Melaka:The state of Melaka is considering sports tourism as a potential new avenue to attract more visitors by hosting global sporting events.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Chief Minister Datuk Seri Ab Rauf Yusoh stated that this initiative is part of the strategic planning for tourism development in the upcoming year. The state is evaluating the prospects of sports tourism and aims to hold world-class sporting events in Melaka.

Ab Rauf mentioned that Melaka is equipped with the necessary facilities to host such events and is prepared to capitalize on opportunities to do so. He highlighted the recent Stage 7 of the Le Tour de Langkawi (LTdL) cycling race, which started in Melaka and headed to Batu Pahat, Johor, as an example of the strong public and tourist interest in sports.

He also noted that motorsports could serve as another significant draw for sports tourists in the future. Additionally, Melaka aims to nurture athletes who can achieve international acclaim, which would enhance the state's reputation alongside its historic and diverse tourism offerings.

As of August this year, Melaka has welcomed 11.2 million tourists, contributing an estimated RM11.32 billion to the local economy. This performance underscores the effectiveness of the Visit Melaka Year 2.0 (TMM2.0) campaign in strengthening the state's tourism ecosystem.