PETALING JAYA: The Experience Macao Malaysia roadshow here kicked off on Friday, showcasing Macao 's tourism offerings to attract Malaysian visitors.
The event by the Macao Government Tourism Office (MGTO) was launched at the Sunway Pyramid shopping mall here and attended by tourism officials and industry stakeholders from both sides.
MGTO deputy director Cheng Wai Tong said the roadshow, which runs till Monday, aims to present the latest tourism updates from Macao, with exclusive products and discounted packages to assist Malaysians in planning their trips there.
"Our goal is to showcase our diverse range of tourism plans and offerings to Malaysian travellers, where you can start planning for your summer holiday in Macao.
"Over the next four days, we have prepared an array of live performances featuring talents and artistes from Macao and Malaysia," he said.
Cheng said Malaysia is a significant market for Macao because of the direct air routes between the country and the Chinese territory.
He said this has recently increased Malaysian interest to visit Macao by three-fold.
"In June, we welcomed 12,000 visitors from Malaysia alone, which ranked fourth as our visitor source market."
As such, he said the MGTO will continue to collaborate with Malaysian airlines, travel agencies and online platforms to promote travel packages to Macao.
Present at the roadshow were Malaysia Tourism Promotion Board director-general Manoharan Periasamy and representatives of Malaysian airline operators and tourism stakeholders, as well as delegates of Macao's six integrated resort enterprises.
Cheng added that an extensive online promotion has been carried out in the run-up to the roadshow, and as such, the MGTO is expecting a good turnout.
"Even before the start of the roadshow, we raised a lot of online promotions and I expected many locals to be aware of this event.
"There will be special promotions, such as buy one, get one free air tickets or accommodation, besides fine dining and shopping special offers," he said.
In collaboration with the Hengqin Economic Development Bureau and six integrated resort enterprises, the roadshow seeks to showcase Macao as a premier global destination.
There is a promotional video to highlight its attractions, cuisine and community tourism, with the songs composed by Malaysian artiste and Internet celebrity Danny AhBoy, in collaboration with Macao's young actors Vivi and HouBoy.
Online tourism website The Travel Intern is also sharing a travel guide that unveils hidden attractions and culinary spots.
The event also features performances by Macao singers Pilipe and Giulianna, alongside Malaysian artistes like Jeryl Lee, Muzza and the Velvettones Band and Zax Lee.
Visitors can participate in interactive games and activities, and win Macao-themed souvenirs.
Two grand prize draws are scheduled daily at 3pm and 8pm, where winners can take home Macao travel prizes collectively valued at more than RM80,000.