No greens from Highlands on Saturdays
Wednesday August 6, 2008
By Clara Chooi
VEGETABLES from Cameron Highlands are no longer available at the Selayang wholesale market on Saturdays.
This is because the Cameron Highlands Vegetable Transport Association has temporarily stopped transporting vegetables to the market since mid-July.
Other smaller markets in Ipoh, Kuala Lumpur and Singapore are also affected by the move.
“Saturday has always been considered our only day off in the week.
“Despite that, we still transported the vegetables from Cameron Highlands every Saturday in the past,” association president Lau Sai Hoong said recently.
He added that members of the association were finding it hard to cope with the additional costs since the fuel price increase two months ago.
“We have been trying to negotiate with the Kuala Lumpur Vegetable Wholesalers Association for a higher payment but we were unable to come to an agreement,” Lau said.
In comparison, wholesalers in Ipoh and Singapore had already accepted the new prices charged by the transporters and agreed to the Saturday off-day, he said.
Lau said previously, the transportation cost for vegetables sent to the Selayang market was 10sen per kg of vegetables, while that for vegetables sent to Ipoh and Singapore was six sen and 22 sen respectively.
“Now, wholesalers in Ipoh have agreed to pay 10 sen per kg and those in Singapore, 30 sen,” he said, adding that they had been trying to negotiate with the KL association for a price of 15 sen per kg but the latter had only agreed to 13 sen.
Lau said there were about 40 members in his association, each of whom owned between two and seven lorries.
He said on average, 5,000kg of vegetables were transported from Cameron Highlands daily.
“From Sundays to Fridays, about 50 lorries will transport the vegetables and on Saturdays, about 20 lorries would hit the roads in the past.
“Now, however, we will only transport the vegetables from Sundays to Fridays. Saturday is our off-day,” said Lau.
He added that market-goers should avoid buying vegetables from the Selayang market on Saturdays, as the prices would definitely be higher.
Wednesday, August 06, 2008
Tuesday, August 05, 2008
Pahang to have a hospital in each district
Pahang to have a hospital in each district
Tuesday August 5, 2008
CAMERON HIGHLANDS: Two more hospitals will be built in Pahang this year to ensure all its districts have one each, Health Minister Datuk Liow Tong Lai said.
Liow said the last two would be built in Rompin and Bera districts after the completion of hospitals in Cameron Highlands, Pekan and Temerloh.
He said the Sultan Hajjah Kalsom Hospital in Cameron Highlands was the latest to be completed.
“The Federal Government’s commitment to providing facilities for healthcare is shown with the availability of the hospitals and health clinics in most villages.
“Sultanah Hajjah Kalsom Hospital built at a cost of RM112mil will replace the community hospital and benefit patients from Ipoh in Perak.
“In the 9th Malaysia Plan, apart from the hospitals in Rompin and Bera which are under construction, there are 22 health clinics, 16 community clinics, 19 upgraded hospitals and 20 staff quarters, while a project to upgrade a health clinic has been approved,” Liow said in his speech during the official opening and renaming of the hospital here recently.
The Cameron Highlands Hos–pital was renamed after Sultan Pahang Sultan Ahmad Shah’s wife Sultanah Kalsom.
Sultan Ahmad Shah officiated at the ceremony while Mentri Besar Datuk Seri Adnan Yaakob and wife Datin Seri Junaini Kassim and other state dignitaries were present.
Liow said the hospital, which had been operational from January, had 76 beds and could provide outpatient and in-patient, operation theatre and physiotherapy services.
“The hospital will be served by visiting specialists from Ipoh Hospital for children, obstetric, gynaecology and psychiatric services, while surgeons will come later.
“We provide shuttle services from Tanah Rata to the hospital, which is quite a distance from the town,” he said.
Liow said some critical cases were previously referred to Ipoh Hospital, however, patients from Perak who lived near here could seek treatment at the hospital.
Meanwhile, Sultan Ahmad Shah said, with the increase tourists, it was timely for the highland destination to have a hospital.
“I advise people to keep having programmes to promote healthy living, take healthy food and participate in healthy activities.
“We need to keep reminding people to care for their health as prevention is better than cure,” Sultan Ahmad Shah said. -- The Star.
Tuesday August 5, 2008
CAMERON HIGHLANDS: Two more hospitals will be built in Pahang this year to ensure all its districts have one each, Health Minister Datuk Liow Tong Lai said.
Liow said the last two would be built in Rompin and Bera districts after the completion of hospitals in Cameron Highlands, Pekan and Temerloh.
He said the Sultan Hajjah Kalsom Hospital in Cameron Highlands was the latest to be completed.
Royal touch: Sultan Ahmad Shah (right) pampering day-old baby girl named Kalsom carried by Sultanah Kalsom while Liow looks on at the hosital in Cameron Highlands recently.
“The Federal Government’s commitment to providing facilities for healthcare is shown with the availability of the hospitals and health clinics in most villages.
“Sultanah Hajjah Kalsom Hospital built at a cost of RM112mil will replace the community hospital and benefit patients from Ipoh in Perak.
“In the 9th Malaysia Plan, apart from the hospitals in Rompin and Bera which are under construction, there are 22 health clinics, 16 community clinics, 19 upgraded hospitals and 20 staff quarters, while a project to upgrade a health clinic has been approved,” Liow said in his speech during the official opening and renaming of the hospital here recently.
The Cameron Highlands Hos–pital was renamed after Sultan Pahang Sultan Ahmad Shah’s wife Sultanah Kalsom.
Sultan Ahmad Shah officiated at the ceremony while Mentri Besar Datuk Seri Adnan Yaakob and wife Datin Seri Junaini Kassim and other state dignitaries were present.
Liow said the hospital, which had been operational from January, had 76 beds and could provide outpatient and in-patient, operation theatre and physiotherapy services.
“The hospital will be served by visiting specialists from Ipoh Hospital for children, obstetric, gynaecology and psychiatric services, while surgeons will come later.
“We provide shuttle services from Tanah Rata to the hospital, which is quite a distance from the town,” he said.
Liow said some critical cases were previously referred to Ipoh Hospital, however, patients from Perak who lived near here could seek treatment at the hospital.
Meanwhile, Sultan Ahmad Shah said, with the increase tourists, it was timely for the highland destination to have a hospital.
“I advise people to keep having programmes to promote healthy living, take healthy food and participate in healthy activities.
“We need to keep reminding people to care for their health as prevention is better than cure,” Sultan Ahmad Shah said. -- The Star.
