GEORGE TOWN, MALAYSIA: Tourist arrivals in Penang is fourth highest in Malaysia, said State Tourism Development, Culture, Arts and Heritage Committee chairman Danny Law Heng Kiang.

He said Kuala Lumpur has so far attracted the most tourists while Pahang (Genting) and Sabah are in second and third places.

"I believe we could be in a better position if we were to count the number of backpackers and those staying with friends and relatives," he told newsmen after opening the Penang Pesta Open Dragon Boat Race at the Teluk Bahang Dam yesterday.

Earlier in his speech, Law said the dragon boat race was one of Penang's signature events in sports tourism.

"The state's economy is now heavily dependant on the tourism sector following the slowdown in manufacturing.

"Penang has an advantage as it is well known among tourists, what more with its recent listing as a Unesco World Heritage Site," he said.

He said the state would organise an International Invitation Race on May 23 and 24 next year.

Law said the state was encouraging teams from schools by providing an incentive of RM500 for each team.

A total of 19 teams from Penang, Perak, Kuala Lumpur and Singapore took part in the race.

Top photo - Water sports: Rowers paddling with all their might to qualify for the Pesta Penang Open Dragon Boat Race at Teluk Bahang Dam yesterday.