By JASON LIOH malacca@thestar.com.my
MALACCA: The opening of the state’s latest water theme park, the Malacca Wonderland in Ayer Keroh will help boost the number of tourist arrivals here.
The 9.3ha theme park is expected to be a hit among locals and tourists with its 16 slide attractions such as Tornado Chaser, Big Wave Pool, Adventure Island, Anaconda Twist and Kamikaze River.
Chief Minister Datuk Seri Mohd Ali Rustam said the RM80mil theme park was strategically located next to the Malacca Botanical Gardens green lung area and the state’s rereational hub.
“The theme park will be another reason for families to visit Malacca and it will help the state in attracting even more tourists,” he said when opening the theme park last Saturday.
To boost its value as a family-oriented holiday destination, a resort would be built by the park operators within a year’s time, he said.
“The four-star resort will be built on a 2ha plot of land with 168 rooms,” said Mohd Ali, adding that the state needed more hotels to cater to the increasing number of tourists.
He said the state expected to attract some 8.5 million tourists this year alone.
Park general manager Seow Cheng Swee assured that certified lifeguards would be stationed at various locations in the park to ensure the safety of every one using the facilities.
“Our lifeguards have all undergone emergency first aid courses and are certified to provide first aid if the need arises,” said Seow.
