Tourism Malaysia's New Frankfurt Director To Reach Out To Consumers.

26th March, 2013

Tourism Malaysia's New Frankfurt Director To Reach Out To Consumers.

FRANKFURT - Tourism Malaysia's new Frankfurt director will not only reach out to the tourism and travel trade but also directly communicate with the German consumers through a reach-out strategy that aims to add to the shine of Malaysia's image as an attractive tourist destination.

Maizan Ahmad, who assumed the post of director of Tourism Malaysia's Frankfurt office just two months back, said she would not just promote business-to-business contacts but also sharpen the consumer awareness about Malaysia's attributes as an attractive destination that would especially appeal to German tourists.

"It is equally important to directly communicate with the German consumers who are known to be passionate about foreign travel, and experience new lands and cultures," Maizan said in an interview with Bernama.

German tourists spent a mind-boggling 65 billion Euros (about RM262.3 billion) during 2012 on travel and tourism-related activities, according to Maizan.

"German tourists are among the world's top spending-tourists. Indeed, travel is an important part of a German's life. Germans are trend-setters. But Germany is also a challenging market. There has been a shift in the ranking of Germany which was until a couple of years back the second highest source of tourism traffic to Malaysia, behind the UK, in Europe. Meanwhile, Germany has been overtaken by France in terms of tourist arrivals in Malaysia ... while 131,277 German tourists were clocked in Malaysia in 2012, we received 136,172 French tourists visited Malaysia in the same year.

"In 2011, we had 124,670 German tourists visiting Malaysia compared with 127,980 French tourists," Maizan said. "One possible reason for the surge in French traffic could be the air connectivity. AirAsia operated a daily flight to Paris until early 2012, in addition to the daily flight operated by Malaysia Airlines," she explained adding that in contrast, MAS operates only five flights a week to Frankfurt.

"Consequently, our strategy is to also work with foreign airlines which operate flights to Malaysia through their hubs, even though these are not direct flights which German tourists usually prefer to take," she said.

But she is also planning to intensify contacts with German tour and travel operators and also going to break into a niche segment -- the upper-market segment -- in the area of luxury travel and lifestyle.

Also on the cards are several events planned in Germany in connection with the Visit Malaysia Year 2014, which would include organising familiarisation tours for travel and tour operators as well as the media.

By: Manik Mehta

Copyright@BERNAMA

Taiwan Keen To Attract Malaysian-Chinese Tourists.

18th March, 2013

Taiwan Keen To Attract Malaysian-Chinese Tourists.

BERLIN - Taiwan is very keen to attract tourists from Malaysia, and has been highlighting areas of interest to the Malaysian-Chinese community, which has increased its visits to the island republic.

Using the catchphrase "Tantalising Taiwan" to make a strong pitch for Taiwan as an attractive destination at the just-concluded International Tourism Bourse (ITB) of Berlin, Cheng Ying-Huei, the deputy director of the international affairs division at the Taipei-based Taiwan Tourism Bureau, said that tourism has become one of the top six segments of the country's economy.

He said that Taiwan was not just eyeing the traditional Western markets but also the Asean markets, with Malaysia serving as a major source of tourism traffic. Cheng added that tourism generated revenue of US$11 billion in 2011.

"If in the past, visitors comprised largely of business travellers, we now see a growing number of leisure travellers visiting Taiwan. We received some 7.31 million tourists last year, an increase of 20.11 per cent over 2011," Cheng said in an interview with Bernama in Berlin.

While Western tourists were attracted by culture, tourists of Chinese origin, including from Malaysia, were drawn by several attractions, particularly the Sun Moon Lake, the common Chinese culture, Buddhist landmarks and, particularly in the case of Malaysian-Chinese, by traditional Chinese medicine.

Taiwan is also playing up as an innovative place of learning traditional Chinese medicine to court Malaysian-Chinese tourists. Indeed, the Asean region has become one of the major markets for Taiwan to source tourism from, with Malaysia, Singapore and Indonesia providing the bulk of the region's traffic.

"Malaysian-Chinese also visit Taiwan for shopping, wedding photo shooting, which has become highly popular among young people," she added.

Cheng said that Malaysian companies could offer their employees incentive travel benefits. The employees could enjoy "not only the benefits of a common culture with links to Malaysia but also feel very much at home". Taiwan's Tourism Bureau regularly organises roadshows in the Asean region. Malaysia is one of the countries that is seen as a market inherent with good business potential.

By: Manik Mehta

Copyright@BERNAMA

5,000 tour packages on offer at Virtual Travel Fair from Wed.

11th March, 2013

5,000 tour packages on offer at Virtual Travel Fair from Wed.

PETALING JAYA: Creative Advances Technology Sdn Bhd aims to rake in some RM15 million in travel packages enquiries through its Smart Online Travel Assistance's (SOTA) fifth Virtual Travel Fair.

