No ordinary exhibition

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DELICIOUS delicacies, colourful cultural performances and intricate handicraft from every state are among the attractions at the Langkawi International Maritime and Aerospace (LIMA) Exhibition 2011 Tourism Carnival.

Launched by Tourism Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ng Yen Yen, the daily event at the Tourism Malaysia and Langkawi Development Authority (LADA) car park in Kuah town was held in conjunction with the international exhibition.

At the carnival’s opening night dinner, VIP guests, foreign dignitaries and leaders were treated to a sumptuous meal of local favourites.

Stalls offered visitors a taste of the King of Fruits, mangoes and jack fruit after they had their fill of mouth-watering satay, ketupat, curries and rendang.

Indeed, it was a night featuring the best of Malaysia.

“Before Defence Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi took over this portfolio, LIMA did not involve tourism but being a former deputy tourism minister, he knows how important it is to promote Malaysia as part of LIMA.

Top-notch: Sukhoi Aviation Holding Company deputy director general Alexander N. Klementiev (right) briefing (from second right) Tun Dr Siti Hasmah Mohd Ali and Ng at the Mahsuri International Exhibition Centre in Langkawi

“We would like all of you here — the exhibitors and visitors, to not only come for LIMA but also explore what Malaysia has to offer.

“There are more than 100 different types of local fare from every state being sold here every night so come and sample them.

“Come find out about the various destinations you can visit while in the country and you’ll see that Malaysia is truly Asia,” Dr Ng said in her welcoming address on Monday night.

She said the country’s tourism philosophy was to preserve and conserve heritage and culture for sustainable tourism.

“Holidaying in Malaysia is not cheap but it is definitely value for money,” she said.

In his speech, Dr Ahmad Zahid said this was “the biggest LIMA ever” with the largest number of foreign participation.

Ready to roll: The opening act of the LIMA airshow

During the night, popular songstress Ning Baizura entertained the crowd with her rendition of Shakira’s global smash — Waka Waka.

Adding to the night’s entertainment were the very talented band from the Royal Malaysian Air Force and cultural performers.

Other local artistes slated to perform daily at the carnival are Kelvin Lau, Ramli Sarip, Nora and Visanathan.

Besides the unending rows of food stalls, visitors will also get a chance to find out about the many tourism packages and homestay programmes around the country.

The interesting attractions include Selangor’s Mah Meri tribe dressed in their traditional costumes and a beautifully lit trishaw at the Penang booth.

With local products ranging from the minyak gamat (sea cucumber oil) to marble carvings and nutmeg juice, the tourism exhibition is not to be missed.

The carnival from 10am to midnight ends this Saturday.

Former Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad launched the carnival last night.