PUTRAJAYA: Malaysia has many artists whose works can be promoted as tourism products, said Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin.

The Deputy Prime Minister said the works of local artists could generate interest among tourists, particularly foreign arts enthusiasts, to visit Malaysia.

“I am pleased that Datuk Seri Dr Ng Yen Yen (Tourism Minister) has taken the initiative to promote local artists and showcase their works.

“We need to take the lead to promote local arts and there is no better way than through galleries and exhibition,” he said at the opening of the ministry's art gallery here yesterday.

Dr Ng said a new tourism product the contemporary art package had been developed to lure art lovers to appreciate Malaysian arts.

At another event, Muhyiddin lauded the International Islamic University's (IIUM) eco-friendly campus initiative, saying it could serve as a role model for countries in the Organisation of the Islamic Cooperation.

Bernama quoted him as saying that the initiative to promote eco-friendly practices in campus was in line with the Government's plans to protect the environment.

“Desire for commercial expansion and success have blurred the eyes of many on the importance of keeping the environment in a healthy state. We must continue to preserve our environment,” he said at IIUM's Hari Raya celebration where he launched IIUM's Eco-Friendly Community programme and 1Malaysia Student Discount Card.

Also present were IIUM president Tan Sri Mohd Sidek Hassan and rector Prof Datuk Seri Dr Zaleha Kamaruddin.

The eco-friendly community programme aims to develop eco-friendly ideals into operations within the campus, including giving away bicycles for staff and students for their travel within the campus.

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