World Tourism Day Celebration To Boost Melaka's Global Profile 

MELAKA, Aug 18 (Bernama) -- The World Tourism Day (WTD) celebration in Melaka next month is expected to open wider doors for investment and international cooperation for the state in the future, said Chief Minister Datuk Seri Ab Rauf Yusoh.  

He said that through global publicity, it will not only attract more tourists to the state but also bring opportunities in tourism exchange, direct flights, health tourism, cruise tourism and halal tourism.  

“Although this event lasts only two days, its impact could last for the next 10 years. Melaka will no longer be known solely as a UNESCO World Heritage city but as a green and smart tourism hub.  

“This is an important stepping stone towards Visit Melaka Year and Visit Malaysia 2026,” he said in his speech at the Melaka Government's Monthly Assembly for August and Jalur Gemilang Flag Raising ceremony with Melaka civil servants at the Melaka International Trade Centre (MITC), Ayer Keroh, here today.  

Also present were Melaka State Secretary Datuk Azhar Arshad, state executive councillors, senior officials and civil servants from both state and federal levels.  

Elaborating further, Ab Rauf said the organisation of WTD is also a prestigious recognition from the United Nations World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO), placing Melaka on the global stage alongside other top tourist destinations.  

“This event only takes place in selected cities each year, and this is our moment to showcase Melaka to the world. With this opportunity, Melaka continues to strengthen its image, enhance attractions, and boost competitiveness not only for the state’s tourism but also for Malaysia in the eyes of the world.  

“The benefits are clear. The state’s economy and Melaka’s 1.05 million people will feel it. More tourists mean more hotel bookings, more job opportunities — from event management, hospitality, and Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) volunteers to small businesses.  

“The local community, meanwhile, can sell local products, culture, and authentic experiences. This is what the state government wants to bring… we are not just bringing in tourism, but in truth, we want to uplift traders and the entire local economy. Such opportunities do not come often… therefore, the state government will make the best possible preparations,” he said.  

WTD and the World Tourism Conference (WTC) will take place here from Sept 27 to 29 with 159 international delegates expected to participate this time. 

-- BERNAMA