Langkawi Targets RM9 Bln Revenue From Tourism

LANGKAWI (Kedah) , Aug 3 (Bernama) -- Langkawi Development Authority (LADA) is targeting a revenue of RM9 billion from tourism by 2020. Its chief executive officer Azizan Noordin said the projection was based on the expected five million tourist arrival this year, an increase from 3.67 million last year. “Last year’s number enabled Langkawi to earn about RM5.6 billion,” he said at the LADA excellent service award presentation ceremony here Wednesday night. He said the target was stated in the Langkawi Tourism Blueprint 2.0. LADA has lined up 35 international tourism activities beginning this year, which included a classic car exhibition, world series volleyball roadshow and high-powered motorcycle festival, according to him. Langkawi, off the coast of Malaysia's northern state of Kedah, is a cluster of 99 islands famous for its beautiful beaches, world-class infrastructure, mangroves rich in flora and fauna, ultra-cheap duty-free shopping and fascinating legends. Azizan also disclosed that LADA had won the bid to host the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) Travel Mart to be held next year. “To organise these activities successfully requires commitment from LADA’s workforce and the cooperation of other parties,” he noted. Meanwhile, 27 LADA staff received the excellence award at the function. -- BERNAMA