Sunday, April 11, 2010

Ng: Budget tourism to stay

KUALA LUMPUR: Budget tourism will continue to remain as Pulau Redang’s forte, said Tourism Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ng Yen Yen.

“I believe that Terengganu Mentri Besar Datuk Ahmad Said is not going to close them down but maintain them,” she said after an appreciation dinner in conjunction with the Malaysia International Shoe Festival 2010.

She said islands had a limited capacity in terms of tourism.

“We cannot cater for the influx of thousands. But I agree with the MB’s vision in wanting to make the island a high-yield market,” said Dr Ng.

She added that there will still be budget hotels around the island but urged them to operate appropriately.

Last Thursday, Ahmad announced that the state government would no longer approve the construction of chalet-type accommodation on the renowned island, which is a haven for the diving community.

He said the island would be turned into an exclusive getaway with rooms starting from US$500 (RM1,600) per night.

The announcement was not well received by several environmental organisations, tourists and divers.

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