Terengganu state government is about to prioritize diversifying its tourism products by next year to boost the state’s economy.

Recently, Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Samsuri Mokhtar said that Terengganu was blessed with diversity along with natural heritage, culture, arts and a variety of products, as well as destinations to make it a prime destination for domestic and international tourists.

He said RM4 million would be allocated to promote signature and prestigious events involving the local community of Terengganu.

He said “Pulau Bidong which is also known as ‘Little Saigon’ will be transformed into a cultural tourism product. We should also be proud of Tasik Kenyir which registered 776,000 visitors last year. Tasik Kenyir is also home to 12 species of hornbills and we have aptly declared the 260sq km lake dotted with 340 islands as Kenyir Hornbills Valley,”.

Ariffin Deraman, state Tourism, Culture and Information Technology chairman said the government planned to create a cultural village at the state museum in Losong, which is expected to be realized early next year.

He said that tourism in Terengganu was not confined to only sea and beaches, but included traditional foods, handicrafts and other products that appeal to visitors even during the monsoon season.

He added, “The Terengganu drawbridge is the latest iconic attraction in the city and it has drawn many visitors even before its launch in August,”.

To show its commitment is diversifying its tourism products, the State Museum, for example, has introduced interactive programs that involve the participation of families, including an “explore race” around the complex.