Focusing on high-value tourist products

THE PERAK government is looking at creating low-volume, high- value tourism products.

State tourism, industry, investment and corridor development committee chairman Loh Sze Yee said everyone must play their roles to ensure the longevity of tourism products.

“Ideally, we want to create zero-pollution tourism spots.

“However, due to the attitudes of tourists, industry players and locals, cleanliness is one of the main issues, besides overtourism.

“This is why the state won’t promote Pulau Sembilan even though there are industry players who are willing to pay us a hefty sum,” he said during the question-and-answer session at the Perak State Assembly sitting in Ipoh.

Loh said overtourism would have a negative impact on the environment.

“There are still cases of fishermen illegally fishing at Pulau Sembilan. Fishing nets left in the sea may harm marine life.

“Therefore, we hope that everyone, especially the local community, will play an active role in protecting the environment at tourism spots.

“We may not be able to visit Pulau Sembilan now, but future generations will if we can take care of the environment.”

Loh was replying to Norhaslinda Zakaria (PN-Pangkor) who asked about efforts to help industry players in Lumut and Pulau Pangkor.

Separately, state housing and local government committee chairman Sandrea Ng said the state Housing Board and Property would be working with the National Housing Department (JPN) to address abandoned housing projects.

“We are set to sign a memorandum of understanding between federal and state agencies to set up a task force on the issue.

“It will monitor and coordinate work to rehabilitate abandoned projects.

“While we have yet to sign the MOU, the work to tackle abandoned houses projects has already begun,” she said when answering Syed Lukman (PN-Bersatu) about the status of abandoned housing projects in the state.