By: Rosli Mansor Ahmad Razali
IPOH: The issue of the state’s tourism industry operators and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) feeling marginalized and neglected has become a hot topic of conversation recently.
Recently, the Chairman of Perak Bumiputra Tourism Entrepreneurs, Zamari Muhyi, representing 12 NGOs active in the tourism industry in the state of Perak stated that they did not get cooperation from the state government, who were not friendly and did not want to listen to the problems faced.
It saddened them when the tourism association’s incentive of RM10,000 was abolished.
In response to the question, the Chairman of the State Tourism, Industry, Investment and Corridor Development Committee Loh Sze Yee said the allegations of certain parties regarding the issue of lack of cooperation given to industry operators and tourism non-governmental organizations (NGOs) is a contradiction of opinion.
However, he explained, his side is open to receiving any suggestions and views in addition to welcoming cooperation from players in the tourism industry.
“We have met with many tourism industry players and those involved in making Visit Perak Year 2024 (TMP 2024) a success, as early as last February.
“There is no exception to those (industry players) who come in person to meet at the office. We have also gone everywhere from the north to the south of Perak.
“Nevertheless, if anyone feels that they have been left behind, our side, including Tourism Perak, welcomes them to meet,” he said.
Meanwhile, Loh said, the development of new tourism products and packages will be given more emphasis to ensure that they contribute to the success of TMP 2024.
They include Tasik Cermin, Silverlake Village Outlet, Dato’ Lat Gallery and House in Batu Gajah, Qin Xi Ling Cultural Village, Maze Garden, Escape @ Ipoh and Lenggong Geopark.
