GEORGE TOWN: Expecting an influx of visitors to Penang after the federal government allowed inter-state and inter-district travel effective yesterday, the Penang government today urged those coming to the state to practice "responsible tourism".
State Tourism and Creative Economy Committee chairman Yeoh Soon Hin said all visitors to the state must strictly adhere to the standard operating procedures (SOPs) in place.
"Many visitors will come to Penang, now that inter-state and inter-district travel is allowed, except for areas under the Enhanced Movement Control Order (EMCO).
"The Covid-19 pandemic in the country is still not under control. As such, it is our responsibility to ensure we comply with the SOPs at all times while travelling," he said in his official Facebook page today.
Yeoh said Penang was the first state in the country to launch the "responsible tourism" concept on July 30.
"Following the launch, my office as well as the state Health Department, Penang Island City Council and Seberang Prai City Council conducted monitoring in tourist-thronged areas such as hotels, tourism hotspots, shopping complexes and other related locations to ensure full compliance of the SOPs," he said.
It was reported that Penang initiated the Covid-19 safety accreditation programme in July to enhance compliance of the tourism industry with emphasis given to the importance of safety and hygiene - two important elements to regain traveller's confidence in the long-term.
Those that fulfil the Covid-19 safety accreditation standard will be given the official certification mark or logo to be displayed at their premises and for use in advertising and promotional materials.
The pandemic had greatly impacted the tourism sector in the state with the closure of several hotels since March.
Penang hawkers have also complained of poor business in recent months with the numerous phases of Movement Control Order (MCO) in place.