By DayakDaily Team
KUCHING, June 25: The Sarawak Ministry of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts (MTCP) can handle regional tourism well and understands Sarawak better than anyone, says Batu Kitang assemblyman Dato Lo Khere Chiang.
With tourism matters currently under the Federal List, he noted the issuance of all licences related to tourism including homestays and tour buses requires the federal government’s approval, which he viewed as absurd.
He also noted Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H) agents need to go through vetting and regulation processes by the Federal Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture (MOTAC) again after their licences expire.
“Valid licences were issued by MOTAC in the first place. They should only penalise those who break its rules, not penalising all industry players in Sarawak by revoking their licences regardless of compliance.
“Additionally, the Sarawak MM2H programme also has its own unique conditions separate from those in Malaya (West Malaysia).
“The mishandling of this issue could seriously harm the economy as MM2H participants contribute billions in foreign exchange by buying houses, supporting education, and boosting local businesses,” said Lo in a statement on Monday (June 24).
Given the numerous issues with the MM2H programme, he opined it is appropriate to explore the implementation of separate tourism schemes, each tailored for West Malaysia, Sabah, and Sarawak.
Lo was responding to the recent suspension of the MM2H programme in Sarawak and Sabah without consulting the Borneo States and MTCP Minister Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah’s statement expressing his disappointment about this arrangement. — DayakDaily
