ALOR SETAR: Langkawi, which consists of a cluster of 99 islands off the coast of Kedah, has won the “Asia Best Awards 2022” and was recently recognised as one of the Best Islands in South-East Asia.
Langkawi Development Authority (Lada) chief executive officer Nasaruddin Abdul Muttalib said the award proved the agency’s continued efforts and dedication, especially during the pandemic, when tourist arrivals to the island were down.
He said the success was also accompanied by the good news that Four Seasons Resort Langkawi also received the award for “The Best Beach and Upcountry Hotel in Malaysia 2022”.
“Despite facing various challenges, we remain optimistic and shoulder our responsibilities to ensure this island is resilient in its journey towards recovery and remains a popular tourist destination,” he said in a statement Thursday (July 21).
Nasaruddin said as the pioneering agency in the development of Langkawi tourism, Lada played an important role in making Langkawi as the world-class tourist destination it is today.
He also said Lada expects more international tourists would potentially revitalise the economy and stimulate the local community’s income.
“To realise this wish, we focus on four main components, namely Leisure Tourism (International & Domestic), Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions (MICE) and Tourism Events.
“Our action plan includes promoting green concept tourism, creating experiences and being responsible, providing incentives such as duty-free shopping as well as creating attractive places for Instagram to ensure we maintain our position as one of the best islands in South-East Asia,” he said. – Bernama