KUCHING: The Tourism Infrastructure Fund (TIF) of RM1 billion launched yesterday will help attract 30 million foreign visitors into the country. Finance Minister Lim Guan Eng (pic) believes meeting that target means the industry will generate RM100 billion in tourism income by 2020.
“It is hoped that this fund by Malaysia Development Bank Berhad will encourage more entrepreneurs in the tourism and other supporting industries to invest in the development of related infrastructure to boost tourist arrivals,” Lim said at the launch of the fund at a leading hotel here.
“Travel and tourism have a crucial role in stimulating economic sectors such as accommodation, transport, shopping, food and beverage, entertainment, handicrafts, spa, wellness, healthcare and education.
“Over the years, the industry has grown significantly both in tourist arrivals and economic contribution — from RM10.2 million tourist arrivals in 2000 that brought in RM17.3 billion in tourist receipts, to 25.8 million visitors last year, contributing RM84.1 billion in tourist receipts.”
Lim is confident that under the leadership of Tourism and Culture Minister Datuk Mohamaddin Ketapi, the country will be able to meet the target of 28.1 million tourist arrivals and income of RM92.2 billion this year, and 30 million foreign tourists contributing RM100 billion to the economy by 2020.
“It goes without saying that growth in our tourism industry will bring spillover effects throughout the wider economy and across sectors, and the second largest foreign exchange earner for the country after manufacturing.”
On the launch of the fund here, Lim said it was because Sarawak and Sabah have the potential to be a prime destination not just in Malaysia but in the region.
“Sarawak and Sabah have played a pivotal role in the development of the tourism industry. Now there is a popular trend dubbed ‘lung wash’ green destinations, to enjoy the nature and fresh air.
“Many places in the peninsula are doing it but none comes close to Sarawak and Sabah which have their unique nature, environment and cultural diversity.”
• See also story on page 7 in our newspaper.
