PETALING JAYA: The tourism, arts and culture ministry is taking proactive measures following complaints from foreign tourists who claim that services offered by some companies were not up to the mark.
Tiong King Sing said there were also some facilities that were “run down” or dilapidated and not safe, as well as those that did not meet standards for preserving the environment.
“I once again urge all tourism industry players to take serious initiatives to ensure their own survival and progress and attract tourists, especially when Malaysia has been receiving a continuous flow of tourists from countries like China.”
He urged the tourism industry to always heed the complaints of tourists to improve their service, quality and premises, Bernama reported.
Tiong said hoteliers and homestay operators should apply for low-interest loans through the tourism infrastructure scheme (SIP) to develop and expand their properties.
The fund is to assist tourism entrepreneurs who wish to develop or expand projects that contribute to the development of the tourism industry. Owners would be able to upgrade or refurbish their properties according to the needs of tourists.
“Maybe a number of hotels and small-scale operators may not take the risk of spending big money to upgrade, expand or refurbish their properties due to economic uncertainty,” Tiong said.
“It doesn’t matter if the application involves a five-star hotel or budget hotel. I will make sure the SIP can assist in boosting the growth of the tourism industry and the economy.”
The minister said his officers were currently assessing every application to assist the industry in reviving the tourism business.
He said SIP funds were made available at low interest rates and could provide a new lease of life for the industry. The loans are made available through Bank Pembangunan Malaysia. - FMT
No comments:
Post a Comment
Note: Only a member of this blog may post a comment.