Tourism players and locals call for more attractions to draw visitors back
PORT DICKSON: Every weekend, Port Dickson’s beaches come alive as families and holidaymakers stream into the coastal town for a quick seaside escape.
But once the weekend rush subsides, the crowds disappear, leaving businesses waiting for the next influx of visitors.
For residents here, there is still much untapped potential when it comes to increasing Port Dickson’s appeal as a vibrant tourism destination.
Trader A. Kumar, 52, said efforts to revive the Seremban-Port Dickson railway line for commuters could spread tourist arrivals more evenly throughout the week.
The Seremban-Port Dickson line was closed in July 2008 following the derailment of a freight train transporting diesel from a refinery in Port Dickson to Ipoh.
There have been plans to revive the railway link, but these have yet to materialise.
“This could make intrastate travel more convenient, although we know the cost of establishing this will not be cheap.
“If tourists can come conveniently during weekdays instead of only on weekends, businesses here will benefit from a steadier flow of customers,” he said.
A restaurant operator who wanted to be known only as Chew said Port Dickson’s natural coastal appeal should be complemented with initiatives that encourage visitors to stay longer and spend more.
Among them, he said, was the proposal to turn the district into a duty-free zone.
The duty-free zone was mooted by the state government in 2010 to boost tourism.
“This gives tourists another attraction while creating more business opportunities. We have beaches and now, we need attractions that further entice tourists,” he said.
Previously, there were also plans to set up more hotels, establish a major convention centre, and allow cruise ships to dock here.
Retired civil servant Mohd Zainudin Said, 67, said the state should leverage Port Dickson, which is also known as an army town.
There are several prominent bases and camps here, including the Segenting camp and the Army Basic Training Centre (Pusasda).
“This can be leveraged in an appropriate manner to attract tourists. Port Dickson may be known for its beaches, but there is so much more to it,” he said.
He also said connectivity within the area must be improved to ease residents’ movement.
Self-employed Mohd Nor Ahmad, 53, said improving connectivity with Seremban will help only if there are stations serving the interior parts of the coastal destination.
“If not, it would still be the same for us. Not all of us are well off and every journey incurs costs,” he said.
Malaysian Association of Tour and Travel Agents (MATTA) Negri Sembilan chapter chairman Nurul Husna Satar emphasised the need to focus on spots like the PD Waterfront and Teluk Kemang for Port Dickson to shed its image as a quick weekend getaway.
“Chic, family-friendly entertainment spots and aesthetic sunset lounges should be introduced.
“These spaces can capture trendy and premium vibes using beautiful cabanas, infinity pools, and high-end dining, while remaining completely respectful of local family values,” she said.
Proper upkeep of tourist hotspots, she said, was equally important.
“There must be a major rollout of wildlife-proof trash bins to keep the sand pristine, alongside modern and clean public toilets and outdoor shower stations at beaches with high foot traffic.
“Fixing everyday pain points where they matter most can instantly elevate Port Dickson’s top hotspots into cleaner and more vibrant destinations that attract tourists all week long,” said Nurul Husna.
