Tourism Malaysia reveals art wave to attract high-yield tourists

The Ministry of Tourism Malaysia recently unveiled another innovative tourism product, the "Malaysia Contemporary Art Tourism 2011" (MCAT 2011) Festival taking place at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre (KLCC). Organized for the second consecutive year, the festival will feature many art-related events held from July to September 2011.
Over 100 galleries nationwide will be participating in the MCAT 2011 supported by more than 300 artists nationwide. A total of 17 events have been identified this year, which is double compared to 2010. Organizations, including shopping malls, hotels, art galleries and cultural and convention centers, will support the event. In addition, several states will be participating in the art festival as well.
KLCC will exhibit the works of the 1Malaysia Plate Project, whereby 80 artists will paint and display their artwork at the main foyer. Langkawi will hold several art exhibitions organized by the Langkawi Art and Visual Association. Resorts World Genting will have a month-long art festival in August to attract art collectors and enthusiasts to the resort. Other exhibitions will take place at the World Rainforest Music Festival in Sarawak and the Monsopiad Cultural Village, in addition to many others.
The MCAT Festival hopes to position Malaysia as a reputable destination for art enthusiasts in the region to enjoy and acquire contemporary art, with museum-quality pieces, in line with the theme "Malaysia, Your New Art Tourism Destination." It is also a platform for art enthusiasts, gallery owners, artists as well as the new generation of collectors to forge business alliances, acquire new contemporary art works, and share ideas. The festival is expected to attract high-yield tourists, which will help increase the tourism industry's contribution towards the economy.