| The well-received performance by the Malaysian Children during the dinner reception |
Realizing the potential of the Russian travel market, Tourism Malaysia Moscow continued its aggressive promotion to win the hearts and minds of the Russian travellers by hosting the Merdeka and Hari Raya reception on the sidelines of the ????? (Otdykh) Leisure Show 2009 recently held at the Crocus City Expo from 22-26 September 2009.
The event which was officiated by H.E. Dato' Mohamad Khalis, Ambassador of Malaysia was a specially organised to thank the Russian travel trade partners whom have contributed significantly to the positive increase in arrivals over the years. The event is also a platform for Tourism Malaysia Moscow to introduce members of the Malaysian Delegation, which was led by Ms. Maizan, Deputy Director of Tourism Malaysia?s International Division, to the Russian travel trade and allowed them to network in a more conducive and relaxed manner away from the hustle and bustle of the exhibition floor.
| The Tourism Malaysia Moscow culture troupe, Intan, poses before performing for the reception |
Dato' Ambassador in his opening remarks praised the Russian travel trade partners for their hard work and reassured that the Government of Malaysia through entities like Tourism Malaysia and the Embassy would be more willing to provide the necessary assistance in facilitating their work in getting more Russians to choose Malaysia. Dato' Ambassador also added that the Government of Malaysia is committed towards ensuring that its overall policies remain tourism friendly, which would thus ensure tourists visiting Malaysia particularly those from Russia, enjoy their experience in Malaysia.
As part of the reception, guests were entertained by a heart-warming performance by the Malaysian children whom were lovely clad in traditional costumes as well as by Intan, Tourism Malaysia Moscow's own in-house culture troupe. To further add excitement to the event, a special lucky draw event was held with prices ranging from city tours, accommodation at 5-star hotels in Malaysia as well as a return flight ticket to Malaysia courtesy of Singapore Airlines.
| Dato' Ambassador (middle) poses with one of the ticket prize winners. With him is Ms. Maizan (left), Mr. Eddie Leong, GM Singapore Airlines Moscow (4 from left) and Mr. Ammar, Senior Director Tourism Moscow |
For the record, 26,308 Russians visited Malaysia in 2008. As for the first 8 months of this year, Russian tourists arrival to Malaysia recorded positive growth with a cumulative increase of almost 14% compared to the same period last year amidst the difficult economic climate. At current growth, it is estimated that 30,000 Russian tourist would be visiting Malaysia for 2009.