Stronger Tourism Ties Between Malaysia, Philippines

KUALA LUMPUR, Feb 25 (Bernama) -- To lure Philippine tourists to Malaysia, greater collaboration in the travel trade between both countries needs to be enhanced. Tourism Minister Dr Ng Yen Yen said, with the strengthening of collaboration in the travel trade, Malaysia had the opportunity to leverage on connectivity and tourism strengths of the Philippines in the US market. "Likewise, the Philippines can also leverage on the connectivity and tourism strengths of Malaysia in the European, Middle Eastern and Indian markets,” she told a press conference in Manila, following a meeting with her counterpart, Philippines Secretary of Tourism Ramon Jimenez Jr. Also present at the meeting were Malaysian Ambassador to the Philippines Dr Ibrahim Saad and Philippines Ambassador to Malaysia Jose Eduardo E. Malaya III. A statement pertaining to the press conference was issued by Dr Ng's ministry here. Meanwhile, Jimenez reasoned that to ensure the partnership was successful, the involvement of tour operators was of paramount importance, and packages offered to consumers must be of the highest quality. Earlier, Dr Ng, who is on a four-day visit to the Philippines since Wednesday, hosted a Luxury Malaysia Gala Lunch for 300 key personalities in Manila, aimed at attracting more high-end travellers to Malaysia. The event featured a fashion show by Malaysian and international designers, in conjunction with the Islamic Fashion Festival (IFF). The IFF is part of an ongoing effort to position Malaysia as a luxurious holiday destination.