Malaysia's 'Little India' to be gazetted as main tourist spot

Klang (Malaysia), Oct. 18 (ANI): The administration of Malaysia's Klang district has decided to give an economic boost to the famous 'Little India' by declaring it a must see tourist spot.

Selangor Mentri Besar Khalid Ibrahim said that Little India had long brought in the tourist dollars, and now the state wants to recognize it.

"Our aim now is to discuss with the local business chamber on how to develop tourism opportunities and create new innovative products to give Little India a boost," The Star quoted Ibrahim, as saying.

"In doing so, we will ensure that the identity of Little India remains and the Indian community be given opportunities to become entrepreneurs," he added.

Over 100 pre-war shops, restaurants, craftshops, jewellery outlets and stalls in the Little India provide a full cultural experience to the tourists, Ibrahim said.

Kuala Lumpur and Selangor Indian Chamber of Commerce and Industry chairman N.P. Raman said the state's idea to gazette Little India as a tourism spot was commendable.

"Development of tourism looks to be taking great strides. As businessmen, we will be able to feel the positive economic impact. It is good as it will also have a spillover effect on prices of properties within the area and more tourists will come," he said.

Businessman P. Thiagarajan said: "Gazetting Little India shows that the Selangor government cares about Indians and that the residents should use the opportunity to enhance their businesses." (ANI)