Tourism, arts and culture minister Tiong King Sing has insisted that industry players took over the gala dinner held in conjunction with Tourism Malaysia’s Global Travel Meet (GTM).
He admitted that Tourism Malaysia was initially the organiser, but private sector players saw an opportunity to secure substantial business deals.
“Recognising this opportunity, they voluntarily offered to take over and host the gala dinner themselves,” he said in a brief statement to FMT.
Tiong said Tourism Malaysia’s director-general had sought his approval for the change, which he granted as it would also help reduce government expenditure.
“When the industry players expressed their interest in hosting the gala dinner, we said, ‘We’re honoured! Please, go ahead and take the lead.’
“If…