Malaysia targets 14 million tourist arrivals from its neighbour Singapore this year with the new campaign “Malaysia Year of Festivals 2015” (MyFest 2015), according to Malaysia’s Tourism Promotion Board.

At a press conference on February 3, Chairperson of the Board Ng Yen Yen noted that Singaporeans account for the majority of international tourists to Malaysia. Two years ago, Malaysia received 13.5 million travellers from the neighbouring country.

This is a good time for the Malaysian tourism industry, especially with the strong Singaporean dollar, the official stressed.

More than 200 events, including cultural festivals, arts and music concerts, food promotion activities and shopping and sports events will take place throughout the year as parts of the MyFest 2015 with the theme “Endless Celebrations”.

Highlights are KL Light Festival in January, Mah-Meri Festival and Formula One Festival both in March, Penang World Music Festival in April, Magic of the Night in May, Rainforest World Music Festival in August, Malaysian Motorcycle Grand Prix in October and Year-End Sales in November and December.

Last year, Malaysia enjoyed an increase in tourist arrivals despite several tragic commercial flight incidents.

2015 will be a better year, the tourism official confidently said.-VNA