Church attacks worry Tourism Ministry

The Tourism Ministry fears that attempts of arson on several churches in the country may threaten its tourism industry’s growth.

Its minister Datuk Seri Dr Ng Yen Yen sad the religious tension could cause fear among foreign tourists of visiting Malaysia, hence affecting its economy.

“This is the communicaton era, so information travels fast...tourists will choose not to visit a country faced with conflicts, especially religious conflicts,” she told reporters after officiating at a Christmas and New Year celebration attended by about 150 Christians, here, today.

Dr Ng said the church attacks were sending the wrong message to foreign tourists when Malaysia was always touted as a harmonious country despite its multiracial and multi-religious society.

While the ministry had not received information on the effects of the incidents on tourist arrivals in Malaysia, she said, “We are monitoring the developments through our offices overseas.”

Dr Ng, who condemned the church attacks, said the people should not be influenced by the actions of a few who were out to create chaos in the country.

She said the Barisan Nasional (BN) government, which at all times wanted to safeguard peace and religious freedom in this country, would ensure the individuals involved would face appropriate action.

So far, seven churches with the latest in Miri, Sarawak as well as the church and guard post at Sekolah Menengah Convent in Taiping, Perak have been attacked


comments


why worry?? never seen any of the BN+ component parties worry when the big shot & his kin giving the green light for the "illegal" gathering.

Dun talked craps Ng Yen Yen, go and read utusan for the last 6 months, then go and pretend to understand who started the fire of intolerence and bigotry.

you should worry because what your Ministry's spending last year to promote Malaysia has gone down the drain by these acts. For example ask your offices in Johore to find out from business people there who depends mainly from Singaporeans on the reduction in their businesses.


Most of the tourists rather go to Thailand because of lower currency, cleaner beaches, friendly service, cleaner public toilets, efficient public transport, wide variety of delicious food and many more. I wonder what Yen Yen can offer.