KANGAR: Tourism players in Perlis hope the Federal Government will consider special allocations under Budget 2025 to develop the state’s tourism sector, especially in Padang Besar.
Perlis Entrepreneurs and Tourism Club chairman Dr Ammar Hassan said Padang Besar is not merely a transit location as it has the potential to become a major tourist destination in the country.
Accordingly, he believes that a special provision is needed to organise annual events – such as an entrepreneur carnival involving the participation of Indonesia, Malaysia and Thailand.
“I believe with the right strategy, Perlis can become a competitive tourist destination to stimulate the local economy and provide benefits to the community,” he told Bernama.
Meanwhile, a tourism company director, Anizam Noor, said Perlis’ strategic position between Langkawi, Penang and Thailand gives the state an advantage, but careful planning and support from the Federal Government is crucial for the development of the state’s tourism sector.
“We are hopeful that the Federal Government can set aside allocations to upgrade tourism destinations in Perlis.
“The existing tourism facilities need improvement to increase their attractiveness and support in the form of allocations is essential to improve the tourism image of Perlis, which has great potential to grow,” he added.
Budget 2025 will be tabled in Parliament on Oct 18.
