Visit Melaka Year takes off with RM2 mil additional funding

Melaka’s tourism sector gears up for a thriving Visit Melaka Year 2024 (VMY2024) with an additional RM2 million injection from the tourism, arts, and culture ministry.

The funding aims to bolster the state’s efforts in attracting tourists and stimulating economic growth, particularly with the relentless promotion of Melaka to international audiences.

Minister applauds Melaka’s efforts

Tourism, arts, and culture minister Tiong King Sing praised Melaka’s commitment and diligence in promoting tourism, stating, “Congratulations to Melaka, especially the exco who worked tirelessly with the ministry to promote Melaka and Malaysia to China.”

The minister acknowledged the crucial role played by Melaka’s tourism, heritage, arts, and culture committee chairman, Abdul Razak Abdul Rahman, in aggressively promoting the state abroad to attract tourists.

“His aggressive promotion abroad to attract tourists to Melaka will contribute to the state’s economy,” he told reporters after the launching ceremony of VMY2024 and the 2024 New Year’s eve celebration at Pangkalan Rama, Melaka here last night.

Chief Minister expresses gratitude

Melaka Chief Minister Datuk Seri Ab Rauf Yusoh expressed gratitude for the additional funds, foreseeing a positive impact on VMY2024 promotion and programmes.

He highlighted the importance of preserving Melaka’s UNESCO-recognised heritage city for future generations.

“This also shows that Motac always supports the state government in promoting tourism in the state, which has a Unesco-recognised heritage city,” he stated, appreciating the collaboration between Motac and the state government.

The launch of VMY2024, coupled with the New Year’s Eve celebration at Pangkalan Rama, drew nearly 40,000 visitors.

The event commenced with a grand procession featuring Melaka Governor Tun Mohd Ali Mohd Rustam, Chief Minister Ab Rauf, and Tiong arriving at the main stage in a decorated boat.

The celebration, attended by state department and agency heads, was broadcast live to Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, China, with a population of 58 million.

As Melaka embarks on the ambitious VMY2024, the additional RM2 million funding signals a strong collaboration between Motac and the state government, reinforcing their shared commitment to promoting tourism and preserving Melaka’s cultural heritage. 4.