Much to do in order to draw more tourists

THE blueprint to turn Penang island into an international tourism hub will auger well for the state’s development.

Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) School of Building and Planning senior lecturer Dr Azizan Marzuki (pic) said Penang was a “complete destination” as it had everything like nature, heritage and urban attractions.

“The (Barisan) framework is good because eventually, we’ll need to rely on the service industry to grow the economy.

“However, the proposed blueprint must take into account every single aspect of the tourism industry.

“The different groups of tourists and their preferences must be identified with long and short-term goals outlined.

“Every area be it medical, education, Meetings, Incentives, Conven-tions and Exhibitions, heritage or urban tourism must be studied in great detail,” said Dr Azizan in an interview yesterday.

He said all stakeholders including non-governmental organisations, travellers, government agencies, aca-demicians and Penangites must be engaged.

While the blueprint is welcomed, the devil is in the details.

Dr Azizan said that in aiming to be an international tourism hub, the state’s assets must be well managed to ensure sustainability and accessibility.

“Are we prepared to receive an influx of tourists? Are there enough professional tour guides?

“What about public transport?” he asked, adding that an LRT system was much needed.

He said a feasibility research of every aspect of the blueprint was critical before implementation could be considered.

“More crucial than having more tourists come is ensuring that they stay longer.

“Women travellers should be our target.”

USM School of Social Sciences senior lecturer and its economics section chair Dr Saidatulakmal Mohd said the state’s high growth rate was from the manufacturing and service sector.

“Tourism is one of the biggest contributors to the service sector but recently, the island has been facing a lot of challenges from nearby locations like Phuket, Langkawi and Bali,” she said.

“So if we are to become an international tourism hub, new or more interesting products must be introduced.

“(However) it’s more important to maintain Penang as a tourism hub and keep its Unesco World Heritage status in the face of challenges from nearby competitors,” she said.

Dr Saidatulakmal said proposals in the “alternative blueprint” were doable but not immediately as proper planning, negotiations and costing were required.

She lauded the proposed developments for the mainland.

“So far, most programmes are focused on the island.

“It’s about time some proper planning is carried out on the mainland,” she said, adding that food and local heritage could be further promoted in Seberang Prai.

She said shopping tourism would give Penang an advantage.

On housing premium outlets in old heritage houses, she said the concept would attract lots of visitors.

“I would also love to see the eco-tourism ideas realised. Cruises are doable — the concept was adopted in Thailand and Hawaii,” she said.- The Star