Placing silver state on tourists’ radar

Jusri says locals must promote places of interest, such as this charcoal factory in Kuala Sepetang. — Photos: IZZRAFIQ ALIAS/ The Star

PERAK is blessed with bountiful natural reserves and cultural heritage, which are its main tourism draws.

After two years of inactivity, local players in the sector are eager to welcome visitors to the silver state once again.

To this end, Think City is awarding grants to individuals and groups to carry out projects aimed at boosting local tourism.

ALSO READ: Delving into cultural roots of north Perak

Its Culture-Based Economic Development director Dr Ceelia Leong said Perak was chosen for the programme because of its rich history and vast natural expanse.

“This initiative aims to build a network of interesting places and promote lesser-known locations in the state.

“This is achieved by involving local communities who will generate economic activities that are sustainable,” she said.

It was reported that Think City had received RM10mil from the Finance Ministry to develop culture-based economy in the northern part of the peninsula.

The programme called “Cultural Economy Catalytic Grants” focuses on three places, namely Lenggong, Kuala Kangsar and Taiping.

The key objectives include creating related media content, organising community programmes and conservation of cultural sites.

Saidi says he used to regularly take part in Tourism Malaysia programmes to promote his restaurant.

Tour guide Khairul Azman Ahmad, 50, said promotions and campaigns were key to reviving the tourism sector battered by the Covid-19 pandemic.

“There is an increased appetite for domestic travel after movement restrictions were lifted.

“Taiping has the infrastructure to welcome tourists, but we need to enhance efforts to attract them,” he explained.

Tour operator Mohd Jusri Yusoff, 50, said this required cooperation from all stakeholders.

Tourism players who offer good services and interesting activities will ignite interest among travellers, he said.

“Those offering tourism products should liaise with relevant government agencies and take part in their programmes and exhibitions.

“This will enable them to reach a wider audience,” he said.

Restaurateur Saidi Othman Mahyudin, 54, in Kuala Kangsar, said he used to regularly take part in exhibitions by Tourism Malaysia.

“However, I have been less active in such activities in recent years.

“Thankfully, since movement restrictions were lifted, business has flowed back,” said the father of four who operates a restaurant, Teratak Warisan Kampung, which serves traditional Malay cuisine.