By Rosli Mansor Ahmad Razali
IPOH, Aug 1 — Digital marketing strategies and the potential of niche tourism products took centre stage at the What’s Up Northern Region Series 2 (Perak) programme held at AC Hotel by Marriott here today.
Organised by Tourism Malaysia Northern Region, the event brought together more than 70 participants, including hoteliers, travel agents and tourism product owners from across the state.
Niche tourism refers to specialised and unique offerings aimed at specific target groups based on interests such as adventure, cultural heritage, ecotourism or wellness.
These products are seen as having strong potential to attract high-value travellers seeking off-the-beaten-path experiences.
Tourism Malaysia Northern Region Director, Abdul Hadi Che Man, said the initiative was designed to expose industry players to the latest promotional approaches via digital platforms such as social media, YouTube and online travel agencies (OTAs).
“The response has been very encouraging with strong participation. A total of four insightful presentations were delivered, involving Pretty World Resources, Selama District Council, the Kinta Tin Mining Museum and Traveloka,” he said.
Among the highlights was a presentation by Nazrilazdin Jamaludin of Pretty World Resources, who introduced adrenaline-pumping activities like Dropzone and Waterfall Abseiling as high-impact tourism products.
Jacky Chew Seng Leong from the Kinta Tin Mining Museum showcased the state’s mining heritage as a unique draw for history and culture-based tourism.
Meanwhile, Selama District Council president Nor Akmal Yang Ghazali shared the district’s potential as a destination for nature and heritage-based tourism.
The final session featured Low Chai Meng from Traveloka, who outlined strategies to connect international travellers with Malaysian destinations via their OTA platform.
Mohd Zukni Mohd Yusof, Chief Operating Officer of the Orang Asli Cooperative at Lata Kinjang Eco Forest Park, described the programme as an invaluable opportunity for learning and networking.
“We gained useful insights, especially on online marketing and identifying key target countries for tourist arrivals. This will greatly help us develop promotional strategies in preparation for Visit Malaysia Year 2026,” he said.
The first edition of the programme was held in Perlis, while the third is expected to take place in Penang, subject to time and budget availability.
