Kedah MB Sanusi thanks PM Anwar for considering a review of Langkawi’s duty-free status to boost tourism and the island’s economy
SHAH ALAM: Kedah Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Muhammad Sanusi Md Nor has thanked Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim for considering a proposal to restore Langkawi’s duty-free status.
He commended the Prime Minister’s swift response following a royal address by the Sultan of Kedah at the state assembly opening.
“I thank the Prime Minister and the Federal Government for their swift response to the issues raised,” Sanusi told reporters after an Aidilfitri event.
He said the decline in Langkawi’s appeal was due to a lack of unique duty-free offerings that once attracted tourists.
Anwar had earlier expressed appreciation for the Sultan’s proposal, noting it deserved attention given Langkawi’s tourism slowdown.
Sanusi said the state still aims to double tourist arrivals to four million this year.
He argued that taxes would deter visitors and cause losses in other sectors.
Langkawi generates between RM4 billion and RM7 billion annually for the Federal Government from tourism alone, he stated.
He proposed strengthening Langkawi’s duty-free status by expanding items like luxury cars.
Sanusi also urged the government not to reduce existing duty-free items to protect tourist numbers.
He highlighted the need for fuel subsidies for ferry services to Langkawi.
Ferry fares to the island are more expensive than to destinations like Pangkor or Tioman, he said.
In a separate development, Sanusi welcomed anyone to contest elections in Kedah.
“Anyone can come to Kedah to contest. We will see what the people of Kedah have to say,” he said.
This was in response to suggestions that former health minister Khairy Jamaluddin could drive a political resurgence in the state.
