Sekinchan: The Festival Sawah Padi Sekinchan continues to strengthen its position as an iconic annual event and Selangor's signature tourism product, in efforts to attract both domestic and international visitors to the state.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Selangor Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Amirudin Shari stated that the festival not only promoted local tourism products but also strengthened the agrotourism sector, which was growing rapidly in the state. He highlighted that Selangor is now emphasizing environment- and agriculture-based tourism, which serves as the backbone of development in the Sabak Bernam Development Area (SABDA). The tourism sector in Sabak Bernam has recorded an increase of more than 30 percent due to various programs and continuous efforts promoting the area's uniqueness.
Present at the event were State Local Government and Tourism Committee chairman Datuk Ng Suee Lim and Menteri Besar Selangor Incorporated (MBI) Group chief executive officer Datuk Saipolyazan M Yusop. Amirudin also commented on the introduction of the Sustainability Fee implemented this year. The proceeds from this levy would be used to upgrade public amenities and redevelop areas affected by disasters, ensuring a balance between economic development and quality of life.
The festival, organized by Tourism Selangor in collaboration with various government agencies and private strategic partners, has adopted a fresher and more dynamic concept. For the first time, it is being held from afternoon until night, aligning with trends that emphasize night-time experiences. Visitors can enjoy scenic sunsets over vast padi fields and participate in various activities.
Among the main attractions is the Sawah Padi Run, which has drawn over 1,000 participants, offering a unique experience of running at dusk in the padi field surroundings. Furthermore, a food fest featuring more than 35 vendors under PLATS Selangor offers a variety of local dishes in a relaxed setting. Other activities include outdoor movie screenings, guided tours, tram services, free hop-on hop-off buses, health screenings, traditional games, concerts, podcast sessions, voluntourism programs, and lucky draws.
The festival is expected to attract about 15,000 visitors, further strengthening Sekinchan's reputation as a must-visit agrotourism destination in Malaysia.