Msia's Langkawi Expects 3.8 Mln Tourists in 2017

KUALA LUMPUR, Feb 21 (Bernama) -- Langkawi expects to attract about 3.8 million tourists this year with 35 major tourism events identified by the Langkawi Development Authority (LADA), said Kedah Menteri Besar (Chief Minister) Ahmad Bashah Md Hanipah. He said Langkawi saw a 10 per cent increase in tourist arrivals to 3.6 million last year with the island rated as the ninth most popular island destination in the world, alongside Bali, Hawaii and Mauritius. "Kedah, through LADA, would continue to improve tourist facilities and services, as well as, increase promoting Langkawi abroad, especially in China and India," he said on the sidelines of the Calendar of Events Langkawi 2017 launched here Tuesday. Second Finance Minister Johari Abdul Ghani and LADA Chief Executive Officer Azizan Noordin were present at the launch. Azizan, in his opening speech, said the 35 events lined-up for 2017 ranged from international exhibitions, cultural and music festivals and sporting events. The highlights would be the bi-annual Langkawi International Maritime and Aerospace Exhibition 2017 (LIMA), Mat Chinchang sky bridge climb, the Royal Langkawi Classic Car show, Iron Man and Langkawi 10th anniversary celebration as UNESCO recognised Global Geopark Network, he said. Azizan said with Malaysia hosting the 29th South East Asian Games this year, Langkawi was chosen to host the sailing events from Aug 21-29. The island has been home to the National Sailing Sports Complex and also training ground for the Malaysian sailing team, said Azizan. Langkawi Calendar of Events 2017 for the months between October and December is filled with exciting events as a huge number of tourists arrivals are expected to the island, he said, adding that it would help spur further growth for the tourism industry this year. -- BERNAMA