Penangites reminded to preserve historical heritage sites - Nazri

Tourism and Culture Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Nazri Abdul Aziz said every heritage, especially historical buildings, should be preserved and not to be demolished or abandoned.

"Once it is recognised (as a heritage site) it will automatically become a tourist attraction," he said this in his speech in conjunction with the Chinese New Year Tourism celebration in 2017.

The event, held at Padang Kota here, was also attended by Penang Chief Minister Lim Guan Eng.

Nazri said historical buildings, if sold, would draw the ire of many quarters, as it would affect the city's rich historical heritage.

"Don't be angry if foreigners buy our heritage sites ... it used to belonged to us, but we didn't take good care of it," he said.

He said the ministry would continue to provide aid for the maintenance and development of tourism infrastructure and events in Penang.

"This shows the ministry's commitment in ensuring Penang continues to be the choice holiday destination for foreign and domestic tourists," he added.