Mersing, A District With ‘Old-World’ Charm Committed To Environmental Preservation

By Nur Faradilla Mohamad

MERSING, Nov 25 (Bernama) -- Perception that Mersing is a ‘kuno’ (old-world) district is certainly unfounded from certain perspectives, said Mersing district officer Jamil Hasni Abdullah.

However, he said the term ‘old-world’ does not imply backwardness, but rather refers to the district’s commitment to environmental preservation and sustainable tourism, including the conservation of forest reserves, marine ecosystems, coral reefs and wildlife to ensure its natural attractions remain intact.

“‘Old-world’ here refers to environmental development, something we intentionally preserve. We do not want to clear forests for development because we want to maintain our forest reserves, for which Mersing is known through its sustainable tourism concept, ‘Rainforest to Reef’.

“We also maintain a balance between progress and sustainability, including in upgrading infrastructure on the inhabited islands,” he said in an interview with Bernama recently.

Mersing has five inhabited islands namely Pulau Sibu, Pulau Tinggi, Pulau Besar, Pulau Pemanggil and Pulau Aur.

He said among groups that are working diligently to safeguard these ‘old-world’ assets for future generations is the Mersing Marine Conservation Group (MMCG), made up of island youth and local communities.

As a result, he said tourists can enjoy an authentic rainforest-to-sea experience, from going hiking, unwinding on beaches and scuba diving at Mersing’s beautiful islands, while local communities can participate and benefit from tourism development.

Jamil Hasni said beyond its natural beauty, Mersing is rapidly developing as a sustainable tourism hub, a maritime economic centre and a modern agricultural hub, while preserving the unique culture of its communities.

“Every development initiative is planned to ensure its benefits reach the people without compromising the beauty and heritage that define this district.

“Mersing is not just a place to visit, it is a district of the future where nature and progress move in tandem. Come to Mersing and experience its uniqueness for yourself,” he said.

He said the Mersing District Council has implemented several development projects this year with a total allocation of RM4.277 million.

“These projects aim to strengthen basic infrastructure, beautify public spaces and improve facilities for residents and tourists. Among the key projects undertaken are the installation of LED street lights, upgrading of recreational parks, roads and pedestrian walkways, as well as repairs to stalls and hawker sites,” he said.

Various ongoing and completed development projects are expected to become new attractions, including the Jemaluang Dairy Valley; the Peta Rainforest Discovery Centre; the Sultan Iskandar Marine Park information centre on Pulau Besar; and the Pemanggil Jetty on Pulau Pemanggil.

-- BERNAMA