Thursday, July 31, 2008
Cameron’s blooms to cost
Cameron’s blooms to cost
Thursday July 31, 2008
IPOH: The price of Cameron Highland flowers will go up by 10% from Aug 8.
Flower Floriculture Association chairman Lee Peng Fo said the increase was inevitable as the price of raw materials such as fertiliser and petrol had been increasing.
“The last time we increased the price of flowers was in December 2004,” he told a press conference here yesterday.
“We have no choice. If we do not increase the price, some of us may be forced to turn to vegetable farming,” he added.
Lee noted that the price of raw materials had increased by between 40% and 50% since last year.
The flowers produced at Cameron Highlands are mostly sold in Penang, Kuala Lumpur and Johor Baru, he said. -- The Star.
Thursday July 31, 2008
IPOH: The price of Cameron Highland flowers will go up by 10% from Aug 8.
Flower Floriculture Association chairman Lee Peng Fo said the increase was inevitable as the price of raw materials such as fertiliser and petrol had been increasing.
“The last time we increased the price of flowers was in December 2004,” he told a press conference here yesterday.
“We have no choice. If we do not increase the price, some of us may be forced to turn to vegetable farming,” he added.
Lee noted that the price of raw materials had increased by between 40% and 50% since last year.
The flowers produced at Cameron Highlands are mostly sold in Penang, Kuala Lumpur and Johor Baru, he said. -- The Star.
Friday, July 25, 2008
Impressed by the food and people
Impressed by the food and people
Friday July 25, 2008
LAST week four of us returned to New Zealand after spending two glorious weeks holidaying in Malaysia.
After crossing over from Singapore, we picked up a rental vehicle from Johor Baru and departed for the east coast. Here we took one week to sink ourselves into the remoteness of your pristine beaches, amazing countryside, beautiful people and very tasty makan.
From Kota Baru, we motored across to Ipoh through some of the most beautiful views ever, sighting many wild animals along our way. From Ipoh, we surrounded ourselves with fresh strawberries and Boh tea as we wandered around Cameron Highlands.
Kuala Lumpur beckoned as we once again hit the roads, at times taking the minor highways over the expressways, driving through so many kampungs and enjoying fresh fruit from the many road-side stalls.
Our holiday ended with a couple of nights in historical Malacca, followed by a sumptuous seafood lunch over the waters at Kukup prior to returning to Johor Baru.
There is so much I could write about our holiday in your amazing country but there are two things I must comment on.
Firstly the IPRAC car-hire people we dealt with in Johor Baru and secondly the staff at Traders Hotel in Kuala Lumpur. Both of them offered an extremely high level of service, exceptional professionalism, competency and a friendly personal service.
We left Malaysia with two great impressions. Firstly, the exquisite food and secondly the people who were always so friendly and helpful, laughing with us and not at us as we clumsily attempted to speak Malay. Terima Kasih.
ROGER & DIANE THOMPSON,
Marlborough,
New Zealand.
Friday July 25, 2008
LAST week four of us returned to New Zealand after spending two glorious weeks holidaying in Malaysia.
After crossing over from Singapore, we picked up a rental vehicle from Johor Baru and departed for the east coast. Here we took one week to sink ourselves into the remoteness of your pristine beaches, amazing countryside, beautiful people and very tasty makan.
From Kota Baru, we motored across to Ipoh through some of the most beautiful views ever, sighting many wild animals along our way. From Ipoh, we surrounded ourselves with fresh strawberries and Boh tea as we wandered around Cameron Highlands.
Kuala Lumpur beckoned as we once again hit the roads, at times taking the minor highways over the expressways, driving through so many kampungs and enjoying fresh fruit from the many road-side stalls.
Our holiday ended with a couple of nights in historical Malacca, followed by a sumptuous seafood lunch over the waters at Kukup prior to returning to Johor Baru.
There is so much I could write about our holiday in your amazing country but there are two things I must comment on.
Firstly the IPRAC car-hire people we dealt with in Johor Baru and secondly the staff at Traders Hotel in Kuala Lumpur. Both of them offered an extremely high level of service, exceptional professionalism, competency and a friendly personal service.
We left Malaysia with two great impressions. Firstly, the exquisite food and secondly the people who were always so friendly and helpful, laughing with us and not at us as we clumsily attempted to speak Malay. Terima Kasih.
ROGER & DIANE THOMPSON,
Marlborough,
New Zealand.
Wednesday, July 23, 2008
Fraser’s Hill or Fraser Hill?
Fraser’s Hill or Fraser Hill?
Wednesday July 23, 2008
I MUST thank Captain P.J. Rivers for his response (July 4) to my article on eponyms. He wondered what I could make of Cameron Highlands. Well, the place could conceivably have been called the Cameron highlands although highlands it was not, because it was man-made.
Malaysia, beginning with Malacca in 1511, came under three colonial masters; and they left, amongst other things, a legacy of place names, e.g. the Portuguese Jalan Tranquerah, the Dutch Jalan Heeren and Jalan Jonker, and the British Province Wellesley.
These names have been changed to Jalan Tengkera, Jalan Tun Tan Cheng Lock, Jalan Hang Jebat, and Seberang Perai, respectively.
Future waves of national fervour may change many more of the place names with a colonial flavour. But name change was not the drift of my article. I posed the question whether the hill in question should have been called Fraser’s Hill or Fraser Hill. Since the English language seems to have as many exceptions as there are rules, I merely wished to know which is the rule (Fraser’s, the eponymous possessive) and which the exception (Fraser, the eponymous modifier), or vice versa.
– Dr Lim Chin Lam, Penang
Wednesday July 23, 2008
I MUST thank Captain P.J. Rivers for his response (July 4) to my article on eponyms. He wondered what I could make of Cameron Highlands. Well, the place could conceivably have been called the Cameron highlands although highlands it was not, because it was man-made.
Malaysia, beginning with Malacca in 1511, came under three colonial masters; and they left, amongst other things, a legacy of place names, e.g. the Portuguese Jalan Tranquerah, the Dutch Jalan Heeren and Jalan Jonker, and the British Province Wellesley.
These names have been changed to Jalan Tengkera, Jalan Tun Tan Cheng Lock, Jalan Hang Jebat, and Seberang Perai, respectively.
Future waves of national fervour may change many more of the place names with a colonial flavour. But name change was not the drift of my article. I posed the question whether the hill in question should have been called Fraser’s Hill or Fraser Hill. Since the English language seems to have as many exceptions as there are rules, I merely wished to know which is the rule (Fraser’s, the eponymous possessive) and which the exception (Fraser, the eponymous modifier), or vice versa.
