Le Tour de Langkawi will go beyond 2007

By Jean-François Quénet

In a press conference held on Wednesday, January 3, in Kuala Lumpur for launching the race website www.ltdl.com.my, tourism Minister Datuk Sri Tengku Adnan Tengku Mansor certified that Le Tour de Langkawi (H.C.) will continue after the 12th edition due to take place in Malaysia between February 2-11, 2007.

"We're able to hold and run world class events in Malaysia and we're looking beyond 2007," the Minister said

This year, Le Tour de Langkawi is organized by the Malaysian National Cycling Federation (MNCF) and fully supported by the government as the race is a part of the Visit Malaysia Year 2007 program put in place for celebrating 50 years of nationhood. The target of attracting 29 million visitors by the year 2010 includes the promotion of the country.

"Cycling shows that Malaysia is a safe and nice place with modern infrastructures and a lot of sightseeing. It is unique because it is not based in just one location, unlike other sports. Due to the nature of the race which moves from venue to venue everyday, TV viewers around the world will have the opportunity to see the various parts of the country, from our most modern cities with its breathtaking skylines to the smaller towns and pristine rain forests and sandy beaches. Viewers will also be able to see our rich culture and heritage," the Minister said, adding that the government is prepared to support the race for another two or three years before the private sector comes in.