary Datoand#39; Seri Dr Ibrahim Saad all attended the press conference.
'The AFC Asian Cup is Asian footballand#39;s crown jewels, and we are committed to making it the best AFC competition ever. Through valuable partnerships in each of the host countries, we can achieve this.' Hammam continued, 'One of these very valuable partnerships here in Malaysia is with Tourism Malaysia, and we are delighted with their support and enthusiasm. As Malaysia is one of the hosts, it is a great opportunity to further promote the country as a sporting venue.'
Tourism Malaysiaand#39;s Director General Datoand#39; Mirza Muhammad Taiyab added, 'Weand#39;re all proud to be a part of such a dynamic and truly Asian tournament which from global television audience perspective, is the second largest singlesport event in Asia, second only to the FIFA World Cup.'

MALAYSIA FLORA FEST 2007

The Minister of Tourism, Y.B. Datuk Seri Tengku Adnan Tengku Mansor, today officiated the media launch of the Malaysia Flora Fest 2007 - one of the 50 major events planned for Visit Malaysia Year 2007. This two weeklong festival from 20 January to 4 February 2007 will feature a colourful display of Malaysiaand#39;s abundant flora during a photography exhibition, floral parade, floral bazaar and a flora craft workshop organized by Tourism Malaysia.
The Flora Fest 2007 begins with Florathon, a brisk 2km walk from Dataran Merdeka to the Kuala Lumpur Lake Gardens, on 20 January 2007. The fancy dress Florathon featuring participants in floralthemed outfits is aimed at encouraging an appreciation of flora and bringing families closer together.
The following day, on 21 January 2007, a Floral Hunt will be held in Putrajaya. This event will be fashioned along a Treasure Hunt with floral items among the prizes. The Hunt will begin and end in Putrajaya after going through the Klang Valley.
A photography exhibition with the winning entries of the Colours of Harmony competition will also complement the Flora Fest 2007. The prize photographs will be displayed at the Exhibition Hall Perbadanan Putrajaya from 21 January to 4 February 2007. This photography contest is currently underway and the results will be announced in a major newspaper.
A Floral Parade at Persiaran Perdana, Putrajaya, on 27 January is...

TOURISM MALAYSIA HOSTS KLFW 2006

Silky batik. Slinky evening gowns. Soft flowing dresses. Smart day wear. A bevy of models took to the catwalk to showcase the sartorial creations of 55 Malaysian designers during the opening night of Kuala Lumpur Fashion Week (KLFW) 2006 on Saturday, 11 th November at the exhibition hall of Berjaya Times Square in Jalan Imbi.

The Red Style Gala Night hosted by Tourism Malaysia was the curtainraiser for the fiveday event that brought together under one roof all the homegrown fashion talents that have already made a name for themselves and those ready to create a stir in the local fashion scene.

According to Mr Mirza Mohammad Taiyab, Director General of Tourism Malaysia, 'KL Fashion Week is an ideal platform to showcase Malaysia as a trendy fashion centre and shopping hub in this part of the world. There is so much to see, do and shop as our fashion designers are among the most creative minds today. Some have made it big and become famous names while young talents are emerging from art schools and fashion institutes.'

Sponsored by Tourism Malaysia in collaboration with local media houses, The Star and Utusan Malaysia, KLFW 2006 is organised by Pempena Sdn. Bhd. Land#39;Oreal is the platinum sponsor and MODA (Malaysiaand#39;s Official Designer Association) has endorsed it.

The 5day KLFW 2006 features the collections of established Malaysian fashion designers and emerging talents....

SUNLIGHT RADIO SERVICE TAXIS PUBLICISE VMY 2007
The Honourable Datoand#39; Ir. Donald Lim Siang Chai, Deputy Minister of Tourism, flagged off a convoy of 20 vehicles of the Sunlight Radio Taxi Service carrying the Visit Malaysia Year (VMY) 2007 logo at the Putra World Trade Centre today. In the latest activity carried out by the Ministry of Tourism and Tourism Malaysia in collaboration with its industry partners, Sunlight Radio Taxi Service Sdn. Bhd. has joined in the campaign by displaying the VMY 2007 logo on their fleet of KLbasedtaxis to create awareness among domestic and foreign travellers.

Beginning today, the 3,000 vehicles of Sunlight Radio Service Taxis comprising Proton Waja, Proton Wira, Proton Iswara and Renault MPVs will all publicise VMY 2007. The company is the biggest radio call taxi service in the Klang valley. All its incoming taxi bookings are computerized and properly recorded to ensure passenger safety and security.

Following this move, another fleet of 500 vehicles belonging to the same company in Johor Baru will also undergo the same exercise to bear the VMY 2007 stickers on their auto bodies.

In his speech,...

KUWAIT AIRWAYS FLIES INTO KUALA LUMPUR

Malaysia welcomes the inaugural flight of Kuwait Airways to
Kuala Lumpur on 1 November 2006

Flight KU413 from Kuwait with 250 passengers is scheduled to
arrive at Kuala Lumpur International Airport at 3.00pm. On board is a
20member
delegation leaded by the Chairman and Managing
Director of Kuwait Airways, Sheikh Talal Mubarak Abdullah Al Ahmad
AlSabah,
together with members of the media, travel agents and
officials from Kuwait.

The welcome reception party includes the Hon. Datoand#39; Sri Chan
Kong Choy, Minister of Transport; YBhg. Tan Sri Datuk Dr. Aris
Othman, Chairman of Malaysia Airport Berhad; and YBrs. Encik
Razali Hj Mohd Daud, Deputy Director General of Tourism Malaysia.
The arriving passengers on flight KU413 will be greeted and
presented with souvenirs as they get off the plane.

Kuwait Airways has introduced its twice weekly flights (every
Tuesday and Friday) to Kuala Lumpur via Bangkok by A340 aircraft
with a capacity of 272 passengers due to market demand.

Over the past five years, tourist arrivals from Kuwait have been
increasing from 7,428 in 2001 to 11,506 in 2005. Looking at the
upbeat trend of the tourism industry, Malaysia expects to receive
more tourist arrivals...

KL INTERNATIONAL BUSKERS FESTIVAL 2006

The first ever Kuala Lumpur International Buskersand#39; Festival (KLIBF) from 2 to 10 December 2006 (5:30 - 10:30 pm daily) will be held at selected venues in the city. Organised by Tourism Malaysia, Pempena Sdn Bhd and Interexpo (M) Sdn Bhd in conjunction with the Malaysia Year-End Sale 2006 (MYES 2007) and Visit Malaysia Year 2007, it is slated to be a major annual event and tourist attraction in Malaysia.
Busking, the art of street performing ranges from singing, tap dancing, stilt-walking to fireeating. It requires highly skilled and versatile talents as there are no rehearsals, scripts or routines just pure spontaneous oneonone fun interaction with the audience on the pavement.
Among the major highlights of this yearand#39;s festival are the Grand Buskersand#39; Parade and the Late Nite Madness Bash. Kicking off the festival will be the Grand Buskersand#39; Parade at Dataran Merdeka on 2 December 2006. This big and spectacular parade comprises an amazing flower display, awesome marching bands and gigantic inflatable statues. There will also be a showcase featuring the best of Malaysian culture, arts and entertainment, along with the cast of international street performers. During the Late Nite Madness Bash, pubcrawlers in KL will be bombarded by buskers out to entertain and create excitement.
The Buskersand#39; festival has won accolades and...

OCTOBER SALES MISSION TO CHINA
The Deputy Minister of Tourism, YB Datoand#39; Donald Lim, heads the
sales mission to China from 15 to 21 October 2006. The delegation will be
visiting Zhengzhou (Henan province) and Jinan, Yantai and Qingdao (Shandong
province) to strengthen the presence of Malaysia in the China market.

The other main objectives are to publicize the Visit Malaysia Year 2007
events; to develop the market and promote Malaysia as an enjoyable holiday
destination to Chinese tourists; to update the Chinese travel trade industry on
new tourism products, packages and attractions; and to provide the Malaysian
private sector with a platform to enhance their networking with the respective
Chinese counterparts.

The delegation comprises officials from the Ministry of Tourism, Tourism
Malaysia, travel agents, hotel operators and representatives from several State
Governments. The activities of the sales mission include meetings with the local
government and Tourism Bureau, media interviews, travel mart and
appointments with Chinese key tour operators.

The sales mission is in conjunction with the ASEM Forum andamp; Exhibition
on Tourism and Investment Cooperation in Yantai, China, from 19 to 22
October. YB Datoand#39; Donald Lim will be attending the launching of the forum andamp;

SEAWALKING FOR NONDIVERS

There is hope yet for non-divers who are afraid to take the plunge yet canand#39;t resist the call of the sea. Try the unique undersea experience of seawalking.
This activity is offered only at Sabahand#39;s famous Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park. Though a new concept in Malaysia, it has been enjoyed for some time in the United States and Japan.
Though professional divers may scoff at the idea, seawalking is an appealing option for those who are not ready to go diving.
With seawalking, non-divers and non-swimmers can experience the marine world safely without fear. The operators of this activity claim anyone from age seven can do it without any danger or risk. Those
who have tried it say that it is better than snorkeling and not as scary as deepsea diving.
The equipment for seawalking is fairly basic, consisting of a 35kg bubble helmet with a hose attached to the top through which oxygen is pumped. Worn over the head, the helmet rests on the shoulders. Due to the science of pressure, it keeps water out so your head and hair remain dry and you can breathe normally. Although it is heavy, seawalkers only don the helmet once they are about to enter the water, after which, it would feel weightless. Seawalkers are also required to wear special shoes (which are provided) to protect their soles.

SALES MISSION TO INDIA PROMOTES

The Hon. Minister of Tourism, Malaysia, Datuk Seri Tengku Adnan Tengku Mansor
announced visa on arrival arrangements for Indian tourists to Malaysia during his
maiden visit to India from 21-30 September, 2006. Indians can utilize this facility from six
different points of entry to the country and the visa would be valid for a period of
maximum 30 days. The cost of RM 100 will be charged as the port of entry visa.

'In order to keep abreast with the unsurpassed interest generated in Malaysia by
Indians, it is imperative to establish relaxed visa procedures to spur intra regional travel
and bolster tourism. I hope this hasslefree environment would go a long way in
strengthening our relations and is an indication of our long term commitment to the
Indian market,' said the Hon. Minister.

He led a Malaysian delegation to the cities of Mumbai, New Delhi, Bangalore and
Chennai to promote and encourage bilateral tourism between the two countries. These
initiatives were part of the Visit Malaysia Year 2007 road show campaign to boost the
growth of Indian outbound tourism to Malaysia. The sales mission specifically invited
more Indian companies to organize their meetings, incentives, conferences and
exhibitions in Malaysia.

'2007 would be the golden jubilee celebration...

TOURISM MISSION 2005 TO IRAN

Datuk Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, the Hon. Deputy Minister of Tourism, recently headed the tourism sales mission 2005 to the Islamic Republic of Iran to create more awareness in the Iranian market that Malaysia is an ideal and valueaddedtravel destination.

During the road show, the Deputy Minister met and held discussions with Iranian tourism authorities, travel agents, local airline operators, Tourism Malaysia officials and embassy officials.
The 30member delegation comprised senior officials from Tourism Malaysia; the Middle East regional manager of Malaysia Airlines; representatives of leading travel agencies, hotels, resorts and tourist attractions and a troupe of ghazal musicians from Johor.

The sales mission from 17 to 23 September 2005 covered marketing, promotion, media and cultural presentations to the local Iranian travel trade and media. Publicity events and travel marts were
successfully held in the cities of Tehran, Esfahan and Shiraz.

Issued by: Communications Division, Tourism Malaysia
Date: 26 September 2005
...

SHANGRILA HOTELS and RESORTS SUPPORT VISIT MALAYSIA YEAR 2007

Malaysianborn tycoon, Robert Kuok Hock Nien, 83, the owner of the ShangriLa Hotels and Resorts, has affirmed his full support for Visit Malaysia Year (VMY) 2007 in a meeting with the Hon. Datuk Ir. Donald Lim, Deputy Minister of Tourism, in Hong Kong..
Kuok announced before a visiting delegation of Malaysian journalists at the Island ShangriLa Hong Kong that his international chain of 47 hotels will help promote VMY 2007. 'My operations
worldwide will give support and we will do our maximum to support Visit Malaysia Year,' he said.

This move by a major travel industry player will enhance the prepublicity leading up to the grand launch of VMY 2007 on 1 st January 2007.

While thanking Kuok for his strong support, the Deputy Minister of Tourism expressed the hope that more Malaysian companies will also come forward and boost the ongoing VMY 2007 campaign.

ISSUED BY: The Communications Division, Tourism Malaysia
DATE: 14 September 2006
...

SUNWAY LAGOON THEME PARK

As one advertisement describes, Sunway Lagoon Theme Park is the ultimate playground for all children under the age of 99. And indeed, the massive 80acre theme park brings squeals of delight to the young and the young at heart alike!

The theme park is divided into three main areas Wild Wild West, World of Adventure, and Waters of Africa, each with a concept of its...

A FRUITFUL VISIT
MEDIA INFO
A FRUITFUL VISIT TO AN ORCHARD
Being a country wellknown for her diversity, Malaysia offers not only an interesting and colourful blend of different races, religions, cultures, traditions, and food; blessed with a tropical climate, she is also home to an amazing collection of exotic flora and fauna.
The countryand#39;s climate is also suitable to grow various tropical and subtropical fruits found in countries that share similar climate. Some 370 species of edible fruits, including rare and exotic ones are grown here.
It is indeed an extremely refreshing and interesting experience if we are able to witness some rarely seen or never before seen exotic fruits from South East Asia and places like Central and South America, Central Africa, India, the Middle East, the Caribbean, and the Pacific Islands, all in one destination.
If you have a penchant for fruits, you must definitely make a trip to Tropical Fruit Farm, at Teluk Bahang in Penang, Malaysia.
Located at about 800 feet above sea level on the hilly terrain of Teluk Bahang, Tropical Fruit Farm (above) is an ideal location for cultivating many types of tropical and subtropical fruit trees. The orchard, which was developed in 1993, covers 25...

A MAGIC CARPET RIDE OVER SABAH

'Itand#39;s the closest thing youand#39;ll get to a magic carpet ride!' Captain Harold
hollered to me above the din of the engine before he grabbed the
controls and expertly eased us off the ground.

We were both securely strapped in the front seats of a Sabah Air
helicopter, its transparent bubble windows offering unobstructed
views of the surroundings. Even the bottom of the helicopter was
made of transparent material, giving one the feeling of literally flying
on air. Whatever initial fear I had was soon forgotten as Captain
Harold piloted the machine with great skill and confidence over
Sabahand#39;s varied landscape.

The contrasting Sabah vista is indeed best appreciated from the air
when you can see the sprawling city of Kota Kinabalu below, the
blues and the greens of the sea on one side, and the rugged
highlands and verdant rainforest on the other.

Several flight packages are available for those wanting to see Sabah
from a birdand#39;s eye view. The basic package, the Kota Kinabalu Aerial
Delight, takes approximately 20 minutes and offers an aerial view of
Kota Kinabalu, the Tunku Abdul Rahman park islands and coastal
beaches. View several prominent Kota Kinabalu landmarks such as
the Sabah Foundation building and the...

MERDEKA 2006 CELEBRATIONS
This 31 August 2006 marks the 49 th anniversary of
Malaysiaand#39;s national independence (Merdeka). Known locally as
Hari Kemerdekaan, Malaysians show their appreciation for yet
another year of harmony among the people, while being reminded
of their countryand#39;s struggle for independence, development and
growth.

This national event helps to educate the Malaysian public,
especially the younger generation, about the importance of racial
tolerance, unity and cooperation so that the country can continue
to enjoy prosperity, development and harmony.

The official launch of Bulan Kemerdekaan (Independence
Month) and Raise the Jalur Gemilang Campaign on 17 August,
8pm, at Kuala Terengganu kicked off the monthlong
celebration of the event which lasts till 16 September.

