By: Rosli Mansor Ahmad Razali
IPOH – The Ipoh City Council (MBI) is making ‘Greater Ipoh’ a key focus in preparations for Visit Malaysia Year 2026 (VMY2026), which includes Ipoh, Kampar, Batu Gajah, and Kuala Kangsar.
Ipoh Mayor, Dato’ Rumaizi Baharin@Md Daud, stated that the ‘Greater Ipoh’ status provides significant opportunities for tourism agencies to expand their product offerings.
“With broader involvement, tourism agencies will be able to create more appealing packages, including extending the stay of tourists to two to three days in Ipoh. This proposal is expected to have a positive impact in preparations for VMY2025 as a strategic step to ensure the city is ready to welcome tourists,” he said during the Teh Tarik Meet program at Galasa, here yesterday.
Also present was the President of the Perak Tourism Association, Datuk Mohd Odzman Abd. Kadir.
According to Dato’ Rumaizi, cooperation from all tourism industry players is essential for the smooth running of VMY2026, which will not only involve Ipoh but also the entire state of Perak.
“The Teh Tarik Meet program organised by the Perak Tourism Association (PTA) is an excellent initiative in strengthening ties between industry players and government agencies. It also plays a role in preparing for VMY2026, serving as an important platform to reinforce cooperation and networking among tourism sector stakeholders,” he explained.
MBI also plans to hold a series of discussions with various parties to identify the roles that each group can play in the tourism industry.
He added that every tourism operator should conduct a stock-taking of their products and ensure the best experience is offered to tourists.
“This step is crucial in strengthening the competitiveness of the tourism sector in Ipoh and Perak, as well as maximising the potential of the area to become the country’s main tourist destination,” he said.
