MELAKA: Some 25,000 vehicles are anticipated to enter the historic city this Friday (Oct 15) and Melaka Tourism Promotion division is ready to welcome some of these drivers with gift packs.

       Its managing director Sa’ari Basiron said the projected number of vehicles to enter the state via the Ayer Keroh toll plaza was provided by PLUS Malaysia after the ban on interstate travel was lifted.

       “We will distribute 1,000 Covid-19 kits as gift packs to the early birds entering via the toll plaza on Friday,” he said on Wednesday (Oct 13).

       He said gift packs would also contain leaflets on popular tourist destinations in the state.

       Sa’ari said they would also welcome visitors with performances by a dance troupe from the Melaka Art Brigade.

       “We also expect tourists to spend a long weekend here in view that next Tuesday (Oct 19) is also a public holiday," he said.

       Sa’ari said many people have been yearning for a short break for a long time following the pandemic.

       "We will place priority on the health and safety of visitors and tourists.

       "We urge everyone to observe the SOP strictly at all times,” he said.