FOOTBALLER SUAREZ TO PROMOTE MALAYSIA
Barcelona superstar in partnership with Tourism Malaysia
STRIKER extraordinaire and Barcelona forward Luis Suarez is the new face of Tourism Malaysia to promote the country among millennials.
A year-long partnership with the Uruguayan is expected to drive interest in Malaysia as a tourist destination, leveraging the football player’s global popularity.
Suarez’s involvement materialised after a deal was inked between Tourism Malaysia and Mediapro, the Asian representative for the footballer.
Tourism and Culture Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Nazri Abdul Aziz said the ministry was excited to be working with Suarez.
“As a hero to millennials, Suarez is an inspiration to many people and we hope that this title and acknowledgement will shine the limelight on Malaysia as a tropical holiday destination that appeals to the millennial spirit of travel and adventure,” Nazri said.
He said the collaboration was part of Tourism Malaysia’s marketing and promotion plan to build demand for travel to Malaysia from key international markets, as well as to draw attention from millennials.
Suarez, who has two La Liga titles and a UEFA Champions League title under his belt, said it was an honour and privilege to be working with Malaysia, a culturally-diverse country with beautiful beaches, and world-class resorts fit for all ages.
“I’m thrilled and am looking forward to embarking on this journey to introduce this exotic country to the world, especially its rich culture and heritage to my fans and make them fans of Malaysia.”
Mediapro Asia managing director Lars Heidenreich said La Liga and Tourism Malaysia have been cooperating for a year making Malaysia La Liga’s official tourist destination in Asia.
“This partnership has been enhanced through the endorsement of world-class superstar Luis Suarez.
“The Barcelona star is popular in Asia, and we are confident this branding and activation exercise with him will attract more travellers to consider Malaysia as their next holiday destination and experience all that the country has to offer as being ‘truly Asia’,” said Heidenreich.