By: Rosli Mansor
IPOH – The Minister of Local Government and Development, YB Nga Kor Ming, aims for Malaysia to welcome 30 million tourists in 2024.
He mentioned that Malaysia had received 26.4 million tourists in 2023, surpassing Thailand in the Asian region.
“For the first time, Malaysia has been recognized as the top country in tourist arrivals, surpassing Thailand and Singapore this year (2023).
“In 2019, before the COVID-19 pandemic, Malaysia welcomed nearly 27 million tourists, generating revenue of RM87.4 billion.
“I am confident that in 2024, the number of tourists to Malaysia will soar to 30 million, bringing in revenue exceeding RM100 billion.
“I believe that the state of Perak is capable of contributing to a greater number of tourists, especially during the Visit Perak 2024 campaign, and can boost the economy of the state of Perak,” he said in a speech at the Octagon Christmas Musical Night event on Jalan Theatre, Ipoh, recently.
Nga Kor Ming also presented contribution checks to six NGO organizations throughout Ipoh in conjunction with the Christmas celebration.
Present at the event were the Mayor of Ipoh, Dato’ Rumaizi Baharin, and the President of PICCI, Dato’ Liew Chee Ming.
Meanwhile, the Mayor of Ipoh, Dato’ Rumaizi Baharin, stated that the Christmas celebration demonstrates unity among the diverse communities in the state.
“The spirit of unity can be nurtured through the various celebrations in the country, which is key to the harmony and socio-economic progress of the nation.
“The practice of sharing celebrations and visiting traditions during festive seasons should be continued to preserve it as the identity of the Malaysian society,” he said in his speech at the event.
Over 500 Ipoh city residents enjoyed several performances, including those from Ipoh Gospel Hall, Geoffrey Woo’s singing performance, Kingdom City, and Ipoh Pastors.
The audience also received a ‘Christmas Cake’ as a symbolic gift for this year’s Christmas celebration.
