KUALA LUMPUR, 15 May 2016 – Tourism Malaysia welcomed a total of 73 bikers riding through Malaysia on 55 Harley Davidson motorcycles in the “Freedom Thru Weekend 2016 Ride to Malaysia” event from 13 to 15 May. The ride is a celebration of Hard Rock Café’s 25 Hard Rocking Years in Southeast Asia. The convoy of the iconic big bike brand started in Singapore, entering Melaka and Kuala Lumpur before returning south to the Lion City.
Datuk Seri Mirza Mohammad Taiyab, Director General of Tourism Malaysia, said, “Tourism Malaysia is pleased to welcome the Harley Davidson bikers as it is an opportunity for us to promote Malaysia as the perfect motorcycle holiday destination among fans of big bikes.”
Tourism Malaysia provided a welcome reception upon their arrival in Melaka on 14 May and cultural show for the Harley Davidson riders as well as arrangements to ride Kuala Lumpur’s Hop On-Hop Off bus to take in the city attractions on 15 May.
Participants of Freedom Thru Weekend 2016 shared photos and stories of their journey through Malaysia on social media platforms such as Facebook, Instagram and Twitter using the hashtag #HDSFTW16 and #HarleySG.
Motorcycle holidays in Malaysia is a niche attraction being promoted by Tourism Malaysia in recent years to draw a unique group of tourists who appreciate and enjoy high-value special interests in their lives.
Datuk Seri Mirza added, “Malaysia is a great place for motorcycle holidays. We not only have well-connected highways, but also scenic countryside, historic places, lots of delicious food and beautiful culture for everyone to enjoy.”
Promotional efforts for this niche tourism attraction include yearly participation in Phuket Bike Week as well as collaborations with motorcycle associations and travel agents to develop and promote motorcycle tour packages.
The motorcycle holiday packages are also complemented by promotions of motorcycle sporting events in Malaysia such as Shell Malaysia Motorcycle Grand Prix and World Superbike World Championship.
Recently, Tourism Malaysia also produced a television commercial to showcase Malaysia as an exciting destination for motorcycle holidays.
