AS the new year approaches, Malaysians can now take advantage of visa-free travel to China, presenting an excellent opportunity to experience Chinese New Year in Chengdu, Sichuan Province.

To spotlight the appeal of Chengdu to Malaysians, the Chengdu Culture and Tourism (Malaysia) Promotional Event took place, centered around the theme ‘Join the Festivities of Chinese New Year in Chengdu.’

Showcasing Chengdu’s landscapes and attractions, the event attracted a significant number of visitors who became interested in planning a trip to the city for the festive season. Attendees were also lucky enough to receive one-of-a-kind gifts.

Addressing the gathering, Guo Ji, Deputy Director General of Chengdu Municipal Bureau of Culture, Broadcast-TV, and Tourism, emphasized, “Chengdu is a lively and welcoming park city nestled amidst snowy mountains.”

“Skyline’ where rich history and modern lifestyles complement each other. With pleasant seasons and friendly people in the ‘Land of Abundance’, we welcome Malaysians to visit Chengdu’s unique natural wonders, renowned landmarks, vibrant cultural heritage and of course, giant pandas,” he stated during the conference held in Kuala Lumpur.

Industrial Development Manager of Tourism Selangor, Chua Yee Ling said, “As we celebrate the 50th anniversary of China-Malaysia diplomatic relations in 2024, we look forward to fostering closer Chengdu-Selangor ties with more mutual visits. From the flavours of Klang to the habitats of Kuala Selangor, a myriad of Selangor gems awaits tourists from across China including Chengdu to discover.”

In order to offer a more comprehensive Chengdu experience, the Bureau has meticulously organized attractions under five distinct themes – Snow Fun (including Xiling Snow Mountain, Wawu Mountain, Shenpu Valley); Panda Visit (featuring Panda Base and Panda Valley); Historic Site Tours (encompassing Dujiangyan on Mount Qingcheng, Jinsha Site Museum, Wuhou Shrine, Du Fu Thatched Cottage, Sanxingdui Museum, Sansu Temple, Anyue Stone Carvings); Culinary Delights; and Chinese New Year Celebrations (including Chengdu Temple Fair and Mianzhu New Year Painting Village).

Additionally, seven snow-related festivals, such as the Southern Ice and Snow Festival, Zhongding Temple Ice and Snow Season, and Wawushan Ice and Snow Carnival, are scheduled, along with three flower-themed events, including the Du Fu Thatched Cottage Plum Blossom Art Exhibition and the Deyang Zhongjiang Cherry Blossom Festival.

Furthermore, there will be eight Chinese New Year folk cultural festivals, including Wuhou Temple Fair, Chinese New Year Gala in Sanxingdui, and Anyue Chinese New Year Carnival. Additionally, 19 cultural and artistic events are scheduled, such as the Chinese Peking Opera Art Festival, the 160th-anniversary exhibition commemorating Qi Baishi’s birth, a New Year concert, and a tour of Sansu Temple and Ziyang Dazu Twin Cities.

The Chengdu Culture and Tourism (Malaysia) Promotional Event saw the participation of Tourism Selangor, Malaysian Chinese Tourism Association (MCTA), Malaysian Inbound Tourism Association (MITA), and Malaysian Association of Tour and Travel Agents (MATTA).

Additionally, local travel agencies such as Apple Vacation, Parlo Tours, Horizon Holidays, and Impact Travel Tours were present, with some of them formalizing cooperation agreements with Chengdu travel agencies during the event.