The 'Terengganu Fly Fishing Festival' will introduce the Berang River as an eco-tourism destination for all fishing angles from inside and outside the country.

Ajil state assemblyman Maliaman Kassim said it was evident when more than 100 participants from the United States, the Philippines, and Great Britain participated in the contest.

"Their presence will certainly provide an opportunity for the local community to introduce a variety of freshwater fish species here, at the same time encouraging the community to venture into the tourism industry, thus improving the people's economy.

"The program is also seen as a platform to target the eco-tourism sector as a factor that contributes to the growth and development of the district and state," he said.

He said this when speaking on behalf of the state Tourism, Culture and Information Technology Committee chairman, Ariffin Deraman at the inauguration of the festival at the Kampung Betong Community Hall, here yesterday.

Also present were Terengganu Tourism Department Director Ab Rasid Jusoh, Hulu Terengganu District Assistant Chief of Staff, Normah Nik and Terengganu Fly Fishing Club Chairman, Norhisyamuddin Abd Ghani.

Meanwhile, program co-ordinator Christopher Mcilravy said he was overwhelmed by the support of the state government in furthering the festival which had already entered the third series.

"We have seen an increase in participants since the first series, with 32 people now exceeding hundreds of participants.

"We also have representatives from every country including the media who will promote and watch over the organization," he added.

The 'Terengganu Fly Fishing Festival' will take place for three days beginning yesterday and will end tomorrow.