"With the growing maturity of online travel in Malaysia, we believe we will see an even stronger response for this year's virtual travel fair, especially with a bigger variety of travel packages and value-for-money deals offering greater incentives for savvy buyers," said Creative Advances Technology chief executive officer Rohizam Md Yusof.

According to Rohizam, the last Virtual Travel Fair held in September 2012 saw a record-breaking 70,000 online visitors, or about 2,600 online visitors daily. "We expect more than 130,000 online visitors to participate in the upcoming Virtual Travel Fair," he told Business Times on the sidelines of its media appreciation luncheon on Friday.

The fifth Virtual Travel Fair is schedule to kick-off from Wednesday and ends on March 29. Themed "Great Deals, More Choices", it offers 5,000 travel packages and room deals from 150,000 hotels.

Rohizam said bargains include three-day/two-night packages to Universal Studios Singapore and Johor Legoland and seven-day/six-night packages to South Korea and Jeju Island, as well as umrah packages to Saudi Arabia.

"On top of that, travellers who spend a minimum of RM100 will stand a chance to win a a three-day/two-night package to Macau that includes accommodation and flight tickets worth RM7,000 for a contest held throughout the fair," he said.

There are value deals for trips to Beijing, Guilin, Phnom Penh, Bali, Makkah, Madinah, Bangkok, Ho Chi Minh and Hanoi, among many other exciting travel packages.

SOTA is an online travel platform that caters to both travel providers and travellers.

By: Cheryl Yvonne Achu

Copyright@The New Straits Times Press (Malaysia) Berhad

'Kuala Lumpur by cycle' enables tourists to explore KL.

Date: 26 February 2013

'Kuala Lumpur by cycle' enables tourists to explore KL.

KUALA LUMPUR City Hall (DBKL) today introduced a new tourism product, that is exploring Kuala Lumpur on a bicycle.

Launched by Kuala Lumpur Mayor, Datuk Seri Ahmad Phesal Talib here, the programme 'Kuala Lumpur By Cycle' enables tourist to cycle to explore the environmental beauty of the national capital such as the Taman Botani Perdana, Taman Burung and Memorial Tun Abdul Razak beginning today.

Speaking to reporters after launching the programme, Ahmad Phesal said tourists had the opportunity to explore Kuala Lumpur by themselves through the cycling package, while under the group cycling package, the tourists would be accompanied by a tourist guide.

Under the programme, tourists are required to rent the bicycle according to the package offered that is RM30 for the first four hours and an additional RM5 for each subsequent hour, while the group package with the tourist guide is RM45.

"The tourist will be provided with a bicycle, helmet, and other safety features, besides a map as a guide and safety of the rider," he said. - Bernama

Copyright @ 2012 Malay Mail Sdn. Bhd.

Zimbabwe Travel Agents Tour Malaysia.

Date: 15 February 2013

Zimbabwe Travel Agents Tour Malaysia.

Ethiopian Airlines will tomorrow take a group of Zimbabwe's leading travel agents and tour operators on a familiarisation tour of Malaysia and Ethiopia. Flying to over 70 destinations, and planned commencements of flights to Ndola, Zambia and Blantyre, Malawi next month the airline started operating the Harare-Kuala Lumpur route in October last year.

In an interview Fitsimt Dejene, Area Manager Zimbabwe, said such familiarisation tours are part of the various sales and marketing tools they use in giving opportunity to tour operators or agents a firsthand experience of Ethiopian Airlines services.

"These familiarisation trips are also an incentive for committed and/or potential travel agents as they promote the airline's products and services to the travelling public. We have had such tours before to our hub, Addis Ababa and an Ethiopian resort but last year we had awarded our travel agents for performances of the previous year," she said.

Mrs Dejene said eight travel agents have been selected for this year's tour, based on their high performance on the Asian market as well as the leisure/tour operation.

Harare is one of the eight destinations Ethiopian Airlines serves in Southern Africa with daily flights into Zimbabwe and two extra night flights scheduled to commence next month. "Contribution of the Harare route to the region is vital in terms of passenger uplift and business generation. We are the only African airline that serves more destinations in Africa and the Middle East. We are the only airline that uplifts in flight meals (lunch/dinner) from Zimbabwe. "

"In June 2013 we will start flying to Brazil. Beyond June, we are looking at more destinations in Asia like Singapore, North Korea and Philippines," said Mrs Dejene. She added that Ethiopian Airlines contributes to The Zimbabwe economy by consistently maintaining scheduled flights, increasing capacity and deploying new aircraft which include the Boeing 777 and 787.

Copyright @ 2013 AllAfrica

India dismisses appeal from Malaysia for longer stays.

Date: 14 February 2013

India dismisses appeal from Malaysia for longer stays.

THE Indian High Commission has rejected an appeal by the Malaysian Indian Tour and Travel Association (MITTA) against the new 30-day maximum stay ruling for Malaysian tourists to India.

MITTA sent the appeal to the Indian High Commission on January 17 on the grounds that the ruling was unfair as it was only implemented for Malaysians and not for other nationalities.

