Melaka: Melaka will continue to formulate inclusive policies and initiatives to ensure the state remains relevant and competitive in the tourism sector at both the regional and international levels. Chief Minister Datuk Seri Ab Rauf Yusoh emphasized the strategic measures that have laid a strong foundation for tourism, as evidenced by the arrival of over 11 million visitors and RM12.05 billion in revenue as of August.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, these figures are a compelling reason for industry players to continue supporting the sector's growth. The Chief Minister expressed the importance of Melaka's contribution to the national tourism agenda, highlighting the Visit Malaysia Travel Meet (VMTM) 2025 as a strategic platform designed to gather over 400 tourism industry players nationwide.
The VMTM 2025 aims to expand international networks, pioneer new investment opportunities, and create collaborative spaces to elevate the national tourism industry. The event, held at the Melaka International Trade Centre, Ayer Keroh, was launched with the presence of the Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture, Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing, and Tourism Malaysia director-general, Datuk Manoharan Periasamy.
The economic benefits generated by VMTM 2025 are expected to extend across all levels of society, including small businesses, local communities, and major tourism industry leaders. The Chief Minister noted that the event and its initiatives aim to provide unique opportunities for the public, especially B40 families, to enjoy tourist attractions at special rates.
The three-day VMTM, which coincides with World Tourism Day and the World Tourism Conference, is a tourism exhibition designed to promote domestic travel through large-scale initiatives. It features a Business-to-Business (B2B) session for industry players and corporate companies, and a Business-to-Consumer (B2C) session open to the public.
A total of 180 exhibitors are participating in the event, offering exclusive travel packages that encompass watersports, nature exploration, theme parks, and cultural experiences at special prices. The event also includes interactive showcases of traditional crafts, arts, and heritage cuisine.