BY: Rosli Mansor Ahmad Razali
IPOH: The Perak Tourism Association (PTA) has welcomed the long-awaited Ipoh Sentral development, calling it a transformative project that will elevate the city’s status.
However, PTA President Datuk Mohd Odzman Abdul Kadir has urged authorities to prioritise upgrades to the Ipoh Railway Station, citing its crucial role in tourism.
“This prime development will undoubtedly place Ipoh on par with major cities in Malaysia.
“While we look forward to the 20-year plan, immediate attention must be given to the railway station’s rehabilitation,” he said.
Datuk Odzman stressed that the station serves as a key entry point for visitors and warned that failing to upgrade it would impact the overall tourist experience, urging Keretapi Tanah Melayu (KTM) and the Railway Assets Corporation to enhance the station’s façade, modernise its services, and replace the ineffective public address system.
With Visit Malaysia Year 2026 (VMY 2026) on the horizon, he also highlighted the need for improved tourism infrastructure.
“The recent opening of AC Hotel Ipoh reflects the city’s readiness to host national and international conferences,” he said.
To support the initiative, PTA plans to collaborate with Ipoh City Hall, the Malaysian Association of Tour and Travel Agents (MATTA), the Malaysian Association of Hotels (MAH), and the Tourist Guides Association to conduct an audit of tourism products, identifying key areas for improvement.
Datuk Odzman also emphasised the importance of public engagement in the development process.
“Authorities should actively seek input from locals and past visitors through social media surveys to ensure the project aligns with the community’s needs,” he said.
He further stressed that the development should be carried out progressively, minimising traffic disruptions while preserving Ipoh’s distinctive charm.
“A successful tourism experience extends beyond food and attractions. It includes the overall lifestyle of the host community, from cleanliness to well-maintained public facilities,” he added.