In conjunction with the event, 50 divers painted the
Malaysian flag underwater on 16 August at the marine park of
Pulau Kapas offshore from Merang in Terengganu.

This year, the state of Sarawak is hosting Ambang Merdeka
(Merdeka Eve) 2004 on 30 August along the waterfront and banks
of the Sarawak River in Kuching. The night event will be marked
by procession of river floats and lively performances by leading
recording artistes on a floating...

MALAYSIA OBSERVES 49 YEARS OF INDEPENDENCE NATIONWIDE
Throughout August, Malaysians come out in full force to
celebrate Independence Day. Many display the national flag on
vehicles, buildings and homes as a symbol of pride and love for the
country.

It is another big and elaborate Merdeka (Independence)
commemoration as Malaysia celebrates 49 years of independence in
2006.

This yearand#39;s Merdeka Celebration kicked off with the Raise the
Jalur Gemilang Flag Campaign on 17 August in Kuala Terengganu
on the east coast of Peninsular Malaysia. The campaign has sparked
off a series of festive events throughout the nation before its eventual
closing a month later on 16 September 2006.

The national level Independence Countdown (Ambang
Merdeka) at the Kuching River Waterfront in Sarawak from 5pm to
2am midnight on 30 August includes a concert by popular artistes
and cultural performances.

The eveningand#39;s climax is the premidnight
arrival of the
Merdeka convoy of motorcycles that set off from Kuala Terengganu
on 17 August earlier. Prime Minister YAB Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad
Badawi will receive the Malaysian flag from the convoyand#39;s leader. The
highlight of the Merdeka eve celebration is a spectacular fireworks
display to light up the skies of...

CITRAWARNA ACTIVITIES

Be enthralled and entertained by the sensational monthlong cultural extravaganza, Colours of Malaysia 2004, which runs from 22 May to 19 June. Also known as Citrawarna Malaysia 2004, this celebration promises to satisfy the appetite for local arts and crafts, traditional music, exotic dance, traditions and food of diverse cultures. The event, first held on 16 October 1999, is an annual event highlighting the cultures and traditions of the country.
Colours of Malaysia 2004 kicks off with a spectacular launching ceremony on 22 May themed 'Waves and Colours', a colourful multicultural parade that showcases the dazzling cultural heritage of the different states of Malaysia. At approximately 8.30pm, some 6,000 participants from all over the country will put up a colourful display of ethnic dances and musical performances at the National Stadium in Bukit Jalil, Kuala Lumpur. His Majesty, the King of Malaysia will launch Citrawarna Malaysia 2004 in the presence of dignitaries including the Prime Minister, the Deputy Prime Minister, Cabinet Ministers, foreign ambassadors and members of the international and local media.
Malaysians and foreign tourists are also expected to be present to add to the merriment of the event. In conjunction with the monthlong celebration, a...

CHINESE NEW YEAR OPEN HOUSE 2006
Penang plays host to the National Chinese New Year Open House on 4 Feb 2006 at 8 pm. The event is graced by Their Majesties the King and Queen of Malaysia, the DYMM Seri Paduka Baginda Yang DiPertuan Agong and DYMM Seri Paduka Baginda Raja Permaisuri Agong, as well as the Prime Minister of Malaysia, YAB Dato' Seri Abdullah Haji Ahmad Badawi.
The event is organised by the Ministry of Culture, Arts and Heritage, the State Government of Penang, the Penang Chinese Clans Council and the Clans Association Youth Committee. Prior to the opening ceremony, a colourful street festival will be opened at 5pm by the Minister of Culture, Arts and Heritage, YB Datuk Seri Utama Dr. Rais Yatim at George Town's historic and heritage enclave.
The street festival, along Armenian Street, Cannon Street, Ah Quee Street, Acheen Street and Soo Hong Lane involves 5,500 participants comprising lion and dragon dancers as well as Chingay performers from more than 80 Chinese associations. In addition, visitors will get to see 57 types of activities that will take place simultaneously at Yap Kongsi, Khoo Kongsi, Cheah Kongsi, Lim Association and the Penang Youth Centre. They include cultural dances, Chinese opera, traditional silk ball throwing, calligraphy, callisthenics and Chinese pastry making....

CITRAWARNA 2004 SHOWCASES MALAYSIA'S RICH CULTURE

Enjoy the best of Malaysia during Citrawarna 2004 - a multifaceted
extravaganza rich in culture and fascinating attractions. Citrawarna Malaysia which means the Colours of Malaysia, showcases the countryand#39;s kaleidoscope of arts, culture and traditions that will be held nationwide for a month from 22 May until 19 June.
The launch theme for this yearand#39;s Citrawarna 2004, 'Waves and Colours' will feature the songs and dances of the different states, offering tourists a glimpse into Malaysian culture and arts. As a curtainraiser, Citrawarna 2004 will be launched with pomp and pageantry on 22 May at 8.30pm by His Majesty The King of Malaysia in the presence of foreign and local dignitaries, international and local media, invited guests and the public at the National Stadium in Bukit Jalil, Kuala Lumpur.
About 100,000 spectators are expected to witness the opening ceremony of Citrawarna 2004 that evening. To entertain the large crowd, popular Malaysian artistes including Misha Omar, Too Phat, Yassin, Waheeda, Akademi Fantasia singers and the Senario comedy group will perform as early as 5pm until after midnight.

ADVANTAGE CONFERENCE 2004
MEDIA RELEASE
ADVANTAGE TRAVEL CONFERENCE 2004
Malaysia will host the Advantage Travel Centres annual conference from 22 to 25 April 2004 at the Shangri-La Hotel Kuala Lumpur.
Some 650 delegates representing the British travel industry are expected to attend the conference. During the four-day conference, there will be a travel expo with some 30 booths showcasing both British and Malaysian tourism products. The expo provides a platform for British and Malaysian travel trade representatives to network and establish potential business ventures.
Advantage Travel Centres is the UKand#39;s largest travel consortium with almost 900 members consisting of travel agencies, tour operators and travel writers.
Last year, its annual conference was successfully held in Cyprus from 14 May 2003.
The 2004 conference marks another international event organised and held in Malaysia. Among the main sponsors are Tourism Malaysia, Malaysia Airlines, Kuala Lumpur City Hall and the Hyatt Saujana Regency Hotel.
Malaysia has hosted various regional and international conferences including the 13 th Non-Aligned Movement Summit in February and the 10 th OIC Summit in October last year which were attended by 114 countries and 57 countries respectively. In March this year, Malaysia hosted the inaugural Commonwealth Tourism...

TOURIST ARRIVALS RISEN 4% TO DATE

Malaysia has recorded a total of 9,485,074 tourist arrivals from January to July 2005 compared to 9,116,478 tourist arrivals for the same period in 2004, representing an increase of 4.0%.For the month of July 2005, tourist arrivals showed an increase of 7.3% with 1,317,276 tourists compared to 1,227,134 for the same month last year.
...

CUTI-CUTI MALAYSIA TRAVEL FAIR 2006 IN JOHOR BAHRU

The 7th Cuti-Cuti Malaysia Travel Fair 2006 which begins this Friday, 25 August 2006 is an effort to boost domestic tourism.
The consumer road show held at the JB City Square Shopping Centre, Johor, from 25 until 27 August 2006 (10am-10pm) will be officiated by Mr. Mirza Mohammad Taiyab, Deputy Director-General (1) Tourism Malaysia.
A total of 160 sellers comprising representatives from selected hotels, travel agencies and tourism product operators from all the 13 states in Malaysia are participating in the travel mart. This three-day
event allows many visitors the opportunity to discuss and plan their travel plans directly with domestic tour operators.
Entrance to the Cuti-Cuti Malaysia Travel Fair is free and the public can expect many exciting and value-for-money holiday packages on offer, especially for the current and the coming school holidays at the end of the year.
During the fair, the public will also be entertained by Azizi from Akademi Fantasia 1 and Zarina from Akademi Fantasia 2. In addition, there will be cultural performances, lucky draws and handicraft demonstrations.
Background
This is the seventh road show of the Cuti-Cuti Malaysia Travel Fair 2006 this year.
To date, a total...

SABERKAS RH MARATHON 2006

Taib launches stateand#39;s first full marathon
Sarawak Tribune
13-Dec-2005
By Samuel Aubrey
Kuching: Some 2,000 international runners from Japan, Korea, india, Vietnam, Germany, Australia, Singapore and Brunei are expected to take part in Sarawakand#39;s first full marathon on March 26 next year.
Billed the 'Saberkas RH Marathon 2006,and#39;and#39; the event also commemorates the 25th anniversary of Pehin Sri Haji Abdul Taib Mahmud as Chief Minister and president of Saberkas the stateand#39;s biggest youth organization. It replaces the annual Saberkas Run and is expected to attract 10,000 local and foreign runners.
Inspired by the Chief Minister himself the 42-kilometre race aims to promote sports tourism in Sarawak as well as encourage locals to take up healthy lifestyles.
During its official launching and logo unveiling yesterday, Taib hoped the marathon would attract thousands of international visitors, not just runners, to Sarawak.
'At this juncture, I would like to thank the title sponsor, Rimbunan Hijau Group as well as members of Saberkas who have worked hard to promote its he said.
Rimbunan Hijau, a Sibu-based conglomerate, has agreed to organise...

1.38 MILLION VISITORS TO MALAYSIA IN FEBRUARY 2006

Tourist arrivals to Malaysia for the month of February 2006 stood at 1.38 million visitors. This represents a 2.8% increase compared to the same period the previous year.

FEBRUARY 2005

FEBRUARY 2006

% CHANGE

1,346,550

1,384,479

2.8

The year 2006 began on a positive note for the tourism industry. In January, tourist arrivals to Malaysia registered 1.45 million...

PM-INTERNATIONAL WORLD CONGRESS 2007

The Minister of Tourism, YB Datuk Seri Tengku Adnan Tengku Mansor, announced that Malaysia will host the PM-International World Congress 2007 in a special ceremony to unveil and launch the logo, date and venue of the event on 13 August 2006.

The event was graced by the PM-International founder and president, Senator Rolf Sorg, and the chairman of PM-International Scientific Advisory Board, Dr. Gerhad Schmitt. Also in attendance were Mr. C.K.Yung, the president and chief executive officer of PM Wellness (M) Sdn Bhd, PM-Internationaland#39;s counterpart in Malaysia, and his wife, Mrs. Renesial Yung, who is also the executive director of the company.

Malaysia is set to host the PM-International World Congress 2007 from 13 to 20 September at the Genting International Convention Centre in Genting, the City of Entertainment, during Visit Malaysia Year 2007.

The Congress, to be held for the first time outside Europe in 12 years, expects to attract at least 3,000 delegates. Three years ago, Yung invited the top decision-makers of PM-International in Germany to Malaysia and since then he has been lobbying to hold their international convention in Malaysia.

Malaysia won the strongly contested bid to host this prestigious event from other MICE heavyweight contenders including the United States of America, Finland, Austria, the Baltic countries and Australia in Karlsruhe, Germany, on 8...

GET WET! GET WED!

Malaysia is fast attracting lovebirds to profess their vows of eternal devotion to each other. It is becoming the venue for dream weddings and romantic honeymoons. Whether itand#39;s a traditional wedding amid a rustic village setting, or a lovely bash in a modern hotel, Malaysia offers a wide variety of wedding and honeymoon packages to suit couples. With its countless scenic, cultural, entertainment and gastronomical attractions, as well as accessibility from all over the world, Malaysia is the perfect place for a dream wedding and honeymoon.Like any couple getting married, Renee Wu and Louis Loi wanted an unforgettable wedding ceremony and honeymoon. They chose an underwater wedding for a truly memorable experience and were declared husband and wife in the sea at Redang Island in Terengganu state on the east coast of Peninsular Malaysia on 15 July 2006.

Loi, 36, a Malaysian-Chinese works with an IT firm in Shanghai, China, while Wu, 33, originates from Shanghai. Both avid divers, they were mesmerised by the beauty of Redang Island when they vacationed there last year.

The wedding, attended by 30 family members and close friends from China, Hong Kong and Taiwan, took place at the Laguna Redang Island Resort located on Long Beach (Pasir Panjang) directly facing the South China Sea and sunrise.

The Pulau Redang archipelago (pulau means island in Malay language) is renowned for its coral reefs and...

TOURISM MINISTER UNVEILS VMY 2007 LOGO ON MAS AIRCRAFT
The Minister of Tourism, the honourable, Datuk Seri Tengku Adnan Tengku Mansor unveiled the Visit Malaysia Year (VMY) 2007 logo on Malaysia Airlinesand#39; aircraft at 3.00pm on Sunday, 23 July 2006.

Held at the Malaysia Airlinesand#39; hanger in Sepang, this event is part of the VMY 2007 campaign and promotion, which is a collaboration by the Ministry of Tourism, Tourism Malaysia and Malaysia Airlines.

The Malaysia Airlinesand#39; B747 aircraft named 'Kuala Lumpur' bound for London as flight MH002 on the same evening was the first to be painted with the VMY 2007 logo. Overall, a total of 86 aircraft, including both wide body and narrow body, will carry the VMY 2007 logo.

Also present at the unveiling ceremony were Mr. Idris Jala (Managing Director, Malaysia Airlines), senior officials from Ministry of Tourism, Tourism Malaysia, Malaysia Airlines and captains of the Malaysian travel trade industry.

In his speech, the minister remarked that the unveiling of the Visit Malaysia Year 2007 logo marks another milestone in the harmonious relationship between the Ministry of Tourism, Tourism Malaysia and Malaysia Airlines.

'As Malaysia is gearing up for the Visit Malaysia Year 2007, it is only befitting that we take this opportunity to work together and help make Malaysia visible to 100 over destinations across six continents,' he said. We hope the visibility will create...

AUGUST ARRIVALS REACHED 10 MILLION MARK
Malaysia has recorded a total of 10,878,740 tourist arrivals from January to August 2005 compared to 10,384,784 tourist arrivals for the same period in 2004, representing an increase of 4.8%.

For the month of August 2005, tourist arrivals showed an increase of 9.9% with 1,393,666 tourists compared to 1,268,306 for the same month last year.

At a glance, Malaysia has been recording a steady average of some 1.3 million foreign visitors per month. During March 2005, Malaysia registered 1,419,275 visitors, the highest ever recorded in a month. It was an increase of 11.4% compared to last yearand#39;s March figure of 1,274,039 visitors.

This year, the visitor arrivals registered so far are as follows: January - 1,394,032; February - 1,346,550; April - 1,317,749; May - 1,351,141; June - 1,339,051 and July - 1,317,276.
During the month of August 2005, the South Korea market performed the best with a sharp growth of 91.1%. Meanwhile, double-digit growth was recorded for arrivals from Australia (51.1%), USA (44.2%), Japan (41.0%), Scandinavia (35.0%), India (34.0%), France (32.7%), Italy (32.1%), Thailand (27.2%), Germany (25.4%), Indonesia (25.2%), United Kingdom (22.6%) and West Asia (21.0%).

TOURISM MINISTER LEADS VMY 2007 MISSION TO THAILAND

The minister of tourism, Malaysia, the honourable Datuk Seri Tengku Adnan Tengku Mansor will leading a Malaysian delegation to Bangkok, Thailand as part of the Visit Malaysia Year 2007 Road Show from 22 to 23 June 2006.
During the two-day road show, the honourable minister will make a courtesy call to the ministry of tourism and sports, Thailand.
A press conference to announce the Visit Malaysia year 2007 campaign and celebrations will be held followed by a gala dinner hosted by the minister of tourism, Malaysia at the Royal Orchid Sheraton, Bangkok.
The coming year 2007 is meaningful to Malaysia as it marks the 50th anniversary of Malaysiaand#39;s independence. What a better way for Malaysians to celebrate this golden jubilee than to share the moment with the rest of the world!
BACKGROUNDER
Malaysia registered a total of 528,691 visitors from Thailand for the months from January to March 2006, compared to only 439,701 visitors for the same period in 2005. This is an increase of 20.2...

