Dakoh: Blessed with natural beauty, the area around Dakoh, Pos Balar here offers a comprehensive tourism package with immense potential to attract enthusiasts of extreme motorsports and 4x4 off-roading from both within the country and abroad. Integrated collaboration among various agencies to develop the area's ecotourism sector could further boost the local socio-economy-particularly for the Orang Asli community-while simultaneously opening up broader entrepreneurial opportunities for villagers.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Kelantan State Department of Culture and Arts (JKKN) director Rohaniza Abdullah emphasized the significant economic growth that heritage and cultural elements could bring to the Orang Asli community. "They (the Orang Asli) can turn these natural resources into a source of income. However, efforts by the authorities to enhance their expertise must be continuous, without compromising the authenticity of the community's traditional arts," she told Bernama recently.
Galas assemblyman Datuk Mohd Syahbuddin Hashim highlighted the necessity of careful planning, including infrastructure upgrades, to ensure the comfort and safety of tourists. These improvements align with the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture's (MOTAC) role as the policy lead and grant provider for facility upgrades, aiming to ensure the Orang Asli community directly benefits economically from the domestic tourism sector.
"Dakoh offers a tranquil forest atmosphere at a very affordable price, allowing visitors to enjoy the experience without spending a fortune. However, tourists are advised to obtain prior approval from the relevant authorities, as the route traverses a Permanent Forest Reserve area where there is a risk of wildlife encounters," he said.
Mohd Anuari Mohd Yusof, deputy director of the Kelantan Department of National Unity and Integration (JPNIN), stated his department's commitment to ensuring the Orang Asli community is included in the mainstream unity agenda. This involves promoting and ensuring the success of the community-based ecotourism concept in the village. "We view Dakoh as a destination that should be preserved and upgraded in collaboration with the local Orang Asli community," he said.
Visitor Mohd Halim Mohamed Zaid shared his personal experience of staying in the Dakoh area. He noted the serene atmosphere and ample amenities, making it an ideal location for a family getaway. "The experience of traveling and staying in the heart of this tropical rainforest is vastly different from daily city life. Here, we can truly appreciate the beauty of nature and listen to the soothing sounds of rushing water and forest wildlife," said the Kuala Lumpur resident. He believes that further improvements could attract more visitors to choose Dakoh as their preferred tourism destination.