Melbourne Airport passengers and staff were today treated to performances of music and dance representing the many cultures and peoples of Malaysia in celebration of Merdeka Day.
Melbourne Airport CEO Chris Woodruff said "As we welcome Malaysia's 53rd national day Melbourne Airport is delighted to work with Malaysia Airlines and Tourism Malaysia and provide financial support, promotional banners and facilitation to support these festive displays."
Merdeka Day, 31 August, celebrates Malaysia's independence in 1957 and is a time of great cultural and national pride for Malaysians.
"Victoria enjoys strong cultural and economic ties with Malaysia and attracts a one-third market share of Malaysian tourists to Australia, more than any other state.
"Australia's Tourism Forecasting Committee predicts Malaysian visitor growth of up to 14 per cent in 2010/11.
"This follows growth of 26 per cent in the Malaysian market last year in Victoria and of 97 per cent over the past 10 years.
"Melbourne Airport looks forward to working with Malaysia Airlines and Tourism Malaysia as Malaysian visitors continue to make a significant contribution to tourism in Victoria."
The festivities follow a visit from the Minister for Tourism Malaysia Datuk Seri Dr Ng Yen Yen last week to promote Malaysia to Australian travelers.
Dr Ng said Australia was now the third largest market contributing to Malaysia's tourism industry after China and India, with some 550,000 Australians visiting Malaysia last year.
Selamat Hari Merdeka!
-ends-
For further information, please contact: Melbourne Airport Media - (03) 9335 3666