Kuala lumpur: Kampung Kuala Mengkuang is being positioned as a potential ecotourism destination, capitalizing on its natural landscapes, traditional cuisine, and community-driven activities, all while enhancing the income of its residents.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Tan Sri Khalid Ramli, chairman of the Penang Bumiputera Development Council (MPBPP), highlighted the village's array of attractions, including its traditional village ambiance, picturesque river surroundings, murals, local culinary offerings, and the agricultural and livestock activities managed by the residents. He emphasized the need for collaboration among various agencies, such as the MPBPP, the Implementation Coordination Unit of the Prime Minister's Department (ICU JPM), the Penang Regional Development Authority (PERDA), and others, to realize this vision.
Khalid noted the village's unique charm, particularly its appealing traditional food and gastronomy. He stressed the importance of introducing proper management, including developing tourism routes and facilities, to attract more visitors. These remarks were made during the Yang Dipertua Negeri Tun Ramli Ngah Talib Kuala Mengkuang Eco Ride 2026 Programme held in Kubang Semang. The event also featured the participation of the Penang Governor's wife, Toh Puan Raja Noora Ashikin Raja Abdullah, and the Prime Minister's wife, Datuk Seri Dr. Wan Azizah Wan Ismail.
The program included a 14-kilometer cycling tour around Kampung Kuala Mengkuang, with participants and local villagers accompanying the Penang Governor. Key stops included the Kuala Mengkuang Sculpture site for a symbolic tree-planting ceremony and the mural-adorned Kuala Mengkuang railway bridge.
Khalid further explained that Kampung Kuala Mengkuang, designated as a MADANI Village under the ICU JPM, has benefited from numerous development initiatives, both physical and non-physical, aimed at enhancing the residents' quality of life. Completed infrastructure projects encompass road corridor upgrades, village landmark construction, river deepening and repairs, solar-powered lighting installation, hall and kindergarten construction, and mosque upgrades.
These initiatives have not only improved basic amenities for residents but also generated income opportunities through economic activities such as goat rearing and the cultivation of fruits like the Polynesian plum, also known locally as amra or kedondong. The village gained recognition when its mural art project on the railway bridge was acknowledged by the Malaysia Book of Records, transforming the area into a popular spot for visitors to take photographs and enjoy fishing.
Khalid expressed optimism that Kampung Kuala Mengkuang would serve as a model village and potentially become one of Malaysia's best MADANI Villages in the future.