Malaysia has the potential to flourish in the shoe-making industry by inculcating skills in the younger generation, Tourism Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ng Yen Yen said.
She said Malaysian parents and their children must be aware that there was a bright future in the industry.
“It is still common for parents to want their children to be doctors, engineers and accountants.
“However, there is a need for a change of mindset so that they will understand there is a future for their children in making and crafting shoes,” she told reporters after opening the Malaysia International Shoe Festival 2011 here yesterday.
Dr Ng said Malaysia's strength in the industry would be its diverse cultures that could be reflected in shoe designing.
“For example, we have the baba and nyonya culture and we also have the Indian and Middle Eastern influence,” she said.
She said Malaysia had its own icon shoe designer Datuk Jimmy Choo who could offer advice and share his experience and vision with the young generation.
“Young people need to have an idol who they can look up to.
“And Choo is the one who can inspire them,” she said.
