Teng briefing participants on Alishan’s Muslim-friendly farm options at the B2B travel promotion in Kuala Lumpur. — Photos: MUHAMAD SHAHRIL ROSLI/The Star
THOSE seeking misty cedar forests, historic railways and sunrise views over sea-like clouds should consider Alishan in central Taiwan.
To popularise the area as a tourist destination, Alishan Tourism hosted a business-to-business (B2B) travel promotion event, themed “Forests, Aesthetics and Slow Living – The Alishan Lifestyle” in Kuala Lumpur.
Held in conjunction with Malaysia International Travel Mart (MITM) Travel Fair, the event organised by Alishan National Scenic Area Administration and Taiwan Tourism Administration attracted over 100 local travel agents and industry professionals.
Kuo: Alishan placed in The New York Times’ 2025 list of 52 Places to Go.The event featured thematic booths which introduced travel experiences such as farm-based activities, tribal tourism, and aesthetic tea ceremonies, in line with growing demand for sustainable travel and authentic local culture.
A networking session drew interest from Malaysian tour agencies looking to expand outbound packages beyond Taipei and Kaohsiung.
There were also Muslim-friendly itineraries and regional Taiwan Pass promotions.
Attractions travellers can look forward to include cloud-watching at Zhushan, stargazing at Ciyun Temple, traditional woodcraft villages and visits to tea plantations.
Management of Alishan National Scenic Area, Taiwan’s tourism administration of the transport ministry director Huang Yi-Ping said the event showcased the area’s signature experiences, with partners Tea3Gen, Taiping Suspension Bridge, Long Yun Farm and iWander Travel.
“Malaysia is Taiwan’s third-largest South-East Asian market. We aim to position Alishan as a world-class forest tourism brand,” he said.
Jaden Teng Ya Yuan from Long Yun Leisure Farm said they held halal certification, making it a welcome option for Muslim travellers.
Taiwan tourism administration recreation section chief Kuo Tzu-Yu said Alishan ranked 19th on The New York Times’ 2025 list of “52 Places to Go”.
It was the only destination in the country to make the list.
“An incentive programme has been launched to attract international tourists, with eligible travellers receiving spending credits until September.
“A post-September policy is in the works,” she added.