– Dr Lim Chin Lam, Penang
Friday, July 04, 2008
There’s also Cameron Highlands
There’s also Cameron Highlands
Friday July 4, 2008
DR Lim Chin Lam has rightly made a distinction between the British usages of Maxwell Hill and Fraser’s Hill (June 13).
Just as Mount Swettenham took its name from a colonial administrator, so was Bukit Larut renamed after Sir William Maxwell when as Assistant Resident he built a government bungalow there. I’m not sure that Louis James Fraser actually owned his eponymous hill but he certainly mined it for tin.
I wonder what Dr Lim can make of Cameron Highlands, which takes its name from an obscure surveyor who first reported a “tableland” in that mountainous area.
Although William Cameron never actually reached the site, several parties were sent to look for Cameron’s “plateau”. As it never actually existed, earthfill from the road that was eventually cut and a valley was levelled named Tanah Rata – “Flat Land”.
So over time, the title of Cameron’s plateau was replaced with Cameron’s highlands to now become Cameron Highlands.
– Captain P.J. Rivers, Cameron Highlands
--------------
Excerpt:
What the dickens is eponym?
By Dr Lim Chin Lam
Friday June 13, 2008
Why is it, in British colonial Malaya, we had (and still have) Maxwell Hill and Fraser’s Hill? Why the two styles of naming? I have this nagging feeling that Maxwell Hill was named after Maxwell whereas Fraser’s Hill must have been owned by Fraser!
“Oh, Why can’t the English, Why can’t the English” – recited to the patter song in My Fair Lady – “set a good example and make up their minds: Is it Fraser’s Hill or Fraser Hill?”
Friday July 4, 2008
DR Lim Chin Lam has rightly made a distinction between the British usages of Maxwell Hill and Fraser’s Hill (June 13).
Just as Mount Swettenham took its name from a colonial administrator, so was Bukit Larut renamed after Sir William Maxwell when as Assistant Resident he built a government bungalow there. I’m not sure that Louis James Fraser actually owned his eponymous hill but he certainly mined it for tin.
I wonder what Dr Lim can make of Cameron Highlands, which takes its name from an obscure surveyor who first reported a “tableland” in that mountainous area.
Although William Cameron never actually reached the site, several parties were sent to look for Cameron’s “plateau”. As it never actually existed, earthfill from the road that was eventually cut and a valley was levelled named Tanah Rata – “Flat Land”.
So over time, the title of Cameron’s plateau was replaced with Cameron’s highlands to now become Cameron Highlands.
– Captain P.J. Rivers, Cameron Highlands
--------------
Excerpt:
What the dickens is eponym?
By Dr Lim Chin Lam
Friday June 13, 2008
Why is it, in British colonial Malaya, we had (and still have) Maxwell Hill and Fraser’s Hill? Why the two styles of naming? I have this nagging feeling that Maxwell Hill was named after Maxwell whereas Fraser’s Hill must have been owned by Fraser!
“Oh, Why can’t the English, Why can’t the English” – recited to the patter song in My Fair Lady – “set a good example and make up their minds: Is it Fraser’s Hill or Fraser Hill?”
Chicken manure shortage, farmers turning to compost
Chicken manure shortage, farmers turning to compost
Friday July 4, 2008
Following a shortage of chicken manure, hard-pressed Cameron Highlands farmers are turning to compost as fertiliser.
China Press reported yesterday that there was an acute shortage of chicken manure on the highlands now.
Farmers blame the shortage of chicken manure to the skyrocketing price of non-organic fertilisers worldwide, forcing oil palm estates to also use chicken manure.
The shortage was also due to farmers rearing fewer chickens because of low profit margins.
A farmer told the daily that during Chinese New Year, a packet of chicken manure cost RM4.
“Now the price has increased to RM6.50 and there are signs of it going up further,” he said.
The farmer added that previously he could get his order of chicken manure delivered within two days.
“Now I am lucky if I can get the manure in a week. Sometimes I have to wait for a month.”
Sin Chew Daily reported that following the fuel price increase, traders had recorded a drop in business of between 10% and 20%.
> Petroleum Dealers’ Association of Malaysia president Wahid Bidin was quoted as saying that petrol sales had dropped between 10% and 20%.
He explained that motorists, in a bid to save petrol, had turned to using motorcycles.
Federation of Sundry Goods Merchant Associations of Malaysia president Lean Hing Chuan told the daily that members had reported a 5% drop in business.
The fuel price increase had forced consumers to practice smart consumerism, he said.
“While consumers continue to buy daily necessities such as cooking oil and other foodstuff, they have cut down on unnecessary items,” he said, adding that the people were also turning to cheaper alternatives.
Federation of Hawkers and Petty Traders Associations president Datuk Chai Soo Min told the daily that hawkers had complained of business dropping by 20%.
“People are cutting down on eating out, choosing to cook at home instead,” he said.
-- Compiled news from Star
Friday July 4, 2008
Following a shortage of chicken manure, hard-pressed Cameron Highlands farmers are turning to compost as fertiliser.
China Press reported yesterday that there was an acute shortage of chicken manure on the highlands now.
Farmers blame the shortage of chicken manure to the skyrocketing price of non-organic fertilisers worldwide, forcing oil palm estates to also use chicken manure.
The shortage was also due to farmers rearing fewer chickens because of low profit margins.
A farmer told the daily that during Chinese New Year, a packet of chicken manure cost RM4.
“Now the price has increased to RM6.50 and there are signs of it going up further,” he said.
The farmer added that previously he could get his order of chicken manure delivered within two days.
“Now I am lucky if I can get the manure in a week. Sometimes I have to wait for a month.”
Sin Chew Daily reported that following the fuel price increase, traders had recorded a drop in business of between 10% and 20%.
> Petroleum Dealers’ Association of Malaysia president Wahid Bidin was quoted as saying that petrol sales had dropped between 10% and 20%.
He explained that motorists, in a bid to save petrol, had turned to using motorcycles.
Federation of Sundry Goods Merchant Associations of Malaysia president Lean Hing Chuan told the daily that members had reported a 5% drop in business.
The fuel price increase had forced consumers to practice smart consumerism, he said.
“While consumers continue to buy daily necessities such as cooking oil and other foodstuff, they have cut down on unnecessary items,” he said, adding that the people were also turning to cheaper alternatives.
Federation of Hawkers and Petty Traders Associations president Datuk Chai Soo Min told the daily that hawkers had complained of business dropping by 20%.
