The road to Agro Tourism part 2

The road to  Agro Tourism which I joined was organised by Malaysia Tourism Council (MTC) with the  backing of Ministry of tourism and culture (MOTAC) and the Ministry of Agriculture. With  the help of MARDI this program is divided into 6 series.The objective is to create an awareness among the citizens of Malaysia as well as foreign tourist on the product of Agro tourism.I believe not many people are aware of MARDI.

What is MARDI?

MARDI or Malaysian Agriculture Research and Development Institute a government body formed in 1969 under Ministry of Agriculture and Agro-based Industry (MOA).

I joined their second series which is to promote  Duriotourism in Kuala Kangsar Perak and the English garden in Cameron Highlands Pahang.Since I hail from Ipoh,I did not get to join the 40 people from the media at the flag off ceremony. I also did not get to hear the speech by the President of Malaysia Tourism Council , Encik Uzaidi Udanis because I joined them in Perak.

Together with the bus were two caravans called CAM Caravan, the first in Malaysia and they were showcased during the expedition.It was their first time on the road and they are suitable for Agro tourism.The caravans can be parked at any MARDI station since MARDI is the only place that provides parking for Caravan.I suppose soon,there will be more parking space for caravans at other places.

This programme was sponsored by MTC,MOTAC,MOA and MARDI.Pleased to say that our adventure to the Duriotourism Park in Kuala Kangsar was a success. The first Durian Park in Malaysia owned by MARDI is about 100 acres and most are Durian trees,then mangosteen ,Pomelo and Rambutan.

The tram that took us around the plantation.

We were welcomed by the head of department and also the MP of Kuala Kangsar,Datin Mastura Yazid. Without  much adieu we were taken by a tram around the plantation and it was amazing. All the trees are short and we could easily touch the fruits.After some explanation we were taken to the picnic spot right under the trees and baskets of Durian were served and not forgetting lunch too.It was surreal, baskets of Durian which are so yummy!This Durian picnic is open to the public.Price is 50 RM per pax and you can eat as much Durian and they will serve lunch too.

From there we stopped at Roti Segar which is near the MARDI station.Tea was served and I must have gained a few kilos from all the eating.

Then we were taken to Enggor Kraftangan Malaysia where traditional Perak craft are taught and sold.The labu Sayong and the Tekat Emas are synonymous with Kuala Kangsar.

The Tekat Emas at Enggor Kraftangan Malaysia.

After the demonstration ,we then left and headed to Sayong Resort where we spent the night.It was a long day and everyone was tired.Still we were entertained to a cultural show.

The next morning we left for Cameron Highlands,that I shall update in my next posting.

Ends