PUTRAJAYA: Striker extraordinaire and Barcelona forward Luis Suarez, will be the new face of Tourism Malaysia to promote the country among millennials.
A year long partnership with the Uruguayan international is expected to drive interest for Malaysia as a tourist destination, leveraging on the football player’s popularity around the world.
Suarez’s involvement materialised after a deal was inked between Tourism Malaysia and Mediapro, the Asia representative for the footballer.
Tourism and Culture Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Nazri Aziz said they are excited to be working with Suarez.
“As a hero to millennials, Suarez is an inspiration to many and we hope that this title and acknowledgement will shine the limelight on Malaysia as a tropical holiday destination that appeals to the millennial spirit for travel and adventure”.
He said the year-long collaboration is part of Tourism Malaysia’s marketing and promotion plan to further build demand for travel to Malaysia from its key international markets, as well as to draw attention from millennials and further engage them to visit Malaysia.”
Suarez, with two La Liga titles and a UEFA Champions League title under his belt said it is an honour and privilege to be able to work with Malaysia, a culturally-diverse country with beautiful beaches, and world-class resorts fit for all ages.
“I am incredibly thrilled and looking forward to embark on this journey to introduce this exotic country to the world, especially its rich culture and heritage to all my fans and make them fans of Malaysia.”
Managing Director of Mediapro Asia, Lars Heidenreich, said La Liga and Tourism Malaysia have been cooperating for a year making Malaysia La Liga’s official Tourist Destination in Asia.
“This partnership has now been enhanced through the endorsement of world class super star LuisSuarez. The Barcelona star is extremely popular in Asia, and we are very confident this branding and activation exercise with Suarez will help attract more travellers to consider Malaysia as their nextholiday destination and experience all that Malaysia has to offer as being Truly Asia.”