By: Zaki Salleh
LENGGONG – Dubbed the ‘Mini Amazon’ for its natural beauty, Tasik Raban effortlessly captivates anyone who visits.
A priceless treasure of Lenggong, Tasik Raban and Lenggong offers a rich tapestry of historical heritage, geological wonders, and diverse agricultural activities to the world.
From prehistoric caves that hold ancient life secrets to Perak’s largest deer farm offering a unique agrotourism experience, Lenggong is undoubtedly a must-visit destination.
Thus, the organization of the Perak Agrotourism Carnival (PAC 2024) not only recognizes Lenggong but also unveils the beauty and uniqueness of the treasures in this area.
Menteri Besar, lDatuk Seri Saarani Mohamad, said that choosing Lenggong as the carnival location is fitting, given the district’s wealth of agrotourism products with potential for greater recognition.
“The variety of natural elements, heritage, culture, gastronomy, agriculture, and livestock make Lenggong a must-visit agrotourism location.
“Therefore, the state government is committed to developing the agrotourism industry holistically and sustainably, generating more job opportunities, creating new enterprises, and improving the socio-economic status of the people.
“Through Perak SADC, various initiatives have been implemented, including incentive aid and capacity development programs to strengthen this sector,” he said.
He stated this while officiating PAC 2024, held for the first time in Lenggong.
More than 50 attractive agrotourism packages with discounts of up to 70 per cent are offered throughout the carnival, involving the participation of over 100 entrepreneurs and operators from across the state.
Saarani further mentioned that the recognition of Lenggong as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2012 and later as Lenggong Geopark has significantly boosted the tourism industry in the district.
This is evident from the increasing number of tourist arrivals.
“Statistics from the Lenggong District Council show that tourist arrivals in the district increased by 242% in 2023, with 81,554 visitors compared to just 23,855 the previous year.
“Moreover, in the first quarter of this year alone, Lenggong received 36,568 visitors, a 53% increase compared to the same period last year.
“This clearly shows that Lenggong’s attraction as a tourist destination is increasingly winning the hearts of both domestic and international tourists,” he said.
The Menteri Besar added that efforts will continue to strengthen infrastructure and facilities at potential locations, besides providing support for local entrepreneurs to enhance the quality of their products and services.
The state government has allocated RM100,000 in incentives to the Lenggong District Council, Selama District Council, and Manjung Municipal Council to empower this sector.
