Pangkor Island has become tourists’ main destination in the state since the announcement of the Recovery Movement Control Order (RMCO).
According to the State Executive Councillor for Housing, Local Government and Tourism, Dato’ Nolee Ashilin Mohamed Radzi, the state government will monitor incoming tourists to ensure their adherence to SOPs, particularly crowding issues at the Pangkor Jetty.
“The number of tourists headed to Pangkor are very encouraging, especially during weekends. Ferry trips have been added from just 18 to 43,” she said when contacted recently.
“Discussions were made with ferry operators to sell tickets at a certain timeframe to avoid crowdings in the future,” Nolee Ashilin added.
“The small area of the jetty is also one of the reasons for crowding,” she also mentioned. “To solve this issue, upgrading works are needed and we will ensure they are accelerated.”
Meanwhile, Nolee Ashilin informed that the state government has applied to the Ministry of Finance to relax tour duration in Pangkor from 48 to 24 hours.
“Based on regulations set by the Royal Malaysian Customs Department (JKDM), tourists must stay at least 48 hours in Pangkor to obtain tax exemptions for select merchandise at duty-free business premises.
“As of latest, we’ve yet to receive a response and hopefully, the application is approved as soon as possible for ease of tourism affairs in the future,” she expressed.
Rosli Mansor
