Kelantan’s Proposal to Market Monsoon Season as Tourism Attraction Sparks Outrage
Criticism Mounts as Netizens Slam Proposal as "Insensitive" and "Foolish"
The Kelantan government’s proposal to market the annual monsoon season, notorious for its devastating floods, as a tourism attraction has sparked a wave of criticism online. The state’s tourism, culture, arts, and heritage committee chairman, Kamarudin Md Noor, suggested activities like surfing and showcasing traditional monsoon delicacies to draw visitors during the season.
"Deserted" During the Monsoon
According to an Astro Awani report, Kamarudin noted that Kelantan often feels "deserted" during the monsoon due to low tourist activity. This led to the idea of promoting the season as a unique experience.
Netizens Speak Out
However, many netizens have slammed the proposal as "insensitive" and "foolish," especially as the floods continue to wreak havoc. Platform X user Zac rebuked the proposal, saying, "Does he think flood disasters are some kind of festival people want to attend? Absolutely ridiculous… What a foolish statement!"
Backlash Goes Viral
Zac’s post quickly went viral, amassing over 265,800 views and 1,100 comments, with many sharing the same view. Another user, Amirul Haizad, commented, "What kind of nonsense is this? People are suffering, and they come up with suggestions like this." Misai Tebal wrote, "If that’s the case, all federal government aid for flood victims should be stopped. Let travel agencies bring tourists to witness how people suffer during the floods."
Flood Situation Worsens
The backlash comes as over 51,000 residents have been displaced by severe flooding on the east coast. Kelantan remains the hardest-hit state, with 42,048 victims seeking refuge at 189 relief centers across 10 districts.
Conclusion
The proposal has sparked widespread outrage, with many questioning the sensitivity and wisdom of promoting a natural disaster as a tourism attraction. As the flood situation continues to worsen, the people of Kelantan and beyond are left to wonder how such a proposal could have been put forward.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the purpose of the proposal to market the monsoon season as a tourism attraction?
The proposal aims to draw tourists to Kelantan during the monsoon season, which is typically marked by devastating floods. - How has the proposal been received by the public?
The proposal has been met with widespread criticism and outrage, with many viewing it as insensitive and foolish. - What is the current situation with the flood in Kelantan?
Over 51,000 residents have been displaced, and 42,048 victims are seeking refuge at 189 relief centers across 10 districts.