JASIN, Dec 3 — Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi congratulated Melaka for being selected to host World Tourism Day (WTD) in 2025.

He said the federal government chose Melaka due to its confidence in the state, which has the infrastructure, hospitality, commitment, and efficiency of civil servants willing to cooperate in the smooth-running of events.

"I am sure that with the advantages of its tourist attractions, and historical heritage to the uniqueness of cultural assimilation and traditions of the people of Melaka, Melaka will attract more tourists, thus making it a preferred destination,” he said.

His speech was delivered by Melaka Chief Minister Datuk Seri Ab Rauf Yusoh at the closing ceremony of the D’Bendang Carnival at the Benteng Negara camp in Parit Penghulu, Sungai Rambai here today.

This is Malaysia’s inaugural selection as the venue for WTD by the World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO), following which the federal government chose Melaka to host the prestigious event.

The annual event will see 155 heads of state and representatives camping out in Melaka to make it a success.

Commenting on the D’Bendang Carnival, Ahmad Zahid, who is also the Rural and Regional Development Minister, said it was organised to celebrate the padi harvest season in Melaka which started in October, making it another unique event to attract tourists.

He said the D’Bendang Carnival can contribute towards the aim of reviving cultural heritage and natural wealth, to preserve it for the enjoyment of current and future generations.

"I think the state government has made a good move by organising this carnival to promote tourist attractions in Melaka.

"Its uniqueness can attract more domestic and international tourists to enjoy the beauty of Sungai Rambai, which we know as the southern gate of Melaka,” he said.

He expressed confidence that the 18.4 million visitors targeted for the 2024 Visit Melaka Year will be achieved with the cooperation of all parties involved.

"This state of the five warrior brothers will continue to be flooded with tourists, to emerge as the great and distinguished state it used to be in the golden age of the Malay Sultanate of Melaka,” he said. — Bernama