THE Penang government has recently launched the ‘Experience Penang Year 2020’ to elevate Penang’s tourism to the next level.
It will also be focusing on domestic travellers as they also play a pivotal role in contributing to the state’s coffers.
A random survey was conducted to find out the public’s perception on this move in which many constructive suggestions were received from the public.
K. Rajendar, 65, Owner of Maya Silk Centre (Trader at Little India)
“I welcome the state government’s effort to give tourism a boost through the ‘Experience Penang (EPY) 2020’.
“I’m pretty much attracted to its tagline, ‘The Diversity of Asia’.
“As far Little India is concerned, this is one of the places where we can see tourists flocking to once they visit Penang.
“So, knowing that the state government intends to focus more on domestic travellers, as a trader involved in the textile business, I will be doing my part by giving attractive prices.
“Local tourists are very important as their contribution is very huge. I think it is a good move to pay attention to them.
“Our customers here are mainly made up of the Indian community. Perhaps, the state government can help to promote our products here to other communities as well, in a way to widen the market.
“By saying so, I would like to state here that we (traders) will always be supporting the initiatives undertaken by the state government in promoting tourism and will be helping them in whichever way we can.”
T. Susila, 60, Homemaker
“Penang is already one of the most sought-after destinations, offering many attractions in terms of food, places and also culture.
“So, I think it is important to not only conserve what we already have but also explore new tourism products.
“Maybe places like Kampung Pisang and Kampung Seronok can be turned into tourist villages where a ‘kampung tour’ can be organised.
“Likewise, the fisherman village in Teluk Bahang can also be made as a tourist spot.
“I also hope for more green spaces here in Penang. Greenery along the roadside can also be enhanced.
“Living in a multicultural background, I feel that it is of utmost importance to preserve our cultural diversity.
“Overall as a Penangite, I am very happy to note that the state aspires to tap into the tourism potential and make it flourish.”
Johnstun Scott (right) & Wright Reg – Retirees (Tourists from New Zealand )
“I hope that the Penang government can support tourism with good infrastructures, such as roads and hotels. They also need to ensure that garbage is disposed off efficiently and that plastics should be discarded at the proper place and not everywhere.
“They should promote tourism with environmental concern in mind.
“We’re fascinated by lots of heritage buildings here. We come here for heritage, so please protect it.
“Another thing is, public transport can be enhanced. This is because as tourists, we prefer to move around using public transport rather than taking a taxi.
“In order to give tourism in the state a push, all these things should be considered.”
R.Patmanathen, 32, Director of Ramanie’s Store
“I think the Penang government is doing very well in promoting tourism. For the past two to three years, I can see that they (state government) have been doing it aggressively.
“Now that it is all geared up to promote the tourism industry in the state through EPY 2020, I believe it will help to attract more tourists. When there is an influx of tourists, there will be significant growth in businesses.
“This is an interesting place (Litte India) to visit as we have a unique blend of traditional and modern types of businesses.
“Usually tourists who go on a cruise voyage drop by here when their ship stops at the Swettenham Pier as Little India is just nearby.
“In the bid to promote tourism, I hope that the state government can hold some Indian cultural programmes at Little India every now and then.
“I am happy that the state government has contributed to make the Little India area more vibrant with decorative lights. Now, the place looks more attractive.
Anis Zawani – 33, Human Resource Officer
“When we talk about tourism in Penang, it is definitely centered on culture.
“The showcase of diverse religions and cultures can be seen at the George Town heritage area. This is what makes the city unique.
“The theme ‘Diversity of Asia’ is apt for Penang since we have people from multicultural backgrounds, such as the Malay, Indian and Chinese.
“The launching of EPY 2020 by the state government is a commendable effort, which can boost the revenue for one of the important industries (tourism) in Penang.”
Story by Tanushalini Moroter