TAIPING, July 7: The Taiping Municipal Council (MPT) today formalised a strategic memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Bukit Merah Laketown Resort (BMLR) and the Bukit Merah Orang Utan Island Foundation (BMOUIF), aimed at enhancing Perak’s tourism, conservation, and education ecosystem.
The MoU was signed at the Taiping Zoo & Night Safari Pavilion by MPT president Mohamed Akmal Dahalan, Bukit Merah Sdn Bhd director Md Nazri Tumin, and BMOUIF chairman Prof Emeritus Datuk Dr Abdul Latif Mohamad.
This collaboration seeks to create a more integrated framework for tourism, education, conservation, and community development, while strengthening ties between two of Perak’s flagship destinations — Taiping and Bukit Merah.
Mohamed Akmal said the partnership would pave the way for initiatives such as integrated tourism packages, cross‑promotion between destinations, conservation awareness programmes, new tourism product development, and sustainability‑focused community projects.
“What was signed today is not merely a memorandum of understanding, but the beginning of efforts to establish a more integrated tourism ecosystem in Perak,” he said.
“When attractions, conservation institutions, and industry players work together, the benefits extend beyond the organisations involved — they ripple into the community through economic opportunities, education, and sustainable development.”
Md Nazri added that the collaboration is expected to boost visitor numbers, generate economic opportunities for local entrepreneurs, and encourage tourists to extend their stay in Perak.
“We also view this partnership as a vital platform to strengthen awareness of environmental and biodiversity conservation,” he said.
“In particular, we hope the younger generation will gain greater exposure to conservation efforts and the importance of safeguarding our natural heritage.”
The MoU underscores Perak’s commitment to positioning itself as a leading destination for eco‑tourism and conservation‑driven travel, while ensuring that local communities benefit from sustainable growth.
— BERNAMA