The Malaysian Association of Tour and Travel Agents (MATTA) Penang Chapter launched its much anticipated fair at the Spice Arena yesterday.
Officiating the grand event was the State Exco for Tourism and Creative Economy, YB Yeoh Soon Hin accompanied by Matta national president Datuk Tan Kok Liang. Matta Penang chairman, Vergis Mathews and organising chairperson Ms Carolyn Leong.
Also present was Penang Global Tourism chief executive officer, Ooi Chok Yan, Tourism Malaysia Northern Region director, Shahrul Aman, MAS Area Manager North, Lisa Wong, Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture (North) representative Rohaizat, MAH representative John Kim among others.
Travelling all the way from Singapore was Tourism Western Australia’s, Country Manager, Singapore and Malaysia, Ms Ava Ang.
“Penang MATTA Fair is one of the many ways to drive the tourism economy. It benefits the consumers by allowing them to discover the best travel deals, while also generating opportunities for all those in the tourism ecosystem such as travel agents, state tourism organisations, hotels, theme parks, family attractions, F&B and cruise agents,” said Yeoh in his address.
Meanwhile Tan added that the Matta Fair in Penang is the second largest fair after Kuala Lumpur and the hosting of the fair gives hope for the travel industry.
“I would like to thank the organising committee for putting up the fair despite time constraints. There are some 85 agents and 158 exhibition booths. Although we are seeing recovery, more efforts and initiatives are required and we have to innovate to go forward.
“We also thank the Penang state government for their support and encouragement towards the tourism industry,” said Vergis.
The launching ceremony also saw a Baba and Nyonya dance performance to showcase culture and tradition.
You can still check out the offers and promotions to plan for your next holiday as the fair only ends later today.
