As neighbouring countries, Thailand is undeniably among one of the favourite destinations for Malaysians to travel and unwind in leisure. After 4 million Malaysians arrival in 2018, the official Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is overjoyed to organise a Gala Dinner “Thanks 4 Million – Let’s Celebrate Songkran Festival” to celebrate this success.
Held at Mandarin Oriental Hotel Kuala Lumpur on April 19, the event is just timely for Thai New Year, a month of Songkran Festival in Thailand. His Excellency Mr. Narong Sasitorn, the Ambassador of Thailand to Malaysia officiated the momentous Gala Dinner.
The success in welcoming 4 million Malaysians into Thailand has recorded a revenue of 114,896 million Baht (approximately RM14,730 million) generated from tourism alone.
An introductory perfomance; the Nang Songkran dance
“This event is organized to extend our thanks to our partners, namely Airlines, Media, Travel Agents and Car Clubs and everyone involved, for their kind contribution and on-going supports that made us achieve the 4 Million arrivals in 2018.” said Mr. Chattan Kunjara Na Ayudhya, Deputy Governor of TAT.
Muay Thai martial arts show
Thailand’s current running campaign “Open to the New Shades” highlights the many specialities of the country from culture, arts and crafts, wonders of nature, beach, gastronomy and the local’s way of life in promoting true Thai experiences.
Mr Richard Lim, Tourism Authority of Thailand Marketing Manager for Malaysia and Brunei presenting a token of appreciation for Mr John So, publisher of GOASIAPLUS magazine during the ceremony
Research has found that 97.94% of Malaysian travellers visit Thailand for their food. The Deputy Governor of TAT is quick to add “As we are neighbors, Thai people shares many things in common with Malaysians. Hence, our wide variety of gastronomy choice suits many different tastes of Malaysians very well – from HALAL-Certified food, street food, fine-dining to Michelin Star restaurants”.
A group photo of award recepients from airlines, media, travel agents and car clubs partners of TAT
For new travel experiences, keep an eye out for emerging cities in Thailand at Mae Hong Son, Satun, Yala (Betong) and Chiang Rai – which currently has direct flight from Kuala Lumpur for further exploration!
Text by Jessy Wong
