The Horses Bring the Tourists to Malaysia

While their initial goal was to have a good event that was well received, a larger goal is to get “recognition for Malaysia as the equestrian hub of Southeast Asia and potentially for the whole of Asia,” added Winton. Ultimately they would like the world’s horse community to consider Malaysia as a key stop on their annual equestrian tour. In order to do this they have tried to make everything as good as it could be for all concerned and especially for the horses and riders. They are giving out significant prize money, have improved on the facilities and have placed great importance on having the right footing. One of their key concerns when setting everything up was also to have good working conditions for the press and a great show for the spectators.

By reaching out to the world’s equestrian community they believed that they would be bringing in a new group of people to their country. That philosophy is probably right because many of the people who came specifically to Malaysia for the World Cup are first time visitors who are enjoying themselves. I am one example of the many. I’ve never been to an Asian country before, had no clue what to expect but am thrilled with the experience and would gladly come back. That ideally is the way they hope everyone feels by the time they leave these World Cup Finals.

Winton explained that it was important for them to “reach out to the equestrian community to bring them to this event. Right from the start I knew we only wanted the top riders. It was important for the country that the first show attracted the best in the world. Malaysia likes to have all the best. Getting the riders here was a challenge but they believed and took a chance.”

Yet the Malaysian people are realistic and realize that the seats aren’t going to be full. “We know that 20,000 people aren’t going to flock to the show but over time we hope it will bring visitors to the country,” explained Winton. “Our aim is to help develop the sport in Asia and particularly in Malaysia. Now we are inviting all the corporate leaders and if they get a little bit of a buzz they may support us in the future.”