PORT DICKSON, September 5 – Tourism Malaysia took a significant step towards promoting turtle conservation and sustainable tourism practices by engaging in a turtle conservation effort at the pristine beaches of Port Dickson. The initiative, part of Tourism Malaysia’s social corporate responsibility, aimed to raise awareness about turtle conservation and contribute to increasing the survival rate of turtle hatching. As part of this exciting journey, 24 staff members from the Package Development Division participated in a beach clean-up and had the unique opportunity to release baby turtles into the ocean near Lexis Hibiscus Port Dickson.
These actions symbolize Tourism Malaysia’s unwavering commitment to environmental conservation and its dedication to sustainable tourism practices. Dato’ Dr. Ammar Abd. Ghapar, the Director-General of Tourism Malaysia, expressed his hopes for the event, saying, “The release of baby turtles signifies our hopes for tourists. Just as turtles return to the very spot where they were born to mate and lay eggs, we hope tourists will continue to visit Malaysia repeatedly, no matter where they are from.” He also highlighted the significance of the turtle logo, which has been associated with Tourism Malaysia since 1986.
The incorporation of the turtle logo, along with the establishment of the Tourist Development Corporation (TDC) in 1972, holds nostalgic value and pays tribute to the remarkable moments and achievements celebrated over the years. The turtle conservation effort in Port Dickson is in collaboration with the Department of Fisheries’ Turtle Showroom at Port Dickson Ornamental Fish Centre. The ongoing initiative focuses on conserving the endangered Green Turtle and Hawkbill Turtle species, as well as educating the public about the vital role turtles play in marine ecosystems and the importance of preserving Malaysia’s marine biodiversity.
The social corporate responsibility programme by Tourism Malaysia coincided with the Package Development Division’s 2024 – 2026 Strategic Workshop, held in Port Dickson from August 3 to August 5, 2023. The workshop brought together industry experts, government officials, and conservationists to chart holistic strategies for the upcoming years leading to Visit Malaysia Year 2026. Their collective expertise and shared vision will play a pivotal role in shaping the tourism landscape, particularly in niche tourism segments, and enhancing the overall travel experience for both local and international tourists.
The commitment to turtle conservation and sustainable practices is a testament to Tourism Malaysia’s dedication to preserving the natural beauty of the country and promoting responsible tourism for future generations.