However, Indian deputy high commissioner, Aseem R Mahajan, had deemed the ruling as reciprocal as Indian nationals visiting Malaysia on a tourist visa with one-year multiple entry also could not stay for more than 30 days at a time, revealed MITTA president K Thangavelu.

Sree Thar, tour organiser of Ganesh Travel Agencies, said: ““The 30-day ruling is very short. It should be at least 45 days – that would be just nice. With this ruling, we have no choice but to shorten our All India Tour programme, which combines leisure holiday with visits to temples in the north and south of India and is originally 33 days long.

“The ruling will affect Malaysians with relatives in India as some will want to extend their stay and visit their relatives after the tour. To get around the 30-day ruling, they have the option of visiting a neighbouring country for a night or more and then returning to India but they are unlikely to exercise this option as it involves additional airfare and accommodation costs.” Also affected by this 30-day maximum stay ruling are those of Indian origin in Malaysia with spouse and children in India.

Thangavelu said MITTA was encouraging Malaysians with family members living in India to apply for an entry visa so they can stay continuously in India for up to six months. The entry visa costs RM314 (US$102), almost double the multiple-entry tourist visa at RM162.

By S Puvaneswary, Kuala Lumpur

Copyright @ TTG Asia Media Pte Ltd 2013

Voluntourism a hit with longhaul travellers to Malaysia.

Date: 7 February 2013

Voluntourism a hit with longhaul travellers to Malaysia.

TRADITIONAL longhaul markets to Malaysia have developed an appetite for volunteer tourism, with travel consultants reporting growing interest in the niche segment.

Diethelm Travel Malaysia’s managing director, Manfred Kurz, said: “Traditionally, CSR programmes appeal only to meeting and incentive groups from European markets. But we have seen growing interest from the FIT segment over the last couple of years.” To harness rising demand, Diethelm Travel will work with established tour operators in Germany to promote more volunteer tourism programmes in Sabah and Sarawak for the FIT market this year.

Sarawak-based Masama JS Adventure Tours’ business development manager, Marco Wunsch, said: “In 2012, we saw 30 per cent year-on-year growth (in the number of participants) for our turtle conservation programme at Talang-Talang Island, with the most requests coming from FITs from the Netherlands.”  Masama works with the Sarawak Forestry Corporation for this programme. Wunsch said: “This year, we would like to develop more conservation tours in Sarawak, especially those with the rare Irrawaddy dolphins in the Santubong area.”

Alex Lee, CEO of Terengganu-based Ping Anchorage Travel & Tours, explained the difference between the regular leisure tourist and a volunteer tourist. “The FIT tourist involved in volunteer tourism spends at least 50 per cent more than the average tourist, as they even pay the locals a fee to be involved (in activities). 

“This year, we plan to develop more volunteer programmes in Terengganu, involving local culture, heritage and nature. Tourists will be able to decide on the programmes they wish to be involved in, based on their budget and length of stay.”

By S Puvaneswary, Kuala Lumpur

Copyright @ TTG Asia Media Pte Ltd 2013

Cruise industry tops 20m clients, focuses on Asia.

Date: 31 January 2013

Cruise industry tops 20m clients, focuses on Asia.

NEW YORK - Cruise lines carried 20.3 million passengers last year and expect the numbers to rise in 2013 as more companies focus resources on luring Asian clients, industry experts said on Wednesday. A year after the Costa Concordia disaster off the coast of Italy with the loss of 32 lives, the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), which represents cruise lines around the globe, said it expects to reach 20.97 million passengers this year.

"The industry is well positioned to continue with this trajectory," Christine Duffy, CLIA's president and CEO, told a news conference, adding that new policies have been introduced following a review after the accident.

The Caribbean, Mediterranean and Europe remain the top cruise destinations, with Americans and Canadians making up the bulk of passengers, but the industry is rapidly going global with Australia and Asia the big growth area. "We are very bullish on China and Asia as a whole," said Jim Berra, chief marketing officer of Carnival Cruise Lines and CLIA's marketing chair.

He added that cruise lines are investing in the region with more home ports and ports of call, and sending ships into the region to meet the growing market. "By 2020 the Chinese market is projected to be a US$7 trillion(S$9 trillion) consumer economy and will have created the largest middle class that ever existed on Earth," he said.

Cruise lines, as a result, will be adding itineraries to Japan, China and Australia, South Korea and Vietnam. "Some of our newer, bigger ships are heading to these markets because the demand is there," Mr Berra added.

Along with Asian destinations, cruise lines are adding trips to exotic locales such as Morocco, Antarctica, Iceland and the Galapagos Islands, and are ramping up on-board entertainment with Broadway shows and appearances of Tony-award winning actors and reality show stars, he said.

A CLIA poll of travel agents who book cruises showed that multigenerational travel, weddings and honeymoons are seen as the top potential growth groups for cruises. "It's all about innovation, global markets and how you open up to them," said Mr Berra.