CITRAWARNA GIRLS
A bevy of 10 young ladies on wheels propelled Citrawarna Malaysia (Colours of Malaysia) 2006 into motion today. Billed as the Citrawarna Girls, they rode bicycles amid the hustle and bustle of the Golden Triangle in downtown Kuala Lumpur to promote the premier midyear cultural event in the Klang Valley.
Dressed in white with sun visors, the cycling team left the Malaysia Tourism Complex before noon accompanied by police outriders to clear the way for them. Moving in single file, each cyclist wore a white tshirt with a single alphabet on the back. When seen collectively, the letters emblazoned on their back spelled out the word 'CITRAWARNA'.
The Minister of Tourism, YB Datuk Seri Tengku Adnan Tengku Mansor, flags off the cycling team at the MalaysiaTourism Complex 2 They caused a minor sensation when they sailed into the traffic unused to such distractions from Jalan Ampang to Jalan Raja Chulan and Jalan Bukit Bintang. On arrival at KL Plaza, the Citrawarna Girls distributed souvenir fans bearing the Citrawarna logo to amused passersby.
After parking their bicycles, they walked and handed out more fans along the sidewalk to Lot 10 at the junction of Jalan Bukit Bintang and Jalan Sultan Ismail. Satvin Kaur, 23, one of the team members, found the experience fun and exciting. Together with her close friend, Primjit...

MALAYSIA PROMOTES MICE IN HONG KONG
The 20th International Travel Expo (ITE) Hong Kong, the premier trade exhibition in the region, has created a dedicated hall for the promotion of business and MICE travel this year. The initiation of a MICE trade section in the annual ITE indicates the high growth potential of MICE in the Asia Pacific region. Malaysiaand#39;s participation this year underlines a commitment to leisure travel and the importance that the country attaches to the MICE market.

The Malaysian delegation at ITE MICE comprises of Tourism Malaysia, Malaysia Airlines, Sabah Tourism Board, Asia Experience Tours, Asian Overland Services Tours and Travel, YTL Hotels andamp; Properties, and MINES Exhibition Management.

Tourism Malaysia together with Farrington American Express Travel Services Limited will host a luncheon seminar for invited corporate buyers. A business presentation on Malaysia as the ideal MICE destination will be presented at the ITE MICE Workshop.

Malaysiaand#39;s MICE exhibition occupies a 27-square metre pavilion at booth no. 2C01, Hall 2B of the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre from 15 to 17 June 2006

For more information, go to www.itehkmice.com.

Issued by Communications Division, Tourism Malaysia
Date: 12 June, 2006
For more information, call (6) (03) 2615 8188 or email:...

1-300-88-5050 NEW TOURISM INFOLINE

A new Tourism Infoline has been put into service with immediate effect from 7 June 2006 to provide better assistance and information to tourists.

The number, 1 300 88 5050 which was launched by the honourable Minister of Tourism, Datuk Seri Tengku Adnan Tengku Mansor at Putra World Trade Centre in Kuala Lumpur today replaces the old number, 1 300 88 5776, which will remain in service until 31 December 2006.

This new telephone number connects the caller to the nearest call centres at Tourism Malaysia offices or at Tourism Information Centres located nationwide.

The Tourism Malaysia State offices are located in; Perlis, Kedah, Perak, Negeri Sembilan, Melaka, Johor, Pahang, Terengganu, Kelantan, Sabah and Sarawak, while the Tourism Information Centres are located at:

andbull; Tanjung Puteri (Johor)
andbull; Langkawi International Airport;
andbull; Kuah, (Langkawi)
andbull; Bukit Kayu Hitam (Kedah)
andbull; Labuan (Federal Territory)
andbull; Bayan Lepas International Airport (Penang);
andbull; George Town (Penang)
andbull; Putra World Trade Centre (Kuala Lumpur)
andbull; Malaysia Tourism Centre (Jalan Ampang, Kuala Lumpur)
andbull; Visitorand#39;s Service Centre (Kuala Lumpur International Airport)
andbull; KL Sentral and
andbull; Lumut (Perak)

KELANTAN-ASIAN KITE FESTIVAL 2006

The Kelantan Tourism Information Centre (TIC) together with Kelantan
Kitefliers Association and Malaysian Kite Council are organising a KelantanAsian
Kite Festival 2006 in Pantai Seri Tujuh, Tumpat, Kelantan from 9 to 11
Jun.

The organisers hope that the kite festival can be promoted as a unique
tourism product among the local and foreign tourists visiting Kelantan.

First held in 1982 as an annual stateevent, the kite festival today
showcases kite fliers from all over the world as participants.

The Kelantan Kite Festival which was once listed as an anchor event in
the Visit Malaysia Year 1994 calendar of events highlights several main
categories. Among them are Wau Naik Tradisi Malaysia, Wau Puyuh Naik, Wau
Sobek /Cantik and Wau Barat Naik.

The threeday festival will see kitefliers from Malaysia, Singapore,
Thailand, Brunei and Indonesia showing off their skills against each other. The
winners will receive a trophy and certificate.

For more details, please contact Tourism Malaysia Kelantan at 6097477 551.

Issued by: Communications Division, Tourism Malaysia
Date: 7 June 2006
...

ASIAN MEDIA SUMMIT 2006

The Asia-Pacific Institute for Broadcasting Development (AIBD) in cooperation with its partners and international organisations is organising the Asian Media Summit (AMS) 2006 for the third consecutive year in Malaysia from 29 until 31 May at Nikko Hotel in Kuala Lumpur.
The two-day conference will provide a unique opportunity for broadcasters in the region to share their thoughts and exchange ideas on broadcasting and information.
Some 400 decision makers, media professionals, scholars and stakeholders of news and programming from Asia, Pacific, Africa, Europe, Middle East and North America are attending this annual conference. It has received full support from almost all the regional and international broadcasting unions and associations.
Among the list of sponsors are Tourism Malaysia, Friederich Ebert Foundation (FES), Malaysia Airlines, Radio Television Malaysia (RTM), France, the United Nations, UNDP, UNESCO, ITU, UN-ESCAP, UNICEF and other partners.
The AMS will be conducted in three languages viz English, French and Arabic to ensure a more meaningful communication and dialogue among key stakeholders of the broadcast industry. The conference can be viewed from all around the world through a live webcast.
For more information, please log on to the website

MALAYSIA PARTICIPATES IN ARABIAN TRAVEL MARKET

A high profile Malaysian travel trade delegation is in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, from 2 to 5 May 2006, to participate in the Arabian Travel Market (ATM), a leading tourism trade exhibition in the Middle East. YB Datuk Seri Tengku Adnan Tengku Mansor, Minister of Tourism, and YBhg. Datuk Kamaruddin Siaraf, Director General, Tourism Malaysia, is leading the delegation at the ATM 2006, underlining the importance Malaysia is attaching to the region as a potential source of tourists. It is Malaysiaand#39;s 13th year of participation in the event.
Apart from generating interest in Malaysia as a wonderful travel destination for all types of visitors, the delegation is here to launch the Visit Malaysia Year 2007 campaign in the region.
The tourism industry in Malaysia has been registering impressive growth over the last few years. The total number of tourist arrivals reached 16.4 million in 2005 with receipts estimated at a whopping USD 8.72 billion. The number of visitors from the Gulf region has risen phenomenally over the last few years, which explains Tourism Malaysiaand#39;s enthusiasm to woo more visitors from here.
As far as this region is concerned, Malaysia registered 147,646 visitors from here during 2005, which is a 17.1 per cent increase compared to the same period the previous year. Tourist arrivals from UAE were recorded at 29,606, an...

HOLIDAY ANYTIME, ANYWHERE

'Breakaway is just a moment away' reminds you to take a holiday from time to time throughout the year.
This tagline of the new TV campaign by Tourism Malaysia to promote local destinations in the country airs over national and cable TV stations namely TV1, TV2, TV3, NTV7, 8TV and ASTRO from 27 April 2006.
At the same time, it prepares Malaysians for the coming Visit Malaysia Year (VMY) 2007 which coincides with the 50th anniversary of nationhood.
YB Datuk Seri Tengku Adnan Tengku Mansor, Minister of Tourism, believes the launch is timely. According to him, 'Travel as a lifestyle is a worldwide phenomenon. The hectic pace of the workplace creates stress and we need to find time to unwind. What better place than in your own country where you have almost everything for a truly relaxing time.'
The 90-second commercial will be shortened to a 40second version following the launch and more than 400 slots will be aired through December 2006.
The TV commercial shot on location in both Peninsular and East Malaysia features different scenarios depicting different target groups to grab the attention of viewers.
The commercial ends with the logo of VMY 2007 to familiarize Malaysians, to build up the spirit and excitement of VMY 2007 and to prepare Malaysians to...

PROMOTION IN GULF COUNTRIES

The Deputy Director General of Tourism Malaysia, YBhg. Datin Dalilah Ahmad, heads a sales mission to the Gulf countries from 27 April until 11 May 2006. The delegation will visit Yemen, United Arab Emirates, Oman and Bahrain to promote Malaysia as a tourist destination, as well as to launch the Visit Malaysia Year 2007 campaign in the region.
In Dubai, UAE, the delegation will participate in the Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2006 from 2 until 5 May. Tourism Minister, YBM Datuk Seri Tengku Adnan Tengku Mansor, and Tourism Malaysiaand#39;s Director General, YBhg. Datuk Kamaruddin Siaraf, will join the delegation for the ATM 2006.
The delegation comprises senior officers from Tourism Malaysia and state tourism boards, travel agents, hotel operators, and representatives from the Malaysian travel industry. As many as 46 hotels, 25 travel agencies and 10 tourism-related bodies/agencies will participate in the ATM 2006.
The Malaysian delegation will travel through the Gulf countries before and after the ATM 2006 to make courtesy visits to representatives at various tourism boards, airlines, tour agencies, and the media.
The participants of the delegation will also take part in a travel mart in each country to promote Malaysiaand#39;s tourism products. Tourism presentations and media conferences will be held for the tourism and...

KAPAS-MARANG INTERNATIONAL SWIMATHON 2006, TERENGGANU

The fourth KapasMarang International Swimathon 2006 from 22 until 23
April 2006 is held in conjunction with the Water Festival Month celebrations.
Some 160 participants from nine countries - Japan, United Kingdom, Thailand,
Denmark, Hong Kong, Ukraine, Singapore, Taiwan and Malaysia - are taking
part in the event, organised by the Terengganu State Government and the
Terengganu State Tourism Action Council, with the cooperation of Trisportz
Event Management Sdn Bhd.

The race covers 6.5km of open sea swimming from Pulau Kapas to
Kelulut beach in Marang, Terengganu. The event will be flagged off by YB Datoand#39;
Mohamed bin Awang Tera, State Industrial Development and Tourism committee
chairman, on 23 April at 7:30 am in Pulau Kapas.

Among the celebrated participants in this yearand#39;s race is Kimberly Yap Fui
Li from Sarawak, overall winner in the KapasMarang
International Swimathon 2005, who holds the current record of 1:26:16. Brian Then Yee Chiat of Penang and Eugene Chan Wai Yong of Kuala Lumpur are also returning to defend their
titles in the Menand#39;s (1219 years) and Menand#39;s (2039 years) categories respectively.
Daniel Bego, the Sea Games 2005 gold medallist, is expected to race in the Menand#39;s (1219
years) category.

To liven...

SQUID CATCHING COMPETITION 2006

The Terengganu State Government together with the Terengganu State Tourism Action Council and Persatuan PengusahaPengusaha Resort Kepulauan Redang are organising the 12 th Squid Jigging Competition (Pesta Candat Sotong) 2006 in Redang Island, Terengganu, from 5 to 7 May.
The organisers hope that the squid catching competition can be a unique and attractive event among local and foreign tourists visiting Terengganu, especially the Redang archipelago.
First held in 1991, squid catching is an annual folk activity in the State of Terengganu. After nine years of holding the event in Kapas Island, the venue has now being moved to Redang Island.
This yearand#39;s Squid Catching Competition is in conjunction with the launching of the Squid Catching Month 2006.
The two-day competition will be held from 5 until 7 May. The competition requires participants to catch within one nautical mile of the Marine Park Reserve in Redang Island.
A total of RM4,550 in prize money await the winners of the competition which is divided into individual and group categories.
Squid catching is a trademark activity of Terengganu creating opportunities for tour agencies, operators, resorts, hoteliers and everyone in the hospitality industry.
For...

CELEBRATING SONGKRAN IN KELANTAN

With a large Siamese population concentrated in the Tumpat area, itand#39;s no wonder that the Siamese festival of Songkran is celebrated with much zest in Kelantan state.

The Songkran festival, held on the fifteenth day of the fifth month of the lunar calendar during the full moon period, is a new year celebration among the Siamese. This year, the Siamese community in Kelantan celebrates the occasion on 14 April at the Sukhontharam temple in Tumpat. Among the events lined up are traditional dances and cultural performances, a Miss Songkran parade, and friendly water fights!

During the Songkran festival, many people usually splash water at others in good fun but there is more to it than that. In Kelantan, it is a day for Buddhists to do good deeds and receive blessings. Kelantan Buddhists visit temples with offerings of alms such as clothes, food and money to the monks and the poor.

They also participate in bathing ceremonies to clean Buddha images and the temple compounds. It is believed that the cleansing ceremony is a chance for Buddhists to start life on the new year with a clean slate as well as to purge the bad deeds and sins of the previous year.

A special ceremony to bathe the Buddha images and Buddhist monks is also held on this day. To start the occasion, the chief monk will first bathe the Buddha images. He will then sit below a canopy of white cloth surrounded by...

KELANTAN SALES MISSION TO PROMOTE DOMESTIC TRAVEL
Tourism Malaysia is leading a Domestic Sales Mission to
Kelantan from 4 until 9 April 2006. Activities during the sales
mission include a travel mart for the tourism trade players as well as
a consumer fair for the public.

The travel mart session, scheduled on 6 April at Renaissance
Hotel, Kota Bharu, will be officiated by YBhg. Datoand#39; Kamaruddin
Siaraf, Director General of Tourism Malaysia. A total of 150
sellers comprising representatives from selected hotels, travel
agencies and tourism product operators from Kuala Lumpur,
Selangor, Putrajaya, Sabah, Perak, Pahang, Johor, Melaka and
Negeri Sembilan are participating in the travel mart. They will have a
chance to network and develop their business with some 160 buyers
comprising travel agents, hoteliers, tour operators and large
corporations from Kelantan and Terengganu.

The CutiCuti
Malaysia (CCM) Travel Fair, a consumer fair
aimed at promoting domestic travel packages to the public, will be
held from 7 until 8 April at KB Mall, a main shopping attraction in
Kota Bharu, Kelantan. The public can expect many exciting and
valueformoney
holiday packages on offer.

During the fair, the public will also be entertained with cultural
performances such as...

SPECIAL HOTEL PACKAGES 2006

The Hon. Minister of Tourism, Malaysia, YBM Datuk Seri
Tengku Adnan Tengku Mansor launched the Special Hotel
Packages 2006 booklet in Kuala Lumpur on 30 March 2006.

The booklet is published by Tourism Malaysia with the
collaboration of the Malaysia Association of Hotels (MAH) and
sponsored by Malayan Banking Berhad. The Special Hotel
Packages 2006 booklet showcases a wide range of valueformoney
hotel package offers. It is a useful guide for tourists to plan
their dream holidays during offpeak
seasons throughout the year.

Malaysia welcomes tourists from all over the world and
hopes that they can also visit the country during the offpeak
season and enjoy attractive accommodation rates and other
exciting perks offered by the local hotels.

To get more detailed information, please log on to
www.tourismmalaysia.gov.my, www.hotels.org.myor
www.maybank2u.com.my.

