06 October 2013|
By Olivia Miwil | olivia@mediaprima.com.my
KOTA KINABALU: The Federation of Chinese Associations of Sabah (FCAS) said the China Government's decision to open a consul-general office here will boost tourism.
Until July this year, Sabah recorded 204,129 tourist arrival from China, surpassing the 193,010 recorded last year.
The move was announced by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak on Friday after his meeting with visiting China President Xi Jinping on Friday.
China Government will set up the consulate in KK and Penang while Malaysia will set up a similar office in Nanning.
FCAS president Datuk TC Goh said he was convinced that the decision would further strengthen the existing bilateral ties between the two nations.
"We will give full support and assistance to the setting up of the office to ensure its speedy and smooth establishment.
"The move will definitely benefit the state as a whole, particulary Kota Kinabalu, as it will boost confidence of Chinese tourists to come here," he said in Press statement.
Sabah Association of Tour and Travel Agents (SATTA) chairman Datuk Seri Winston Liaw also welcomed the move as it would give sense of security to its people.
“If they encounter any problems while on holiday here, they can go straight to the embassy office to seek help,” he added.
Winston also added that the move would enable people of Sabah to apply visa to visit or stay in China without much hassle.
"This will help to save time and money as at present applicants have to deal the matter in Sarawak or Kuala Lumpur," he said.
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