http://malaysia.news.yahoo.com/bnm/20080829/tts-mifc-spain-bm-pix-993ba14.html
Main Public Area
The producers of MIFC will be installing array of speakers at the public viewing location for all to able to enjoy and hear the music for the fireworks displays. . .
Saturday August 2, 2008
Fireworks enthusiasts urged to use shuttle services to beat traffic
VISITORS to the Malaysia International Fireworks Competition 2008 (MIFC) are advised to use shuttle services to avoid the expected massive traffic in conjunction with the event.
The first competition, which lit up the Putrajaya sky last year, saw a congested traffic flow at Putrajaya during the two-week event.
All set: (From left) Supt Abdul Razak, Global 2000 CEO Joe Ghazzal and Abdul Ghaffar looking at posters of the event.
This year, for better crowd control, the organisers have proposed several measures at the press conference held at the Putra World Trade Centre (PWTC) yesterday.
Putrajaya OCPD Supt Abdul Razak Abdul Majid said about 500 police personnel and Rela members would be deployed to monitor the traffic flow.
“It is more convenient for the visitors to use shuttle services rather than drive to the Putrajaya International Convention Centre (PICC) to watch the fireworks display.
“There are about 50 buses to ferry passengers from two destinations. Shuttle services are available from the Express Railway Link to Dataran Gemilang and near the Finance Ministry to the PICC.
“We hope that spectators will use these services to reduce traffic jams,” Supt Abdul Razak said.
Abdul Razak also advised visitors to park their vehicles in the parking areas only.
“Last year, we provided vast parking areas but visitors parked their vehicles on the side of road along the way to PICC to watch the fireworks display. This caused traffic jams around Putrajaya.
“This year, we will make sure vehicles are parked within the parking areas and not outside.
Meanwhile, Tourism Ministry deputy secretary-general Datuk Abdul Ghaffar Tambi said the measures proposed would only be a success if the public cooperated.
“This year, we are expecting four million visitors,” he said.
The MIFC was organised jointly by the Tourism Ministry and Global 2000 Sdn Bhd for the first time in conjunction with the country’s 50th Merdeka celebrations last year.
This year’s competition will be held on Aug 12, 16, 20, 24 and 29 with the participation of Malaysia, Canada, Spain, China, and previous winner, Australia.
Preceding the fireworks display will be the Merdeka Carnival and Exhibition 2008, which will be held for nine days from Aug 12 to 29. Entrance to the exhibition is free.
There is also Dine with a View (a special dinner set up with a view of the fireworks competition) offered during the five-day competition at RM60 per person.