The launch of the booklet was held in conjunction with the
Visit Malaysia Year 2007 campaign launched in January this year.
______________________________________________________________

BID FOR PM INTERNATIONAL LEADERSHIP CONVENTION 2007
Tourism Malaysia is leading a 50member
delegation to Karlsruhe,
Germany, to bid for the PM International Leadership Convention 2007, a
major biannual
event. If successful, Malaysia will be the first country outside
Europe to host a PM International Convention.

The Malaysian delegation led by YBhg. Datin Dalilah Ahmad, the
Deputy Director General II, Tourism Malaysia, includes Mr. C.K. Yung,
president and CEO of PM Wellness (M) Sdn Bhd, senior tourism officials,
Malaysia Airlines representatives, top PM Wellness distributors, cultural
dancers and several media representatives.

While in Germany from 4 until 9 April 2006, the delegation will market
Malaysia as an international convention and tourist destination. The efforts
comprise the bid presentation, a Malaysian information counter and a culturalbased
programme. Malaysiaand#39;s promotional efforts are expected to reach out
to some 6,000 delegates present at the bid event.

Background
PM International, established in 1993, is a worldwide wellness
company based in Germany with operations in 20 countries including Austria,
Australia, Bulgaria, Switzerland, Germany, Spain, Finland, France, UK,
Iceland, Italy, Luxemburg, Latvia, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Russian

WINNERS OF THE MALAYSIA INTERNATIONAL MEDIA HUNT 2006
Participants from Sweden and Finland emerged the champion team of the recently concluded Malaysia International Media Hunt 2006. Driven and assisted by Mr. Perwira Sulaiman, a Malaysian media member, the car passengers included Mr. Esko Asvik of Finland, and Mr. Tibor Barany and Mr.
Jan Johanston of Sweden. They obtained the highest points in the four stages of the media hunt.

The first runnerup team comprised participants from Cambodia, Mr. Keo Samnang and Mr. Tep Vannak. The car was driven by Ms. Majidah Hashim, a Malaysian travel writer. Participants from the United Kingdom, Mr. Scott Fletcher, Mr. James Pollard, Ms. Kate Plak, together with their driver, Mr. A.K. Rahmat Kassim, a Tourism Malaysia senior officer, clinched the third place.

The inaugural Malaysia International Media Hunt 2006 was flagged off by the Hon. Minister of Tourism, YBM Datuk Seri Tengku Adnan Tengku Mansor, in the Boulevard of Putrajaya at 8.30 am on 6 March 2006.

This international media hunt from 5 to 11 March 2006 was a motoring journey through five states in Peninsular Malaysia, starting from Putrajaya to Selangor, Perak, Kedah and Penang.

A total of 117 foreign participants comprising media members from 30 countries took part in this media hunt. The participants were from Indonesia, Singapore, Brunei, Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia, China, Taiwan, Korea, Japan, India, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Qatar,...

MALAYSIA INTERNATIONAL MEDIA HUNT 2006

Some 16 Malaysian media representatives are also participating in the
media hunt to forge a closer relationship with their counterparts from the
visiting international media.The inaugural Malaysia International Media Hunt 2006 was flagged off
by the Hon. Minister of Tourism, YBM Datuk Seri Tengku Adnan Tengku
Mansor, in the Boulevard of Putrajaya at 8.30 am on 6 March 2006.

This international media hunt from 5 to 11 March 2006 is a motoring
journey through five states in Peninsular Malaysia, starting from Putrajaya to
Selangor, Perak, Kedah and Penang.

A total of 117 foreign participants comprising media members from 30
countries are taking part in this media hunt. The participants are from
Indonesia, Singapore, Brunei, Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia, China, Taiwan,
Korea, Japan, India, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Qatar, UAE, Australia, South Africa,
United States, Canada, United Kingdom, Sweden, Denmark, Russia, Italy,
Turkey, France, Spain, Germany, Switzerland and Netherlands.

Some 16 Malaysian media representatives are also participating in the
media hunt to forge a closer relationship with their counterparts from the
visiting international media.

The Ministry, together with Tourism Malaysia, hosted a welcome dinner
for all the...

MICHAEL WONG APPOINTED TOURISM AMBASSADOR
Popular singercomposer and actor Michael Wong has been
appointed the tourism ambassador for Tourism Malaysiaand#39;s East
Asia market. The official announcement was made during a press
conference held on 19 February 2006 for 100 Chinese media
representatives who arrived for a familiarization trip to Malaysia.

It is part of Tourism Malaysiaand#39;s ongoing efforts to promote
the country as a preferred destination for mainland Chinese
tourists through aggressive marketing campaigns and road shows
in the East Asia region.

Known for his personable charm and musical talent, Wong
will appear in television commercials featuring Malaysian
landscapes and tourist attractions for broadcast throughout various
countries in the East Asia region.

The 36yearold celebrity hails from Ipoh, Perak. His
association with music started at the tender age of six when he
began piano lessons. By 14, he was already composing songs and
an active member in the church choir.

Wongand#39;s first solo album titled 'First Time' released in 2001
has sold more than 800,000 copies in Asia and the title song has
remained in the popularity charts in China for over three years.
Besides singing, Wong has starred in various...

TOURISM SALES MISSION TO INDIA

Tourism Malaysia is spearheading a tourism sales mission to India led by its Deputy Director-General (I) Mirza Mohamad Taiyab to capitalize on the continuing growth of the Indian outbound sector from 19 February to 5 March 2006. The delegation will visit New Delhi, Kolkata, Mumbai, Pune, Goa, Ahmedabad, Bangalore, Hyderabad and Chennai to promote Malaysia as a top-of-the-mind tourist destination in the region.

The objectives of the sales mission are to further strengthen the presence of Malaysia in the market, and particularly to support the new advertising campaign launched last year and publicise the coming Visit Malaysia Year 2007.

At the same time, the exercise will further develop the market and promote Malaysia as a profitable holiday destination to Indian tourists and update the Indian travel trade industry about new tourism products, packages and attractions.

For the participants from the Malaysian private sector in the mission, it is an ideal platform to enhance networking with their Indian counterparts.

The delegation comprises officials from the Ministry of Tourism, Tourism Malaysia, travel agents, hotel operators, and representatives from the Immigration Department of Malaysia and Malaysia Airlines. Also accompanying them are a troupe of folk musicians and a batik designer.

The activities of the tourism roadshow include visits to the Visa...

MALAYSIA HOSTS 100 CHINESE MEDIA

A total of one hundred media from various parts of China will get a firsthand experience of ecotourism
in Taman Negara, Malaysiaand#39;s oldest National Park this week as part of Tourism Malaysiaand#39;s efforts to increase awareness and create a positive outlook for Malaysia in the China market. The media are from Xian, Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Kunming, Xiamen, Chengdu and Hong Kong and are invited to Malaysia as guests of the Ministry of Tourism and Tourism Malaysia.

Among the activities lined up for them include an immersion workshop in Taman Negara with the Director General of Tourism Malaysia, Datoand#39; Kamaruddin Siaraf. They will be staying at Mutiara
Taman Negara Resort and try out the jungle night walk. There would also be briefings by the tourism police, Pahang Tourism Action Council, Malaysia Airlines and Tourism Malaysia.

The group will also have a chance to visit Sabah, Sarawak, Langkawi, Genting Highlands, Penang, Kuala Lumpur, Melaka and Pulau Pangkor. They will be in Malaysia for one to two weeks.

Issued by: Communications Division, Tourism Malaysia
Date: 16 February 2006
...

HARVEY WORLD INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE IN KUALA LUMPUR
About 650 delegates from the international travel industry attended the 23rd Harvey World International Conference held at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre from 3 to 5 February.

Harvey World Travel, the largest retail travel agency franchise in the Southern Hemisphere, has over 500 offices throughout Australia, New Zealand, the United States of America, South Africa, Europe and the United Kingdom.

The 3-day conference consisted of exhibitions, workshops, business presentations and networking sessions. The event was supported by the Ministry of Tourism and Tourism Malaysia.

The Minister of Tourism, YB Datuk Dr. Leo Michael Toyad, addressed the delegates at the opening ceremony on 3 February. The Ministry, together with Tourism Malaysia, also hosted a cultural-themed welcome dinner for the delegates that same evening at Seri Melayu Restaurant. Guests were entertained with Malaysian traditional music and cultural activities such as henna tattooing, batik painting and fortune telling.

The Harvey World Travel International Conference is one of many events that the Ministry has successfully brought to Malaysia in efforts to promote Malaysia as a MICE destination.

Issued by: Communications Division, Tourism Malaysia
Date: 7 February, 2006
For further information, please contact
Ms. Anis Rozalina Ramli at (603) 2615 8188 or e-mail:...

HEALTH TOURISM PORTAL

The health tourism portal being developed by Tropical Flow Sdn. Bhd.,
a privately owned company based in Malaysia, has received the support of
Tourism Malaysia.

The dedicated portal aims to draw together information related to
health tourism in a single platform. Currently, health tourism is promoted by
individual healthcare providers or medical groups.

The portal will be the first comprehensive initiative to manage all
aspects of health tourism, i.e. healthcare, wellness, tourism, hospitality and
travel. It aims to be the channel to integrate and network all parties involved,
i.e. travellers seeking healthcare solutions, healthcare providers, wellness
centres, tourism product operators and ground handlers.

The contents of the portal feature medical and nonmedical
information, calendar of events, language translators, currency converters,
testimonies, ecommerce and onlinebooking facilities, 24hour virtual
information centre, and integration with partner sites.

Malaysia is in a good position to promote health tourism due to the
quality and affordability of its healthcare services, the expertise of highlyqualified
medical specialists, and the availability of modern, high tech facilities
and equipment.

MIDDLE EAST AND NORTH AFRICA GROUP IN MALAYSIA

A total of 150 journalists, tour consultants and corporate agents from Middle
East and North Africa are in Malaysia to experience the culture, food and tourist
attractions in Malaysia from 18 until 23 December, 2005.

They are here under Tourism Malaysiaand#39;s invitation for the 'Make It Malaysia'
(MIM) programme to promote Malaysia as a topofmind
destination for vacations.
The participants are from Algeria, Lebanon, Yemen, Syria, Qatar, Tunisia, Libya,
Kuwait, Egypt, United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Morocco, Iran, Oman and
Bahrain.

The programme entails tours to various parts of Malaysia, i.e. Langkawi,
Melaka, Kuala Lumpur, Kelantan, Terengganu, Penang, Pahang and Johor. There
are also seminars to introduce the group to the Malaysia My Second Home and
Wellness Tourism programmes, the Formula 1 and FEI World Cup Final Jumping
events, as well as other tourism products of interest to the Middle East market.

A travel mart is also scheduled for the group to network, discuss potential
partnerships and develop travel packages with 53 local sellers comprising hotel
representatives, travel agents, tourism product operators and state governments.

The MIM programme is a unique platform for the foreign travel industry
frontliners...

ASEAN TOURISM INVESTMENT FORUM

The ASEAN Tourism Investment Forum to be held on 9 December 2005 in conjunction with the 11 th ASEAN Summit at the Legend Hotel, Kuala Lumpur will provide a platform for the exchange of ideas and to discuss tourism investment opportunities in the region.
The topics that will be presented by the international panel of speakers include the following:
Challenges andamp; Opportunities for Tourism Investment in ASEAN
Overcoming the Impediments for Tourism Investment
Public andamp; Private Sector Partnership for Tourism Investment in ASEAN
Investment Opportunities in Niche Market within ASEAN
Financing Tourism Investment Projects.
The forum is freeofcharge and open to the public. Players in the travel and leisure industry, particularly investors from the private sector, are invited to book their seats offered on a firstcome, firstserved basis.
Those interested to attend can contact Mr. Rudy Khairudin (Tel:603-2696 3136 or email: rudy@motour.gov.my) at the organising secretariat, Ministry of...

?MAKE IT MALAYSIA PROGRAMME

A total of 92 participants comprising captains of the travel industry, media from the United Kingdom, Scandinavia and Russia are taking part in the 'Make It Malaysia' programme from 30 November to 8 December 2005.

As part of the promotional activities organised by Tourism Malaysiaand#39;s International Promotion Division, the participants will be touring Penang, Kedah, Langkawi, Selangor, Kuala Lumpur and Putrajaya. This activity is supported by Malaysia Airlines, Hertz Rent- A-Car, the respective statesand#39; authorities , PLUS (North South Highway Project Authority), Tourist Police and Traffic Police Unit and other supporting organizations.

The 'Make It Malaysia' programme is expected to generate a closer relationship between the travel trade partners. Media attendees and frontliners from Europe will get first-hand experience about tourism products and updated information about holiday destinations to enable them to market Malaysia more convincingly.

The concept of this programme is fly and drive and participants are given the opportunity to drive their own vehicle at certain locations covering Penang, Perak and Selangor. Some 20 Malaysian-made cars namely Proton Waja and Naza Ria will be provided for the participants and the participating cars are required to travel in a convoy. This will enable them to get the taste of traveling in Malaysia by car and enjoy andlsquo;off the beaten trackand#39;...

?MAKE IT MALAYSIA PROGRAMME IN LANGKAWI

The 'Make It Malaysia' programme in Langkawi, Kedah, on 25 th
November 2005 is another effort to promote Malaysia, and Langkawi
especially, as a topofmind
destination for vacations.

Held for the first time, it provides a unique platform for the travel
industry frontliners to get to know Malaysia, and Langkawi in particular, better.
A total of 163 representatives comprising members of the media, tour
consultancies and corporate guests from Germany, Netherlands, Austria,
Eastern Europe, France, Croatia, Turkey, Italy, Bosnia Herzegovina, Serbia
and Spain are taking part in this programme.

The 'Make It Malaysia' programme is expected to generate closer
industry relationships between the travel trade partners. Media attendees and
frontliners from Europe will get firsthand
experience about tourism products
and updated information on holiday destinations to enable them to market
Malaysia more convincingly.

During the Travel Mart session on 25 th November 2005, buyers and
sellers will discuss and exchange views and new ideas to create more
exciting packages for tourists. Pretour
activities are also being arranged for
all the participants.

Apart from Tourism Malaysia, representatives from the...

MONSOON CUP 2005 IN MALAYSIA

Watch the worldand#39;s fastest sailboats compete for the Monsoon Cup 2005 at Pulau Duyung, Terengganu, from 29 November to 4 December 2005.

This inaugural race in Malaysia part of the Swedish Match Tour, the worldand#39;s leading professional sailing series. The event in Malaysia marks the fourth of the ninestage series which began in Portugal in July this year and ends in Sweden in July 2006.

The Monsoon Cup 2005, the 50 th official event of the Swedish Match Tour, will pit top sailors against each other. They include twotime Swedish Match Tour sailing champion Australian Peter Gilmour, New Zealander Russell Coutts, and Englishmen Ian Williams and Ben Ainslie. A total of 12 teams will vie for the RM400,000 cash prize.

Started in 2000, the Swedish Match Tour aims to unite the worldand#39;s best match race regattas under one banner. It attracts professional skippers with experience gained at the Olympics and world championships, earning much international coverage and publicity for the events. An overall match sailing champion is crowned at the end of the year.

Match racing is the Formula 1 of sailing, where two identical yachts compete in an intricate oneonone
duel to gain the leading position on a short racecourse. The first across the line of two laps
is the winner. The short route means the races are quick, thus placing emphasis on boat handling and...

PULAU RAWA INCIDENT
The Hon. Minister of Tourism has expressed deepest regrets
over the misbehaviour of several unruly persons during the
wedding dinner of Andre D. Stein and Simone Ribeiro at Rawa
Safaris Island Resort on Pulau Rawa. He conveyed heartfelt
apologies to the couple and their guests who sustained injuries
in and were traumatised by the recent incident.

YB Datuk Dr. Leo Michael Toyad said, 'We are truly shocked to
hear that this has happened in a Malaysian tourist resort island.'

He added that the matter is now a police case to be investigated
thoroughly and those found guilty of mischief will be brought to
justice.