By Reuters

Copyright @ 2013 Singapore Press Holdings Ltd

Asia's tourism players demand better ecotourism practices.

Date: 25 January 2013

Asia's tourism players demand better ecotourism practices.

WHILE balancing economic development and environmental sustainability continues to be a challenge, tourism players should chart the way forward for ecotourism in South-east Asia, a salient theme that was raised during the ASEAN Tourism Conference (ATC) at ATF 2013.

“We have to take care of the goose that lays the golden eggs,” said Victor Wee, chairman, Tourism Malaysia, on sustainability and ecotourism. “Ecotourism is a two-way street – it requires the responsible, conscious and committed participation of all parties.”

Tour operators should take a proactive stance, urged Umberto Cadamuro, director of business and operations, Pacto Indonesia. “The key is to keep sustainability in mind when developing products. We would recommend incentive groups to have their CSR activities in South-east Asia. It is the responsibility of DMCs to suggest this to their clients.”

Jimmy Sim, business development manager, Dorison Travel Singapore, agreed: “Sustainable tourism enjoys a higher profile in the Western world but is still something very new in this region. Hotels are the most polluting link in the tourism field. There are a lot of opportunities but it’s very frustrating as many hotel owners are just looking at dollars and cents,” said Anthony Wong, group managing director of Asian Overland Services Tours & Travel Malaysia and Frangipani Hotels & Resorts. “General managers are often appointed for two years or so, therefore it’s up to owners to set the vision and goals for their properties.”

Since adopting green practices such as rainwater harvesting, composting and setting up a wetland at Frangipani Langkawi, the resort’s operating costs have declined by 20 per cent, Wong revealed.

Community-based tourism can be tapped to improve the well-being of the local community while raking in tourist dollars, keynote speakers pointed out. For example, PATA Foundation has partnered Canada’s Capilano University to launch homestay programmes in Vietnam’s Sapa, according to chairman – board of trustees, Mario Hardy.

Better policies and regulations should be drawn up, as ecotourism products are generally under-priced in the region, leading to high visitations and environmental degradation, Wee added.

By Xinyi Liang-Pholsena, ASEAN Tourism Forum, Vientiane

Copyright @ TTG Asia Media Pte Ltd 2013

UPM Launched First University Tour Package.

Date: 19 January 2013

UPM Launched First University Tour Package.

KUALA LUMPUR (Bernama) - Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM) Friday launched their Mother Nature Tour Trail in conjunction with the Visit Malaysia Year 2014 (VMY) Promotional Campaign in Bukit Jalil here.

The tour package makes UPM the first university to offer the tourism package by allowing tourists to explore the university's vast natural surrounding located at its campus in Serdang.

Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research and Innovation), Prof. Datuk Ir Dr. Mohd Salleh Jaafar, said the package offered was not the usual tour packages in the market. "There are seven locations selected specially for the package that offers from half day tours up to three days and two nights," he said.

Dr Mohd Salled said the packages were priced between RM 99 to RM 370 per person. Three tour agents will start promoting the package, namely TM Tours and Travel, Mitra Kembara and Poto Travel and Tours.

Tourism Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ng Yen Yen, who launched the tour package, said 30 UPM students had been trained for the tour package and this would help expand the tourism industry further by exposing UPM students to the industry.

Copyrights @ BERNAMA

Tour Putrajaya On A Bicycle.

Date: 7 January 2013

Tour Putrajaya On A Bicycle.

PUTRAJAYA (Bernama) - Putrajaya is popular among cyclists these days, with more and more people riding their cycles on weekends in this city. Added with facilities like bicycle lanes, bicycles for rent, a BMX circuit and an off-road cycling track, the administrative capital is an alluring destination for cycling enthusiasts.

Therefore, it is not surprising to see cyclists from Klang Valley and other parts of the country in Putrajaya. In fact, there are a number of cyclists from Singapore and Indonesia too.

Some of the popular cycling events in Putrajaya include the Putrajaya Inter-Park Ride, Putrajaya Critical Mass and MTB Jamboree @ Putrajaya. These events are well received by local and foreign cyclists. During these events, Putrajaya appears as the bicycle capital of the country. Thousands of riders with their colourful bicycles add to the picturesque landscape of Putrajaya.

To increase the number of cycling activities in Putrajaya, two more cycling activities were introduced in December 2012. The two activities are Cuti-cuti 1Malaysia Putrajaya Bike Ride (CC1MPBR) and Paya Indah Wetlands (PIW). After launching the two cycling activities, Tourism Minister Datuk Seri Ng Yen Yen said the Tourism Ministry will promote Putrajaya as a bicycle-friendly city and a green destination. This is in line with the garden city concept promoted by the city's administrator - Putrajaya Corporation.

