Pahang, a must visit destination, say ASEAN envoys

KUANTAN, Aug 15 (Bernama) -- Pahang, which is the largest state in Peninsular Malaysia, is seen to have unique food and handicraft products, in addition to interesting tourist locations to visit.

Indonesian ambassador to Malaysia, Hermono, said that traditional food such as ‘sambal hitam’ captured his attention, as well as handicraft products such as ‘tenun’ (weaving) and batik.

"Although Malaysia and Indonesia have a lot in common, I have tried some traditional foods, including ‘kerepek’ and ‘sambal hitam’, which taste very original and unique, it is very good for tourists to try and buy.

“I also tried batik painting... this craft is something new for me, this is a valuable place to visit, whether tourists from abroad or other states. Of course, after this we will bring the story of this place to Indonesia, as it is a location that should be visited,” he said.

He was met by reporters at the Explore Pahang with ASEAN Ambassadors and High Commissioners programme, at Bazar Serambi Teruntum here today.

In addition to being given the opportunity to try out batik painting, the ambassadors and embassies representatives present were also given the opportunity to try on traditional clothing and games as well as ‘dodol’ making.

Meanwhile, Laos ambassador to Malaysia, Viengsavanh Sipraseuth, said that she really enjoys the food, especially Pahang’s ‘sambal hitam’, and she also loves batik painting activity.

“It is a great honour for me to have the opportunity to see this beautiful Pahang, I really enjoy all the activities, thank you Tourism Malaysia for inviting us," she said.

Tourism Malaysia Southeast Asia International Promotion Division deputy director, Bahruddin Sulaiman, said that the three-day, two-night programme, held for the first time, aimed to introduce Pahang's tourism products, particularly in Kuantan, as well as exploring investment opportunities in the state.

He said that ambassadors and representatives of ASEAN countries will also be taken to visit Pahang's new landmark, Kuantan 188, in addition to being given the opportunity to try ‘patin tempoyak’ as well as local fruits such as durian.

“We hope that with this effort they will help us promote interesting destinations in Kuantan. After this we plan to take them to visit Sabah too,” he said.

-- BERNAMA