The Hon. Minister assures all tourists that this unfortunate
incident is an isolated case and that Malaysia remains a safe
place for tourists. According to him, the incident goes against
the very grain of the ancient tradition of warmth and friendliness
in the country.

_____________________________________________________
Issued by: The Ministry of Tourism, Malaysia
Date: 19 October 2005
_____________________________________________________...

KUALA LUMPUR ASIA FASHION WEEK 2005

The Kuala Lumpur-Asia Fashion Week 2005 (KLAFW) launched
at the Aseana Galleria, Suria KLCC, was attended by representatives
of the 16 participating Asian countries, tourism officials, KLAFW
partners, fashion professionals and members of the media.

Guests were treated to a fashion show featuring six Asian labels
including Ghea, Miloand#39;s, Rizalman, Sarong, Tom Abang Saufi and Farah
Khan.

YB Datuk Dr. Victor Wee, SecretaryGeneral, Ministry of Tourism,
read the launch speech on behalf of Hon. Datuk Dr. Leo Michael
Toyad, Minister of Tourism, who said, 'Through events such as this
and with the help of our talented designers, we hope that Kuala
Lumpur will one day be regarded as the fashion hub of Asia and be
included in the roll call of distinguished fashion cities of the world
such as New York, London, Paris, Milan and Tokyo.'

Fully supported by the Ministry of Tourism and Tourism Malaysia,
KLAFW was founded to encourage the growth and development of
the fashion industry in Asia and, in particular, Southeast Asia.

Groundbreaking in idea and achievement, KLAFW first took to stage
last year, at Avenue K, the official venue, to 81 designers from 13
Asian countries - a feat never before accomplished at any other

BUKA PUASA TREAT FOR MEDIA

In conjunction with the holy month of Ramadan, Tourism Malaysia, the agency of the Ministry of Tourism hosted a 'buka puasa' treat for the local media and some 50 orphans at Pan Pacific Hotel in Kuala Lumpur tonight.
The event is in line with the Ministryand#39;s commitment to serve the needs of the community and foster closer ties with the media.
Delicious traditional Malay dishes awaited the media guests and the children from Rumah Anak Yatim Kampung Damai in Kuang, Selangor.
Minister of Tourism Datuk Dr Leo Michael Toyad distributed duit raya and gifts to the happy children. Among the sponsors were Naga DDB, WellAd Communications, ISC-TBWA, Bloomingdale Advertising, Perunding Pakar Media and Faber Castell Sdn Bhd.
Issued by: Communications Division
Date: 6 October 2005
...

THE OFFICIAL LAUNCH OF BAZAAR RAMADAN 2005

The annual Bazaar Ramadan which is celebrated nationwide in Malaysia will be officially launched by YAB Datoand#39; Seri Idris Bin Jusoh, Chief Minister of Terengganu and YB Datuk Dr. Leo Michael Toyad, Minister of Tourism, Malaysia at Taman Shahbandar in Kuala Terengganu, Terengganu Darul Iman, at 5.00 pm on 7 October 2005.
Jointly organized by the Ministry of Tourism, Malaysia, and the Terengganu State Government, this official launch will also be graced by distinguished guests from local and foreign countries. The highlights for the event will be nasyid songs performed by Yassin and the Rabbani Group to entertain the crowd. There will be also a free distribution of Bubur Lambuk Terengganu, a local popular porridge delicacy, to members of the public.
The Buka Puasa Ceremony (Break Fast) will be held at the Abidin Mosque. Members of the public, irrespective of their religious backgrounds, are cordially invited to join the break fast ceremony with the Muslims.
In Malaysia, the Malays, the Chinese, Indians, Eurasians and other indigenous groups retain and nurture their individual customs, traditions and religions but exist in...

BAZAAR RAMADAN 2005

There is no better time for locals and tourists to titillate taste buds than by touring the various buka puasa (breaking of fast) spots and trying out the various delicacies each site offers during the month-long Bazaar Ramadan held throughout the country.
Ramadan is a fasting month for Muslims all over the world. During this month, Muslims perform their obligatory abstinence from food and drink from dawn to dusk. In Malaysia, when one thinks of Ramadan, the array of food at the accompanying bazaar comes to mind. Many do not mind lining up as early as 4pm to make their purchases.
In Malaysia this year, the Bazaar Ramadan will be held during the fasting month from 5 October to 2 November. The official nationwide launch is on 7 October at Taman Shahbandar in Kuala Terengganu, Terengganu.
As in previous years, there will be a variety of delicacies and freshly baked treats to tempt the eye from basketfuls of kuih (local 1 cake) assortment to rows of side dishes to complement a family dinner.
The Ministry of Tourism has identified the Bazaar Ramadan as the time when tourists can join Muslims and non-Muslims alike to savour authentic Malay dishes offered by street vendors and restaurants in hotels throughout the fasting month.
Food aside, the bazaar also...

KUDOS FOR 'Malaysia: Truly Asia' CAMPAIGN

Tourism Malaysia won four gold and one silver international awards for its advertising campaign at the prestigious Hospitality Sales and Marketing Association International (HSMAI) Adrian Awards 2004 competition in New York.

The award-winning entries were among 1,350 entries from 45 countries. They form part of Tourism Malaysiaand#39;s current TV and print 'Malaysia: Truly Asia' campaign launched in July 2004 that has received wide recognition.

The Prime Minister, Y.A.B. Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi has mentioned that through the 'Malaysia: Truly Asia' campaign, Malaysia has become one of the worldand#39;s prime must-visit destinations.

In the increasingly competitive area of destination marketing, the campaign was commended by world-renowned brand 'gurus' such as Al Ries, Jack Trout and Paul Temporal.

Issued by: Communications Division, Tourism Malaysia
Date: 16 September 2005
...

KAMPUNG SUNGAI HAJI DORANI HOMESTAY PROGRAMME

Kampung Sungai Haji Dorani (Sungai Haji Dorani Village)
located in Sabak Bernam, Selangor, is a dream village surrounded by
endless squares of paddy fields and rows of centuryold
canals.

This quaint little settlement of 2,000 inhabitants is perfect for
visitors seeking respite from the hustle and bustle of city life. It offers
a unique insight into a rice farming communityand#39;s way of life, culture
and traditions.

Founded in 1916, Kampung Sungai Haji Dorani is steeped in
history. The irrigation canals built by the British for the rice fields
about 100 years ago are still in good condition and lend a rustic look
to the lush yellowgreen village of wooden houses amid rice fields.

Some 40 families are involved in the homestay programme in
Kampung Sungai Haji Dorani since its inception eight years ago. The
villagers are mostly of Malay, Javanese and Banjar descent. To date,
the village has become a preferred destination for tourists from
Europe, Japan, Korea, Middle East and Singapore.

The villagers normally welcome their homestay guests with a
fresh green coconut drink and teach them the Javanese word kabarekabare
which means 'how are you' in English. As part of the
welcome gesture, guests are given the...

MALAYSIA CELEBRATES 48 YEARS OF INDEPENDENCE
It is another big and elaborate Merdeka (Independence) commemoration this year as Malaysia celebrates 48 years of independence.

This yearand#39;s Merdeka Celebration kicked off with Raise the Jalur Gemilang Flag Campaign on 17 August at Danga Bay in Johor. The campaign sparked off a series of festive events throughout the nation before its eventual closing a month later on 16 September 2005 in Jitra, Kedah.

The national level Independence Countdown will be held at Dataran Merdeka from 5pm to 2am midnight on 30 August. A host of activities have been prepared to reflect the national spirit of patriotism, unity in diversity, progress and prosperity. As with previous celebrations, the theme is Keranamu Malaysia (Because of You Malaysia).

Merdeka eve will also be celebrated in a joyous mood at the Konsert Merdeka KLCC 2005 at 9pm on 30 August 2005. The Hon. Prime Minister Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi will grace the occasion together with other dignitaries.

Popular local artistes, including Akademi Fantasia 3 star Mawi and recording artises like Anuar Zain, Afdlin Shauki, KRU, Norazniza Idris, Zainal Abidin, Amy of Search and Poetic Ammo will perform at the concert which will be broadcast live on the Astro RIA channel and ERA radio network. The organizers are expecting more than 300,000 spectators to join the concert at KLCC in Kuala Lumpur.

The Malaysian flag will...

MALAYSIA PROMOTION IN NEPAL
This trend will be helped by Air Nepal Internationaland#39;s recent
introduction of direct flights to Kuala Lumpur from Kathmandu on
24 July 2005. The carrier is currently operating thrice weekly to
and from Kuala Lumpur on Monday, Tuesday and Thursday using
a widebodied B767300 aircraft.In conjunction with Malaysiaand#39;s National Day
celebration, Tourism Malaysia is organising a Food andamp; Cultural Promotion
in Kathmandu, Nepal, from 30 August to 8 September 2005 at
the Cafandeacute; Restaurant in Hyatt Regency Kathmandu.

The promotion is held with the cooperation of Air Nepal
International, Hyatt Regency Kathmandu Hotel, the Malaysian
Embassy in Nepal, the Himalayan Times, Annapurna Post as the
official media together with travel agencies in Nepal, namely Marco
Polo Travels and J andamp; T Associates.

H.E. Mahinder Singh a/l Ram Singh, the Malaysian Ambassador in
Nepal, will launch the Food andamp; Cultural Promotion at the Regency
Ballroom on 31 August. Invitees include travel industry players
from the corporate sector, media, diplomats and travel agents.

Visitors to the Food andamp; Cultural Promotion will view the 'Malaysia,
the Heart of South East Asia' video, enjoy cultural performances
by the Istana Budaya cultural troupe,...

ROYAL VISIT TO MALAYSIA PAVILION AT WORLD EXPO 2005

His Imperial Highness Crown Prince Naruhito of Japan visited the Malaysia Pavilion at the ongoing World Exposition in Aichi, Japan on Thursday afternoon, 25 August 2005. He was received on arrival by the Hon. Datuk Dr. Leo Michael Toyad, Minister of Tourism, Malaysia; H.E. Datuk Marzuki Mohammad Noor, the Malaysian Ambassador to Japan; YBhg Datuk Dr. Victor Wee, the Secretary-General, Ministry of Tourism.
HIH Crown Prince Naruhito spent a good half an hour conversing with the heads of the Malaysian delegation and inspecting the exhibits from 14:19 to 14:49 hrs.
The World Expo promotes intercultural exchange among participants from around the globe. Officially opened by the Emperor of Japan at the Expo Global Hall on 24 March, the Expo runs for 185 days from 25 March to 25 September 2005. The Malaysia Pavilion at the Expo is managed by the Ministry of Tourism and Tourism Malaysia as part of the continuing efforts to promote the country internationally.
Themed 'Truly Natural, Infinitely Harmonious', the Malaysia Pavilion is located at the Global Common 6 (Oceania andamp; Southeast Asia) area. Behind the impressive front faandccedil;ade, fascinating experiences await within. Its design dominated by an archway shaped like a giant wau or Malaysian kite is set against a...

HAZE SITUATION IN MALAYSIA

The Ministry of Tourism is closely monitoring the haze situation that has recently emerged in the last few days. The haze is localized to specific areas along the Klang Valley where the air quality is reported to be poor and visibility is somewhat limited.

In the interest of public health safety, the Malaysian Government has declared a haze emergency at two places, namely Kuala Selangor and Port Klang, which are located over 40km and 60km respectively from Kuala Lumpur.

The haze situation is believed to be temporary and expected to change within the next few days with the shift in wind and weather conditions. The Ministry of Tourism will continue to issue regular updates on the haze situation.

Other than these localized areas, the rest of the country is haze-free. The air quality is good in Penang, Langkawi, the East Coast of Peninsular Malaysia as well as Sarawak and Sabah. Holidaymakers to the Klang Valley are advised to re-route their travel plans to these destinations.

At Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA), visibility is good up to over 1,200 metres for flights to land as usual. All flights are still arriving and departing as scheduled.

Here are some useful tips for tourists as guidelines whilst vacationing in Malaysia.

andbull;Limit all unnecessary outdoor activities
andbull; Always wash/bathe as soon as you...

8.16 MILLION TOURIST ARRIVALS IN FIRST HALF OF 2005

Malaysia recorded a total of 8,167,798 tourist arrivals in first half of 2005, indicating signs of a continuous stream of tourists to the country.

Cumulatively, the tourist arrivals recorded from January to June 2005 stands at 8,167,798 compared to 7,889,344 tourist arrivals for the same period in 2004, representing an increase of 3.5%.

At a glance, Malaysia has been recording a steady average of some 1.3 million foreign visitors per month. During March 2005, Malaysia registered 1,419,275 visitors, the highest ever recorded in a month. It was an increase of 11.4% compared to last yearand#39;s March figure of 1,274,039 visitors.

This year, the arrivals registered in January were (1,394,032), February (1,346,550), April (1,317,749), May (1,351,141) and June (1,339,051).

Despite the widespread fear of bird flu, dengue fever and recurring earthquakes in the region, Malaysiaand#39;s tourism industry is heading in a positive direction.

The top ten tourist generating markets for first half of 2005 are Singapore (4,899,663), Thailand (931,216), Indonesia (452,727), Brunei (245,020), Japan (158,065), China (148,623), Australia (131,579), United Kingdom (120,413), India (116,082) and Taiwan (72,188).

Double digit growth was recorded for arrivals from South Korea (110.1%), Australia (33.5%), Thailand (27.2%), Indonesia (19.8%), India (26.0%),...

DATUK DR.LEO MICHAEL TOYAD-'MALAYSIA MEGA SALE CARNIVAL ONE OF THE MAIN CONTRIBUTORS TO NATIONAL ECONOMY '

GREAT BARGAINS
During the launch, shoppers were treated to experience a carnivallike
atmosphere as early as11am at IKANO Power Centre and the Curve where
various exciting activities, games and contests were linedup
throughout the day.The Malaysia Mega Sale Carnival 2005 Official Launch was officiated by the Hon. Datuk Dr. Leo Michael Toyad, the Minister of Tourism, Malaysia at IKANO Power Centre and the Curve in Mutiara Damansara, Petaling Jaya, Selangor on Saturday, 23 July.

The Malaysia Mega Sale Carnival held annually is one of the main economic contributors to the country drawing more tourists to visit Malaysia each year. Speaking at the official launch in Mutiara Damansara tonight, the honourable minister is confident that Kuala Lumpur will be at par with other major shopping cities and as a leading fashion hub in the world. In his speech, Dr. Toyad said
that, during the monthlong Mega Sale Carnival, shoppers will be enthralled to discover unbelievable bargains with huge discounts on a wide range of goods and selected products.

Since its inception in 1999, the Malaysia Mega Sale Carnival has been a significant contributor to the countryand#39;s economy by drawing more tourists to visit the country every year.

GREAT BARGAINS
During the launch, shoppers were treated to experience a carnivallike atmosphere as early as11am at IKANO...

TOURISM MINISTER HOLDS MEDIA CONFERENCE ON THE FOOD AND FRUIT FIESTA MONTH 2005

The Honourable Datuk Leo Michael Toyad, Minister of Tourism, Malaysia today held a Media Conference on the annual Food and Fruit Fiesta Month 2005. According to the Minister, this yearand#39;s event is themed Jom MakanMakan (Letand#39;s Eat).

The event which will be held for a month from 22 July to 21 August 2005 is organised by the Ministry of Tourism is to promote Malaysia as a holiday destination with a unique culture, delicious cuisines and a wide selection of exotic fruits.The national level celebration of the Food and Fruit Fiesta Month 2005 comprises three main events in different locations in the country.
This year, the official launching ceremony of the Food and Fruit Fiesta Month will take place at Tapak Pesta Sg. Nibong, Penang on 24 July 2005 at 8pm. The event will be officiated by the Hon. Datuk Dr. Leo Michael Toyad, the Minister of Tourism and the Rt. Hon. Tan Sri Dr. Koh Tsu Koon, the Chief Minister of Penang.
Citrarasa Malaysia 2005 will be officiated on 30 July at 8pm at the Malaysia Tourism Centre (MTC), Jalan Ampang, Kuala Lumpur by the Hon. Tan Sri Dato' Hj. Muhyiddin bin Hj. Mohd. Yassin, Minister of...

