Malaysia a favorite destination of Saudis, says official 

(MENAFN - Arab News) The number of Saudi tourists visiting Malaysia, one of the most popular tourist destinations in the Islamic world, is increasing each year with their number reaching 87,693 in 2011, Malaysian Consul General Mohammed Khalid Abbasi Abdul Razak said.

"Saudi Arabia is considered as a primary market for our tourism," the consul general said addressing a reception marking 55th anniversary of Malaysia's National Day.

Muhammad Tayeb, director general of the Foreign Ministry's office in the Makkah region, who was the chief guest at the ceremony, supported the consul general. "Malaysia has always been a favorite destination for Saudi tourists," he said.

Tayeb congratulated the Malaysians on their National Day and underscored the great strides made by the Southeast Asian country within a few years.

"Malaysia offers state-of-the-art medical facilities for Saudis and other foreigners who seek medical treatment," Abdul Razak said. "Foreigners can avail the opportunity to stay in our country under Malaysia My Second Home Program," he added.

Malaysia being the center of educational excellence has attracted more than 3,000 Saudi students who have been pursuing their higher studies in various institutions of higher learning in the country.

Last April the Malaysian Consulate General, in association with the country's Ministry of Higher Education organized an education exhibition bringing together over 24 renowned public and private higher educational institutions from Malaysia offering a wide range of full-time, part-time and long-distance learning programs. The consul general urged both countries to take concrete steps to increase the volume of bilateral trade and expand the scope of cooperation between the two OIC countries.

The reception was attended by a large number of foreign diplomats, Saudi government officials and businessmen and media persons. The guests were entertained by a group of children who sang a song highlighting the "One Malaysia" theme.