LANGKAWI: Business leaders have hailed Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim's commitment to taking swift measures aimed at driving growth and revitalising the tourism industry on Langkawi Island.
Luqman Adzahar, chairman of the Langkawi Car Rental Owners and Drivers Association, expressed gratitude for the prime minister's focus on advancing the island's tourism sector.
"This announcement demonstrates the government's commitment to supporting tourism industry players, particularly taxi drivers, who were severely affected during the Covid-19 pandemic. We wholeheartedly welcome and fully support the immediate steps proposed by the prime minister to reinvigorate the tourism sector on the island," he said when contacted.
In a Facebook post yesterday, Anwar stated he would expedite several projects, including the establishment of a university branch campus, in an effort to bolster tourism to the resort island.
After the devastating impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, Malaysia has actively worked towards reviving its tourism industry.
Tourism is a major source of foreign currency for Malaysia. The influx of international visitors generates significant revenue, which helps boost the economy and supports other industries.
Former Malaysian Association of Tour and Travel Agents (MATTA) Kedah Chapter chairman Ahmad Pishol Ishak described Anwar's announcement as timely, given that 90 per cent of Langkawi's residents are involved in the tourism sector.
"The statement clearly reflects the prime minister's determination to increase tourist arrivals to Langkawi. The suggestion to establish a university branch here could significantly boost tourist numbers," he said.
Ben Irwan Samuel, general manager of Dash Resort Langkawi, said the prime minister's remarks reflect the government's commitment to fuel Langkawi's tourism sector.
"We fully support the measures to attract more tourists, as the hotel sector and tourist arrivals are like two sides of the same coin—we depend on each other," he said.
Langkawi PKR Division chief Ismail Wasi Ahmad Shafawi said Anwar's statement underscores his intention to restore the tourism sector to its former glory, benefitting the local economy.
"The opening of a university branch here not only provides better educational opportunities but also creates new avenues for businesses and employment for locals," he said