TOURISM MINISTER OFFICIATES BCF TOURISM NIGHT

The Hon. Datuk Dr. Leo Michael Toyad, Minister of Tourism, Malaysia launched the 4th Borneo Cultural Festival (BCF) Tourism Night at the Town Square in Sibu,Sarawak on Friday 8 July 2005.

Guests for the evening were entertained by a colourful performance by the Borneo Malay / Melanau group, the Borneo Dayak performance, followed by the Melaka cultural group performance and the Korean cultural group performance.
The eight-day BCF showcased a karaoke song contest, a tea-tarik competition and a live entertainment. The Fest could provide a boost to the Central Region and the local tourism industry.
Issued by: Communications Division
Date: 9 July 2005
For more information please call: Ritz at (03) 2615 8483 or
Email: ritz@tourism.gov.my
...

BIG TURN OUT AT MUKAH REGATTA

The three-day festival staged at the Mukah Riverfront saw an increase in participants this year with the 20-paddler Bidar (traditional racing boat) registering 36 boats, while the 30-paddler boats vie for the andlsquo;Batang Mukah Kingand#39; championship. More than 14 water sporting categories were showcased at the regatta in conjunction with Mukah Water Festival 2005. Pocket shows in line with the Festival include a three-week fun fair at the Medan Setia Raja.

With the introduction of coastal-based activities, the Mukah Water Fest provides a boost to the Central Region and the local tourism industry. 'Next year, we will invite amateur international paddlers to compete at the Festival to give it an international feel,' the Hon, Minister said.
____________________________________________________
Issued by: Communications Division
Date: 9 July 2005
For more information please call: Ritz at (03) 2615 8483 or
Email: ritz@tourism.gov.my
...

MALAYSIA MEGA SALE CARNIVAL IS BACK!

The Malaysia Mega Sale Carnival 2005 from 23 July to 4 September signifies a six-week long of great bargains and discounts. You can shop for a wide range of goods and products ranging from sophisticated high-tech equipment and haute couture to cosmetics and unique knick-knacks.

The Official Launching Ceremony of the Malaysia Mega Sale Carnival 2005 will be officiated on 23 July 2005 at 8pm by the Hon. Datuk Dr. Leo Michael Toyad, the Minister of Tourism, Malaysia at Ikano Power Centre and The Curve in Mutiara Damansara, Petaling Jaya, Selangor.

Shoppers can experience a carnival-like atmosphere at Ikano Power Centre and The Curve as various exciting activities, games and contests have been lined-up throughout the day starting from 11am.

Under the MasterCard Instant Redemptions andamp; Giveaways promotion, MasterCard cardholders will receive instant rewards with purchases made during the day. They are also eligible for lucky draws and can participate in contests and games exclusively for MasterCard cardholders.

Shoppers can also participate in the games and contests organised at Ikano and Tesco. In addition, there will be scheduled fashion shows by tenants of The Curve from 12 noon to 7pm. The Buskers Carnival will be at Ikano and The Curve from 2pm to 8pm. At 6pm on 23 July, 5,000 balloons will be dropped from the top floor ceiling of Ikano where selected balloons contain...

RESPONSE TO AUSTRALIAN TRAVEL ADVISORY

We refer to the Travel Advisory issued by the Australian department of Foreign Affairs and Trade on 22 June 2005.

While we respect the right of the Australian Government to issue travel advisories to its citizens, we are concerned that the tenor of such advisories may create an overall negative impact on the travel industry.

The tourism industry plays a key role in Malaysiaand#39;s economic development and generates revenue and employment opportunities. Recognizing the importance of maintaining security at all times for the country and ensuring that visitors can travel freely and unimpeded in the country, the Malaysian Government has already taken various measures to ensure their safety and security in areas deemed 'at risk'. This include establishing a credible security force to work with various law enforcement agencies, both locally and overseas, and keeping a close guard to ensure that the necessary safety and security precautions are in place at any time. Malaysia has always been promoted as a safe destination where visitors can enjoy a wide variety of natural offerings like islands, beaches, mountains and jungles and be treated to the warm hospitality of Malaysians from various multi-cultural and multi-ethnic backgrounds.

The Australian market is currently ranked eighth among the top ten markets for Malaysia. Last year, 204,053 tourists from Down Under visited Malaysia and spent RM 554.2...

SPECIAL IMMIGRATION LANE FOR FAMILIES AT KLIA

The Ministry of Tourism and Tourism Malaysia, along with the Malaysia Airports Berhad and the Immigration Department are pleased to announce the operation of two designated immigration lanes for travelling families starting from 30 June 2005.

The Special Immigration Lane for Families (SILF), namely Lanes 27 and 28, are created for the comfort and convenience of travelling families. There will be benches for family members to rest while their travelling documents are being processed.

Although the special lanes are only in operation for three months during the West Asian holiday season, it is hope that it will be a permanent feature if positive responses and feedbacks are received from users.

Incidentally, the launching of the special immigration lanes on 30 June will coincide with the arrival of flight MH7091, the inaugural Malaysia Airlines (MAS) flight from Kuwait. Hence, passengers from this flight will be the first to use these lanes.

ISSUED BY: Communications Division, Tourism Malaysia
DATE: 28 June 2005
For further info, please contact: Daryl Yep at (603)-2615 8188
or email: yyldaryl@tourism.gov.my
...

NEW BOOK TO PROMOTE MALAYSIA

Datuk Dr. Leo Michael Toyad, Minister of Tourism, and Datoand#39; Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, Deputy Minister of Tourism, have collaborated on a coffee table book entitled Malaysia My Destination to be launched at Hilton Hotel Kuala Lumpur on 26 May, 2005.

Published by the Ministry of Tourism, the idea for the book was originally conceived by the Honourable Minister and took nearly six months to complete. It portrays the multiple facets of the country, its people, traditions and culture and is a vital source of information about Malaysiaand#39;s tourism assets and potential. Thus, it also serves to promote Malaysia as a tourism destination and is the ideal souvenir for visiting dignitaries and trade guests to the country.

The photographs in the book have been amassed by Tourism Malaysia over the years and include those by local professional photographers. Organised into sections to display various aspects of tourism products such as ecotourism, shopping, islands and beaches, theme parks, crafts and cuisine, the images capture the diversity of Malaysiaand#39;s beauty for posterity.

Issued by Communications Division, Tourism Malaysia
Date: 26 May, 2005
For more information, call (6) (03) 2615 8188 or email: anisramli@tourism.gov.my
...

AFFORDABLE DOMESTIC HOLIDAY PACKAGES AT CUTI-CUTI MALAYSIA TRAVEL FAIR

A threeday CutiCuti Malaysia Travel Fair organized by Tourism Malaysia will offer affordable holiday packages to the traveling public. The Fair, held at Hall 1, Level 3 of Mid Valley Megamall from 20 until 22 May (10 am until 9:30 pm), will see the direct sale of various domestic packages and accommodation promotions to consumers. The promotion with great savings is valid only during the 3day travel fair.

Participants at the fair include travel and tour agents and hotel and resort operators from all over the country. Visitors to the fair will have a chance to participate in lucky draws, learn about tourist destinations and attractions in Malaysia and find out about the unique homestay programmes available.

The CutiCuti Malaysia Travel Fair is a follow up programme to the successful CutiCuti Malaysia Roadshow which has been organized for the past four years (20002004).

For more information, contact the Domestic Promotions Division: Amirul Ariffin Md. Nasir at
(603) 26158309 or Azmi Abdullah at (603) 2615 8297.

Issued by Communications Division, Tourism Malaysia
Date: 20 May, 2005
For more information, call (6) (03) 2615 8188 or email: anisramli@tourism.gov.my
...

TOURISM MINISTER PROMOTES MALAYSIA IN JAPAN AND SOUTH KOREA
The Minister of Tourism, Malaysia, the Honourable Datuk Dr. Leo
Michael Toyad, is leading a sales mission to Japan and South Korea from 11 to
20 May, 2005. The delegation will be in Tokyo, Nagoya, Osaka, Fukuoka, Busan,
Taegu and Seoul to aggressively promote Malaysia as a tourist destination.

The objective of the sales mission is threefold:

1. To renew Malaysiaand#39;s commitment and support for the Japanese and South
Korean travel industry in their efforts to promote Malaysia;
2. To keep the Japanese and South Korean counterparts abreast of recent
tourism developments in Malaysia; and
3. To establish a wider network of contacts in the Japanese and South Korean
tourism industry.

The delegation consists of officers from the Ministry of Tourism, Tourism
Malaysia and state tourism boards, travel agents, hotel operators, and
representatives from the Malaysian travel industry. Accompanying them are eight
models and a fashion designer, Kartini Illias.

Among the activities organised during the sales mission are seminars on tourism
development in Malaysia; travel marts and press conferences with the Minister.
The Hon. Minister will make courtesy visits to the Ministers of Land,
Infrastructure and Transportation of Japan on 10 May 2005....

KL FASHION WEEK 2005

The varied programmes of KL Fashion Week from 3 until 8 May, 2005 will be held at various venues. Jointlyorganised by The Star, Land#39;Oreal Paris and Tourism Malaysia, the sixday calendar of events is an important platform to showcase the fashion, retail and tourism industries.

This year, the Fashion Gala Night features fashion collections by Malaysian and Asian designers on 3 May. There are also afternoon fashion shows; evening fashion shows hosted by Tourism Malaysia, Parkson Corporation and Heineken, featuring the latest designs by Zang Toi, Sonny San, Bill Keith, Tom Abang Saufi Homme, Salikin Sidek and others; and fashion designs by Malaysiaand#39;s leading fashion colleges including the Malaysian Institute of Art, Center for Advanced Design (CENFAD) and
Limkokwing University College of Creative Technology.

Other activities lined up are the Star Designer Awards 2005, Catwalk @ the Mall, and a new addition to this yearand#39;s KL Fashion Week, the Editors Awards.

This is the third year that the KL Fashion Week is being organized, and the Ministry of Tourism is happy to lend its support to such an event that promotes Kuala Lumpur as an 'International Fashion Hub'. It is a unique opportunity to boost the countryand#39;s fashion, retail and tourism industries, and
puts Malaysia on the fashion map of the world. Many international fashion designers and tourists are expected to...

MALAYSIA CELEBRATES 'PESTA AIR 2005'
The National Water Festival (Pesta Air) 2005 will begin on
Friday, 1 April 2005 in Putrajaya, Malaysiaand#39;s new administrative
centre. This fiveweeklong
event will be held at various locations
throughout the country, culminating on 8 May 2005 in Sibu,
Sarawak.

The launching ceremony will be held on Saturday, 2 April 2005 at
2:00 p.m. by Their Majesties the King and Queen of Malaysia
at the Putrajaya Lake Club, Putrajaya.

This annual festival involves waterbased
competitions and
activities, such as the long boat race, fishing, canoe polo and
kayaking. These water activities are all in line with Malaysiaand#39;s
intention of becoming a worldclass
sports tourism destination.

At the launch day in Putrajaya, there will be demonstrations of jetskiing,
sailing, water stunts, F1 Powerboat race and water rescue.
Various other activities will cater to visitors from different age
groups, such as exhibitions, seafood preparation competition, live
musical performances, facepainting
and telematches for children
and adults.

The closing ceremony of Pesta Air 2005 in Sibu from 6 to 8 May
2005 will be officiated by Datuk Seri Wong Soon Koh, Sarawakand#39;s
Tourism Minister at the...

MALAYSIA PARTICIPATES IN INTERNATIONAL TOURISMUS BORSE
The Hon. Datuk Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, Deputy Minister of Tourism, Malaysia
heads the Malaysian delegation to the 40 th Internationale Tourismus Borse (ITB) from
11 to 15 March 2005.

This yearand#39;s exhibition, held at the Berlin Exhibition Ground, ICC of Berlin,
Federal Republic of Germany, marks Tourism Malaysiaand#39;s 32 nd year of participation in
the annual event.

The ITB Berlin is the premier tourism fair for the global tourism industry. Its
leading position as an international meeting place for the members of media and
travel trade agents from around the world is renowned.

Last year, ITB 2004 attracted a total of 141,139 visitors compared to 129,943
in 2003 and, among them, 75,019 were trade visitors. A total of 10,023 exhibitors
from 178 countries representing every aspect of the tourism industry participated as
well.

As the head of the Malaysian delegation to ITB, the Hon. Deputy Minister of
Tourism will officiate the 'Malaysia Truly Asia' evening function at Berlin InterContinental
Hotel on 14 March 2005. On this occasion, recognition awards for
German outbound travel and tour operators who have given outstanding support to
the Malaysian tourism industry last year will be presented.

A total of 97 Malaysian...

MALAYSIA SAFE FOR JAPANESE HOLIDAY-MAKERS

A week after the unprecedented tidal wave incident in Peninsular
Malaysia, things are reported back to normal on the tourism front.
Malaysia remains a safe destination for tourists as the country was
spared the worst of the tsunami compared to other affected countries.
Malaysia was sheltered by the island of Sumatra and was not directly
exposed to the onslaught of the tidal waves.

According to the Honourable Datuk Dr. Leo Michael Toyad,
Malaysiaand#39;s Tourism Minister, life in Penang is back to normal. Itand#39;s
business as usual and tourists are up and about enjoying their
vacation. He said this at a media conference soon after he had made
a site inspection to the area affected by tsunami, to get a first hand
brief on the current situation in Penang on 29 December 2004.

Following his inspection of Langkawi island on 3 January 2005, the
Minister was satisfied that the conditions on the island were secure
for the ASEAN Tourism Forum to take place on the island as
scheduled from 21 until 29 January.

Yoichi Miyoshi, Sales Director for Japan market at Borneo Eco Tours,
hopes that the Japanese will not be deterred by the tsunami incident.
Having resided in Malaysia since 1983, Miyoshi appeals to all that
'Malaysia is a very safe...

TOURIST ARRIVALS TO MALAYSIA IMPROVING

Tourist arrivals to Malaysia are showing encouraging signs of recovering. Malaysia recorded a total of 1,266,886 tourist arrivals for the month of April 2004. The figure represents a 175.8% increase from the 459,374 tourist arrivals for the same month in 2003.
Total tourist arrivals recorded between January and April stand at 5,245,100, an increase by 57.3% compared to 3,334,521 tourist arrivals for the same period in 2003.
Month Figures
April 2003 459,374 visitors
April 2004 1,266,886 visitors
% change + 175.8%
The figure for April continues the positive trend of tourist arrivals into Malaysia for this year. The top ten markets that contributed to the month of April are: Singapore (809,640...

GAWAI DAYAK OPEN HOUSE 2004

The Gawai Dayak Open House 2004 to be held at Dataran
Perbandaran (City Fan) in Miri, Sarawak, on 12 June at 9am is aIn Malaysia, the state of Sarawak observes its monthlong
annual festival - Gawai Dayak - from 1 to 30 June. This auspicious
event brings together the Iban, Bidayuh, Orang Ulu and other tribal
groups that form the Dayak race.

The festival marks the end of the rice harvest and is an
extended thanksgiving celebration before the new farming season
begins. For the Dayak community, it is a time to make amends for
past differences and to rekindle old friendships or form new ones. As
Malaysians treasure strong family ties, this festival means family
reunions, paying respect to the elderly and visits to friends and
relatives.

Similar to other major festive celebrations in the country, a
national level 'open house' for Gawai Dayak is organised to enable
Malaysians, regardless of race and religion, to join in the merriment.
The 'open house' concept promotes racial tolerance, mutual respect
and national unity in this multiracial
country.

The Gawai Dayak Open House 2004 to be held at Dataran
Perbandaran (City Fan) in Miri, Sarawak, on 12 June at 9am is a
wholeday affair. It provides a good opportunity for tourists...

