Haze has not affected tourism in Negri Sembilan

So far, the tourism sector in Negri Sembilan has not been affected by the haze which has also engulfed the state.

State Tourism Committee chairman, Datuk Tun Hairudin Abu Bakar said that despite the haze, many people were still visiting tourist spots like Port Dickson.

"I see many coming to Port Dickson despite the haze. They come to picnic, play and bathe on the beaches of Port Dickson. So far, I find the haze has not affected tourist arrivals and Port Dickson is still their choice," he told reporters after launching the 2015 Seremban Lake Garden Festival organised by the Seremban Municipal Council (MPS) in Taman Budaya here, today.

In fact, the Malaysian Association of Hotels Negri Sembilan chapter chairperson, Haziz Hasan, said the hotel occupancy rates in Port Dickson were still as usual.

"I was also told there had been no cancellations of hotel rooms in Port Dickson. I think the haze is still 'ok' here compared with other places," he said.

However, he encouraged people to wear masks and to avoid outdoor activities.

Meanwhile, Tun Hairudin commended MPS for taking steps to organise the 2015 Seremban Lake Garden Festival to be held in November for the first time. There are plans to hold the festival annually on a larger scale, he added.

Abd Halim said seven events to be held at the festival were, namely a fishing competition, 'urban trail', Seremban crafts, a colouring contest participated by 1,000 children, a garden sculpture competition, 'auto show' and a family run.

"This festival is similar to the famous Edinburgh Festival held in Scotland, in October every year," he said.