MELAKA: Melaka has been chosen to host the prestigious World Tourism Day in 2025, says Melaka deputy tourism, heritage, art and culture committee chairman Datuk Zaidi Attan.
He said the tourism stakeholders in the state were all elated upon receiving the news that the world’s largest tourism event was being held here for the first time.
"We are honoured for being considered for this prominent event and I invite the local tourism players to join hands with state government in showcasing the state’s rich heritage, popular destinations and unique culture to the world," he said after the prize presentation ceremony organised by Malaysian Association of Tour and Travel Agents' (MATTA) at a hotel in Plaza Mahkota here on Friday (Oct 20).
The event was also attended by MATTA’s Melaka Chapter chairman Goh Hock Gin.
Zaidi said World Tourism Day was an annual celebration that recognised the immense influence of tourism on a nation and served as a platform to raise awareness about the significance of the industry.
"We expect delegates from more than 60 countries to converge here during the event that is observed annually as a global celebration dedicated to promoting the value of tourism," he said.
The event was inaugurated by the United Nations World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO) to raise awareness about the vital role tourism plays in fostering sustainable economic growth, cultural exchange, and global understanding.
Zaidi said apart from the world-class event in 2025, the state was geared up to turn the Visit Melaka Year 2024 as a successful endeavour as well to prepare for Visit Malaysia Year 2026.
During tabling the Budget 2024 on Oct 13, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said Visit Malaysia Year would make a comeback in 2026 after a few years' hiatus.
He said about 26.1mil foreign tourists are expected to arrive in the country, with a total RM97.6bil in domestic spending.
Anwar, who was also finance minister, said the government would allocate RM350mil to promote Malaysia as a main tourist destination.