CITRAWARNA 2005 PRESENTS `THE COLOURS OF ASIA IN MALAYSIA`

Citrawarna Malaysia (Colours of Malaysia) showcasing the countryand#39;s
kaleidoscope of arts, culture and traditions will be held nationwide for a month
from 2 to 31July 2005.

Now in its seventh year, the Citrawarna Malaysia 2005 launch on 2 July 2005
will be a colourful extravaganza with over 4,000 participants dressed in colourful
costumes. Spectators will be treated to songs and dances from Malaysia and
various countries in Asia.

In the past, the pomp, splendour and pageantry of Citrawarna highlighted only
the cultures and arts of Malaysia, but this year the participation of culture groups
from other countries in Asia will add an international dimension to the event.

Theme and Story Line

With the theme 'The Colours of Asia in Malaysia', the event will not only
feature songs and dances from Malaysia, but will also feature the cultural and
folk dance presentations from invited countries in Asia as well, especially those
from Thailand, Indonesia, Vietnam, Philippines, China and Korea.

As a curtainraiser, Citrawarna 2005 will be officially launched on 2 July 2005 at
the Stadium Merdeka with pomp and pageantry by His Majesty The King of
Malaysia, Seri Paduka Baginda Yang Di Pertuan Agong; Tuanku Syed Sirajuddin Ibni...

CHINA-ASEAN BUSINESS CARAVAN VISITS MALAYSIA

The China-ASEAN Business Caravan, a convoy of 56 vehicles from Kunming, China, is traveling through Malaysia from 1 May to 5 May 2004.

The visit is part of an 18day tour beginning from 23 April 2004 organised by the Bangkokbased Asia Pacific Economic and Trade Association (APETA) in cooperation with the Yunnan Province government and the Malaysia-China Chamber of Commerce to promote bilateral relations, economic and
commercial activities between China and ASEAN countries.

The event celebrates the 30 th anniversary of SinoMalaysia diplomatic relations and commemorates the 600 th anniversary of Admiral Cheng Hoand#39;s expeditions to South East Asia.

The Caravan is headed by Mr.Su Zhengguo, Vice Chairman of the Peopleand#39;s Political Consultative Conference of Yunnan Province, and Mr. Ma Junkun, a top Chinese rally motorist. They are leading some 180 participants who are mostly high ranking civil servants and leading businessmen from the provinces of Yunnan, Sichuan, Chongqing and Thailand.

The Caravan leaves China on 23 April and pass through several cities in Thailand from 24 April to 30 April. On 1 May, the Mentri Besar of Perlis Datuk Seri Shahidan Kassim will welcome the Caravan at the MalaysiaThai border in Bukit Kayu Hitam after which the convoy will leave for Kuala Lumpur.

In Kuala Lumpur, the Caravan participants will attend a...

KELANTAN NATIONAL WATER FESTIVAL 2004

Fun and exciting waterbased games and activities await visitors at the Kelantan National Water Festival 2004 which kicks off with a fourday Sales and Exhibition expo showcasing products related to water and handicrafts on 15 April 2004 at Tebing Sungai Kelantan in Kota Bahru.

On 16 April 2004, the public will experience the thrills and spills of waterbased games activities at the banks of the Kelantan River where numerous activities are organised.

The following day on 17 April 2004, the Sultan of Kelantan, His Royal Highness (HRH) Sultan Ismail Petra Ibni Almarhum Sultan Yahya Petra will grace the Kelantan National Water Festival 2004. The official ceremony coincides with HRHand#39;s silver jubilee anniversary as Sultan of Kelantan.

The Kelantan Chief Minister, Datoand#39; Haji Nik Abdul Aziz Nik Mat, and Tourism Minister Datuk Dr Leo Michael Toyad are expected to attend the event.

At 9pm, HRH Sultan Ismail Putra and his consort, HRH Tengku Anis Tengku Abdul Hamid, will board the royal barge at the Istana Kota Lama to Tebing Sungai Kelantan.

Upon arrival, the royal couple will be escorted to the royal stage where HRH Sultan Ismail Putra will receive the royal scroll and officially launch the event. The excitement continues with a water
parade of decorated boats on the river followed by a cultural show.

The Kelantan...

CHINA TRAVEL MART

In conjunction with the MalaysiaChina Friendship Year 2004, Tourism Malaysia is organizing a China Travel Mart on 24 May 2004 at the First World Hotel in Genting Highlands. It will be officiated by
the Hon. Datuk Dr Leo Michael Toyad, Minister of Tourism.

About 200 buyers from major cities in China are expected at the mart specially held to provide opportunities for business ventures between Malaysian and Chinese travel trade members and promote Malaysia as an ideal holiday destination for Chinese tour operators.

Tourism Malaysia will give a presentation on Malaysiaand#39;s tourism products to the participants from China and they will later be taken on familiarisation tours to places of interest in the country.

The China Travel Mart is anchored by Tourism Malaysia with cosponsors, Malaysia Airlines and Resorts World.

For more information on the mart, please contact Ms. Chong Yoke Har or En. Effendy Mat Yaman of Tourism Malaysia at tel: 0326935188 extensions 5671 and 5672 respectively.

Issued by: Communications Division, Tourism Malaysia
Date issued: 10 April 2004
For more info, please contact Anis Shabirin at 0326935188
or email aniss@tourism.gov.my
...

TOURISM MALAYSIA OPENS OFFICE IN MELAKA AND KELANTAN

Tourism Malaysia opened two new offices in Melaka and Kelantan
on 15 January 2004, adding to the list of seven offices established
throughout the country in Johor, Penang, Terengganu, Sarawak,
Sabah, Kedah and Pahang.

As with all other Tourism Malaysia state offices, the Melaka and
Kelantan offices are responsible for disseminating tourismrelated
information pertaining to the state and the country; promoting
Malaysia as a tourist destination; organizing workshops / seminars
on tourism; organizing familiarization trips for agents, media and
frontliners in the industry; organizing promotional activities to
publicise statelevel
events and promoting the participation of
tourism operators via various marketing support activities.

The Melaka office is headed by Mr. Hishamuddin Mustafa while in
Kelantan, Mr. Abdul Rahman Aripin is the acting director.

Tourism Officers, with knowledge of Malaysia and tourismrelated
information, will be on hand to answer queries and assist tourists,
both foreign and locals, in planning their holidays in the country.
Maps and brochures of the various tourist attractions in Malaysia
are also available.

For more information, contact:

Tourism Malaysia...

TOURISM MALAYSIA DEPUTY DIRECTOR-GENERAL (II)

Tourism Malaysiaand#39;s Director of International Promotion Mr.
Mirza Mohammad Taiyab Beg, has been appointed Deputy DirectorGeneral
(II) effective 23 December 2003.

Mr. Mirza joined Tourism Malaysia, previously known as the
Tourist Development Corporation Malaysia (TDC), in 1982 after
earning a degree in Business Administration and a Diploma in
Tourism Administration from UITM.

Prior to joining Tourism Malaysia, he served in various
positions, ranging from development and project management where
he was general manager of two premier hotels the Langkawi Island
Resort and Tanjung Jara Beach Hotel.

While attached to Tourism Malaysiaand#39;s International Marketing
Division, Mr.Mirza successfully completed two overseas assignments.
He was Director of the Frankfurt office overseeing promotional
projects in Germany, Austria, Italy and Switzerland from 1989 to
1990. Then he headed Tourism Malaysiaand#39;s office in Tokyo from July
1995 to March 2000.

Mr Mirza was also Malaysiaand#39;s Deputy Commissioner General at
the World Expo in Brisbane in 1988, Head of Europe Promotion Unit
from 1990 to 1992 and Head of Package Development Unit from
1993 to 1995.

His recent experience in...

MALAYSIA TO PROPOSE COMMONWEALTH TOURISM CENTRE AT INAUGURAL MEET

Malaysia, the host of the Commonwealth Tourism Ministersand#39; Meeting, will propose the setting up of a Commonwealth Tourism Centre (CTC) in Kuala Lumpur during the meeting from 18 - 21 March 2004 at the Palace of the Golden Horses.
Minister of Culture, Arts and Tourism Datoand#39; Paduka Abdul Kadir bin Hj Sheikh Fadzir said the idea for the centre has been discussed with the Commonwealth Secretariat and its SecretaryGeneral Ron Mc Kinnon.
'If our proposal is accepted, Kuala Lumpur will become the centre of attraction among Commonwealth member countries,' he said at a press conference on Thursday. The financing of the CTC will be borne by Malaysia and through contributions from the private sector. However, member countries are welcomed to make voluntary contributions to the centre.
Abdul Kadir said Malaysia is expecting at least 40 of the 52 member countries to participate. To be held alongside the meeting are the Commonwealth Business Forum and the Commonwealth Travel Mart. Abdul Kadir said tourist arrivals from Commonwealth countries have not been encouraging. 'We have been wooing tourists from
Asia and the Middle East to our country. Itand#39;s time we get those from the Commonwealth member countries such as the United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, India and South Africa to come as well,' he added.
...

TOURISM MALAYSIA TO PARTICIPATE IN AIME 2004

Tourism Malaysia will once again participate in the 12 th Asia Pacific Incentives and Meetings Expo (AIME), one of the largest and significant business travel, incentive and meeting exhibitions that attract exhibitors and buyers throughout the world to be held on 17 and 18 February 2004 at the Melbourne Exhibition and Convention Centre, Melbourne, Australia.
Tourism Malaysiaand#39;s stand partners consist of Kuala Lumpur Tourism Action Council, Melaka Tourism Promotion Division, Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre, KL Tower, 11 hoteliers and six destination management companies. Making their debut under Tourism Malaysiaand#39;s pavilion will be the Sabah and Sarawak Tourism Boards.
In conjunction with AIME 2004, Tourism Malaysia will be organising roadshows at three Australian cities namely Melbourne, Sydney and Brisbane from 19 to 21 February 2004 to promote its `Meet and Experience Malaysia, Truly Asia Campaignand#39;. Among the participants are five state governments, seven hoteliers, five destination management companies and two other organizations.
The campaign is a two-year targeted business venture that offers potential event organizers top-of-the line MICE products and services at great prices that are guaranteed over a period of time by Tourism Malaysia and its...

A BIG TURNOUT AT THE KONGSI RAYA RUMAH TERBUKA-CHINESE NEW YEAR OPEN HOUSE IN KOTA BHARU, KELANTAN

There was a big turnout at the Kongsi Raya Rumah Terbuka - the Chinese New Year Open House Celebration - in Kota Bahru, Kelantan, yesterday, 26 January 2003.

More than 100,000 people from all over the state of Kelantan gathered at the Kompleks Sekolah Wakaf Mek Zainab in Kota Bahru to celebrate it.
The event which was organised by several Non Government Organisations (NGOs) with the cooperation of the Ministry of Culture, Arts and Tourism, Malaysia, is the first of its kind for Kelantan.
Among the guests of honour were YB Datoand#39; Mustapha Mohamad, the United Malay National Organisation (UMNO) Chairman for the State of Kelantan, YB Datoand#39; Fong Chan Onn, the Minister of Human Resources, and YB Datoand#39; Paduka Abdul Kadir Haji Sheikh Fadzir, the Minister of Culture, Arts and Tourism, Malaysia.
The Chinese New Year Open House Celebration in Kelantan was a great success, and the people were treated to a spectacular show by local artistes last night. Despite attempts by various quarters to prevent the event from happening, the spirit of peace, tolerance and acceptability prevailed. In Malaysia, the Malays, Chinese and Indians, Eurasians and other indigenous groups retain and nurture their individual customs, traditions and religions, but exist in perfect harmony. As a multiracial and multicultural country,
Malaysia...

ALL SET FOR THE PETRONAS MALAYSIAN GRAND PRIX 2004

With less than two months to go, the stage is set for more
exciting racing thrills at the Petronas Malaysian Grand Prix on 1921
March 2004.

Its organiser, the Sepang International Circuit (SIC) aims to
make the sixth edition of the Formula One World Championship its
biggest ever F1 event.
'After a very exciting 2003 championship which ended in
Suzuka, we believe the 2004 race will be more thrilling with much
stronger interests among Asians following the entry of Bahrain and
Shanghai,' said Ahmad Mustaffa, General Manager of Sepang
International Circuit at a briefing held for corporate sponsors recently.

For the first time in the Formula One history, the 2004 race will
be held in four different Asian cities with Bahrain and Shanghai
joining Sepang and Suzuka as hosts of the Formula One.

As in the last three years, Malaysia will host the second round
of the Formula One race, which will open in Melbourne, Australia on 7
March. SIC expects some 120,000 spectators on race day, which will
be on 21 March.

'Our main target market for the year 2004 will be from the Asia
Pacific region especially from Japan, China, Middle East and the
neighbouring South East Asian countries as well as local fans,'...

MALAYSIA CONFIRMS PARTICIPATION AT THE 23 RD ATF 2004 IN LAOS

Malaysia will attend the 23 rd ASEAN Tourism Forum (ATF) 2004 which will be held in Vientiane, Laos from the 1 - 7 February 2004.
About 50 companies from the travel and trade industry such as the airlines, hotels and travel agents make up the sellers list from Malaysia.
Other than providing delegates the prospect to meet up with Malaysian business organizations for potential business opportunities, the Tourism Malaysia booth (H7, H8, H9 and H10) at the International Trade and Exhibition andamp; Convention Centre (ITECC) will also give visitors an insight to a cross section of the Malaysian cultural heritage, exotic destinations and other products and services.
A total of 400 booths have already been registered to participate at ATF 2004 including 120 companies from Thailand, 69 from Singapore, 50 from Indonesia, 50 from Malaysia, 28 from Vietnam and 14 stalls from Laos. There are 275 buyers from 38 countries including 49 from ASEAN member countries and 113 from Europe, the United States of America, Japan and China.
The ASEAN Tourism Forum is a cooperative regional effort to promote ASEAN region as one tourist destination. Each year, the hosting ATF is rotated among ASEAN member countries. ATF 2004 marks the 23rd anniversary of this event since its inauguration in Malaysia in 1981. Malaysia will play host to the 24 th...

MALAYSIA-CHINA FRIENDSHIP YEAR 2004

The Malaysia-China Friendship Year 2004 has numerous activities to mark the 30 th anniversary of the resumption of diplomatic ties between the two countries.

On 10 January 2004, Malaysiaand#39;s Prime Minister YAB Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi is expected to launch the Malaysia-China Friendship Year at 3pm at the Admiral Cheng Ho Gallery near the Stadthuys in Melaka.

Malaysiaand#39;s Minister of Culture, Arts and Tourism YB Dato Paduka Abdul Kadir Hj. Sheikh Fadzir will be present along with representatives from China led by Her Excellency Madam Meng Xiaosi, Chinaand#39;s Deputy Minister of Culture.

Following the launch, Prime Minister YAB Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi will officiate the Admiral Cheng Ho Gallery and a monthlong photographic exhibition on Malaysia-China diplomatic ties at the same venue. The exhibition commemorates the 600 th anniversary of the travels of Admiral Cheng Ho who commenced diplomatic relations between China and the Malacca Sultanate in the early 15 th century.

At 8pm, Melaka Chief Minister YAB Datuk Seri Hj. Mohd Ali bin Rustam will launch the Chinese New Year festival in conjunction with the upcoming Chinese New Year celebration at Jonker Street. There will be cultural performances and a fireworks display.

The year 2004 has been declared MalaysiaChina Friendship Year following the bilateral meeting between Prime...

MALAYSIA: A SHOPPING HAVEN

The Minister of Culture, Arts and Tourism, Datoand#39; Paduka Abdul Kadir
Sheikh Fadzir said that Malaysia is all geared up to position itself as
one of the leading international shopping havens of choice.
In 2002, Malaysia garnered RM 5.13 billion worth of receipts from
shopping, which represents 20.6% of the total RM 25.8 billion tourist
expenditure. The encouraging figure provides confidence to Malaysia
to become a leading international shopping destination.

