Genting does well in face of competition (SPECIAL REPORT: ATF 2008)

BANGKOK – Genting fared well last year even in the face of expanding competition from various sources.



Said Chow Wei Heng, vice president marketing, Resorts World Berhad: “Integrated resort industry is experiencing robust growth. Despite the rapid expansion of new resorts, overall the industry did well last year in-line with the robust Asian economy.”



Genting also garnered more visitors due to the Visit Malaysia Year (VMY) in 2007 that saw a hike in international arrivals.



For Genting, it was a record year with 19.6 million visitors including a record number of foreign arrivals of nearly 5 million. The resort's hotel occupancy was 88 percent which was very much in line with overall local tourism performance in 2007.



“We are expecting another good year in 2008, targeting 21 million visitors and hotel occupancy in the low 90s. The extension of VMY programme would help boost business,” said Chow.



Genting is also undertaking a major upgrading programme at the resort’s rooms and F&B outlets. It is building its presence in the premium segment with Maxims, Genting’s boutique six-star, all-suite property located at Genting Hotel.



Genting will also be big in entertainment in 2008 with signature events like new Genting International Show titled Dreams, Genting Jazz Festival, Genting International Magic Festival, Genting World Dance Championship and our flagship gourmet event Genting Michelin Stars.



Chow said the factors impacting Genting’s good performance are, “robust Asian economy, aggressive promotion by Tourism Malaysia through VMY and Improvement in regional flight connectivity especially low cost carriers.”