KUALA LUMPUR: Members of the diplomatic corps had an insight and first-hand look at what Terengganu could offer in terms of tourism and investment.
Ambassadors and high commissioners from 20 countries are spending three days here courtesy of the state government.
The itinerary includes savouring local traditional dishes, visiting tourists and handicraft spots, the state museum, shopping at Pasar Payang, a river cruise from the Sungai Terengganu estuary to Taman Tamaddun Islam in Pulau Wan Man, squid jigging, and briefings on investment and trade opportunities.
Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Ahmad Razif Abdul Rahman, in welcoming the delegates said Terengganu was a hidden gem, a thriving land of eco-tourism with its fair share of trade opportunities from agriculture to the oil and gas industry as well as shipping and port facilities.
“You can even enjoy driving along the scenic highways, past the greenery of natural forest reserves, oil palm plantations, and majestic valleys and mountains.
“Or you can take the coastal road for breathtaking views of the South China Sea, with the pristine beaches. Even Pulau Perhentian was adjudged the 13th best in ‘CNN’s 100 Best Beaches of the World’, while Pulau Lang Tengah was described as the Maldives of Southeast Asia by the Asian Divers Magazine.
“Then, there is Tasik Kenyir with its abundance of nature activities like bird-watching, elephant sanctuary, boating, and fishing, which makes it the perfect place for retreat,” said Razif.
He added that Terengganu was well connected with the East Coast Highway, trunk roads and an airport.
“In years to come, there will be the East Coast Rail Link from Kuala Lumpur and several airlines have been in talks to have direct flights here from the Asean region,” he said.
Razif added that under the New Terengganu Transformation plan, the state was being developed with billion-ringgit projects from Seberang Takir through Pulau Warisan, Pasar Payang, and Dataran Shah Bandar to Tanjung in the city centre.
The projects include five-star hotels, quality healthcare centres, shopping and entertainment malls, upscale eateries, modern jetties, bus terminals and other facilities.