Deputy Prime Minister wants Malaysia to become Asian megayacht hub
By IBI Magazine
Malaysia's Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak said at the opening of LIBEX today that its ports need more "focused marketing" to attract the attention of the yachting community. The inaugural Langkawi International Boat Exhibition (LIBEX) at Telaga Harbour runs through Monday. The Deputy Prime Minister told the assembled crowd that a mix of modern infrastructure and rustic charm could make Malaysia a viable alternative to Europe as a luxury yacht cruising destination. "We can perhaps become Asia's hub for luxury marine leisure activities and what we need is more focused marketing to create greater awareness from this market segment," he said at the opening, according to a story from Bernama, the national news service. "Malaysia can be showcased as a perfect destination for luxury yachts, with its marinas, boat club, diving spots, water sports facilities and luxury resorts." "Hopefully, together with government agencies like Tourism Malaysia, the private sector can contribute towards establishing Malaysia as a choice destination for luxury vacationers," Najib said. Najib said that the boat show was a good launchpad to enhance public awareness about the potential of the marine industry in Malaysia, as well as to generate new interest among potential participants in this sector. Malaysia has launched a major tourism campaign in the US and Europe and hopes to draw some 20 million visitors, bringing in an estimated RM12 billion in revenue, said Najib. Over 50 companies from Australia, Thailand, Singapore and Malaysia will display boating products and services, including engines, navigation equipment, mooring systems and berthing equipment at the show. About 25 boats will be on display. Besides the exhibition, about 70 yachts taking part in the Darwin-Bali-Langkawi Rally will dock at the harbour Friday.
(24 November 2006)
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