“People are cutting down on eating out, choosing to cook at home instead,” he said.
-- Compiled news from Star
Wednesday, June 11, 2008
Farm owner promises to halt soil erosion at Brinchang slope
Farm owner promises to halt soil erosion at Brinchang slope
Wednesday June 11, 2008
By Clara Chooi
CAMERON HIGHLANDS: The landowner responsible for the hill cutting in Brinchang will take immediate remedial measures to prevent soil erosion.
Big Red Strawberry farm owner S. Kumar said he had fitted two outlets to the silt trap ponds, and covered up several dangerous slopes with tarpaulin.
He would be working closely with the Department of Environment and the Drainage and Irrigation Department (DID) to ensure that extension work on the family farm would not harm the environment or pose a danger to those in the surrounding areas.
“We are willing to adhere to the guidelines imposed, and we had no intention of causing danger during the land clearing,” he said yesterday after officers from the two departments and the Pahang Forestry Department visited his farm following reports of hill cutting at the site.
“We built silt traps, but they were not enough. We also take responsibility for mistakenly cutting the slopes too steep, past the 25° gradient,” he said. “To remedy that, we will terrace the hill,” he said.
He added that a 3m buffer zone had been allocated along the perimeter of the affected hill and that the steep slopes would soon be re-turfed to prevent soil erosion.
Kumar, however, cried foul over allegations that land clearing works covered more than 10ha and had damaged a primary forest.
“We only applied to clear 0.8ha of the land to expand our farm and not 10ha as claimed.”
Kumar noted that the family had held a Temporary Occupational Licence on the 4ha site for 40 years now. His family had only used 1.6ha of the 4ha site and had only decided to expand the farm recently.
“Everything we did was legal and we have no reason to want to damage the environment in any way,” he said.
A Forestry Department officer confirmed that the cleared land was not part of a primary forest.
“It is a secondary forest,” he said. -- The Star.
Wednesday June 11, 2008
By Clara Chooi
CAMERON HIGHLANDS: The landowner responsible for the hill cutting in Brinchang will take immediate remedial measures to prevent soil erosion.
Big Red Strawberry farm owner S. Kumar said he had fitted two outlets to the silt trap ponds, and covered up several dangerous slopes with tarpaulin.
He would be working closely with the Department of Environment and the Drainage and Irrigation Department (DID) to ensure that extension work on the family farm would not harm the environment or pose a danger to those in the surrounding areas.
“We are willing to adhere to the guidelines imposed, and we had no intention of causing danger during the land clearing,” he said yesterday after officers from the two departments and the Pahang Forestry Department visited his farm following reports of hill cutting at the site.
Remedial measure: Big Red Strawberry Farm has prepared silt trap ponds to prevent soil erosion at the farm in Brinchang, Cameron Highlands.
“We built silt traps, but they were not enough. We also take responsibility for mistakenly cutting the slopes too steep, past the 25° gradient,” he said. “To remedy that, we will terrace the hill,” he said.
He added that a 3m buffer zone had been allocated along the perimeter of the affected hill and that the steep slopes would soon be re-turfed to prevent soil erosion.
Kumar, however, cried foul over allegations that land clearing works covered more than 10ha and had damaged a primary forest.
“We only applied to clear 0.8ha of the land to expand our farm and not 10ha as claimed.”
Kumar noted that the family had held a Temporary Occupational Licence on the 4ha site for 40 years now. His family had only used 1.6ha of the 4ha site and had only decided to expand the farm recently.
“Everything we did was legal and we have no reason to want to damage the environment in any way,” he said.
A Forestry Department officer confirmed that the cleared land was not part of a primary forest.
“It is a secondary forest,” he said. -- The Star.
Saturday, June 07, 2008
Land clearing outrage in Brinchang
Land clearing outrage in Brinchang
Saturday June 7, 2008
By Christina Koh
CAMERON HIGHLANDS: It is a hill, which has suffered at least three landslides in the last two years, but this has not stopped a contractor from stripping its summit bare.
Environmentalists in Brinchang are outraged after spotting land-clearing work for what is believed to be a strawberry farm.
They claimed that 10ha of the summit has already been cleared and was looming dangerously close the Cactus Valley nursery, just 200m below it.
Stripped bare: A view of the land clearing works in Brinchang, Cameron Highlands, from the nearby Strawberry Park Resorts.
The Department of Environment (DOE) last week recommended to the district office that work be stopped after finding that the contractor had violated several conditions.
Orchid enthusiast Embi Abdullah accused the developer of being an “environmental outlaw”.
“This is dangerous because there are people in homes and businesses further down the slope. What happens if there is another landslide?” he asked.
Environmentalist N. Madi said it was distressing that a primary virgin forest with rare orchids, ginger plants, cinnamon trees and medicinal plants was being destroyed. The area was also home to Imperial pigeons, serow (endangered mountain goats), civets, bear cats and migratory birds, he said.
“Once they’re driven out of their habitat, you will see cases of these animals dying because they’re unable to adapt and find food. I’ve seen it happen,” he added.
A check on the hill last month, which is part of the Ulu Bertam water catchment area, found six backhoes and other heavy machinery working on the summit.
Further down, there were signs of severe land erosion and previous landslides just 300m from the worksite.
The land clearing has since stopped, pending a site investigation site by DOE on Tuesday.
Cameron Highlands district officer Datuk Mohamad Noor Abdul Rani said the project is supposed to cover only 0.8ha and he would investigate the matter.
Guidelines for highland development projects on slopes with less than a 25-degree gradient did not need an environmental impact assessment provided the contractor fulfilled conditions such as placing silt traps, proper and environmentally-friendly drainage and avoiding use of heavy machinery.
A DOE officer said the contractor was found to have cut into the slope beyond a 25-degree gradient, violating a condition imposed by the department.
The contractor also failed to preserve a buffer zone along the edge of the summit and had apparently dumped loose soil on the slope itself.
It is learnt the contractor had only been engaged to clear 0.8ha of land for a farmer but had instead cleared more trees to make way for an access road. -- The Star.
Saturday June 7, 2008
By Christina Koh
CAMERON HIGHLANDS: It is a hill, which has suffered at least three landslides in the last two years, but this has not stopped a contractor from stripping its summit bare.
Environmentalists in Brinchang are outraged after spotting land-clearing work for what is believed to be a strawberry farm.
They claimed that 10ha of the summit has already been cleared and was looming dangerously close the Cactus Valley nursery, just 200m below it.
