ALOR STAR: Tourism players in Langkawi have urged the state government and relevant authorities to step up efforts to boost the island's tourism sector.
The industry players made the call following Dubai-based airline flydubai's move to add Langkawi into the carrier's daily flight schedule starting Feb 10 next year.
Kedah and Perlis Malaysian Association of Hotels (MAH) chairman Eugene Dass said the state government and relevant authorities should take advantage of this opportunity to further boost the island's tourism sector.
"Flights coming directly into the island would mean that Langkawi is their first initial destination and this will spur better spending towards businesses here, especially the hotels.
"This is a departure from the past when Langkawi was often the second or third destination for tourists, resulting in lower spending.
"I would say this is the perfect time to promote tourism campaigns for Langkawi, they must strike when the iron is hot," he told the New Straits Times when contacted.
Hence, he urged the state government and the relevant authorities to collaborate with Malaysia Airports Holdings Bhd (MAHB) to increase direct flights to the island.
"With this expected increase in air travel, the state government should work closely with MAHB to improve the facilities at the airport.
"For a start, constructing a covered walkway from the aircraft to the arrival hall and vice versa," he added.
On Sept 22, flydubai chief executive officer Ghaith Al Ghaith announced that the airline will add Penang and Langkawi into its expanding footprint in Southeast Asia starting Feb 10, with daily flights from Dubai.
The commencement of the routes makes the airline the first to connect Penang and Langkawi from the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and the first carrier to operate flights from the Middle East to Langkawi.
Currently, two airlines AirAsia and Scoot Air are operating direct flights from Singapore to Langkawi since the country's international border was reopened after the Covid-19 pandemic lockdown.
Commenting further, Eugene also stressed on the importance of campaigns to encourage the people of Langkawi to be more 'tourist friendly'.
"We should always ensure that tourists feel welcomed and would return, as well as recommend the island to their friends," he added.
Meanwhile, Langkawi Tourist Guide Association president Ardi Bahador urged the state government and relevant authorities to empower tourist guide services in the island.
"Establish a dedicated tourism team with a rapid response capability to address any issues raised by tourists during their stay in Langkawi.
"Highlight what should and should not be done, such as activities that require tour guides. For example dining establishments that require reservations. This will improve time management and their overall experience here," he added.