THE fish sanctuary set up at Tembakah Waterfall Eco-Forest Park in Hulu Besut, near Jertih, is expected to offer nature lovers a new experience while boosting the state’s ecotourism sector.
Terengganu tourism, culture, environment and climate change committee chairman Datuk Razali Idris said the recent release of 1,000 kelah or mahseer fry marked an important first step towards developing the sanctuary while supporting efforts to conserve the species.
“The sanctuary will combine educational and ecotourism elements, enhancing the state’s nature-based tourism offerings.
“We will prioritise the involvement of the local community in caring for and maintaining the sanctuary to ensure that kelah conservation efforts can be carried out sustainably,” he said when contacted by Bernama.
He said the Kelah Sanctuary at Tembakah would add to Terengganu’s two existing kelah sanctuaries, at Tasik Kenyir near Hulu Terengganu and Ulu Kasar near Setiu.
Razali said the new tourism product could further enhance Hulu Besut’s appeal as a recreational and ecotourism destination while bringing economic benefits to the local community.
“The establishment of this sanctuary could help revive Tembakah waterfall as one of the state’s popular nature-based tourism destinations.
“This effort is also expected to help the state achieve its target of attracting about 15 million domestic and international tourists in conjunction with Visit Terengganu Year 2027.”
The fish fry release was part of activities, alongside community camping, during the Tembakah Waterfall Outdoor Festival.
Present was Deputy Terengganu State Legislative Assembly Speaker Khazan Che Mat on behalf of Razali.
The Eco-Forest Park had been closed for almost two years following damage to several facilities, including the suspension bridge, caused by the northeast monsoon in 2024.