Stripped bare: A view of the land clearing works in Brinchang, Cameron Highlands, from the nearby Strawberry Park Resorts.The Department of Environment (DOE) last week recommended to the district office that work be stopped after finding that the contractor had violated several conditions.
Orchid enthusiast Embi Abdullah accused the developer of being an “environmental outlaw”.
“This is dangerous because there are people in homes and businesses further down the slope. What happens if there is another landslide?” he asked.
Environmentalist N. Madi said it was distressing that a primary virgin forest with rare orchids, ginger plants, cinnamon trees and medicinal plants was being destroyed. The area was also home to Imperial pigeons, serow (endangered mountain goats), civets, bear cats and migratory birds, he said.
“Once they’re driven out of their habitat, you will see cases of these animals dying because they’re unable to adapt and find food. I’ve seen it happen,” he added.
A check on the hill last month, which is part of the Ulu Bertam water catchment area, found six backhoes and other heavy machinery working on the summit.
Further down, there were signs of severe land erosion and previous landslides just 300m from the worksite.
The land clearing has since stopped, pending a site investigation site by DOE on Tuesday.
Cameron Highlands district officer Datuk Mohamad Noor Abdul Rani said the project is supposed to cover only 0.8ha and he would investigate the matter.
Guidelines for highland development projects on slopes with less than a 25-degree gradient did not need an environmental impact assessment provided the contractor fulfilled conditions such as placing silt traps, proper and environmentally-friendly drainage and avoiding use of heavy machinery.
A DOE officer said the contractor was found to have cut into the slope beyond a 25-degree gradient, violating a condition imposed by the department.
The contractor also failed to preserve a buffer zone along the edge of the summit and had apparently dumped loose soil on the slope itself.
It is learnt the contractor had only been engaged to clear 0.8ha of land for a farmer but had instead cleared more trees to make way for an access road. -- The Star.
Friday, June 06, 2008
Pahang strict in Malaysia My 2nd Home vetting
Pahang strict in MM2H vetting
Friday June 6, 2008
KUANTAN: Pahang received 39 applications for the Malaysia My Second Home programme last year and 32 this year although it has yet to officially launch it, said Mentri Besar Datuk Seri Adnan Yaakob.
“We have strict regulations pertaining to processing the applications and to date, none of them have been approved.
“The programme is not for just anybody. The state wants to attract genuinely rich people,” he said here.
Adnan also said that the applications were for properties in Kuantan, Bentong, Cameron Highlands, Kuala Lipis and Pekan.
Topping the list was Kuantan with 17 for 2007 and 15 this year, he added.
The applicants were from Singapore, the United States, South Korea, India, Britain, China, Pakistan, Fiji, Sweden, the Netherlands, Japan, Thailand, Oman and Indonesia, he said.
“Successful applicants will be able to enjoy several privileges such as their children being allowed to attend school, college or university in the country and tax exemption for the purchase of vehicles assembled locally,” he added.
On another matter, the mentri besar said the number of tourists who visited Taman Negara last year was 80,890 and they spent more than RM53.8mil during their stay.
Adnan also said that the number of foreign tourists was 42,076 which was higher than domestic visitors, recorded at 38,814.
The state government and Tourism Malaysia would continue to hold various programmes to highlight the national park, including having familiarisation trips for the media, organising events such as the Taman Negara Eco-Challenge and promoting the place at exhibitions in the country and abroad, he added. -- The Star.
Friday June 6, 2008
KUANTAN: Pahang received 39 applications for the Malaysia My Second Home programme last year and 32 this year although it has yet to officially launch it, said Mentri Besar Datuk Seri Adnan Yaakob.
“We have strict regulations pertaining to processing the applications and to date, none of them have been approved.
“The programme is not for just anybody. The state wants to attract genuinely rich people,” he said here.
Adnan also said that the applications were for properties in Kuantan, Bentong, Cameron Highlands, Kuala Lipis and Pekan.
Topping the list was Kuantan with 17 for 2007 and 15 this year, he added.
The applicants were from Singapore, the United States, South Korea, India, Britain, China, Pakistan, Fiji, Sweden, the Netherlands, Japan, Thailand, Oman and Indonesia, he said.
“Successful applicants will be able to enjoy several privileges such as their children being allowed to attend school, college or university in the country and tax exemption for the purchase of vehicles assembled locally,” he added.
On another matter, the mentri besar said the number of tourists who visited Taman Negara last year was 80,890 and they spent more than RM53.8mil during their stay.
Adnan also said that the number of foreign tourists was 42,076 which was higher than domestic visitors, recorded at 38,814.
The state government and Tourism Malaysia would continue to hold various programmes to highlight the national park, including having familiarisation trips for the media, organising events such as the Taman Negara Eco-Challenge and promoting the place at exhibitions in the country and abroad, he added. -- The Star.
Wednesday, June 04, 2008
Adventure for 41 special Scouts
Adventure for 41 special Scouts
Wednesday June 4, 2008
By Looi Sue-Chern
FORTY-ONE special Scouts from four organisations had a field day during an outing to Taiping Zoo and Cameron Highlands in Perak in conjunction with the third Penang Cheshire Agoonoree last weekend.
The special Scouts from Penang Cheshire Home, Penang Cerebral Palsy (Spastic) Children’s Association, Penang Handicapped Children’s Centre and Sekolah Pendidikan Khas Alma were accompanied by 59 volunteers and Scouts.
While on Cameron Highlands, they toured Cactus Point in Brinchang, were treated to a dinner at SK Convent in Tanah Rata and visited a night market on their first night on Saturday.
The following day saw the special youngsters having fun with art and craft before spending a great time outdoors and playing games. Their day ended with a campfire,
Tan (right) and Khoo (behind Tan) greeting some of the special scouts as they prepare to leave for Cameron Highlands.
Penang Cheshire Home president Datuk Seri Khoo Keat Siew said Agoonoree had been a great success following the first two Agoonorees held at the Penang Water Sports Centre in 2006 and 2007
“This (enthusiasm) has encouraged the organisers to have this year’s Agoonoree in Cameron Highlands,” he said during the opening ceremony at Penang Cheshire Home at Babington Avenue on Saturday.
Khoo added that Penang Cheshire Home’s Scouts were also planning to climb Mount Kinabalu in the future and he was confident the Scouts would fulfil their dream
Penang Municipal Councillor Tan Hun Wooi, who represented Health, Welfare and Caring Society Committee chairman Phee Boon Poh , urged the special Scouts live up to the ideals of Scouting: to do their best and always be prepared.-- The Star
Wednesday June 4, 2008
By Looi Sue-Chern
FORTY-ONE special Scouts from four organisations had a field day during an outing to Taiping Zoo and Cameron Highlands in Perak in conjunction with the third Penang Cheshire Agoonoree last weekend.
