Tourism, Arts, and Culture Minister Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing has called for political and racial issues to be kept separate from efforts to promote Malaysia’s tourism industry.
Speaking at a recent press conference, Tiong highlighted the critical role tourism plays in driving economic growth and urged all parties to focus on enhancing the nation's appeal as a global destination.
Tiong expressed concern over criticisms directed at the government's initiatives to attract tourists, particularly from China, with accusations that the government is prioritizing Chinese visitors. He warned that politicizing and racializing such issues could undermine the country's economic progress and tarnish its image internationally.
“Malaysia is not alone in seeking Chinese tourists. Countries like Saudi Arabia are also actively promoting themselves in China because they understand the potential of this large market with significant spending power,” Tiong said.
The minister emphasized that the Ministry of Tourism, Arts, and Culture (MOTAC) remains committed to fostering economic opportunities for Malaysians, steering clear of political or religious matters. The arrival of Chinese tourists, Tiong noted, brings significant economic benefits, including increased trade for small businesses, particularly in rural areas.
With Malaysia recording 34.2 million arrivals between January and November this year which surpassing pre-pandemic levels, the potential for further growth is immense. However, Tiong cautioned that such achievements could be jeopardized if the industry becomes mired in divisive narratives.
To remain competitive with neighboring countries like Thailand, Malaysia must focus on creating a welcoming environment for all visitors. “We should not let politics and racism adversely impact tourism, or we risk falling short of the goals for Visit Malaysia Year 2026 and ASEAN 2025,” Tiong emphasized.
On a related note, Tiong addressed the controversy over bilingual business signage, advocating for balanced enforcement. He urged authorities to engage with business owners through consultations and notices rather than abrupt removals, which could harm perceptions among locals and tourists.
As Malaysia looks ahead to major tourism milestones, Tiong’s plea for unity and focus on economic growth serves as a timely reminder of the need to keep politics and prejudice out of the country’s tourism agenda.
By: Kpost
Information Source: TheSun
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