SIBU: The Sarawak tourism ministry’s move to woo East Asians augurs well with travel agents here as the market segment is a ‘goldmine’ with deep pockets, waiting to be tapped.
Managing director of Equitorial Tours and Travel Sdn Bhd Robert Tan for one described it as an opportune time to entice visitors from East Asia, given the economic uncertainty engulfing West Asia and Europe.
Stating the ‘Look East Policy’ advocated by former Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad as still relevant, he added that the air connectivity and similar weather conditions would collectively spur these visitors to visit Sarawak.
“There is a good accessibility between Asean countries and East Asia, making it convenient for tourists to travel to the state. Low cost airlines offering competitive air fares are another plus factor.
“East Asia is a sleeping giant, characterised by deep pockets,” Tan told The Borneo Post yesterday.
Describing Tourism Minister Datuk Amar Abang Johari Tun Openg as far-sighted, the veteran tourism player mentioned that East Asians had plenty of savings.
On Sunday, Abang Johari said they were targeting visitors from East Asia, namely Japan, Korea, India and Hong Kong besides Asean countries.
To this, Tan said: “They have plenty of savings and certainly can afford to travel. On the contrary, Europe is badly hit by economic uncertainties characterised by unemployment among others.
“Under such circumstance, people there would not be in the mood for any holidays.”
“Countries such as Korea, which recovered strongly from the world financial crisis back in 2008, have vast tourism potential just waiting to be tapped,” he pointed out.
To entice tourists to the state, he suggested package be created to promote Sarawak and not town per se.
“This means, visitors from East Asia can visit the famous Sarawak museum, and then explore the Niah or Mulu caves in the north.
“They can also see for themselves the breathtaking beauty of the mighty Rajang River in Sibu,” he said.
Continue reading at: Opportune time to entice visitors from East Asia to Sarawak
.
.
