10/12/2025

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Malaysian Paper

/thesundaily /

Unique attractions in Bagan Datuk

o District is home to distinctive natural landscapes and rich local heritage: Zahid

vast coconut plantations, which are the district’s economic backbone and hallmark. Dubbed the Land of Coconuts, the district is filled with coconut trees, and locals transform the harvest into oil, snacks, handicrafts and fresh coconut drinks that are a hit at roadside stalls. He said to showcase Bagan Datuk’s tourism attractions, the official Visit Bagan Datuk portal has been launched, offering comprehensive information to visitors and encouraging greater tourist arrivals to the district. “While Bagan Datuk may not yet have large hotels, the homestays run by residents not only supplement their income but also provide tourists with an authentic village lodging experience.”

Ahmad Zahid, who also serves as Rural and Regional Development minister, also described the Sunflower Garden in Bagan Sungai Burung as a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts. Covering nearly one hectare, the garden features more than 2,000 sunflowers that bloom in cycles, creating scenic landscapes almost year-round. It has become a favourite destination for visitors, especially for pre-wedding and family photo shoots. He added that the district is also home to Masjid Tuminah Hamidi, commonly known as the Tourism Mosque, which has emerged as a prominent new landmark. No trip to Bagan Datuk is complete without experiencing its

He also pointed out Sungai Burung as another attraction. “It was officially designated Perak’s 12th district in 2017. Sungai Burung is a popular site for feeding eagles at dusk. “There is also the Sungai Burung Aquarium, featuring a diverse array of freshwater fish, including giant arapaima, arowana and garfish, as well as terrestrial animals such as peacocks, rabbits and monitor lizards. “As night falls, Sungai Burung comes alive with the “blue tears” phenomenon, which is a natural bioluminescence. “The phenomenon is exceptionally rare worldwide. “It could be witnessed at night, in rain or clear skies. Seeing is truly believing.”

KUALA LUMPUR: Formerly known as a fishing district, Bagan Datuk at the western tip of Perak has emerged as a new tourist destination, showcasing distinctive natural landscapes, rich heritage and one of-a-kind experiences. Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said the district, also renowned for its coconut plantations, offers a variety of unique attractions that could appeal to both domestic and international tourists, Bernama reported. Ahmad Zahid, who is also Bagan KOTA BELUD: The reputation of the Kota Belud tamu as one of Sabah’s most iconic weekly markets is built on a mix of traditional goods, local produce and history stretching back over a century. Established in 1878 by William Pretyman, the first British Resident of Tempasuk (now known as Kota Belud), the market has served as a vital hub for 147 years, bringing together the diverse communities of Sabah. Every weekend, the market, located approximately 80km from Kota Kinabalu, serves as a meeting point for the Bajau , Dusun and Iranun communities, who gather to trade, buy or simply soak in the atmosphere of the market. A survey by Bernama found that visitors arrive early in the morning to avoid the midday heat and browse a wide variety of items, ranging from food and plants to local produce and handicrafts.

Datuk MP, said one of the attractions gaining increasing attention is the Sky Mirror, a natural phenomenon in which the surface of the sea flawlessly reflects the sky, creating the illusion of a giant mirror. “Bagan Datuk boasts its own Sky Mirror, one of just seven such sites worldwide.” The phenomenon occurs only a few times each month, during low tides around the new or full moon. At these moments, the shallow seabed becomes a reflective surface, creating an illusion that visitors are walking on the sky. Cultural diversity is not just acknowledged, it is celebrated. The aroma of traditional cakes, the scent of local coffee and sounds of friendly haggling combine to create a unique experience that can only be found at the tamu . The market, which was originally located in Kampung Siasai, is also a premier destination for finding hard-to-source fruits such as tarap , bambangan and Brazilian longan , more commonly known as matoa . For Samsiah Ahat, 59, who has earned a living here for more than 25 years selling forest plants, vegetable seedlings, flowers and wild Rosella flowers, the market’s current site in the town is comfortable and organised. “It’s a world of difference. It was very (basic) back then. Now it is clean and has proper shelters, all provided by the district council.” Beyond plants, the market is also renowned for rare items, including traditional machetes, mengkuang

Kota Belud tamu continues uniting locals after 147 years

Beyond plants, the market is also renowned for rare items, including traditional machetes, mengkuang mats, rattan baskets and other local handicrafts. – BERNAMAPIC

salted and sun-dried until firm. While it could fetch between RM20 and RM80 per fish elsewhere, it is still sold for as low as RM5 each at the market . She also said the tamu is more than just a marketplace; it is a bridge connecting tradition with new generations, proving that local heritage remains relevant in the lives of Sabahans. – Bernama

past, when they used to trade on muddy ground, with no lighting and dilapidated structures. She added that the market’s authenticity is a major draw for visitors, including those from Peninsular Malaysia, who often seek out salted fish, especially ikan liking , which is a local specialty. Ikan liking is a type of trevally that is

mats, rattan baskets and other local handicrafts, which are highly sought-after by visitors. Norhayati Jaran, 48, a salt fish trader who entered the business at the age of 14 with her late mother, said facilities such as toilets and lighting have made a great difference. She said the transformation of the tamu is remarkable compared to the