Earlier this week the Chief Executive Officer of the Langkawi Tourism Association (LTA) Zainudin Kadir shared that Malaysians choosing to go to Thailand has caused tourism to decline in Langkawi.
This sparked many debates on different social media platforms and netizens started comparing the different aspects of Langkawi and Thailand. As of now, many believe that it is more worth it to go to Thailand as it’s cheaper and the food is nicer.
These debates seemingly encourage local tourists to pick Thailand over Langkawi and in response to that, the Kedah Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Muhammad Sanusi Md Nor has asked everyone to stop “negative campaigns” against Langkawi as he is worried that it will give the island a bad name.
He added that the local governments can’t force tourists to choose Langkawi as a travel destination or stop them from going to Thailand, reported BERNAMA.
“If they go there (Thailand), we can’t stop them and I think this is normal in the tourism industry. But please stop any campaigns that can tarnish the reputation of Langkawi.”
The MB further elaborated that the local government is trying their best to attract more tourists to come to Langkawi and Tanah Besar.
Based on the data from Lembaga Pembangunan Langkawi (LADA), the entry of tourists to the island is “encouraging”.
“If many go to Thailand, it doesn’t mean that we will be seriously affected… this is only temporary,” he added.
Well, different tourist spots have different attractions and there may be people who prefer Langkawi to Thailand, to each their own!
Also read: This Gorgeous Hillside Retreat In Hulu Langat Has A Waterpark, A Petting Zoo & So Much More!
