Taiping has some very unique natural features which are ideal as backdrops for people-related activities. The annual Raintown Half Marathon recently at the Esplanade was one fine example.
Minister of Tourism and Culture, Dato’ Seri Mohamed Nazri Abdul Aziz said that the event, which attracted over 4000 participants, could place Taiping on the tourist map. Besides natural features, the presence of numerous buildings and structures of historical significance was another factor.
“Participants from outside of Taiping come with their families in tow. They’ll spend on accommodation, food and shopping for souvenirs. This will have an impact on our economy,” he said at the end of the run.
His closing speech was read by the Executive Councillor for Industry, Investment and Corridor Development, Dato’ Mohammad Zahir Abdul Khalid.
Taiping has 23 touristic spots of interest for visitors. It has 10 varieties of food which are considered icons of the historical town.
Nazri hoped that the state government, through agencies such as Tourism Perak, Destination Perak and Tourism Malaysia (Perak), would continue to support the town’s efforts at improving its image. This is to ensure that activities held, periodically, would attract people to Taiping.
The half marathon was divided into seven age categories. The Men’s Open 21km Category was won by Kenyan Thomas Muli who completed the race in 1 hr 21 minutes 48 seconds. Thomas received a medal and a RM800 cash award.
Rosli Mansor
