Discovering Pahang's Beauty On A Unique Train Adventure

KUALA LUMPUR, Dec 11 (Bernama) – Glimpses of lush greenery, picturesque villages and tranquil flowing rivers are some of the highlights of the newly introduced Pahang Rail Tourism product.

The east coast state is, after all, known for its extensive forest stretches, earning the rail journey the nickname ‘Old Jungle Rail’.  

The Pahang Rail Tourism product was launched by Pahang Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Wan Rosdy Wan Ismail last month. He said the product was developed by the state government, in collaboration with Tourism Pahang, Tourism Malaysia, Keretapi Tanah Melayu Bhd (KTMB) and the Pahang Barat Plus Economic Regional Development Unit.

Tourism Pahang recently organised a three-day Pahang Rail Tourism 2024 programme for media representatives and travel industry professionals to promote rail tourism in the Pahang Barat Plus economic region.

The programme kicked off at KL Sentral here, with the participants boarding a KTMB ETS (Electric Train Service) train to Gemas, Negeri Sembilan, a journey which took about two-and-a-half hours.

Next, they boarded a KTM commuter train to their final destination, Kuala Lipis, Pahang, arriving there five hours later.

The whole journey took nearly eight hours but there was not a single boring moment for the participants who feasted their eyes on breathtaking sights along the route.

This train trip surely has what it takes to create unforgettable memories for travellers, making it an excellent choice for a vacation with family or friends.

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Along the way, the participants also got to explore various interesting geo-sites such as Taman Negara Sungai Relau, Gua Sisik Naga, Gua Tahi Bintang and the historic town of Kuala Lipis.

One of the participants Noorafeza Rozali, 35, described the journey as an excellent choice for those seeking to explore the beauty of nature.

“Unlike other modes of transportation such as buses or planes, which are more focused on getting to the destination quickly, train vacations are not suitable for those in a hurry. However, they can be a truly enjoyable experience for those who want to savour the journey itself,” said the tour guide who is based in Kuantan, Pahang.

Noorafeza suggested that more activities be provided on board the train in view of the long travel time, making the journey more engaging and appealing, especially to the younger generation.

“Although the scenery is beautiful, the lengthy trip could be made more enjoyable with various on board activities, such as interactive games or group activities, rather than just sitting, sleeping or admiring the view.”

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Another participant Syed Amir Shah Syed Lope, 59, a cycling enthusiast, said he is happy the train has a dedicated coach to store bicycles, allowing him and his friends to travel without worrying about bike storage.

He believes this facility will attract more tourists to opt for the rail tourism package. He also suggested promoting scenic cycling routes to entice cyclists to discover the beauty of Pahang.

On the Pahang Rail Tourism product, he said it evoked nostalgia, reminding him of a time when trains were a primary mode of transportation for many.

Meanwhile, Pahang Unity, Tourism and Culture Committee chairman Leong Yu Man said the state’s rail tourism offering provides travellers with an alternative way to explore its rich natural treasures.

“It offers an opportunity to savour the tranquillity of the journey while appreciating the surrounding natural beauty,” she said.

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Leong added that beyond its natural wonders, travellers can also visit various historical landmarks, such as the old state mosque of Pahang and the clock tower, in Kuala Lipis, a town that served as Pahang’s capital until 1955.

-- BERNAMA