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Hi from Langkawi!
I’m lying, as I am actually already on the next Malaysian island, Penang. But, with Chinese New Year and Thaipusam celebrations at the same time, there’s so much to tell about Penang these days that it will have to wait for the next week.
So now just a quick postcard from Langkawi, a duty-free island that sells chocolates for a euro, and Skechers shoes for 40. Well, that’s what I bought.
Yes, it’s a tax paradise. Which makes it a magnet for tourism development. And that one can go in many directions.
I love it when tourism doesn’t mindlessly exploit natural resources, but also upgrades them with man-made attractions. Such as Langkawi Sky Bridge, the longest suspended curved bridge in the world.
It’s a place that shakes the knees of the bravest, even before they even approached it. Because Asia’s steepest cable car is also something not everyone takes lightly.
On the other hand, Tropicana Cenang‘s 40-story skyscrapers are under construction on Langkawi’s main beach spot, overshadowing everything else, both literally and metaphorically. Is this an upgrade or a downgrade?
Langkawi skies have been home to red-backed eagles, but now even humans want to see the island from the bird’s perspective. These rich investors want to make a nest right on the beach, but high enough to not be associated with mere mortal mammals on the ground level. With an infinity pool planned for this residential megacomplex, I imagine they won’t be stepping on those sands anyway.
So why does Langkawi allow it? “Duty-free” is about customs and taxes, right? A duty to take care of the island’s quality of life and future still remains.
Money certainly cannot justify selling the skyline. I know Toblerone taxes don’t bring a lot here, but this architectural treat, that would better fit in some urban metropolis, might end up being bittersweet.
Have a duty-free week!
Ivan Kralj
Pipeaway.com
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