The special Scouts from Penang Cheshire Home, Penang Cerebral Palsy (Spastic) Children’s Association, Penang Handicapped Children’s Centre and Sekolah Pendidikan Khas Alma were accompanied by 59 volunteers and Scouts.
While on Cameron Highlands, they toured Cactus Point in Brinchang, were treated to a dinner at SK Convent in Tanah Rata and visited a night market on their first night on Saturday.
The following day saw the special youngsters having fun with art and craft before spending a great time outdoors and playing games. Their day ended with a campfire,
Tan (right) and Khoo (behind Tan) greeting some of the special scouts as they prepare to leave for Cameron Highlands.Penang Cheshire Home president Datuk Seri Khoo Keat Siew said Agoonoree had been a great success following the first two Agoonorees held at the Penang Water Sports Centre in 2006 and 2007
“This (enthusiasm) has encouraged the organisers to have this year’s Agoonoree in Cameron Highlands,” he said during the opening ceremony at Penang Cheshire Home at Babington Avenue on Saturday.
Khoo added that Penang Cheshire Home’s Scouts were also planning to climb Mount Kinabalu in the future and he was confident the Scouts would fulfil their dream
Penang Municipal Councillor Tan Hun Wooi, who represented Health, Welfare and Caring Society Committee chairman Phee Boon Poh , urged the special Scouts live up to the ideals of Scouting: to do their best and always be prepared.-- The Star
Wednesday, May 14, 2008
New variant of rare flower found in Camerons
New variant of rare flower found in Camerons
By Christina Koh
Wednesday May 14, 2008
CAMERON HIGHLANDS: It is a plant with an awful stench but its beauty is enough to stop nature-lovers in their tracks.
The Amorphophallus bufo, a rare species found in tropical and sub-tropical areas, sparked interest when news of its discovery here broke last year.
But there is fresh excitement now with the sighting of a new variant with reddish and pinkish flowers.
Local environmentalist and orchid enthusiast Embi Abdullah, 60, said he and his friend N. Madi were trekking when they spotted the reddish bloom in the jungles of Gunung Jasar, Tanah Rata, here.
Most Amorphophallus bufo flowers were brown with white spots, he said.
Within just a week, Embi and several others came across a colony of more than 10 of the plants, five of them in bloom.
“You only get to see these flowers once every five or six years,” Embi said in Brinchang here.
He added that the highlands Amorphophallus bufo, measuring about 1.5m in height, was unusually tall and dwarfed other Amorphophallus species.
“The Amorphophallus is also a plant found in warmer lowlands, so the Cameron Highlands species is even more unique,” he added.
Embi said a group of them planned to approach the district officer or the state forestry department with a proposal to set up an Amorphophallus conservatory.
“The Amorphophallus might have some medicinal value and the conservatory could be used for research and maybe tourism purposes.
“In India, the tuber of one Amorphophallus species has even been used as food,” he added.
The group also hoped to consult fellow environmentalist Datuk Seri Lim Chong Keat, who recently led a group of scientists in finding another variety of the plant during a Forest Research Institute of Malaysia expedition.--The Star.
By Christina Koh
Wednesday May 14, 2008
CAMERON HIGHLANDS: It is a plant with an awful stench but its beauty is enough to stop nature-lovers in their tracks.
The Amorphophallus bufo, a rare species found in tropical and sub-tropical areas, sparked interest when news of its discovery here broke last year.
Unusual bloom: Madi posing with one of the reddish flowers in the jungles of Gunung Jasar, Tanah Rata, in an undated handout photo.
But there is fresh excitement now with the sighting of a new variant with reddish and pinkish flowers.
Local environmentalist and orchid enthusiast Embi Abdullah, 60, said he and his friend N. Madi were trekking when they spotted the reddish bloom in the jungles of Gunung Jasar, Tanah Rata, here.
Most Amorphophallus bufo flowers were brown with white spots, he said.
Within just a week, Embi and several others came across a colony of more than 10 of the plants, five of them in bloom.
“You only get to see these flowers once every five or six years,” Embi said in Brinchang here.
He added that the highlands Amorphophallus bufo, measuring about 1.5m in height, was unusually tall and dwarfed other Amorphophallus species.
“The Amorphophallus is also a plant found in warmer lowlands, so the Cameron Highlands species is even more unique,” he added.
Embi said a group of them planned to approach the district officer or the state forestry department with a proposal to set up an Amorphophallus conservatory.
“The Amorphophallus might have some medicinal value and the conservatory could be used for research and maybe tourism purposes.
“In India, the tuber of one Amorphophallus species has even been used as food,” he added.
The group also hoped to consult fellow environmentalist Datuk Seri Lim Chong Keat, who recently led a group of scientists in finding another variety of the plant during a Forest Research Institute of Malaysia expedition.--The Star.
Monday, May 12, 2008
Pahang to have two more food production and consolidation centres
Pahang to have two more food production and consolidation centres
By Simon Khoo
Monday May 12, 2008
KUANTAN: Malaysian Agrifood Corporation Bhd (MAFC), Khazanah Nasional Bhd’s wholly-owned food supply chain subsidiary, will build two more integrated food production and consolidation centres in Pahang.
To be located at Bertam Valley in the Cameron Highlands and Lanchang, the centres are among the 19 consolidation, processing and packaging centres and consolidation marketing centres planned under the East Coast Economic Region (ECER).
They will join MAFC’s existing facility in Bukit Raja in the Cameron Highlands.
The three food centres will collect, consolidate, process, sort, grade, package and distribute food produce for better safety, quality and sustainability.
MAFC chief executive officer Azizi Meor Ngah said with the establishment of the centres, it aimed to transform the nation’s food supply chain management and distribution to ensure that the industry is well positioned to succeed in key markets.
“The food supply hubs will provide us with an efficient platform to manage our business as well as ensure reliable and timely delivery of fresh produce to customers,” he said.
“The value-added centres will operate in compliance with food safety standards such as Malaysia Farm Accreditation Scheme, the Hazards Analysis Critical Control Point and Global GAP,” he added.
Azizi said the main focus now was to revitalise the agri-food sector through an integrated value-added programme that would give priority to maintaining a sustainable balance between commercial agriculture and social objectives.
