IPOH: Language remains a challenge in efforts to promote tourism in Perak, says Loh Sze Yee.
The Perak tourism, industry, investment and corridor development committee chairman agreed that Bahasa Malaysia as the national language must be upheld and featured on all signages.
However, he said the inclusion of foreign languages is equally important to ensure that visitors feel welcomed and can better understand local attractions.
"Language proficiency is very important. Our officers need to be able to engage in multiple languages, and at the same time, tourists should have access to information in languages they understand.
"QR codes offering translations into selected languages could be an effective solution," he said during the state assembly sitting at Bangunan Perak Darul Ridzuan in Ipoh today (Sept 10).
Loh was replying to Chaw Kam Foon, who asked about the state government’s efforts and challenges faced in promoting tourism in Perak in conjunction with Visit Malaysia Year 2026.
Acting state Opposition whip Datuk Zainol Fadzi Paharudin questioned whether language should be viewed as a major barrier to attracting tourists.
"In Thailand, many locals do not speak English, yet the country records high tourist arrivals daily. Language alone should not be used as an excuse.
"We understand there are challenges such as transportation and airport facilities, but these have not stopped tourist numbers from rising every year," he said.
Zainol also said there is a need to have yearly signature events in Perak, like previous events including the Royal Belum Drum festival and the International Poetry Festival in Pangkor, which consistently attracted foreign tourists.
He said it was important to identify and establish signature events that take place in Perak on a yearly basis.
Loh said he agreed with some points raised by Zainol.
"Much of what is said is true, but not entirely so. I am not saying that without foreign languages we cannot progress, but we also cannot deny that with foreign languages, we can achieve greater reach," he added.
Loh said for annual events, there are programmes that are linked to tourism and culture.
"For instance, we host the Island Festival in Pangkor, which is an international festival featuring participants from countries such as Korea, Taiwan, Indonesia, Thailand, Vietnam and others.
"We also have annual events such as the Lenggong Archaeological Festival and various other cultural festivals across Perak.
"If there are additional opportunities, we are open to collaboration, as long as it benefits Perak’s tourism sector,” he said.
