Alor Setar: The Federal Government has given the nod for the setting up of state tourism development councils in efforts to fully utilise the country's tourism sector.

Culture, Arts and Tourism Minister Datuk Paduka Abdul Kadir Sheikh Fadzir said the approval was given by the Cabinet three weeks ago with the aim of streamlining tourism development in all states.

The federal government has approved RM1 million allocation annually for the staging of tourism activities, he told reporters here.

He said the council, chaired by the state tourism executive councillor, will have a general-manager and assisted by managers and other staff who will serve on contract.

Abdul Kadir said a briefing on the setting up of the council will be held at the Ministry in Kuala Lumpur next week for all state secretaries and representatives of State Economic Planning Units.

Asked on Selangor government's move to limit the operating hours of 24-hour restaurants to until 1 am everyday, Abdul Kadir hopes the directive does not cover outlets in tourism areas.

"The Selangor government may have their reasons, but I hope the directive does not affect tourism in the state," he said.

Newspaper reported that Selangor Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Dr Mohamad Khir Toyo issued the order to ensure that the 24-hour restaurants maintain good hygienic standard.