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KUCHING, Sept 3: Tourism, Arts, and Culture (Motac) Minister Dato Sri Tiong King Sing urges tourism industry players, particularly those in the lodging sector, to apply for funding through the Tourism Infrastructure Scheme (SIP) offered by Motac via Bank Pembangunan Malaysia Berhad (BPMB) to develop or expand their tourism products, such as the premises, facilities, etc.
According to Tiong in a Facebook post, the fund can simultaneously increase and improve the infrastructure of places of accommodation such as hotels and homestays while also providing tourists and visitors with a meaningful experience.
“At this time, the officers in charge have reviewed and are considering each application to assist industry players in receiving the necessary assistance and resources in the tourism sector’s recovery process.
“Whether the application is for a five-star hotel or a budget hotel, I will ensure that this SIP can stimulate the growth of the tourism industry,” he said.
He went on to say that hotel operators also played a role when the nation was facing the Covid-19 pandemic by turning their premises into quarantine centres.
“So, with this SIP, they can modify their premises based on the current situation to meet the demands of their respective customers.”
Tiong also stated that, in light of the current economic uncertainty, some hotels and small businesses may be hesitant to take risks by spending large sums of money to renovate their respective business premises.
“I am confident, however, that the low-interest loans offered by SIP will allow them to breathe a sigh of relief.”
Furthermore, the tourism minister called on tourism industry players to adapt to current trends, always listen to visitors’ complaints, and strive to improve service quality.
Tiong continued by stating that the ministry was taking proactive measures in response to complaints from foreign tourists who claimed that the services provided by some tourism facility providers did not meet the expected standards or specifications, including regarding environmental sustainability.
“There are also facilities that are unsafe to use due to their deteriorating condition.
“Therefore, I once again urge the players in the tourism industry to review their important needs to attract visitors’ interest.
“Moreover, at this time, Malaysia is and will receive more foreign tourists, especially from Asian countries such as China, which contribute more economically to our country,” he added.
For more information and inquiries on SIP, tourism industry players and operators can visit the website at https://www.bpmb.com.my/tourism-2023, call the hotline at 03-88917492/7503/7469/7480, or email danapelancongan@motac.gov.my. — DayakDaily
