Ipoh to boost tourism industry in 2021

MORE attractions in Ipoh are expected to be unveiled in 2021 to revitalise the city’s tourism industry.

Mayor Datuk Rumaizi Baharin said among projects currently being developed were a rose garden, an extreme park and an urban farm.

“We will have more products to be launched after Chinese New Year.

“We need to continue to be a vibrant city with more products so we can be among the top cities with tourist attractions in the country by 2025, ” he said.

Rumaizi said that like many other sectors, the tourism industry had been severely impacted by the Covid-19 pandemic and various efforts were being made to rejuvenate it and the economy.

“Ipoh City Council has a role to assist the Perak government to promote the tourism industry, ” he said, adding that the state hoped to attract five million tourists in 2021.

Rumaizi was speaking with reporters after the soft launch of a petting zoo at the Gunung Lang Recreational Park.

Rumaizi (right) with a pigeon perched on his arm after the soft launch of the petting zoo. —Photos: RONNIE CHIN/The Star

He said the petting zoo had over 25 species of animals, including a raccoon, rabbits, hedgehogs, reptiles and birds.

“More animals will be added later to attract visitors. There will also be pony rides, ” he said, adding that ticket price for Malaysians was RM6 and RM10 for non-Malaysians.

The petting zoo, said Rumaizi, was a partnership with a private company that did not involve public funds.

“I understand it cost about RM1mil to set up, ” he said, adding that the petting zoo opens daily from 10am to 6pm.

Rumaizi said the petting zoo was set up at the recreational park as it was located within the Kinta Valley Geopark.

“The limestone hills here are more than 150,000 years old.

“It is considered our heritage and we want to promote it as a sustainable tourism product.

“People all over the world like to see things like this, although it may seem trivial to some.

“We will continue to ensure our heritage will be preserved and developed, ” he added.

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