Putrajaya wants to be a tourist hot spot.

Date: 22 October 2012

Putrajaya wants to be a tourist hot spot.

EXPERIENCE PUTRAJAYA PROGRAMME: Corporation sets target of five million locals to visit administrative capital next year

PUTRAJAYA: PUTRAJAYA Corporation (PPj) has targeted five million domestic tourists to visit the federal administrative capital next year under its Experience Putrajaya Programme (AL1P). The programme's objective is to bring those who have never come here for a tour and to appreciate its beauty.

Launched yesterday by Federal Territories and Urban Wellbeing Minister Datuk Raja Nong Chik Raja Zainal Abidin and PPj president Tan Sri Aseh Che Mat, the programme also involved about 440 people residing in the People's Housing Project in Lembah Pantai being taken on a tour here in Nadi Putra buses.

Among the spots they visited were Sultan Mizan Zainal Abidin Mosque, Seri Perdana Complex, Putra Boulevard and Botanical Gardens.

Raja Nong Chik said the programme not only promoted Putrajaya, but would also generate income for the traders here.

"Aside from promoting Putrajaya in the tourism sector, PPj can also help traders as there are not many visitors to the capital even during the weekends. It is hoped that the programme would enable the traders to earn extra income."

He also said although two million tourists visited the capital here this year, it was not something to shout about. "Putrajaya was only a passageway for them and they did not stay long. Hopefully, with AL1P, visitors will be encouraged to stay longer."

Programme participant Tan Kuan Eia, 57, said it was his first time visiting here. "I never had the opportunity to visit. But with the introduction of this programme, I am able to see Putrajaya with my own eyes. AL1P must be introduced to everyone because it showcases the beauty of the capital."

Those who are interested in AL1P can apply by calling 03-88877350, or email to nazt@ppj.gov.my. The tour will be held every Wednesday to Sunday and the time slots available are from 9.30am to 12.30pm, or 2.00pm to 5.00pm.

In a related development, the Tourism Ministry is encouraging more domestic travels among Malaysians to further boost the sector. Deputy Tourism Minister Datuk Dr James Dawos Mamit yesterday urged tour operators to come up with more packages to cater to local tourists. "By coming up with more packages, tour operators will be able to attract more tourists both locals and foreigners," he said in his speech at the flagging off of the Cuti-Cuti 1Malaysia MotoGP Ride 2012 convoy here.

About 150 riders from various motorcycle clubs took part in the convoy travelling to the Sepang International Circuit for the Motorcycle Grand Prix (MotoGP) 2012 race. The convoy was a collaboration between Malaysian Motorcycle Getaways and Tourism Malaysia. Participants received MotoGP grandstand tickets, selected hotels and homestay discount vouchers, refreshments and merchandise. Mamit said motor sports, such as the MotoGP, had the potential to generate income for the country.

He also said Malaysia recorded 131 million domestic tourist arrivals last year. They spent RM43.3 billion.

By KOI KYE LEE | news@nst.com.my

Copyright © The New Straits Times Press (Malaysia) Berhad