GEORGE TOWN: Haze has affected tourists’ experience in Penang, with some cancelling walking tours and opting to spend more time indoors.
Penang Tourist Guides Association (PTGA) chairman Clement Liang said about 20% of heritage trail walking tours in George Town had been cancelled over the past few weeks, as most tourists opted to spend time in shopping malls.
“We have had a small number of cancellations, including two last week due to the haze.
“We also advise them to shorten outdoor activities and stay indoors as much as possible.
“They prefer free-and-easy activities in shopping malls.
“Tourists would not risk their health in a polluted environment,” he said.
The association has more than 500 tour guides.
Meanwhile, state health committee chairman Daniel Gooi Zi Sen said authorities here were monitoring the situation, although air pollutant index (API) readings in Penang remained at moderate levels.
“Our advice to the public is to reduce unnecessary outdoor activities during this period.”
The haze has shrouded Penang for almost a month, affecting air quality and visibility.
