AYER KEROH: Karnival Jom Heboh (KJH), organised by Media Prima Berhad, bolstered tourist numbers in Melaka amid the ongoing Visit Melaka 2024 (TMM2024) campaign over the weekend.
Chief Minister Datuk Seri Ab Rauf Yusoh lauded KJH as a pivotal event, attracting nearly 300,000 local and international visitors to Melaka.
The carnival, held over three days at the Melaka International Trade Centre, concluded on Sunday (June 30), contributing to the festive atmosphere of TMM2024.
"This carnival not only promotes unity and inclusivity by celebrating our cultural diversity but also provides substantial economic and tourism benefits," said Rauf at the official launch yesterday (June 29).
He commended the organisers for their success in creating a family-friendly event with 124 booths showcasing local businesses.
The event not only entertained but also provided a platform for entrepreneurs to showcase their products.
"The enthusiastic response to KJH demonstrates its status as a highly anticipated event among residents and visitors alike, offering a weekend of leisure and entertainment," Rauf said.
Present were State Legislative Assembly Speaker Datuk Ibrahim Durum, State Tourism, Heritage, Arts, and Culture Committee chairman Datuk Abd Razak Abd Rahman, Media Prima Omnia chief operating officer Datuk Mohd Efendi Omar, The New Straits Times Press (Malaysia) Berhad group managing editor Datuk Ahmad Zaini Kamaruzzaman and Media Prima TV Networks deputy editor-in-chief of Azhari Muhidin.
Rauf said MPB's role as a key partner in promoting TMM2024 globally, through media platforms, contributed to Melaka's status as a premier tourist destination in Malaysia.
He said the efforts had been instrumental in achieving the state's goal of attracting 18.7 million visitors and tourists.
The evening also saw a lucky draw, where visitors won prizes, including a Proton X50 and a Proton Persona, collectively valued at more than RM150,000.
Efendi announced plans to host KJH in Melaka again next year, reflecting the overwhelming support from the local community and the success of MPB's collaboration with the state government.
"Despite TMM2024 coming to a close later this year, we are committed to bringing back KJH to Melaka next year.
"This is to show our appreciation to all supporters, including the state government."