Boost community-based tourism, villagers urged

Kayaking is one of the recreational activities at Kalang Warisan. — Filepic

KUALA TERENGGANU: Villagers are encouraged to get involved in community-based tourism to boost the tourism sector in Terengganu.

State tourism, culture and information technology committee chairman Ariffin Deraman said he was confident this would lead to a bright future since rural tourism was gaining popularity among tourists.

He said it made sense because the islands were off limits during the monsoon season, from November to January.

“This is why the state government is helping to develop community-based tourism destinations like Dataran Batu Putih, Marang which is attracting more and more tourists every day, ” he said during a Semarak Merdeka 63 programme at Kalang Warisan in Kampung Pulau Manis, Serada.

The Alor Limbat assemblyman said Kalang Warisan was a model of community-based tourism.

It is a recreational destination created by the Pulau Manis community, launched on July 30 and able to attract 1,000 visitors a day.

“It is located near the river mouth of Kuala Terengganu and Kuala Berang.

“Activities and adventures here include bathing in the river, kayaking and camping.

“I am confident it will become better and a popular tourist attraction, ” Ariffin said. — Bernama