KOTA BAHARU -- The Kelantan government's failure to maintain local tourism products could potentially jeopardise the industry in the state, said Tourism Minister Dr Ng Yen Yen.
She noted that Kelantan possessed bountiful tourism products but which had not been maintained properly, especially in the aspect of cleanliness and infrastructure.
"We received many complaints from tourists who stayed at the hotels here, that the services provided were not good while the cleanliness at certain tourist spots were neglected," she told reporters after meeting with state tourism players at a Chinese New Year gathering here on Friday.
Ng said Kelantan used to be known for its beautiful and clean beaches which had now been adversely affected by erosion.
She urged the local authorities (LAs) responsible for issuing licences to hotels and lodging house operators to ensure they provided excellent service.
"The LAs should also ensure that spa outlets are maintained properly as required under the licence, as the product is increasingly popular with tourists," she stressed.
On 'Visit Kelantan Year' this year, she said it was a good idea but the state government must have a comprehensive plan, including preparing a calendar of activities and new tourism products, and ensuring that the existing products were maintained properly.
Meanwhile, Ng who is also Kelantan MCA chairman, said the people had responded positively to the programmes introduced by Prime minister Najib Tun Razak to spur the country's growth in the face of a fluctuating world economy.
"We see a change in the sentiments of the people in respect of Barisan Nasional (BN)'s achievements, and growing support for the prime minister.
"I hope the people will give the BN the mandate in the next general election so that we can provide more economic benefits," she said.
