By Norrasyidah Arshad
SHAH ALAM, July 21 – Selangor’s tourism sector is experiencing a significant boost, with Japanese visitors leading the charge, with a remarkable 49 per cent increase in from 73,822 in 2022 to 110,018 visitors in 2023, said state executive councillor for tourism and local government Dato’ Ng Suee Lim.
Ng said the surge in visitors has bolstered the state’s confidence to achieve its ambitious target of eight million tourists for Visit Selangor Year 2025.
“More Japanese tourists are visiting. Bon Odori is one of the efforts showing our openness to celebrating various cultures, including those from Japan. We also continue to receive investors from there.
“Japan is one of the five countries on which we are focusing. We hope this annual event will further increase the number of tourists coming here,” Ng said at a press conference held here yesterday.
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Visitors in traditional Japanese attire seen at the 48th Bon Odori, held at the Shah Alam (Panasonic) Sports Complex, on July 20, 2024. — Picture by HAFIZ OTHMAN/MEDIA SELANGOR[/caption]
The 48th Bon Odori, a celebration of Japanese summer culture, plays a pivotal role in driving tourism to the state.
Held at the Shah Alam (Panasonic) Sports Complex, the event drew over 40,000 visitors, many adorned in traditional Japanese attire such as kimono, yukata and hakama.
Ng, accompanied by Tourism Selangor chief executive Azrul Shah Mohamad, mingled with festival-goers and toured food stalls, emphasising the event’s importance to facilitate cultural exchange and tourism promotion.
The enthusiasm was palpable as visitors began arriving as early as 4pm at the festival. It not only showcased Japanese culture, but also demonstrated the local community’s willingness to embrace cultural diversity, with many Malaysians donning traditional Japanese outfits and taking part in the Japanese dance.
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Attendees bask in the festival atmosphere at the 48th Bon Odori, held at the Shah Alam (Panasonic) Sports Complex, on July 20, 2024. — Picture by HAFIZ OTHMAN/MEDIA SELANGOR[/caption]
