Tourism, arts and culture minister Tiong King Sing has dismissed a proposal to rename Port Dickson, saying the introduction of a new name might confuse tourists from abroad.
Tong said that international tourists could mistakenly assume that the destination is new, Sinar Harian reported.
“In my view, from a tourism standpoint, there is no need to change the name. There are many other pressing issues that deserve greater attention.
“If the name is changed, foreign tourists might think it is a new destination and lose interest in visiting, when in fact it has been there for a long time,” he told reporters after an event in Seremban last night.
A group of NGOs had pushed for Port Dickson’s name to be changed to Pantai Dermaga.
Negeri Sembilan menteri besar Aminuddin Harun criticised the NGOs’ suggestion, saying the coastal town, known for its beaches, was hardly an obscure location in need of rebranding.
He also said that it had been recognised for years as a top tourist destination.
Tiong said it was ultimately up to the state government to evaluate the proposal, adding however that existing names should be preserved if there was no compelling need to change them.
“Even if we announce the name changes on social media, not everyone will read them,” he said.
The Malaysian Tourism Federation (MTF) had warned that the proposal to change Port Dickson’s name would weaken brand recognition and undermine investor confidence.
MTF president Sri Ganesh Michiel urged authorities to instead focus on developing the area to enhance visitor experience and drive tourism.
He said investments in infrastructure, cultural heritage and facilities would create long-term value that appeals to both domestic and international tourists.
Ganesh added that a sudden change to Port Dickson’s name could disrupt ongoing promotional strategies as investors emphasise stability and rely on a clear brand identity before making commitments in hospitality, retail and tourism.
