ASEAN Foreign Ministers’ Retreat To Promote Langkawi In Neighbouring Markets

By Rhoma Ahmad Razali

LANGKAWI,  Jan 16 (Bernama) – The ASEAN Foreign Ministers’ Retreat (AMM) this Saturday and Sunday, held in conjunction with Malaysia’s Chairmanship of ASEAN 2025, offers a significant opportunity to promote Langkawi extensively to the ASEAN market.

For tourism industry players on this resort island, the event, which will be attended by numerous delegates from across ASEAN, provides a platform to showcase local tourism products.

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Tropical Charters Sdn Bhd Chief Executive Officer, Datuk Alexander Isaac, said hosting this significant event benefits not only Langkawi but also Kedah and Malaysia as a whole.

“With the presence of international media, ASEAN media, and, of course, our local media, we can showcase the real Langkawi and dispel any negative perceptions about the island that some parties may have created.

“Therefore, I hope the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture will place greater focus on promoting Langkawi to the ASEAN market. We need to strengthen relationships with our neighbours and make tourism a borderless journey,” he said when met here today.

He added that the presence of ASEAN delegates will have a considerable impact on Langkawi’s tourism industry, particularly for those offering accommodation services and products like souvenirs.

“We warmly welcome delegates from neighbouring countries to experience what Langkawi has to offer, which will undoubtedly provide them with a unique experience,” said Alexander, who also serves as an Advisor to the Langkawi Business Association.

Langkawi Homestay Association Deputy Chairman Abdul Jamil Ali echoed this sentiment, noting that the island’s craft industry players should seize the opportunity to showcase their products during the event.

“Foreign tourists typically enjoy exploring locally crafted products and experiencing homestay accommodations.

“For instance, in my area, many craftsmen produce coconut shell-based items, batik, and various other products that make ideal souvenirs for ASEAN delegates,” he said.

Langkawi Chinese Traders Association Advisor Lee Han Eng remarked that hosting the ASEAN event significantly boosts the local economy, benefitting residents.

“ASEAN leaders will become more familiar with Langkawi as a duty-free island and an international resort destination on par with Bali and Phuket in neighbouring countries,” he said.

He also expressed hope that the event would encourage more direct flights from ASEAN countries to Langkawi, making it easier for tourists to visit the island.

Meanwhile, car rental operator Muhammad Zulkarnain Husin acknowledged a surge in demand for his vehicles throughout the AMM.

“With the arrival of ASEAN delegates, along with their officials and entourages, many car rental operators have received numerous bookings,” he said.

-- BERNAMA