Melaka: The World Tourism Day (WTD) celebration in Melaka next month is expected to open wider doors for investment and international cooperation for the state in the future, said Chief Minister Datuk Seri Ab Rauf Yusoh. He stated that through global publicity, it will not only attract more tourists to the state but also bring opportunities in tourism exchange, direct flights, health tourism, cruise tourism, and halal tourism.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, although the event lasts only two days, its impact could last for the next 10 years. Melaka will no longer be known solely as a UNESCO World Heritage city but as a green and smart tourism hub. This event is an important stepping stone towards Visit Melaka Year and Visit Malaysia 2026, as mentioned by the Chief Minister during his speech at the Melaka Government's Monthly Assembly for August and the Jalur Gemilang Flag Raising ceremony with Melaka civil servants at the Melaka International Trade Centre (MITC), Ayer Keroh.
Also present were Melaka State Secretary Datuk Azhar Arshad, state executive councillors, senior officials, and civil servants from both state and federal levels. Elaborating further, Ab Rauf said the organisation of WTD is also a prestigious recognition from the United Nations World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO), placing Melaka on the global stage alongside other top tourist destinations.
This event only takes place in selected cities each year, and this is Melaka's moment to showcase itself to the world. With this opportunity, Melaka continues to strengthen its image, enhance attractions, and boost competitiveness not only for the state's tourism but also for Malaysia in the eyes of the world. The state's economy and Melaka's 1.05 million people are expected to benefit from this. More tourists mean more hotel bookings, more job opportunities - from event management, hospitality, and Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) volunteers to small businesses.
The local community, meanwhile, can sell local products, culture, and authentic experiences. This is what the state government aims to bring; not just tourism, but uplifting traders and the entire local economy. Such opportunities do not come often, therefore, the state government will make the best possible preparations. WTD and the World Tourism Conference (WTC) will take place from September 27 to 29, with 159 international delegates expected to participate.