LANGKAWI: The Kedah government with the cooperation of the federal government is planning various programmes to further develop Langkawi to ensure this priceless jewel in the Andaman Sea continues to shine as an attractive tourist destination.
Menteri Besar Datuk Mukhriz Mahathir said the Langkawi Tourism Blueprint that was launched in 2011, aimed to place this legendary island alongside world-renowned resort islands like Seychelles, Mauritius, Bali, Hawaii and Maldives.
He said the implementation of the blueprint from 2011 until 2015 required concerted branding of the island, especially in promoting its awesome natural environment.
“Amid rapid development here, the state government ensures that the development carried out will not adversely affect Langkawi’s natural treasures,” said Mukhriz at the official opening of Istana Bukit Malut, here, yesterday by the Yang di-Pertuan Agong, Tuanku Abdul Halim Mu’adzam Shah.
Also present were Raja Permaisuri Agong Tuanku Hajah Haminah, Kedah Council of Regency chairman Tan Sri Tunku Anuar Sultan Badlishah and members of the council, state executive councillors and State Secretary Datuk Mohd Puad Mohd Ali.
Mukhriz said Langkawi’s development was being carried out holistically without sacrificing the duty-free island’s natural landscape, fauna and flora.
He also announced that Langkawi would host the launching of the Visit Malaysia Year 2014 programme, which would further highlight it to the world, while the Asean Summit would be held on the island in April, 2015.
The summit is expected to be attended by leaders of the world’s big powers like United States President Barack Obama, Russian President Vladimir Putin, Chinese President Xi Jinping and Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe who will meet with the leaders of Asean member states, hence indirectly promoting Langkawi to the world.
At yesterday’s event, Mukhriz took the opportunity to wish Tuanku Abdul Halim Happy Birthday in conjunction with His Majesty’s actual date of birth, Nov 28.
He said the building of Istana Bukit Malut on a piece of land, which is part of the 99 East project site that includes a golf course and other components, was meaningful for the state government as it could be completed and presented to Tuanku Abdul Halim. — Bernama