JOHOR BARU: A systematic tourism development plan is needed to drive the state’s economy, says Johor Ruler Sultan Ibrahim Ibni Almarhum Sultan Iskandar.

       His Majesty added that every district in Johor has its own tourist attractions, including the beautiful islands in Mersing.

       “Johor has long been one of the popular and well-known destinations among tourists from within and outside the country,” His Majesty said in a statement posted on Sultan Ibrahim’s official Facebook page here on Sunday (Oct 17).

       Sultan Ibrahim decreed that the Tourism, Arts and Culture Ministry needs to draw up a systematic Johor tourism development plan that can be implemented for a long period of time.

       Earlier, His Majesty granted an audience to Deputy Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Datuk Seri Dr Santhara Kumar, who is also Segamat MP, at Mados office in Istana Bukit Pelangi here.

       “I touched and discussed various matters with the deputy minister, among others, the tourism sector in the country and Johor, including the Malaysia My Second Home programme (MM2H) to attract more tourists to Malaysia.

       “There are many attractive locations in Johor that can be visited by tourists and at the same time, the ministry needs to ensure that every policy and incentive set is consistent to attract more investors and tourists,” said Sultan Ibrahim.

       His Majesty added the development plan was also important to revive the tourism sector in each district as well as its local products.