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Watersports Next on List

Tourism Minister Datuk Dr Leo Michael Toyad said the Government would emphasise making Malaysia the next playground for yachting in Southeast Asia.
He said islands such as Langkawi, Tioman and Pangkor would be given a facelift to receive tourists who enjoy yachting and watersports.
"We are studying how to improve the facilities without losing their originality," he said in an interview.
He added that Sabah had managed to attract many Britons who liked sailing.
"With Malaysia"s picturesque coast and year-round sailing environment, a large number of foreigners who love the sea can be enticed to our shores," he said.
Tourist arrivals last March touched 1.42 million, making it the highest single month in history. The previous record for single-month arrivals was 1.408 million, in January 2004.
This year, Malaysia expects to welcome 15 million tourists, who are projected to spend RM30 billion here.
Dr Toyad said his ministry was also working to "re-brand" Malaysia as a destination for the rich and famous.
He said tour operators would be encouraged to produce high-end packages, which were lacking compared to Thailand and Indonesia.
"One of the things we can learn from our neighbours is that they have always managed to cater for the high-end tourists."

Kuala Lumpur 2005-06-01