"Now, the Bike Ride activity is present in almost every state in Malaysia," she said. Currently, about 38 cycling tour packages are available in Putrajaya, with one package extending to Paya Indah Wetlands in Banting, Selangor, about 25 km from Putrajaya. The packages are tailored to meet the requirements of tourists, families and even big groups of visitors. The prices of the packages are fixed for the year 2013. So, visitors can plan their cycling tours without worrying about additional charges during peak hours.

The Paya Indah Wetlands are rich in flora and fauna provide a unique experience for those visiting the place on the cycle. Covering an area of 450,76 hectares, and they are home to many hippopotamuses, crocodiles, 226 species of birds, 63 species of mammals, 20 species of reptiles, 10 species of amphibians and 14 species of fish. Cycling is permitted on the 18 km off-road track in this nature park, which is part of the 60 km track that links Banting to Putrajaya. Other activities that can be carried out in the Paya Indah Wetlands are bird watching, feeding hippopotamuses and crocodiles, kayaking, and a boat ride to Gibbon Island.

Tour agents are hopeful that cycling programmes will increase the number of tourists to Putrajaya. They also feel that Putrajaya will be known as a green city. Saidinar Mohd Noor, owner of Dinar Holidays Sdn Bhd, said these cycling packages promote a healthy lifestyle.

Meanwhile, Haizan Mohd Nor, General Manager of IMG Travel and Tours Sdn Bhd, said new attractions, including the Paya Indah Wetlands, appeal to the general public. "We are coming up with affordable packages so that everyone can take park in cycling activities," said Haizan, whose agency offers three cycling packages.

Director of Pesaka Travel and Tours Sdn Bhd, Zakiah Yunus, when met noted that her company chose the concept of 'hunt' to promote learning while touring. Cycling packages offered by this company are ideal for students. "Students can learn and have fun at the same time," explained Zakiah.

Last year, Tourism Malaysia Jakarta (TMJ) introduced the 3D/2N Special Package to encourage Indonesians to tour Putrajaya on bicycles. Close to 80 Indonesians took part in the programme. The package was developed by TMJ and Anditar Tour costing USD405 (about RM1,250) includes flight tickets, accommodation, tours and meals.

TMJ's Director, Nor Aznan Sulaiman, said many Indonesians will take part in cycling activities as they love cycling. "So, we approached a local tour agency to take the package to the next level," he said. Janto Hassan, 50, said he was impressed by the event. "The Indonesian government encourages cycling. Certain roads in Jakarta cannot be used by motor vehicles on weekends. Only cyclists can use these roads. This way, the country can overcome energy crisis," he said, adding that Malaysia should come up with similar activities.

For further information about these packages, contact Tourism Malaysia at 1 300 88 5050 or enquiries@tourism.gov.my or visit www.tourismmalaysia.gov.my.

By Ali Imran Mohd Noordin

Copyrights @ BERNAMA

Promoting caves temple as venue for meetings.

Date: 5 January 2013

Promoting caves temple as venue for meetings.

KUALA LUMPUR: The Malaysia Convention and Exhibition Bureau (MyCEB) recently signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Chin Swee Caves Temple which designates it as its fourth shell site. MyCEB has designated Putrajaya Maritime Centre, Central Market and Thean Hou Temple as shell sites.

MyCEB was set up by the Tourism Ministry to strengthen Malaysia's business tourism brand and position in the international meetings, incentives, conventions and exhibitions market.

The MoU was signed by Chin Swee Caves Temple Building Society vice- chairman Tan Kong Han, who is also the president and chief operating officer of Genting Bhd, and MyCEB CEO Zulkefli Sharif. It was witnessed by Genting Malaysia Bhd senior vice-president of public relations and communications Datuk Anthony Yeo.

Tan said: "We are honoured to have MyCEB as our partner to promote the Sky Terrace at Chin Swee Caves Temple as a destination for business and international events. We hope MyCEB will help to promote Sky Terrace to the international business community as an ideal venue for international events. We look forward to placing Chin Swee Caves Temple and Malaysia on the world map of international business events." The 3,250sq m Sky Terrace is an observation area which offers magnificent mountain views.

Zulkefli said: "MyCEB is continuously looking to develop competitive, creative and innovative offerings to further attract international business events to the country. A big selling point for Malaysia is our rich culture where one can experience the whole of Asia in one destination. "Hence, adding one-of-a-kind venues like the Chin Swee Caves Temple into our list of offerings will definitely make Malaysia more appealing as a business events venue."

Shell sites are unique and iconic sites that can be utilised as off-site business events for groups of up to 1,000. As an alternative to conventional meeting venues, shell sites present visitors with an experience of meetings while being enclosed within the cultural and natural elements of Malaysia.

The temple is located at 1,400m above sea level in Genting Highlands and is less than an hour's drive from Kuala Lumpur. It is a perfect getaway for those who wish to escape from the city. It is situated on a rocky forested mountain overlooking lush green slopes of virgin forests. Blessed with cool crisp mountain air, the temple is a peaceful place for purifying the mind and soul.

