Monday, February 18, 2013

Chinese clan associations called to be tourism ambassadors for Sibu


SIBU: Second Finance Minister Dato Sri Wong Soon Koh called on Chinese clan associations to be tourism ambassadors for Sibu.

Speaking at the Teochew Cultural Concert hosted by Sibu Teochew Association at Sibu Gateway on Saturday, he said after the RM137 million renovation of Sibu International Airport last year, they would lobby for more incoming flights to help boost various growth factors in the town.

One of their targets was to bring in more tourists; the extra flights would be convenient for outstation workers and as investment opportunities increased, additional air routes would provide an efficient trade and business link.

“The Chinese clans, in particular, stand at an advantage in leading such roles because their members maintain a bond with clan members in ancestral homes in China.”

Wong, who is also Minister of Local Government and Community Development, wanted them to help promote Sarawak Technology College University.

He said the university would open in September, and he wanted them to introduce the university to foreign Chinese students.

On the Teochew Cultural Concert hosted in line with the Chinese New Year joy, Wong patted the clan on the back, saying members were innovative and creative in promoting cultural art.

He said their youth members had participated well.

“We want this spirit to live on. We want our young people to pass on our culture.”

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