Rumours and a negative perception of the security situation in Sabah following the Sulu terrorist intrusion have caused a decline in tourist arrivals in the state, Tourism Minister Ng Yen Yen said today.

"In Semporna, the tourism economy has declined 50 percent. I wish to stress here that stability is of most importance. We cannot believe the rumours circulating in the social media," she told reporters after opening Asia's biggest bird park at the Ayer Keroh Botanical Garden in Malacca.

Ng advised Malaysians and foreign tourists against believing in the negative information on the security situation in Sabah circulating in the social media.

She said they should refer to the relevant authorities and the official media to obtain accurate information on the Sulu terrorist intrusion.

Malacca Chief Minister Mohd Ali Rustam was also present at the opening of the Malacca Bird Park.

Target - 28.8 million tourists in 2014

Ng said the ministry was convinced that Malaysia would achieve the target of 28.8 million tourists arrival during Visit Malaysia Year 2014.

She said the majority of the tourists being targeted were from China, Russia, India, West Asia and Australia.

This year, 26 million tourist arrivals were anticipated compared to 25 million in 2012, she said.

The Malacca Bird Park, established at a cost of RM30 million, has about 400 species of birds in an area spread over 1.8 hectares.

The park will be fully operational on April 1, from 9 am to 6 pm daily. The entry fee is RM10 for children and RM15 for adults.

- Bernama