 It is a tourist hub which features traditional Chinese culture and legend, including a nine-dragon wall. Each dragon, which is in a different colour, represents a different type of luck. There is a nine-storey pagoda decorated with 10,000 Buddha figurines and a 18m high stone carving of a Buddha resting on a lotus.

The temple has played host to numerous cultural activities and promotional events, drawing local and foreign tourists. The temple has a meditation hall, two meeting rooms, and a vegetarian restaurant. There are also 110 rooms where devotees can stay in comfort for retreats, prayers, reflection, meditation and self-discovery. For details about Chin Swee Caves Temple, visit www.csc.org.my.

Copyright © 2011 The New Straits Times Press (Malaysia) Berhad

Mine tunnel a hit among tourists.

Date: 2 January 2013

Mine tunnel a hit among tourists.

KUANTAN: HUNDREDS of visitors thronged the former Sungai Lembing mining site here on New Year's Day after its underground tunnel was opened to  the public for the first time  since 1888. Local and foreign tourists gathered at the ticketing counter as early as 8am before the first batch of 15 people were taken into the tunnel, using a special tram at 10am.

Among the early birds yesterday was factory worker Eng Tick Hang, who came with a friend from Penang. He said they had been looking forward to visit the tunnel and took the opportunity to drop by during their holiday here.

"All this while, we only read in the newspapers and books about the mining site. But now, we have the opportunity to enter it. To preserve its original condition, the tunnel had only undergone minimum repairs." The 48-year-old said the tour guide, who accompanied them during the visit, was knowledgeable as he explained to them about the history of the tunnel and answered all their questions.

Nafisa Muminova, from Tashkent in Uzbekistan, described the experience of going into the tunnels as enlightening. She learned how the mining process was carried out in the old days. "It is my first trip inside a mine, which happens to be the deepest tin mine in the world. After having gone through the tunnel, I have some idea of the kind of life led by the miners who once worked there. The authorities should consider opening more tunnels inside the mine as they will provide visitors with more adventure and thrill," said the 22-year-old.

Her friend, Khairunnisa Wahiddudin, 37, found the tunnel tour educational and it provided visitors with good information on the history of the mining activities. "This is a rewarding trip. It's seldom one can get such an experience in this part of the region. The light and audio systems inside the tunnel also provide visitors with a real-time adventure. As many foreign visitors are expected to visit the tunnel, I hope the authorities could provide tour guides who can speak English and Bahasa Malaysia."

As of 10am yesterday, more than 300 people had purchased tickets to ride a modified tram, which could carry 15 people into the tunnel. The tram stopped after 80m and visitors disembarked for a guided tour inside the 1.5km tunnel. The tour guide showed them interesting sites like the Million Dollar Chamber, which was where a group of ex-miners illegally mined in 1987 despite the tunnel's closure.

By HIDIR REDUAN | news@nst.com.my

Copyright © 2011 The New Straits Times Press (Malaysia) Berhad

Night Safari programme in Kota Kinabalu.

Date: 23 December 2012

Night Safari programme in Kota Kinabalu.

Kota Kinabalu: A new programme called Night Safari, designed to educate on the traditional livelihood of natives and the State's history by experience, is in the making by the State Museum.

In spite of its activities still on the drawing board, a total of four Night Safaris have been held which, according to its Director Joanna Kitingan, were made available for group participation like families and students. She said future programmes would also include bead and handicraft-making sessions.

"The idea to introduce this programme came after I took part in the 'Night at The Museum' activity organised by Melaka Museum in March this year. I and a group of others spent the night in a Portuguese galleon ship, a replica of the Flora Del La Mar, the ship which sank off the Melaka Straits, and is now Maritime Museum," she said, after a Night Safari programme was held on Saturday night.

So far, the Night Safari programme consists of a quiz, whereby participants need to answer questions from gathered information, which is on display inside the Museum Gallery. They have to do it in the dark as the lights will be turned off and torchlight will be the only light source, she said. After the quiz session, the group would be taken for a hike into the Heritage Village Phase II, which is inside the Museum's extended property, located in the former Kota Kinabalu Old Folks Home land.

Bamboo huts have been erected ever since, to allow visitors and Night Safari participants to stay for the night in the area. "During the hike, participants will be made to listen to a recorded natural ambience, as if they were in a jungle. It is a blast from the past experience, a time when electricity is still foreign," she said, adding that it is a back-to-basic affair.

Finally, participants would be entertained with traditional performances while supper is served before turning in for the night in the village.

Meanwhile, a total of 17 participants from Australia's Koonung Secondary School took part in the Night Safari programme, after they had completed their volunteer project to build a tower in the Heritage Village II. They were the second group to be in the Museum, after the first group had completed their programme, building a small bridge weeks ago. On another note, interested groups could contact the Museum, to partake in the programme, Joanna said.

Copyright @ 2012 Sabah Publishing House Sdn. Bhd.

Foreign Tourists Laud Dataran Merdeka Heritage Walk.

