Targeting Chinese and Muslim clients in Southeast Asia, the Kaohsiung City Government Tourism Bureau recently hosted overseas promotional events in Malaysia and Singapore with hotel, catering, travel agencies, and other enterprises. In an effort to boost Taiwan's tourism, it also introduced the "International Tourist Group Subsidy" scheme. At the same time, work to attract more visitors from abroad to Kaohsiung.
Kaohsiung City targets Chinese and Muslim tourists from Southeast Asia and promote Taiwan tourism in Singapore and Malaysia.Photo provided by Kaohsiung City Tourism Bureau
According to the Kaohsiung City Government Tourism Bureau, there are 4.2 million Chinese living in Singapore, which is up to 75% of the country's population, and more than 6.5 million Chinese living in Malaysia, which together make up more than 20% of the country's population. The fact that there is no language barrier and a large number of children of Chinese ethnic groups opt to study in Taiwan also creates a significant business opportunity.
Additionally, there are large Muslim communities in Singapore and Malaysia. Currently, 18 business owners in Kaohsiung's hotel and catering sectors have several Halal Certifications, and they are working to increase the number of Muslim visitors to the city by engaging in the marketing campaigns.
Kaohsiung City targets Chinese and Muslim tourists from Southeast Asia and promote Taiwan tourism in Singapore and Malaysia.Photo provided by Kaohsiung City Tourism Bureau
Kaohsiung City recently introduced a group travel subsidy program for visitors from other countries. For as long as more than 15 tourists in a group stay in Kaohsiung for one night and visit designated attractions, they will receive NT$5,000 in subsidies on weekdays (Sunday through Thursday) and NT$4,000 in subsidies on weekends and national holidays (Friday, Saturday, and holidays). This has sparked a lot of interest from travel agencies and media in Singapore and Malaysia.