TOURISM MINISTERS MEETING IN LONDON TO DISCUSS EFFECTS OF ECONOMIC CRISIS ON INDUSTRY

From Kurniawati Kamarudin

Cairo, Oct 31 (Bernama) -- Tourism ministers from all over the world will meet in London in November to discuss the effects of the global economic crisis on the tourism industry.


Malaysian Tourism Minister Azalina Othman Said said the meeting, to be
held next month, would look at the actual situation of each country's tourism
industry as a result of the crisis.

On the effects of the crisis on Malaysia's tourism industry, Azalina said
although there was concern about it, Malaysia would still be able to withstand
the effects and continue to receive tourists.

"Because of the economic crisis, tourists will be more selective about
their travel destinations, but I believe Malaysia can still capitalise on this,"
she told Malaysian reporters covering her tourism promotion drive to Egypt, here
Friday.

She said Malaysia's advantage over its neighbouring countries was that the
room rates for its four-star and five-star hotels were still cheaper than the
rates charged in these countries.

"This is one reason why Malaysia is still a preferred destination among
Asean countries for tourists, besides its political stability, lower currency
exchange rate and the people's warm hospitality.

"I believe we also share tourists with other Asean countries as after or
before arriving in Malaysia they will also visit these countries."

Azalina said her ministry would, meanwhile, step up efforts to promote what
Malaysia had to offer to foreign tourists.
-- BERNAMA