Date: 15 December 2012

Foreign Tourists Laud Dataran Merdeka Heritage Walk.

KUALA LUMPUR (Bernama) - The free-of-charge Dataran Merdeka Heritage Walk, complemented with professional tour guides, was a big hit with foreign tourists when it was launched for the first time Saturday. The tourists described the heritage walk as interesting and spectacular. It is jointly organised by Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL) and the Kuala Lumpur Tourism Development Council.

First-time tourist from Russia, who wanted to be identified only as Vladimir, said he was "extremely delighted" to be given the opportunity to experience such an interesting tour. "I think this is the most spectacular guided tour that I have ever joined. Very interesting, not only we were exposed to the different functions of the historical buildings, but also given a tour to see the magnificient architectures of the buildings. I recommend this programme to everyone," the 37-year-old told Bernama here Saturday.

The two-and-a-half hour tour which kicked off at 9.30am, covered 11 heritage sites in the vicinity of Dataran Merdeka which includes the Sultan Abdul Samad Building built in 1894, former High Court Building (1909), Federated Malay States Railway Station (1905) and the old City Hall (1896). It also covers the Government Printing Office (1898), Chartered Bank (1919), St Mary Cathedral (1895), Royal Selangor Club (1884) and the field where the British Union Jack was lowered and the flag of an independent Federation of Malaya raised for the first time on Aug 31, 1957.

Italian tourist Giovanni, 27, here on his maiden visit, described the heritage walk as a good activity since most tourists did not know much about the historical aspect of Dataran Merdeka, which is the focal point for the British Administration before the country's independence.

For Briton, Frida Halvarssor, 24, who is in the country for her second visit, the walk was truly educational. "This is my second time in Kuala Lumpur and for me, this programme is very good for foreign tourists because we can discover 11 historical sites around Dataran Merdeka...we can learn and know details, everyone should join in the walk," she said.

Tourists who joined the heritage walk need to register at pelacongan@dbkl.gov.my before taking part in the tour which is being carried out thrice a week for free, namely Monday, Wednesday and Saturday. They can also logon to www.visitkl.gov.my for details on the heritage walk.

By Noor Adila Ali

Copyrights @ BERNAMA

Delightful insights from heritage tour.

Date: 12 December 2012

Delightful insights from heritage tour.

KUALA LUMPUR: UNKNOWN to many, the Royal Selangor Club fronting Dataran Merdeka is nicknamed “The Spotted Dog”. This moniker came about when a pair of Dalmatians belonging to the wife of one of the club’s founders were left to guard the building’s entrance whenever they visited the club. This is among the insights and untold stories that visitors can discover as they take the newly-launched Dataran Merdeka Heritage Guided Tour.

The tour, a collaboration between City Hall and KL Tourism Development Council, will take tourists  on a walk around Dataran Merdeka (once known as Padang), and the historical buildings nearby such as the former High Court, Sultan Abdul Samad Building, National Textile Museum (formerly Federated Malay States Railway station), Victorian Fountain, Restoran Warisan (formerly known as The Chartered Bank), Kuala Lumpur City Gallery, City Library, Cathedral of St Mary, and the City Theatre (Panggung Bandaraya).

During the launch of the tour at Majestic Hotel, Mayor Datuk Ahmad Phesal Talib said although listed as the sixth most visited city in the world (nine million arrivals last year), it was found that those who visited Dataran Merdeka did not know that there are other interesting buildings aged over 100 years nearby.

"They will learn more about the architecture and history of each landmark during this guided walk, which is part of the National Key Economic Area's (NKEA) Greater KL project initiatives for tourism, namely EPP 7 (Entry Point Project): Iconic Places. This tour is being promoted to tourists through flyers available at hotels as well as other efforts overseas with the help of Tourism Malaysia.

"It is to make visiting Kuala Lumpur an enjoyable experience apart from its other attractions such as being a shopping paradise as we are ranked fourth after New York, Tokyo and London," said Phesal. "The city also appeals to foreign tourists for other reasons, including a safe environment and a rich cultural heritage," he said, adding that he hoped there would be more tourism products and services launched in future. He added that upgrading works were already underway for the heritage trail.

The tours will commence on Saturday at 9.15am and last for two-and-half hours. Apart from Saturdays, the tours are available on Mondays and Wednesdays. Tourists can book the tour by sending an email to pelancongan@dbkl.gov.my.

Also present at the launch were KLTDC co-chairman Tunku Datuk Seri Iskandar Tunku Abdullah, YTL Hotels and Properties Sdn Bhd executive director Datuk Mark Yeoh and KL Tour Guide Association vice-chairman Jane Rai.

By NURADZIMMAH DAIM | streets@nstp.com.my

Copyright © 2011 The New Straits Times Press (Malaysia) Berhad

The National Monument - TUGU NEGARA.

Date: 8 December 2012

The National Monument - TUGU NEGARA.

