The 1Malaysia Development Berhad (1MDB) issue will not affect tourist arrival to Malaysia, says Tourism and Culture Minister Mohamed Nazri Abdul Aziz.

He said tourists would be afraid to visit a country where there is war, as in Syria and Egypt.

“Here in Malaysia, we don’t have suffering or war,” he told reporters after launching the 'Citrawarna Siam Kelantan' at Wat Sukhontharam, Kubang Panjang in Tumpat last night.

He was asked about the US Justice Department's move to file lawsuits to recover assets allegedly obtained through misappropriation of 1MDB funds.

Mohamed Nazri said the 1MDB case was unrelated to tourism in Malaysia which is based on the beauty of nature and culture of the community.

He also chided certain parties including the opposition for trying to tarnish Prime Minister Najib Abdul Razak’s image with numerous allegations whereas the civil actions had nothing to do with him.

“I’m giving my moral support to the prime minister for him to continue with his responsibility; the people elected him in the 13th general election to lead the country; don’t heed such matters,” he said.

Meanwhile, Mohamed Nazri said the government would preserve the arts and culture of the Siamese community through various annual programmes.

Such programmes include the Songkran fest, Loy Krathong festival and Citrawarna Siam Kelantan.

- Bernama