KOTA KINABALU: The Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture (MOTAC) is collaborating with tourism associations in the country to draw up and implement plans to revive the local tourism sector in the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic.
Its minister Datuk Seri Nancy Shukri (pix) said this cooperation was one of the short-term plans under the National Tourism Policy (DPN) 2020-2030 and was important to ensure the sustainability of the national tourism industry.
“One strategy (in the plan) is to restore public confidence to go on tours while adapting to the new norms covering security, cleanliness, health and compliance with the standard operating procedure (SOP).
“Apart from this, it will also emphasise efforts to revive domestic tourism through creative and attractive tour packages via the digital platform and promote the uniqueness of hidden gems,“ she said here today.
She was speaking at the opening of the DPN 2020-2030 Roadshow which was also attended by her deputy Senator Datuk Guan Dee Koh Hoi and Sabah Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister Datuk Jafry Ariffin.
Nancy said attractive rural destinations or hidden gems could be a top draw for tourists as they are now looking for locations which are safe, not congested, and offer a comfortable and fresh environment.
She said the strategy of offering incentives and promotions in the form of rebate vouchers, e-vouchers, and cashback via e-wallet as well as discounts would also be implemented through this cooperation.
“These efforts are aimed at ensuring that Malaysia will remain the main choice of local and foreign tourists when the borders are opened later,” she added.
She said the roadshow in Sabah was different from that held in other states because it comprised two elements - DPN 2020-2030 and ‘Meet in Malaysia@Sabah’ campaign.
Nancy said the programme was implemented by MOTAC agency Malaysia Convention and Exhibition Bureau (MyCEB) to revive the business event segment to help the industry recover faster.
“The engagement sessions with states are an important agenda of MOTAC to ensure all interested parties are of one voice, share the same vision of a transformation agenda and incorporate DPN strategies in their respective action plans,” she said.- Bernama
