HK INVESTORS EYE TOURISM VENTURE IN MELAKA

MELAKA (Bernama) - Investors in Hong Kong are considering a joint endeavour in tourism with the Melaka government under the 'Malaysia My Second Home' programme.

A Hong Kong-based property development company, Far East Consortium
International Ltd, has already expressed interest in such a venture.

Its chief executive officer David Chiu said on Friday that the state
has the potential to be a leading tourism centre.

"Melaka has a balanced and excellent social life with its public and
tourism facilities," he told reporters after calling on chief minister Mohd Ali Rustam at Seri Bendahara in Ayer Keroh here.

Also present was Tourism Minister Dr Ng Yen Yen.

Chui said that Melaka boasts distinctive cultural features and a heritage attractive to tourists.

Dr Ng said that her ministry has set aside RM103 million (US$33.3
million)under the 10th Malaysia Plan to help Melaka develop its tourism sector.

She noted that Melaka drew more than 11 million visitors yearly, adding the number would increase with a joint venture with Hong Kong investors.