Tourism during a Monsoon? Controversial Comments Spark Debate in Flood-Ravaged Kelantan

Proposed Tourism Initiatives Draw Criticism as Region Reels from Devastating Floods

As Kelantan state grapples with some of the worst flooding in its history, a controversial proposal has sparked heated debate. Kamarudin Md Noor, originally from Kelantan but now serving as Chairman of the tourism, culture, arts, and heritage committee, suggested that the monsoon season, normally associated with powerful storms and heavy rainfall, could be a draw for tourists.

His idea included promoting activities like surfing during the rougher weather and highlighting traditional foods popular during the monsoon season. However, many criticized his timing. With over 136,000 people across the country displaced due to the floods, including more than 86,000 in Kelantan alone, critics feel the focus should be on rescue and relief efforts, not attracting tourists.

They argue that the suggestion is insensitive and tone-deaf considering the severity of the situation. They point out the loss of life, citing a recent death associated with the floods. As they grapple with protecting lives and rebuilding communities, many feel the idea of capitalizing on the monsoon insults the crisis at hand.

Mixed Reactions and Debate

“How can you even think about tourism at a time when people are losing their homes and lives?” questioned Asyraf Wajdi Dusuki, Secretary-General of the United Malays National Organisation (UMNO). He took to social media, urging Kamarudin to prioritize the safety of those affected by the floods. ^{“Fatailities have already occurred,” he said, emphasizing that relief and recovery efforts should come first.}

A vocal social media campaign quickly emerged. Many Malaysians expressed outrage and disappointment at the suggestion, calling it out of touch. Instead of promoting tourism, they believe the focus should remain on providing immediate assistance to those in need.

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The proposal has stirred confusion, leading some to defend Kamarudin’s intention. Supporters clarified that he was targeting tourism during calmer periods within the monsoon season, such as promoting surfing when wave conditions are ideal. They insist the intention was aimed at leveraging a unique aspect of the region, not exploiting the floods.

Despite these clarifications, the debate underscores a divide in priorities. Those affected by the floods are focused on survival and recovery, while others see potential benefit in attracting visitors during less severe weather conditions.

The future of Kamarudin’s proposal remains uncertain. With the devastating impacts of the floods fresh in the minds of many, it is clear that sensitivity and understanding must remain the priority as Kelantan navigates recovery efforts.

**What economic and social consequences could arise from attempting to promote tourism in an area actively dealing with the aftermath of a ⁣natural disaster?**

## Tourism During a Monsoon?

**Host:** Welcome back to the show. We’re‌ discussing the controversial proposal⁤ to promote tourism in flood-ravaged​ Kelantan ⁣during the monsoon season. Joining us ⁢today‍ is Dr. Azizah Ibrahim, a sociologist specializing in disaster relief and community resilience. Dr. Ibrahim, thank you for being here.

**Dr. Ibrahim:** Thank you for having me.

**Host:** Dr. Ibrahim, as many know,​ Kelantan is currently facing some⁤ of the worst flooding in its history. ‌Thousands have been displaced, and lives have been lost. How do you feel about⁤ this suggestion to promote tourism during this time?

**Dr. Ibrahim:** Frankly,⁢ I find the timing of this proposal deeply unsettling. While I ​understand the desire to revitalize the tourism industry, prioritizing ‍this amid such a devastating crisis ‍demonstrates a lack of empathy and understanding of ​the situation on the ground. [[1](https://focusmalaysia.my/monsoon-tourism-getting-into-deep-water-with-shallow-thinking/)]People are ‍homeless, ⁢grieving, and ‌struggling to rebuild their lives. The focus should be⁤ on providing immediate relief and support, not attracting visitors to a region in distress.

**Host:** So you believe this kind of initiative is tone-deaf and insensitive?

**Dr. Ibrahim:**⁢ Absolutely. Suggesting tourists come to witness the aftermath of‍ a disaster, even with‍ good intentions, trivializes the ⁤suffering of those affected. It risks turning their ​trauma into a spectacle.

**Host:** Do⁤ you see any circumstances ‍where promoting tourism during the monsoon season could ⁣be ⁤appropriate for Kelantan?

**Dr. Ibrahim:** Perhaps in the long ‍term, once the community has fully recovered ‌and rebuilt, and with a focus on sustainable ⁤and responsible tourism practices that‍ benefit the local community.​ But right now,⁢ the ​priority must ⁢be on healing and rebuilding.

**Host:** Dr. Ibrahim, thank you for providing your valuable insights on this complex issue.

**Dr. Ibrahim:** Thank you for having me.