April 1 Tourism, with an allocation of RM1.8 billion, will get a major boost from the 9MP. With the number of visitors expected to rise to 24.6 million by 2010, NISHA SABANAYAGAM talks to Tourism Ministry secretary-general Datuk Dr Victor Wee to find out more about what lies ahead.

A: That is only the foreign-exchange earnings. Domestic receipts are expected to be about a third of that, thus total revenue is expected to be RM70 billion.

A: This concept is Malaysia's initiative. The centre is a good base for, among other things, the exchange of information and tourism co-operation among member countries. The centre will be headed by the Tourism Malaysia director-general. A foreign director will also be chosen from the Commonwealth secretariat.

A: We will be promoting more heritage tours, focusing on World War 2. There has been interest among former Scottish armed personnel who served in Malaya during WW2 to return here. There will be some interesting packages for them, including visits to former war sites. This is an innovative concept. Health tourism is booming. A total of RM2 billion is expected by 2010. We are starting to attract people from Western countries under health tour packages which include cosmetic surgery. Come visit beautiful Malaysia and go home more beautiful yourself!

Q: The Government promises to focus on adequate infrastructure, upgrading and maintenance of tourism-related facilities and amenities. Can you give examples?

A: The focus will be on sustainable tourism development. This involves providing infrastructure for proper handling of waste and reducing pollution. State-of-the-art technology will be used to ensure more efficiency at immigration points so tourists can enjoy hassle-free and safe travel.

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