Tourism officials have proposed implementing a SMS text messaging service on safety issues for Chinese tourists visiting the East Malaysian state of Sabah.
The tourism ministry is in talks with the Chinese Consulate General according to assistant minister Datuk Pang Yuk Ming.
Yuk Ming said it would likely include best practices for staying safe in the water following the death by drowning of a 43-year old Chinese man on the island of Sapi.
"We are trying to get that (SMS) done by providing certain information to Chinese tourists who come here such as to always be careful and the things they need to take into consideration when they go swimming," he said.
He said the proposal for safety information alerts is just one aspect, and much work has been done in state parks to beef up safety issues, adding that some accidents are inevitable no matter how prepared they are.
"Last year, we launched procedure for Mantanani Island, whereby tourists and tour operators to Mantanani have to follow certain guidelines. Tour guides have to be well trained, taking a basic CPR course."
"My advice to all visitors coming to Sabah is to take precautions and follow the guideline and safety rules we have laid out for everybody to ensure they enjoy their holiday here, and that it will not turn into a tragic event like what happened in Sapi last week," he added.
