More than two million visitors came into the country via the state in October this year, an increase of 14.35% compared to last year.

State Tourism and Domestic Trade Committee chairman Hoo Seong Chang said that 1.82 million people had entered the country last year.

“Johor receives more visitors from Singapore and Indonesia than any other state in the country,” he said.

Hoo said the state’s main advantage was its proximity to the two countries and its location as the southern gateway to Malaysia.

 “Despite challenges such as Influenza A (H1N1) and the economic downturn, tourism has not been affected much,” he said.

Hoo said that tourists from China were the third-largest group after the Singaporeans and Indonesian.

He was speaking at a press conference after launching the Malaysia Year End Sale here on Nov 22.

Hoo said the Tourism Ministry had always recognised the importance of shopping in developing the tourism industry and contributing to the country’s revenue.

“Shopping is the second-biggest source of revenue after accommodation, contributing RM13.3mil last year compared to RM12.3mil in 2007.

“The event is part of the Tourism Ministry and Tourism Malaysia’s marketing strategy to position Malaysia as an international shopping destination,” he said.

Hoo added that the event would increase tourist arrivals and boost revenue and urged retailers and tourist guides to co-operate with agencies such as Tourism Malaysia and Johor Tourism Action Council.

“There are more than 47 shopping complexes and hypermarkets in the city, proving that it is a shopping haven. The retail industry in Johor reflects what consumers expect in terms of standards, value for money and the shopping experience,” he said.

Hoo added that Singaporeans enjoyed paying 50% less compared to shopping in their own country due to the favourable exchange rate.

He said the state had organised and supported world-class activities in Johor to increase tourist arrivals. “These events include the International Kite Festival, Desaru Pengerang International Trai-thlon, Johor-Singapore Second Link Bridge Run, Johor Baru International Orchid Festival, FIA Asia Pacific Rally Championship and the upcoming 10th World Scrabble Championship,” he said.

Source : STAR
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