Tourist Spending Rose 13.5 percent in 2006

KUALA LUMPUR: Tourist spending increased by 13.5% last year, proving that government efforts to draw in more tourist dollars are on the right track, said Tourism Minister Datuk Seri Tengku Adnan Tengku Mansor.

He said the ministry had set its focus on promoting tourist spending, rather than on tourist arrivals.

Speaking on the matter, the minister expressed disappointment that the initial target of RM37.5bil for 2006 in tourist spending had not been achieved, which was reason for the move.

“Our target of 17.5 million tourist arrivals last year was met, although we can’t say the same for tourist spending. We cannot rate the industry's success based on arrivals simply because many do not stay here long enough. There is definitely a need to change this.

“This year, we have set our sights on achieving RM44.5bil in tourist spending,” he said, adding that the Ministry had undertaken numerous measures involving promotions and events to ensure Visit Malaysia 2007 was a success.

Source : STAR
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