“We promote Melaka as a must-visit destination in Malaysia,” says Asmaliana Binti Ashari

Saturday, March 9, 2024

At the ASEAN Tourism Forum 2024, we had the pleasure of speaking with Asmaliana Binti Ashari, Senior Manager, Tourism Melaka, Malaysia, who shared invaluable insights into the historic city of Melaka, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its rich history and vibrant culture.This exclusive interview delves into Melaka’s strategic promotion as a must-visit destination in Malaysia, its unique attractions, and the significance of the “Visit Melaka Year 2024” campaign.

Melaka: A Tapestry of Culture and History

Asmaliana Binti Ashari, Senior Manager, Tourism Melaka, Malaysia begins by highlighting Melaka’s status as a UNESCO Heritage City, a title that honors its historical significance and well-preserved heritage. With over 700 attractions, Melaka is a microcosm of Malaysia’s multicultural tapestry, boasting historical sites, recreational theme parks, and an abundance of restaurants and cafes. “Melaka is not just a historical city but a living museum that offers a glimpse into the confluence of Malay, Chinese, Indian, Portuguese, Chitty, and Peranakan cultures,” Asmaliana explains.

Promoting Melaka as a Premier Destination

The strategy to promote Melaka, according to Asmaliana Binti Ashari, Senior Manager, Tourism Melaka, Malaysia, leverages its UNESCO inscription and its representation of ‘Truly Asia’, to attract tourists from around the globe. Melaka’s appeal lies in its ability to offer an authentic experience of Malaysia’s multicultural identity. The city welcomes visitors to explore its unique blend of cultures, traditions, and cuisines, making it a compelling destination for those seeking a rich, cultural experience.

Visit Melaka Year 2024: A Yearlong Celebration

The highlight of our discussion was the “Visit Melaka Year 2024”, a campaign designed to spotlight Melaka’s attractions through over 100 events scheduled throughout the year. Asmaliana Binti Ashari, Senior Manager, Tourism Melaka, Malaysia emphasizes, “From January to December 2024, Melaka will host a variety of events, inviting tourists to immerse themselves in our rich cultural heritage and vibrant community life.” This initiative not only aims to boost tourism but also to engage visitors with the city’s diverse offerings, from traditional festivals to contemporary arts and music events.

Enhancing the Tourist Experience: Lucky Draws and Incentives

An innovative approach to attract visitors is the lucky draw competition for tourists staying two nights in Melaka. “We are excited to offer our guests the chance to win amazing prizes, including brand new cars, as a token of our appreciation for choosing Melaka,” shares Asmaliana Binti Ashari. This initiative, unique to the “Visit Melaka Year 2024”, is expected to incentivize longer stays and deeper exploration of the city.

MICE Opportunities in Melaka

Melaka’s potential as a MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) destination is significant. With facilities like the Melaka International Trade Center and a range of hotels equipped with state-of-the-art meeting rooms and ballrooms, Melaka is well-prepared to host international conferences and corporate events. “We offer special rates for MICE providers and event organizers, making Melaka an attractive and cost-effective option for hosting business events,” Asmaliana points out.

A Vision for the Future

As the interview concludes, Asmaliana Binti Ashari reflects on the future of tourism in Melaka. The “Visit Melaka Year 2024” is more than a campaign; it’s a strategic effort to showcase Melaka’s evolution from a historic port city to a dynamic, multicultural hub. “We are committed to preserving our heritage while embracing innovation and sustainability, ensuring that Melaka continues to be a beloved destination for generations to come,” she asserts.

The ASEAN Tourism Forum 2024 provided a valuable platform for Tourism Melaka to share its vision and initiatives for promoting Melaka as a premier tourist destination. Through strategic marketing, diverse cultural offerings, and a focus on sustainability and innovation, Melaka is poised to captivate the hearts of visitors from around the world. As the “Visit Melaka Year 2024” campaign unfolds, it’s clear that Melaka is not just preserving its past but is also building a vibrant, inclusive future, inviting all to explore its treasures.

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