Catchy beats: Ng (second from left) launching the ‘Drumming Up The Nation’ street carnival in Putrajaya.

PUTRAJAYA: Having Korean pop superstar Psy perform at the Barisan Nasional Chinese New Year celebration in Penang will make the state world famous, said Tourism Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ng Yen Yen.

She said Penang could only benefit, owing to the fact that the Youtube sensation had set a record of over one billion hits for his Gangnam Style music video and that he had more than 4.7 million fans worldwide.

“By performing in Penang, he will make Penang famous overnight,” she told a press conference to announce the coming “Drumming Up The Nation” street carnival at her ministry here.

Ng said there was no other motive behind the move to bring Psy over to Penang than to liven up the event.

“We all love to be happy, so we are bringing Psy here to make people happy,” she said.

Ng took a jab at PAS spiritual leader Datuk Nik Abdul Aziz Nik Mat who was reported to have asked Psy to make sure he cover his “aurat” after mistaking the Korean performer for a woman saying the Kelantan Menteri Besar should be more global in his perspective.

“You cannot live behind closed doors. We are global players ... but don't worry, I promise you that Psy will dress very well for his performance,” she said.

When asked, Ng said she “would love to” do the Gangnam dance with Psy if given the opportunity while showing off a few moves from the popular dance.

She also called on the private sector and the public to get involved in developing and promoting new tourism products as the country geared up for Visit Malaysia Year 2014.

She said new events such as the Drumming Up The Nation carnival to be held on Feb 17 at Petaling Street would help make Malaysia an even more attractive destination for tourists.

“We hope to attract at least 10,000 people. As we all know, this year is to prepare for Visit Malaysia Year 2014 and we need to get as many new events as we can,” she said.

The carnival, to be held from 4pm to 11pm, will showcase drumming talents from at least 10 ethnic groups in Malaysia.

Event organisers Entrepreneurs' Organisation said the aim of the carnival was to raise awareness among Malaysians of the beauty of the country's cultural diversity, aside from getting Malaysians and visitors from all walks of life to celebrate the Lunar New Year together.

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