16-05-2025
Taiwan reconnects with Malaysians through ‘Waves of Wonder' travel fair
Off to a good start: The Waves of Wonder Taiwan Travel Fair officially launched in Penang for a three-day showcase. – Photos by KT GOH/ The Star
TAIWAN, which has been ranked the third most Muslim-friendly destination among non-OIC (Organisations of Islamic Co-operation) countries, is stepping up efforts to attract Malaysian tourists with the return of the Taiwan Travel Fair - Waves of Wonder to Penang after a break of a few years.
Held at Queensbay Mall from now to May 18, the three-day fair is part of a major promotional push by the Taiwan Tourism Administration, bringing together 57 delegates from 26 organisations including hotel groups, theme parks and travel associations.
Themed 'Railway Tourism' with the slogan 'Come to Taiwan for a Drink', the fair features a life-sized replica of the Haifeng Train (Sea Breeze Train), promoting scenic rail travel along Taiwan's coastlines.
Visitors checking out the travel fair, eager to explore the sights, tastes and travel deals.
With Muslim tourists forming a growing segment of Taiwan's visitors, a dedicated Taiwan Tourism Workshop was also held earlier and attended by over 100 local travel agents.
Taiwan Tourism Administration Kuala Lumpur director Abe Chou noted, 'Last year, we welcomed some 460,000 visitors including many Muslims from Malaysia.
'Our 'Salam Taiwan' campaign in Malaysia shows we are ready as we have more than 400 halal-certified restaurants and hotels and numerous prayer facilities across the country.'
Influencers like Wei Hong (with over 500,000 followers), Jing Jing and TV anchor Chen Jia-Rong (Ah Rong) were invited to the fair to share their Taiwan experiences, and inspire more Malaysians especially the large ethnic Chinese community in Penang to rediscover the island.
Over the weekend, visitors to the fair can enjoy DIY crafts, taste Taiwanese delicacies such as tofu pudding and teas, and catch live shows by award-winning performers like the Diabolo Walker, a troupe awarded six gold medals in the Taiwan National Sports Games, and nose flute artist Gilra Gilrao.
Event staff welcoming visitors with goodie bags and sharing information about Taiwan's travel highlights.
The fair also promotes Taiwan's new tourism brand 'Taiwan – Waves of Wonder' and last year, seven sites and two eco-friendly tourism operators made the Top 100 Green Destinations list.
Head of Taiwan's economic and cultural office in Malaysia Phoebe Yeh, said Taiwan offers something for everyone from scenic mountains like Jade Mountain (3,996m) for nature lovers to a nine-day cycling route over a 900km loop for adventure seekers.
'Travel on the Haifeng Train and enjoy views of the Pacific Ocean from the comfortable coaches,' she added.
Exclusive travel gifts await visitors who book their trips between now and May 18, during the fair where eight travel company booths and 26 Taiwanese representatives are showcasing tourism products and packages.
