Malaysia's funny news 1
1. Adopt-A-RempitA politician has suggested to his colleagues to adopt one illegal motorbike racer each, so these Mat Rempits can lead a better life. Let ' s all adopt illegal motorbike racers!
2. Tourism night to reward top toilet operator
Tourism night to reward top toilet operator By Yu Ji
KUCHING: Six new categories including an award for “Outstanding Toilet Operator” will be added at the third triennial Sarawak Hornbill Tourism Appreciation Awards.
“Something as basic as public toilet, which is usually taken for granted, plays a crucial role in creating a positive impression for tourist as they usually use them more than the locals.
“If the public here avoid using public toilets due to foul smell and general maintenance, how will they (tourists) believe anything else we promote about Sarawak?” asked Sarawak Tourism Federation secretary-general Audrey Wan Ullok at the press conference yesterday.
It was also to launch the award’s nomination period that will end on Nov 20.
The awards presentation this year aims to cover more supportive-sectors like hawker stalls, local councils, backpacker style accommodations and homestays.
“There is a need to recognise, encourage and create benchmarks for twelve segments that have contributed outstandingly to better tourism,” she said, adding that some categories were created based on sectors that needed to improve.
Members of the public are invited to nominate companies or individuals for suitable categories like in-bound tour operator, tourist guide, handicraft & souvenir, transportation, media and eateries.
The prize presentation ceremony will be on Jan 12 next year.
Audrey said the judges would comprise relevant associations, ministries and locals who had travelled abroad extensively.
“The awards hope to cover all aspects needed to improve the industry here.
“We want to find the best practices for others to emulate. Basically, it is to approach the industry from a tourist’s perspective,” said Sarudu Hoklai, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Urban Development and Tourism.
The Hornbill Tourism Appreciation Awards is a joint collaboration between STF, Ministry of Tourism Sarawak, Ministry of Tourism Malaysia, campaigners for ‘Sarawak more than a paradise!’ and Visit Malaysia 2007.