Dato Sri Dr. Ng Yen Yen

By Lee Hyo-sik

Malaysia, a popular tourist destination in Southeast Asia, is seeking to attract Korean golfers by launching a comprehensive tour package at affordable prices in cooperation with Asiana Airlines and Amiga Tour, a mid-sized travel agency here.

Dato Sri Dr. Ng Yen Yen, Malaysian minister of tourism, said Monday that Malaysia has more than 200 international-standard golf courses across the country, adding Korean golfers should come and explore what the Southeast Asian nation can offer.

She came to Korea Monday to attend the second T20 Ministers’ Meeting in Buyeo, South Chungcheong Province, taking place from Oct. 11 to 13 and to engage in other promotional events designed to draw more Koreans to her country.

“Our golf courses are located in the mountains, along the sea shores, on tropical islands and in rainforests, offering many choices and challenges to golfers. Golf resorts and clubhouses are equipped with the best facilities and amenities, including accommodation and convention facilities. Some of our courses were designed by top golf personalities such as Jack Nicklaus,” the minister said.

She added that they have been extending their full support to Amiga Tour and Asiana Airlines in launching an exclusive golf tour package especially for Koreans. The airline plans to operate a charter plane to Johor State in Malaysia from Incheon International Airport twice a week — Thursday and Sunday — from Dec. 23 2010 through March 3, 2011.

In partnership with Pulai Springs Country Club and Tanjung Puteri Country Club, the travel agency will provide golfers with unlimited rounds of golf, accommodation, as well as massages and other services.

“Additionally, we will also promote the Malaysia My Second Home (MM2M) program among Koreans who have reached retirement, encouraging them to consider making the Southeast Asian nation their second home,” the minister said.

The program was launched to attract foreign citizens. Participants can enjoy various incentives, including a renewable social visit pass with multiple-entry into Malaysia for up to 10 years.

A total of 227,321 Korean tourists visited Malaysia last year, down from 267,461 in 2008. The 15-percent decline was largely due to the global economic downturn and the H1N1 epidemic.

“We saw a 17-percent-increase in the number of Korean visitors for the first six months of this year, compared to the same period last year. We will do our best to attract at least 280,000 visitors from Korea as a whole,” she said.

Source: http://www.koreatimes.co.kr/www/news/nation/2010/10/117_74374.html