MELAKA: Melaka has been chosen as the host for World Tourism Day in 2025, announced Melaka deputy tourism, heritage, art, and culture committee chairman Datuk Zaidi Attan.
Upon receiving this news, tourism stakeholders in the state expressed their joy as this will be the first time the world’s largest tourism event is being held here.
“We are honored to be considered for this esteemed event, and I invite the local tourism players to collaborate with the state government in showcasing Melaka’s rich heritage, popular destinations, and unique culture to the world,” he said during the prize presentation ceremony organized by the Malaysian Association of Tour and Travel Agents (MATTA) at a hotel in Plaza Mahkota on Friday (Oct 20).
The event was attended by MATTA’s Melaka Chapter chairman Goh Hock Gin as well.
Zaidi explained that World Tourism Day is an annual celebration that acknowledges the significant impact of tourism on a nation and serves as a platform to raise awareness about the industry’s importance.
“During this event, which is observed globally, we expect delegates from over 60 countries to gather here to promote the value of tourism,” he added.
The United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) established this event to highlight tourism’s essential role in fostering sustainable economic growth, cultural exchange, and global understanding.
In addition to hosting the world-class event in 2025, Melaka is preparing to make Visit Melaka Year 2024 and Visit Malaysia Year 2026 successful endeavors, according to Zaidi.
In his Budget 2024 presentation on Oct 13, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim announced the comeback of Visit Malaysia Year in 2026 after a few years’ hiatus.
He stated that around 26.1 million foreign tourists are expected to visit the country, contributing RM97.6 billion in domestic spending.
In support of promoting Malaysia as a premier tourist destination, the government has allocated RM350 million, as stated by Anwar, who was formerly the finance minister.
