By Zaki Salleh
TAIPING: The Taiping Municipal Council (MPT), together with Bukit Merah Resort Sdn. Bhd. and the Bukit Merah Orang Utan Island Foundation have formalised a strategic partnership aimed at enhancing the tourism value of both destinations.
The collaboration seeks to strengthen Perak’s tourism ecosystem while promoting conservation, education and sustainable community development.
The initiative also connects two of the state’s key tourism destinations—Taiping and Bukit Merah—through a more integrated approach.
Among the key areas of cooperation are the development of integrated tourism packages, cross-promotion between destinations, as well as the implementation of conservation education and public awareness programmes.
The partners also plan to introduce new tourism products and community-based programmes that will benefit residents.
MPT President Mohamed Akmal Dahalan said sustainable tourism development requires close collaboration between the public sector, private sector and related institutions.
He said the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) marks the beginning of efforts to establish a more inclusive, competitive and sustainable tourism ecosystem.
According to him, Zoo Taiping & Night Safari, together with Bukit Merah Laketown Resort and the Bukit Merah Orang Utan Island Foundation, can offer visitors a more comprehensive tourism experience.
The partnership is also expected to encourage longer tourist stays while stimulating the local economy through greater opportunities for entrepreneurs and surrounding communities.
The initiative is hoped to serve as a catalyst for the development of innovative tourism products and further strengthen Perak’s position as one of Malaysia’s preferred tourism destinations.
Earlier, the MoU signing ceremony, held at Zoo Taiping & Night Safari, was also attended by M K Land Northern Region Chief Operating Officer, Nazri Tumin.
