No tourism destinations in Malaysia that are meant for certain religions or certain races only; all destinations are open to tourists worldwide.
Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Tiong King Sing has apologised over the idea floated by his deputy about turning Langkawi into a niche holiday destination for Muslims.
He apologised to the public, saying Deputy Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Khairul Firdaus Akbar Khan may not have clearly explained the matter.
“I was abroad on duty a few days ago, and the deputy minister might not have explained it clearly, which led to public backlash. I have already spoken to him about this,” Tiong (above) was quoted saying by the China Press during an event in Penang last night.
He emphasised that Malaysia is a multiracial country and no tourism site should cater exclusively to the needs of a single religion.
Tiong’s remarks come after the deputy tourism minister’s Monday remarks in the Dewan Rakyat drew controversy.
In the Parliament session, Khairul defended the rights of states that impose conservative rules on tourists.
He said this after he was asked to comment on states that restricted tourists from drinking alcohol or wearing revealing clothes.
In a reply to Seputeh MP Teresa Kok (Harapan-Seputeh), he said such states can cater to niche markets.
Citing Langkawi, Khairul said the island could be positioned as a destination for Muslim tourists.
His remarks have drawn brickbats, with Kedah Menteri Besar Muhammad Sanusi Md Nor saying the state is not entertaining such an idea.
Separately, Tiong said now that there are direct flights from Shanghai to Penang, he hopes Penangites will actively promote the state’s tourist attractions, including its cuisines.
He urged all industries in Penang to work together to keep the state’s tourism industry sustainable.