“Our business strategy is to build an efficient fresh produce supply chain pipeline so that our consumers get to enjoy safe and quality food for healthier lives,” he explained.
“By working in collaboration with government agencies and industry players to develop a comprehensive supply chain management system, we seek to guarantee year round supply, fixed season prices, unbroken cold chain integrity, timely deliveries, fair trade terms and promotional input, as well as meet quality specifications.”
Currently, MAFC is focused on crops in demand, such as capsicum and tomatoes, lettuce, cabbages and other leafy vegetables, chillies as well as such fruits as papaya, pineapple, melons and star fruit.
Malaysia exports more than 70,000 tonnes of vegetables worth some RM190mil annually, the bulk coming from the country’s green bowls of Johor and Cameron Highlands.
Statistics in 2005 showed the agriculture sector accounted for about 16% of the ECER’s gross domestic product and 22.9% of employment. -- The Star News.
By Simon Khoo
Monday May 12, 2008
KUANTAN: Malaysian Agrifood Corporation Bhd (MAFC), Khazanah Nasional Bhd’s wholly-owned food supply chain subsidiary, will build two more integrated food production and consolidation centres in Pahang.
To be located at Bertam Valley in the Cameron Highlands and Lanchang, the centres are among the 19 consolidation, processing and packaging centres and consolidation marketing centres planned under the East Coast Economic Region (ECER).
They will join MAFC’s existing facility in Bukit Raja in the Cameron Highlands.
Fresh: Malaysian Agrifood Corporation Berhad's papaya crop at its Lanchang food supply centre.
The three food centres will collect, consolidate, process, sort, grade, package and distribute food produce for better safety, quality and sustainability.
MAFC chief executive officer Azizi Meor Ngah said with the establishment of the centres, it aimed to transform the nation’s food supply chain management and distribution to ensure that the industry is well positioned to succeed in key markets.
“The food supply hubs will provide us with an efficient platform to manage our business as well as ensure reliable and timely delivery of fresh produce to customers,” he said.
“The value-added centres will operate in compliance with food safety standards such as Malaysia Farm Accreditation Scheme, the Hazards Analysis Critical Control Point and Global GAP,” he added.
Azizi said the main focus now was to revitalise the agri-food sector through an integrated value-added programme that would give priority to maintaining a sustainable balance between commercial agriculture and social objectives.
“Our business strategy is to build an efficient fresh produce supply chain pipeline so that our consumers get to enjoy safe and quality food for healthier lives,” he explained.
“By working in collaboration with government agencies and industry players to develop a comprehensive supply chain management system, we seek to guarantee year round supply, fixed season prices, unbroken cold chain integrity, timely deliveries, fair trade terms and promotional input, as well as meet quality specifications.”
Currently, MAFC is focused on crops in demand, such as capsicum and tomatoes, lettuce, cabbages and other leafy vegetables, chillies as well as such fruits as papaya, pineapple, melons and star fruit.
Malaysia exports more than 70,000 tonnes of vegetables worth some RM190mil annually, the bulk coming from the country’s green bowls of Johor and Cameron Highlands.
Statistics in 2005 showed the agriculture sector accounted for about 16% of the ECER’s gross domestic product and 22.9% of employment. -- The Star News.
Sunday, May 11, 2008
Cool Highlands Getaways in Malaysia
Cool getaways
by Faridah Begum
Sunday May 11, 2008
Gunung Tahan, Pahang
Nestled within the National Park, the highest mountain in the peninsula offers the toughest trek to its peak, a journey to be undertaken only by the tough and strong-willed. It takes seven days to do a return trip on the classic Kuala Tahan trail while the other trails are through Merapoh and via the Kelantan entrance to the national park.
Gunung Ledang or Mount Ophir, Johor
One of the most frequently climbed mountains and with the highest fatalities in the Southeast Asia, Gunung Ledang has clearly marked trails leading to the peak and mesmerizing waterfalls along the way. It is a place shrouded in mystical legends and folklore. There is a very nice resort at the base of the mountain for those wanting to stay overnight.
Mount Stong State Park, Kelantan
One of the main attractions at the park is Gunung Stong (1,422m), a dome-shaped granite complex more than 500 million years old. Here, the seven-tiered Stong Waterfalls, reputed to be the highest in Southeast Asia, drops from a height of about 990m. Reaching the peak of the falls takes two hours of trekking for about one kilometer on steep inclines.
Kinabalu Mountain, Sabah
Established as a national park in 1964, Kinabalu Park was designated as Malaysia’s first World Heritage Site by UNESCO in December 2000. The park is said to be a rich biological site where a great number of flora and fauna found in the four climate zones flourish. The park is also home to many species of orchids and carnivorous plants.
Cameron Highlands, Pahang
Tucked away amidst the clouds at 1,829m above sea level is Pahang’s premier hill resort, Cameron Highlands. The area is regarded as the ‘Green Bowl’ of the country, supplying its produce to major cities in Malaysia, as well as to Singapore. The cool and fresh air in the highlands offers an attractive retreat for city dwellers. One of its attractions is a time tunnel near Brinchang where old photographs can be viewed.
Mount Jerai, Kedah
Believe it or not, this mountain straddling the border between Kuala Muda and Yan in Kedah was once an island known as Pulau Serai. The country’s richest archaeological site, Bujang Valley, is located in the southern face of this mountain.
Bukit Larut, Perak
Located approximately 9km from Taiping, Bukit Larut or Maxwell Hill (Malaysia’s oldest and smallest hill resort) stands at 1,035m above sea level. Accessible only by government-owned four-wheel-drive vehicles, the road up twists and turns through tropical virgin jungle with the fresh green fragrance and cool air greeting you as you ascend.
Fraser’s Hill, Pahang
Fraser’s Hill derives its name from one of the more colorful characters in colonial history, James Louis Fraser, an
adventurer and fortune hunter, whose disappearance remains a mystery to this day. Rising 1,524m above sea level, the hill exudes a quiet rustic air, more in keeping with the solitude of an English countryside.
Penang Hill, Penang
Popular with foreigners and locals, the railway service, which started in 1923, is still a top attraction for those who want to chug along the beautiful hill. There is a resort atop the hill for those who want to savour a bird’s eye view of Penang island and take in the splendour and beauty of this place.
