Latest news with #ClementLiang
South China Morning Post
6 days ago
- South China Morning Post
Chinese tourists seek hidden gems in Penang, drawn by durians and food
Tourists from China are showing greater interest in off-the-beaten-path experiences in Malaysia 's Penang state compared to the usual attractions. Advertisement They are often spotted at local food haunts and wet markets that Penangites frequent every day instead of the heritage enclave. Penang Tourist Guides Association chairman Clement Liang said repeat travellers from China often avoid busy tourist areas within the George Town Unesco World Heritage site. 'They have seen the main attractions, like the murals, British colonial and Peranakan architecture. 'Now, they want to explore quieter places. We take them to Pulau Tikus, Teluk Bahang on Penang island and even Seberang Perai.' Advertisement Liang said Pulau Tikus has become increasingly popular for its food and temples, with many tourists arriving with lists of food stalls and attractions to explore.
Straits Times
20-06-2025
- Straits Times
Tourists urged to be vigilant against illegal tour guides in Penang
Penang Tourist Guides Association warned that unlicensed tour operators are continuing to operate under the radar and evading enforcement. ST FILE PHOTO Tourists urged to be vigilant against illegal tour guides in Penang Tourists must play their part in curbing illegal tourism activities, said Penang Tourist Guides Association chairman Clement Liang. He warned that unlicensed guides and tour operators are continuing to operate under the radar, often finding ways to evade enforcement. With these illegal players still active in Penang, tourists hold the power to help weed them out, said Mr Liang. 'A collective effort from tourists can go a long way in improving the quality of the tourism experience. 'They should conduct background checks on tour guides, operators and packages, before making any bookings, including reviewing credentials and reading online reviews,' he said on June 19. He was responding to a statement by the Tourism, Arts and Culture Ministry on June 1 6, which revealed that a Penang-based company had been convicted of operating as an unlicensed tour operator. The Sessions Court fined Renewage Group RM30,000 (S$9,080) after it pleaded guilty under the Tourism Industry Act 1992. In default, the company faces a 12-month jail term. The ministry has pledged to step up enforcement to ensure only licensed operators are allowed to run tourism businesses. Mr Liang cautioned against falling for suspiciously cheap or overly ambitious tour packages, noting that such deals often come with hidden risks. 'Cheap or over-committed tour packages don't always bring good memories. Don't fall into the trap or compromise safety just to save money,' he said. He also encouraged tourists to use online tools to verify whether a tour guide or company is properly licensed and to share their experiences after the trip. 'Honest reviews, public feedback and even warnings can help future travellers make better choices. 'This kind of community vigilance has proven effective in raising the industry's standards,' he said. All licensed tourist guides in Malaysia must be registered under a recognised association, which allows for greater accountability, Mr Liang added. 'If we receive complaints about a guide, we will investigate and take the necessary action. 'We work closely with tourism authorities to uphold high ethical and professional standards,' he said. THE STAR/ASIA NEWS NETWORK Join ST's Telegram channel and get the latest breaking news delivered to you.
The Star
20-06-2025
- The Star
Public vigilance can curb fake tour guides
Taking in the sights: A tour guide giving an explanation to a group of tourists at the Goddess of Mercy Temple in George Town, Penang. GEORGE TOWN: Tourists must play their part in curbing illegal tourism activities, says Penang Tourist Guides Association chairman Clement Liang. He warned that unlicensed guides and tour operators are continuing to operate under the radar, often finding ways to evade enforcement. ALSO READ: Nationwide clampdown begins on illegal tourism players With these illegal players still active in Penang, tourists hold the power to help weed them out, said Liang. 'A collective effort from tourists can go a long way in improving the quality of the tourism experience. 'They should conduct background checks on tour guides, operators and packages, before making any bookings, including reviewing credentials and reading online reviews,' he said yesterday. He was responding to a statement by the Tourism, Arts and Culture Ministry on Monday, which revealed that a Penang-based company had been convicted of operating as an unlicensed tour operator. The Sessions Court fined Renewage Group RM30,000 after it pleaded guilty under Section 5(2) of the Tourism Industry Act 1992. In default, the company faces a 12-month jail term. The ministry has pledged to step up enforcement to ensure only licensed operators are allowed to run tourism businesses. Liang cautioned against falling for suspiciously cheap or overly ambitious tour packages, noting that such deals often come with hidden risks. 'Cheap or over-committed tour packages don't always bring good memories. Don't fall into the trap or compromise safety just to save money,' he said. He also encouraged tourists to use online tools to verify whether a tour guide or company is properly licensed and to share their experiences after the trip. 'Honest reviews, public feedback and even warnings can help future travellers make better choices. 'This kind of community vigilance has proven effective in raising the industry's standards,' he said. All licensed tourist guides in Malaysia must be registered under a recognised association, which allows for greater accountability, Liang added. 'If we receive complaints about a guide, we will investigate and take the necessary action. 'We work closely with tourism authorities to uphold high ethical and professional standards,' he said.