Since August 2000, the Ministry of Culture, Arts and Tourism
observes the spurt of between 150,000 to 200,000 more tourists
added to the average monthly figures during each Megasale carnival
on March, August, and December (barring periods of the Iraq War
and SARS), bearing testament that tourists do come for shopping in
Malaysia.

The increasing support from participating retailers numbering up to
8,282 during the December 2003 Megasale carnival (compared to
2,783 when the Megasale first started in August 2000) also provides
great leverage for Malaysia to be one of the leading shopping haven.

To realise the said goal, a national committee was formed to
spearhead the initiative. The committee is led by the Ministry of
Culture, Arts and Tourism. The other ministries...

GALERIA SRI PERDANA DIBUKA KEPADA UMUM

Sri Perdana yang kini dikenali sebagai Galeria Sri Perdana mula dibuka kepada masyarakat umum buat pertama kalinya pada 21 Disember 2003. Bekas kediaman rasmi Perdana Menteri Malaysia keempat , YAB Tun Dr Mahathir Mohammad kini terletak di bawah pengurusan Jabatan Arkib egara...

GALERIA SRI PERDANA OPENS FOR PUBLIC VISIT

Galeria Sri Perdana formerly Sri Perdana, the residence of Malaysiaand#39;s fourth Prime Minister the Hon. Tun Dr Mahathir Mohammad will officially open its doors to the public for the first time on 21 December 2003.
Prime Minister the Hon. Datoand#39; Seri Abdullah Haji Ahmad Badawi will officiate the opening of the Galeria on 20 December 2003.

The move follows the governmentand#39;s decision to preserve Sri Perdanaand#39;s uniqueness as the home of the nationand#39;s longestserving Prime Minister from 23 August 1983 to 18 October 1999.Under the care and supervision of the National Archives, the conservation of Galeria Sri Perdana also reflects the nationand#39;s gratitude towards Tun Mahathirand#39;s dedicated service to the nation.

BANK NEGARA URGED TO REVIEW STRICT LOAN RULES

Minister of Culture, Arts and Tourism, Malaysia; Datoand#39; Paduka Abdul Kadir bin Haji Sheikh Fadzir has urged Bank Negara to review some of its policies pertaining to loan approval for tourism development projects.
He said some banks do not conduct proper studies on the feasibility of tourismrelated projects and refused to grant loans to deserving project managers.
'This has not only hindered the developers from pursuing their projects, but also disrupts the progress of the tourism industry and the nationand#39;s growth as well,' he said at a press conference after a site visit at the Danga Bay project at Pantai Lido in Johor Bahru today.
Abdul Kadir cited LimbonganEkovest Management Danga Bayand#39;s project manager, difficulties in getting a loan from Maybank.
'The application is only for a bridging loan of RM230 million to develop a certain part of Danga Bay. For a giant like Maybank, I do not understand their reasons for rejecting the application when this huge project is giving the city of Johor Bahru a new look apart from drawing more tourists from Singapore and elsewhere,' he added.
Abdul Kadir further said he will meet with Bank Negara Governor, Tan Sri Zeti Akhtar Aziz to discuss the matter and raise the issue at the Cabinet meeting.
About...

MELAKA, THIS IS WHERE IT ALL BEGAN

Although Melaka bustles with urbanization and sophiscation, she still
beholds the beauty and luster of a bygone era.

Melaka owed its origin and foundation to a young Hindu Prince from
Palembang, Sumatra. Sometime in 1402, while taking a breather
under a tree by the river mouth, he witnessed an extraordinary
spectacle where a pack of ferocious dogs attacked a lonely white
mousedeer (kanchil in Malay). To his amazement, this small
mousedeer had the courage and strength to kick the advancing dogs
into the river. Taking this as a good omen, Parameswara then gazed
up at the tree and decided to name his newly acclaimed state -
Melaka, after the tree.

Parameswara had a vision and decided to build adequate
infrastructure that would compliment the port and the state. Melaka
port brought good fortunes with merchant ships from all over the
world took berth at the port. From their travel books, Marco Polo and
Tom Pires referred to Melaka as the 'Venice of the East' and
whosoever holds control on Melaka holds Venice by the throat. In
1414, at the age of 72, Parameswara married a Pasai Princess.
Parameswara had moulded this little obscure, unimportant little
fishing village into a powerful trading centre in the East.

From that...

COME SAVOUR THE KING OF FRUITS
'The consistence and flavour are indescribable. A rich butterlike custard highly flavoured with almonds gives the best general idea of it, but intermingled with it come wafts of flavour that call to mind creamcheese, onion sauce, brown sherry and other incongruities. Then there is a rich glutinous smoothness in the pulp which nothing else possesses, but which adds to it delicacy. It is neither acid, or sweet, nor juicy, yet one feels the want of none of these qualities, for it is perfect as it is. It produces no nausea or other bad effect, and the more you eat of it the less you feel inclined to stop. In fact to eat durian is a new sensation, worth a voyage to the East to experience.'
Alfred Russel Wallace, Victorian naturalist

The Malay Archipelago (1869)
Rotten fish, fermented onions, overripe cheese - these are some of the andlsquo;gentlerand#39; comparisons of the pungent stench of the durian. Some said, the fruit 'tastes like Heaven, smells like Hell'; others claimed that it will even gag a starving vulture - I still find these descriptions rather exaggerated.
No. Iand#39;m not a durian fan myself. In fact, itand#39;s been more than 10 years since I tasted one.

'TROOPING THE COLOURS CEREMONY' DURING HIS MAJESTY THE KINGS BIRTHDAY

A 'Trooping The Colours' ceremony will be held on 7 th June 2003, in conjunction with the birthday anniversary of His Majesty The 12 th King of Malaysia, Duli Yang Maha Mulia Yang DiPertuan Agong, Tuanku Syed Sirajuddin Ibni AlMarhum Tuanku Syed Putra Jamalullail.
The 'Trooping The Colours' ceremony will involve three Royal Colours of His Majesty The Yang DiPertuan Agong, which were bestowed upon the Royal Malaysian Army, the Royal Malaysian Navy and the Royal Malaysian Air Force. This ceremony is an annual ceremony and is the second ceremony for His Majesty The King, The Yang DiPertuan Agong.
Tourists and the public are cordially invited to witness this auspicious ceremony which will be held at the Dataran Merdeka. Detail follows:
Venue : Dataran Merdeka
Date : 7 th June 2003
Time : 7.30 am
Issued by: Communications Division, Tourism Malaysia
Date: 27 May 2003
For more in formation, please call Ritz at (03) 2693 5188 (ext 5809).

TOURISM MINISTER EMBARKS ON A ROADSHOW TO THE MIDDLE EAST

Datoand#39; Paduka Abdul Kadir Haji Sheikh Fadzir, the Honourable
Minister of Culture, Arts and Tourism Malaysia has embarked on a
visit to the Middle East countries, namely; Turkey, Jordan, Syria and
Lebanon in an attempt to woo Arab tourists and create awareness
among the Arab market that Malaysia is a valueaddedtravel
destination for the Summer Holidays that falls between July and
September.

During the 'Middle East Roadshow', the Honourable Minister will also
attend regional meetings with local travel agents, airline operators,
Tourism Malaysia officials and embassy officials to deliver the
message that it is business as usual in Malaysia and that Malaysia
was never categorized by World Health Organization (WHO) as a
Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) affected country.

'Airline operators from the Middle East will put their flights
back to normal, beginning 15 June,' Datoand#39; Paduka Abdul Kadir
Haji Sheikh Fadzir announced.

Gulf Air and Qatar Airways are among the airlines expected to
increase their flight frequency. Meanwhile, Saudi Arabian Airlines
will introduce 124 flights between Kuala Lumpur and the Arabian
Peninsula during the 3month period beginning mid - June.

Datoand#39; Paduka Abdul...

AN ARTISTIC SIDE TO SARAWAK

The tapestry of Sarawak can not only be appreciated from its potpourri of colourful people but also from the intricate traditional handicraft each ethnic group has. The best way to appreciate the many facets of Sarawak is to take a closer look at their arts and craft, to understand its origin and for some, to learn the mystical significance of each.
Many Sarawakians, made up of 26 tribes at last count, believe strongly in good and evil spirits, figurines and other spiritual practices during weddings, childbirth, and for illnesses.
Whatever the reasons may be for the arts and crafts produced by the ethnic tribes in Sarawak, the end product is truly one to be marveled at. Its colour, finesse, hand work, idea and purpose are all traits to understand and appreciate.
Of course, each tribe has its own specialty such as the Iban for their pua kumbu, the Bidayuh for their bamboo carvings and the Melanau for their painting skills. But all art forms are now so easily identifiable with Sarawak that the ethnic boundaries are no longer there.
Just to ensure the skills and traditions are not lost from generation to generation, each tribe ensures there is a younger generation that takes after their elders. This is to ensure their handicraft will be enjoyed and cherished for more generations to come.

LIVE THE IBAN WAY

Be prepared to receive a warm traditional welcome, Iban style, where
the entire longhouse community greets you at the riverbank, when you pay
them a visit in Lemanak.

The Ibansand#39; enthusiasm and elation at receiving guests is infectious as
you too end up feeling happy and at ease in their presence.

Maybe they dress differently from you and maybe their home is
different from yours but their honesty and sincerity at welcoming you to their
home breaks down all barriers.

Upon arrival at the longhouse, children and adults race forward to
meet the boat and greet you. With warm smiles, they would usher you into
the guest longhouse, which is made of wood and asbestos to freshen up
before meeting the host.

Later you will find yourself seated in a semicircle around the medicine
man or shaman where he will tell tales of his tribal achievements. He will
most likely show off heads, which he had hunted, in the 'old days' when
headhunting was still a norm for them.

For the Iban decades ago, headhunting was a way to show their
courage and bravery and of course, maidens would only look at men who
were brave enough to come back with a head. This was an added incentive
for headhunting!

In the...

THE LIVING MUSEUM OF SARAWAK

The Sarawak Cultural Village, tucked away in the serene and tranquil area of Damai Beach just out of Kuching in Sarawak, is aptly called a living museum.
It is a seven-hectare sprawling area located at the foothill of the legendary Mount Santubong, fronting the South China Sea.
It is definitely a name befitting the place, as this is where visitors can learn all there is to know about Sarawak without having to travel from one town to another.
Visitors can get a comprehensive glimpse of how the ethnic tribes in Sarawak live in the longhouses, what their homes are traditionally made from, their staple diet and also other delicacies like jala cakes or tebaloi made from sago.
Not only can they find out what the ethnic tribes of Sarawak like to eat but they also get a chance to taste it, and if lucky, they might get to try cooking it.
There is a real community of families in this living museum as the staff live in the village. Yes! Some of them actually live in the mock up longhouses.
The Sarawak Cultural Village has won 10 major awards, including a PATA Gold Cultural, ASEANTA Classic Award, ASEANTA Best Cultural Preservation Effort Award, a Tourism Malaysia Award, an MTV Grand Prix Award and a Hornbill Tourism Gold Award.

ADVISORY ON SARS

The Malaysian Government has taken precautionary measures a step further by freezing the intake of workers from SARS infected countries.
These precautionary measures are in addition to the WHO guidelines at every point of entry into the country to ensure the country remains free from SARS.
At every point of entry, passengers from any of the countries with SARS outbreaks - China, Hong Kong, Singapore, Canada and Vietnam - as identified by WHO, have to undergo thorough checks before they can go through immigration.
These precautionary measures are necessary to ensure the number of SARS cases is contained and to minimize the import of SARS cases.
All measures taken are a reflection of the Malaysian Governmentand#39;s decisive action to ensure Malaysia is a safe destination for tourists.
Immediately from March 17, the Health Ministry of Malaysia has disseminated information in the form of:
Health alert card on SARS for people returning/coming from overseas, especially from SARS-affected countries at every entry point
Health alert information in the form of frequently asked questions given to the public
Advisory to...

THE MANY COLOURS OF MALAYSIA

There is no better time to see Malaysia in its entirety than during the month of May and June. This is when the whole country comes alive with music, rhythm, a kaleidoscope of colours and a spectacular show of the individual diverse customs, arts and culture.
During the monthlong celebration of Colours of Malaysia, or Citrawarna, the whole of Malaysia will be on parade and revelers will bask in the beauty of Malaysianand#39;s individual customs and practices.
This is the time, when Malaysiaand#39;s unique blend of multicultural diversity from her people, food, language and culture and arts will come together in one festive celebration of life.
Yes! This colourful happening can easily be termed the festival of life as that is what each and every Malaysian is proud of and look forward to celebrate every year.
In fact, there is no real need to devote an entire month for the celebration, as Malaysians are thankful each and every day for the blessings they received, for being able to live in peace and harmony together since they gained independence in 1957.
But they felt they had to put aside a special month for it so that visitors, especially foreigners, could also enjoy the celebration.
This gave birth to...

REGATTA CELEBRATION DURING WATER FESTIVAL MONTH

The Water Festival Month will kick off on April 12 in Lumut, Perak with exciting games and events lined up for the public. For the rest of the month, it will be celebrated in various ways nationwide in
Pahang, Kedah, Terengganu, Selangor, Penang and Malacca. All sorts of waterbased activities are being organised throughout the month including games like logwalking and duckcatching. Jet ski, canoe and kayak races are also the norm, as are diving, snorkelling, boat parades, cultural performances and concerts. For those who prefer to keep their feet dry, the white sandy beaches shaded by palm trees offer a respite from the sun. The closing ceremony of the
festival will be celebrated in Kuala Perlis, Perlis on May 10.

For a Water Festival thatand#39;s a little different than your typical waterbased races, head out to Sabah on April 13 for the Semporna Lepa Regatta, an annual event that pays tribute to the beauty of the
traditional boats of Sabah.

The regatta is now into its 10 th year and showcases the beauty of the lepa, a type of boat used by the Bajau Palaand#39;u community in Sabah known for their seafaring skills and bravery.

The lepa is a single masted sailing boat made from Ubar Suluk or Red Seraya wood. It typically measures five metres long and 1.5 metres wide and has a house structure built on it from sago palm leaves. The boats are often decorated with...

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PROGRAM SAHABAT ZOOM! MALAYSIA

MALAYSIA AT THE 28th ATF IN HANOI, VIETNAM

PENANG VOTED AMONG WORLD'S BEST ISLANDS IN ASIA

MYCEB: MALAYSIAS ONE-STOP CENTRE FOR MICE

SARAWAK GEARS UP FOR MICE MARKET

MALAYSIA: TOP 10 VALUE-FOR-MONEY DESTINATIONS

MEET and EXPERIENCE MALAYSIA

INTERNATIONAL GUESTS AT THE LAUNCH OF MALAYSIA SAVINGS SALE 2008

THE ALL NEW ....MALAYSIA SAVINGS SALE!

99 TO FLY FROM LONDON TO KL

OCTOBER ARRIVALS REACHED 18 MILLION MARK

A1GP DRIVERS VISIT KUALA GANDAH ELEPHANT ORPHANAGE

ZOOM! MALAYSIA TRAVEL FAIR

CHARTER FLIGHTS BRING IN MORE FINNISH TOURISTS

MAJLIS PELANCARAN ZOOM! CAMERON HIGHLANDS

KEMPEN ZOOM! MALAYSIA DI MEDIA PRIMA

TOURISM MALAYSIA PARTICIPATES IN ITB ASIA 2008

1.59 MILLION TOURIST ARRIVALS TO MALAYSIA IN SEPTEMBER 2008

`TWIN CITY` PACKAGE LAUNCHED

MALAYSIA PARTICIPATES IN PATA TRAVEL MART 2008

1,839,235 TOURISTS IN AUGUST 2008

SKYPARK FBO MALAYSIA AND VISTAJET TO BOOST MALAYSIAS AVIATION INDUSTRY

MALAYSIA WINS FOUR PATA GOLD AWARDS 2008

MALAYSIA WINS TRAVELWEEKLY (ASIA) AWARDS 2008

Flora Parade