The National Monument is a sculpture that commemorates those who died in Malaysia's struggle for freedom, principally against the Japanese occupation during World War II and the Malayan Emergency, which lasted from 1948 until 1960.

The National Monument is located at a walking distance from the famous Lake Gardens Kuala Lumpur. The National Monument is a sculpture which was built in remembrance of the brave soldiers who died fighting for the independence of our country. This historic sculpture has also marked its place in the book of records for being the tallest freestanding group of bronze sculptures.

You will see 7 bronze figures of soldiers, each of which symbolizes leadership, suffering, unity, vigilance, strength, courage and sacrifice. 5 of the figures represents the victorious allied forces while the other 2 figures that lie on the ground represents that of the defeated communist forces.

The National Monument is a 48,562 sq meter space with 5 major components. The components are the monument, the pavilion, the surrounding gardens, the fountains and the war memorial. The National Monument was designed by an American architect named Felix de Weldon who also designed the famous Iwo Jima Memorial. Every year on 31st of July, the Yang Di-Pertuan Agong, the Prime Minister as well as the heads of military and police pay their respects to the heroes who have fought so hard to free our country from the clenches of foreign occupation.

This is another site that tourist should not missed about Malaysia. There are many tours available by local travel agency that brings you to this spot. If you are in Kuala Lumpur, make sure you have time for visiting the National Monument or known as 'Tugu Negara' by Malaysian.

Photos:

Photo 1: Many tourists taking photos at the National Monument.

Photo 2: The National Monument.

Photo 3: Many tourists at the National Monument.

Photo 4: A view of National Monument.

Photo 5: National Monument.

Photo 6: Read the story of the National Monument.

Photo 7: Visiting Hours to the National Monument.

KL & Putrajaya - Premium Half Day Tour.

Date: 24 November, 2012

KL & Putrajaya - Premium Half Day Tour.

Due to many request about Kuala Lumpur and Putrajaya at our email, we now have the above tours available on daily basis. It is for half a day and will probably takes about 4 to 5 hours depending on the road traffic and weather conditions. It starts from 10.00am until about 2 to 3.00pm. The package is valid from Kuala Lumpur and Putrajaya areas and we shall do pick-up from your hotel or at selected stops that we have engaged with.

The tour is using a premium vehicle which comforts your journey together with a driver that will also guide you to the places of interest that we have selected in the package inclusion. The package also include a meal plus mineral water for your journey convenience. The package meant for four (4) persons and suitable for friends and family.

Our advise is to do booking with us at least seven (7) days in advanced to secure your Premium Half Day Tour as we have limited vehicle and has been in demand especially during the school holidays. 

In addition, we also do the above for groups with different arrangement on the transfers using van or coaches at a different rate. We believe that the itinerary is suitable for the visit and with limitation of time for you to explore and visit more destination with activity at Kuala Lumpur and Putrajaya. We know that many travelers especially international tourists spend about less than a week at Peninsular Malaysia before going to other destination surrounding ASEAN. Therefore, it is best that tourists are able to do a tour to Kuala Lumpur and Putrajaya; and experience the differences between this two cities. We strongly advise that you have a camera with you to take on photos that will entice you to come back!

We are also able to provide you with itineraries and travelling advise for your trip to Malaysia. We offer many more travel and hospitality services and we do it through our license travel and tour company under Ministry of Tourism, Malaysia.   

Finally, do email us for further information on the above packages at tourismservicesmalaysia@gmail.com and we shall reply to your request.

Putrajaya Tours

Date: 22 November, 2012

Putrajaya Tours.

One of our travel services are on the arrangement of 'Putrajaya Tours'. We have been doing tours to Putrajaya since its opening day. Therefore, we have the knowledge and information of this interesting 'Intelligent Garden City' which is also now the new administrative city of Putrajaya. It is actually a must visit destination if you are travelling to Malaysia and if you are already around Kuala Lumpur city centre.

There are many interesting places to be visited at Putrajaya. It is about half and hour from Kuala Lumpur city and Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA). The itinerary can be for half a day (3 hours) or one full day (about 8 hour) tours. If you have limited time, then go for a half a day tour which will provide you with a basic trip and get to know more about the city. It is advisable that you have a minimum of four (4) persons as the transfer require at least one car for the trip. 

Places that we recommend for your visits are to the variety of Parks and Gardens, Bridges, many unique building, the Prime Minister Office, Prime Minister Residence, Mosques, Putrajaya International Convention Centre (PICC), Palaces, Wetlands, Maritime Centre, Alamanda Shopping Centre, Zouq Shopping area and probably to have a sightseeing lake cruise of Cruise Tasik Putrajaya.    

Contact us further through tourismservicesmalaysia@gmail.com should you need more information and booking for the above tours. We recommend that you do at least seven (7) days prior booking for your convenience.  

To know more about this city, you can find and read Putrajaya from this blog or browse it at the net. Finally, if you are at Putrajaya, don't forget to purchase some souvenirs too for you and your family.