Malaysia celebrates 50 years of independence this year, and the golden jubilee celebra¬tions have triggered a new 'Visit Malaysia Year' when the country hopes to raise its foreign visitor count from 17.5 million recorded in 2006 to 20.1 million. Revenues from tourism should increase to US$12.7 billion compared with the estimated US$16.7 billion last year.

According to Victor Wee, the tourism ministry's Secretary General, Visit Malaysia Year events have proved to be a major catalyst for tourism growth in the past. Arrivals grew by 53.6% during the first Visit Malaysia Year in 1990 and by 10.7% during the second one in 1994.

The government has released US$80 million for promotion and marketing activities during the year. According to Wee, there will be particular emphasis on India and China, which are among the fastest growing markets for Malaysia (up by 22% and 28% respectively in 2006). Festivities planned for the year include the famous Rainforest Festival in Kuching, a World Music Festival in Penang, a special two-month Aerospace exhibition in Kuala Lumpur - to include the Russian space shuttle BURAN - an interna¬tional military tattoo, and a Kuala Lumpur Festival on 31 August, Independence Day. In total, over 240 events are being organised for this commemorative year.

The Minister of Tourism has urged all Malaysians to play their part in welcoming tourists to their country. A special training programme has been set up to encourage friendly behaviour towards foreign visitors, especially for those in the front line such as custom officers, the tourist police, taxi drivers or airport employees.