Emirates Airlines, the national carrier of Dubai, United Arab Emirates, is prepared to bring tourists from South America to Malaysia.
Tourism Minister Dr Ng Yen Yen also said that the airline is now flying the Dubai-Sao Paulo route.
The offer of cooperation from Emirates came from its chairman Sheikh Ahmed Saeed Al Maktoum when Dr Ng called on him at the Emirates” pavilion at the Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2011.
Dr Ng is leading a Malaysian delegation at the tourism exposition held at the Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre from May 2 to 5.
She told reporters that Emirates’ willingness to cooperate with Malaysia is expected provide a good opportunity for tourists from South America to visit Malaysia.
“They (Emirates Airlines) have been flying to many of the world’s major cities and have started operating flights to South America, hence we see Brazil as a good potential for tourism in Malaysia,” she said.
“So, I have been discussing with him (Sheikh Ahmed Saeed) about cooperating with Emirates through promotions to encourage South American tourists to visit Malaysia before going to other destinations.”
Dr Ng said Emirates had an extensive route network including flights to Geneva, Zurich, Milan and Stockholm, hence it could help bring tourists from such major cities to Malaysia.
Dr Ng said Tourism Malaysia would discuss the matter further with Emirates. She said Emirates Holidays, a subsidiary company of the airlines, was also willing to look into holiday packages that would include Malaysia.
– Bernama
CJMY
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