By V. Sivaji
The much awaited MATTA Fair Penang 2024 was launched by Penang Chief Minister YAB Chow Kon Yeow at the Spice Arena earlier today.
Present to welcome him was Penang MATTA Chapter chairman Ms Carolyn Leong and her organising team.
A host of dignitaries were present to make the event even more splendid and vibrant.
Among them were Dato A. Rajendran, Penang City Council Mayor, Nur Hayati Aziz Rashid (MAS Central Region Commercial Sales Head for Malaysia & ASEAN), Dato Tony Goh (Malaysian Association of Hotels Penang Chapter chairman), Ms Mary Ann Harris, representatives from the various consul-generals in Penang among others.
In his address, Chow commended MATTA for playing a pivotal role in promoting the country particularly Penang as a premier tourism destination.
“We see significant increase in domestic and international tourism through the collaboration of the various stakeholders in the industry.
“I am pleased to announce the maiden voyage of two cruise liners, Costa Deliziosa and Serenade of the Seas making their maiden trip to the Swettenham Pier Cruise Terminal. Furthermore, with 15 direct flights to international cities, our Penang International Airport has recently recorded a 5 percent increase in passenger movement from 313,000 328,000 last month”, said Chow.
Meanwhile, Leong said that the collaboration and partnership of the various partners have made the fair a more attractive gathering. Among them are the MAG Group, RHB Bank Berhad, MOTAC, Tourism Malaysia along with other industry players.
“I also thank Madam Ding Qiao from the People’s Republic of China in Penang, Pak Aryadi Ramadhan and Pak Wanton Saragih from the Consulate of Indonesia and the Third Secretary from the Ugandan Embassy in Kuala Lumpur for their presence.
“We have more than 300 booths promoting local and international destinations at bargain prices for everyone to plan their next holiday”, said Leong in thanking all parties in making the event a success.
She also added that they are confident to reach their target of RM35 million in sales turnover with 40,000 visitors till tomorrow Sunday, April 28, 2024.
After the launch gimmick, Chow took time to visit the various booths and to get to know their products and packages.
From left – Dato Tony Goh with Madam Ding Qiao and John Kim