Summary
- MICE economic impact of RM1.29 billion cited during debate.
- Visit My Kampung reportedly attracts 55,000 visitors, generating RM2.8 million.
- Opposition questions tourism revenue distribution and economic impact measurements.
GEORGE TOWN, November 8 — Tourism revenue and economic accountability sparked debate at Sidang Muda Pulau Pinang 2026, as government representatives defended existing measures.
To assess tourism’s contribution to local communities. A government representative cited RM1.29 billion in economic impact from meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions (MICE).
Although the reporting year was subsequently clarified as 2024. The assembly also heard that Visit My Kampung attracted 55,000 visitors and generated RM2.8 million in revenue.
Prompting opposition questions over visitor-counting methods and how earnings were distributed among local businesses.
Government representatives said state-funded tourism organisers would be required to submit post-event reports demonstrating economic benefits.
Warning that future grants could be withheld if measurable community returns were not established. Opposition members questioned whether existing economic indicators adequately reflected benefits.
Reaching local residents, particularly small businesses and rural tourism operators. The debate highlighted growing calls for greater transparency, clearer performance indicators.
And stronger accountability in Penang’s tourism development programmes.
