IPOH: The Perak government has prepared 2,000 vouchers worth RM40 each for tourists who stay at least one night in the state.
Tourism, industry, investment and corridor committee chairman Loh Sze Yee said the vouchers, offered under the Perak Stay and Explore programme, can be redeemed through registered travel agencies and tourism associations, hotels, tourism-related products and operators, subject to terms.
"This initiative aims to encourage tourists to stay longer, explore more destinations and spend more within the state.
"We want tourists who visit Ipoh not to see it as their only destination, but to continue their journey to Kuala Kangsar, Taiping, Lenggong, Gopeng, Kuala Sepetang, Pangkor and other destinations throughout Perak," he said at the state-level Merdeka eve celebrations in Meru Raya on Sunday (Aug 30) night.
Among those present were Mentri Besar Datuk Seri Saarani Mohamad, State Secretary Datuk Ahmad Suaidi Abdul Rahim, executive councillors and assemblymen.
Loh also said Perak is poised to strengthen its position as one of Malaysia’s leading tourism destinations, especially with the extension of the Visit Malaysia campaign until next year.
He said Larut, Matang and Selama district had emerged as a high-potential tourism destination, attracting both domestic and international tourists.
"With its natural landscapes, tourism assets and potential for aerial recreational activities, the state government sees Taiping as having great potential to be developed as a premier air sports destination," he said.
He added that the state government would continue strengthening air-based tourism products in Taiping, with the aim of establishing it as the state's air sports hub, attracting more events, sports enthusiasts and tourists while creating new economic opportunities for the local community.
Meanwhile, Saarani in his speech said that every generation has its own role and responsibility in shaping the country’s future.
"Generations before us have done their part. They gave us an independent nation and now it is our turn to do our part.
"It is our responsibility to ensure that when the time comes to hand over the country to the next generation, we leave them a Malaysia that is better than the one we inherited," he said.
He added that Malaysia should remain peaceful, its people united and its economy strong, as its opportunities continue to grow.
"Every child should believe that there is a place for them in this country to build a better future," he added.
More than 20,000 people participated in the celebration.
At the stroke of midnight, the crowd cheered "Merdeka!" seven times, followed by a fireworks display, the raising of the Jalur Gemilang and the singing of patriotic songs.
