Major Allocation to Boost Tourism and Heritage
The Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture (MOTAC) has committed a significant RM10.14 million to Negeri Sembilan this year under its Restoration, Conservation, Renovation, and Upgrading Programme (PPUN). This substantial allocation is part of a strategic effort to preserve the state’s cultural heritage and significantly bolster its burgeoning tourism sector. According to Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Aminuddin Harun, this funding is a clear reflection of the federal government’s holistic and strategic commitment to ensuring that Negeri Sembilan’s unique heritage, tourism, and cultural identity are not only preserved but also actively developed and elevated. He further stated that this investment will be instrumental in rejuvenating various tourism destinations and will serve as a powerful catalyst for the state’s “Visit Negeri Sembilan Year 2026” campaign.
Diverse Projects for Conservation and Ecotourism
A total of 18 tourism and conservation projects have been approved to receive funding from this allocation, with initiatives spread across several key districts including Port Dickson, Kuala Pilah, Rembau, Jelebu, and Tampin. Among the highlighted projects is the RM1.2 million conservation and relocation of Masjid Lama Parit Istana, an effort aimed at safeguarding Islamic history and traditional Malay architecture. Additionally, a sum of RM800,000 has been earmarked for upgrading Masjid Tanjung Beringin, transforming it into a more inclusive heritage and worship center, while also improving the lighting and landscape of the Port Dickson Clock Tower. The allocation also supports the development of ecotourism at several locations, including Gunung Datuk Eco Forest Park, Kenaboi State Park, and Ulu Bendul Eco Forest Park, alongside a RM500,000 fund to upgrade the Pulau Burung jetty, which will create new opportunities for maritime tourism and biodiversity conservation.
Impressive Tourism Growth and Future Outlook
This new investment from MOTAC is timed to capitalize on the recent impressive growth in Negeri Sembilan’s tourism sector. Based on a Tourism Malaysia accommodation survey, the state recorded a significant increase in international tourist arrivals last year, welcoming 0.46 million visitors compared to 0.34 million in 2023, representing a remarkable surge of 35.1%. This strong performance placed Negeri Sembilan in sixth position among the 13 states and three Federal Territories, officially cementing its status as one of Malaysia’s emerging tourism destinations. This upward trend in visitor numbers provides a strong and optimistic backdrop for the newly funded projects, as the state continues to gain recognition and attract more tourists in the lead-up to its major tourism campaign in 2026.
