Kampung Orang Asli Sayong Pinang Boosts Ecotourism With ATV Adventures

By Nur Fatin Mohmad Kadenen

KOTA TINGGI, March 8 (Bernama) -- Kampung Orang Asli Sayong Pinang is making waves as an emerging ecotourism destination, offering unique attractions that highlight the natural beauty and rich cultural heritage of the Jakun indigenous tribe.

Situated 40 kilometres from Kota Tinggi town, this 89.8-hectare village is home to over 300 residents, who primarily work as river fishermen, rubber tappers, and oil palm farmers.

The village has gained popularity among visitors through various tourism initiatives that transform it into more than just a place of residence.

Among the must-see attractions are the striking blue lake waters, cage fish farming, and traditional handicraft demonstrations. Visitors can also explore the burial sites of the Orang Asli and enjoy cultural dance performances that reflect the tribe’s heritage.

Recently, the village introduced an exciting new tourism product — adventure rides on all-terrain vehicles (ATVs), under the Sejahtera Komuniti MADANI (SejaTi MADANI) programme, valued at RM100,000.

The initiative, which began in November last year, has been met with overwhelming response, especially during school holidays.

Kampung Orang Asli Sayong Pinang Village Development and Security Committee chairman Jasni Amat said the allocation was used to purchase six ATV units and two container units, which serve as an office and storage space.

"So far, the feedback has been very encouraging. During school holidays, we receive bookings for two to three trips per day," he told Bernama recently.

Visitors can embark on a 30-minute ATV adventure along a one-kilometre trail, passing through 18 checkpoints named after various Orang Asli tribes. Along the route, they will enjoy scenic views of the blue lake and fish cages.

Jasni said there are future plans to build huts at each checkpoint, featuring unique Orang Asli architectural styles, as well as a campsite to further enhance the tourism experience.

Meanwhile, Tok Batin Majid Jantan expressed his gratitude to the federal and state governments for their continuous support in the village’s development.

"I've witnessed many positive changes in the village, especially with the introduction of the ATV adventure.

The residents' income has increased as more visitors come to explore our village. I hope the village will continue to progress with the government's ongoing support," he said.

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim highlighted the village’s success during the tabling of Budget 2025 in October last year, noting that its boat rental programme for fishing, kayaking, and ATV activities has boosted the residents' monthly income to RM15,000.

-- BERNAMA