LANGKAWI, Oct 7 (Bernama) -- The federal government has been urged to pay special attention to Langkawi in Budget 2027 by providing targeted measures and allocations to address the sluggishness in the tourism sector and to boost the income of tourism operators as well as small and medium enterprises (SMEs) on the resort island.
Non-governmental organisation Anak Muda MADANI Kedah chairman Datuk Zuraidi Rahim said that a new injection is urgently needed to help revive Langkawi's economic activities, which heavily relies on the tourism sector.
He said that among the matters that need attention is the complete restoration of Langkawi's status as a duty-free zone, which was previously one of the main attractions for tourists visiting the island.
"I sincerely hope for the federal government's touch through Budget 2027 for Langkawi, particularly regarding the issue of duty-free facilities to encourage tourist arrivals.
"I hope the Prime Minister, who is also the Finance Minister, can give attention to this issue because the Langkawi tourism sector is greatly affected," he said when met after the Santai Bersama Anak Muda Langkawi programme here today.
Zuraidi said that special attention is important because the recovery of the tourism sector not only benefits hotel operators and travel agencies but also has a direct impact on restaurants, transportation, traders and other SMEs.
He also hopes that the government can provide specific allocations to support the organisation of large-scale programmes, including motorsport activities, that can attract more visitors to Langkawi.
He said that organising such events has the potential to be a catalyst for increasing the number of tourists, thereby creating economic spillovers to various related sectors.
Zuraidi said Budget 2027 also needs to take into account the needs of the fishing community in Langkawi by increasing assistance to enable them to repair boats and replace damaged engines.
He added that a needs-based approach is important to ensure that the Budget 2027 allocation not only stimulates the tourism sector but also strengthens the community's economy and also increases the income of the people in Langkawi.
-- BERNAMA