Bukit Tinggi, Pahang
Now known as Berjaya Hills, this holiday destination is just over an hour’s drive from Kuala Lumpur. Its latest attraction, Colmar Tropicale, a replica of a collection of buildings from a 16th century French village, is often used as a movie set and the venue for corporate family day gatherings. -- Sunday Metro.
by Faridah Begum
Sunday May 11, 2008
Gunung Tahan, Pahang
Nestled within the National Park, the highest mountain in the peninsula offers the toughest trek to its peak, a journey to be undertaken only by the tough and strong-willed. It takes seven days to do a return trip on the classic Kuala Tahan trail while the other trails are through Merapoh and via the Kelantan entrance to the national park.
Gunung Ledang or Mount Ophir, Johor
One of the most frequently climbed mountains and with the highest fatalities in the Southeast Asia, Gunung Ledang has clearly marked trails leading to the peak and mesmerizing waterfalls along the way. It is a place shrouded in mystical legends and folklore. There is a very nice resort at the base of the mountain for those wanting to stay overnight.
Mount Stong State Park, Kelantan
One of the main attractions at the park is Gunung Stong (1,422m), a dome-shaped granite complex more than 500 million years old. Here, the seven-tiered Stong Waterfalls, reputed to be the highest in Southeast Asia, drops from a height of about 990m. Reaching the peak of the falls takes two hours of trekking for about one kilometer on steep inclines.
Kinabalu Mountain, Sabah
Established as a national park in 1964, Kinabalu Park was designated as Malaysia’s first World Heritage Site by UNESCO in December 2000. The park is said to be a rich biological site where a great number of flora and fauna found in the four climate zones flourish. The park is also home to many species of orchids and carnivorous plants.
Cameron Highlands, Pahang
Tucked away amidst the clouds at 1,829m above sea level is Pahang’s premier hill resort, Cameron Highlands. The area is regarded as the ‘Green Bowl’ of the country, supplying its produce to major cities in Malaysia, as well as to Singapore. The cool and fresh air in the highlands offers an attractive retreat for city dwellers. One of its attractions is a time tunnel near Brinchang where old photographs can be viewed.
Mount Jerai, Kedah
Believe it or not, this mountain straddling the border between Kuala Muda and Yan in Kedah was once an island known as Pulau Serai. The country’s richest archaeological site, Bujang Valley, is located in the southern face of this mountain.
Bukit Larut, Perak
Located approximately 9km from Taiping, Bukit Larut or Maxwell Hill (Malaysia’s oldest and smallest hill resort) stands at 1,035m above sea level. Accessible only by government-owned four-wheel-drive vehicles, the road up twists and turns through tropical virgin jungle with the fresh green fragrance and cool air greeting you as you ascend.
Fraser’s Hill, Pahang
Fraser’s Hill derives its name from one of the more colorful characters in colonial history, James Louis Fraser, an
adventurer and fortune hunter, whose disappearance remains a mystery to this day. Rising 1,524m above sea level, the hill exudes a quiet rustic air, more in keeping with the solitude of an English countryside.
Penang Hill, Penang
Popular with foreigners and locals, the railway service, which started in 1923, is still a top attraction for those who want to chug along the beautiful hill. There is a resort atop the hill for those who want to savour a bird’s eye view of Penang island and take in the splendour and beauty of this place.
Bukit Tinggi, Pahang
Now known as Berjaya Hills, this holiday destination is just over an hour’s drive from Kuala Lumpur. Its latest attraction, Colmar Tropicale, a replica of a collection of buildings from a 16th century French village, is often used as a movie set and the venue for corporate family day gatherings. -- Sunday Metro.
Tuesday, May 06, 2008
Courses for cabbies to guide tourists
Courses for cabbies to guide tourists
By Nik Naizi Husin
Tuesday May 6, 2008
TEMERLOH: As frontliners in the tourism industry, taxi drivers must increase their knowledge on tourism products apart from learning English for their jobs.
Pahang Tourism Action Council general manager Idrus Yahya said it would be disappointing for foreign tourists to take rides around town without learning much about the destinations if taxi drivers don't know about the localities.
“When we visit other countries, we are glad when taxi drivers are helpful enough to show us interesting places and provide historical information,” Idrus said after opening a one-day course on tourism products for 85 taxi drivers from Kuantan, Temerloh and Bera districts here on Friday.
Idrus said the council conducted the courses in stages.
Soon, the council would hold similar courses for taxi drivers in Bentong, Raub, Lipis and Cameron Highlands, he added.
Idrus said the state had allocated and spent funds for the tourism sector to improve, upgrade and maintain their products.
He said the programmes were progressively implemented to create a better image for the products and increase number of visitors to the state.
Idrus said that RM64mil had been allocated for upgrading and maintaining 73 tourism projects in the state.
This includes RM4mil for the construction of parking lots in Cameron Highlands, RM20mil for upgrading and maintaining Bukit Fraser in Raub, RM5.7mil for Tasik Cini conservation work and maintenance of its research centre and RM2.6mil to improve homestay programmes.
Idrus said that Pahang would organise an eco-challenge and 4X4 expedition from Tasik Bera (in Bera district) to Tasik Cini (in Pekan district) in August to draw interest in the environment among tourists and boost Tasik Bera as a wetland conservation area. -- The Star News.
By Nik Naizi Husin
Tuesday May 6, 2008
TEMERLOH: As frontliners in the tourism industry, taxi drivers must increase their knowledge on tourism products apart from learning English for their jobs.
Pahang Tourism Action Council general manager Idrus Yahya said it would be disappointing for foreign tourists to take rides around town without learning much about the destinations if taxi drivers don't know about the localities.
“When we visit other countries, we are glad when taxi drivers are helpful enough to show us interesting places and provide historical information,” Idrus said after opening a one-day course on tourism products for 85 taxi drivers from Kuantan, Temerloh and Bera districts here on Friday.
Idrus said the council conducted the courses in stages.
Soon, the council would hold similar courses for taxi drivers in Bentong, Raub, Lipis and Cameron Highlands, he added.
Idrus said the state had allocated and spent funds for the tourism sector to improve, upgrade and maintain their products.
He said the programmes were progressively implemented to create a better image for the products and increase number of visitors to the state.
Idrus said that RM64mil had been allocated for upgrading and maintaining 73 tourism projects in the state.
This includes RM4mil for the construction of parking lots in Cameron Highlands, RM20mil for upgrading and maintaining Bukit Fraser in Raub, RM5.7mil for Tasik Cini conservation work and maintenance of its research centre and RM2.6mil to improve homestay programmes.
Idrus said that Pahang would organise an eco-challenge and 4X4 expedition from Tasik Bera (in Bera district) to Tasik Cini (in Pekan district) in August to draw interest in the environment among tourists and boost Tasik Bera as a wetland conservation area. -- The Star News.
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