Ipoh: Ipoh is set to further strengthen its tourism appeal with a RM12.5 million boost for the Kinta Riverfront upgrade and plans to make the Ipoh Coffee Festival an annual event. Housing and Local Government Minister Nga Kor Ming announced this initiative following the successful opening ceremony of the inaugural Ipoh Coffee Festival 2026, highlighting the city's potential to draw visitors with its unique heritage, food, and coffee culture.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, the four-day festival, which extends through Sunday, has already attracted large crowds from across Malaysia and foreign tourists to the historic Ipoh Old Town. Nga stated that RM12.5 million would be allocated in partnership with the Tourism, Arts and Culture Ministry to upgrade the landscape and infrastructure along the Kinta Riverfront, establishing it as a notable urban regeneration landmark to enhance Perak's tourism.
Nga, who is also the Kepayang assemblyman, emphasized that the project aims to revitalize the century-old heritage district and the Kinta riverfront, thereby enhancing the overall visitor experience. Moreover, the Perak government plans to institutionalize the Ipoh Coffee Festival and Ipoh Food Festival, known as Jom, Makan Ipoh!, as annual events, thanks to efforts by State Tourism, Investment, Industry and Corridor Development Committee Chairman Loh Sze Yee.
He expressed confidence that these strategic moves would bolster Ipoh's tourism offerings and promote the city's distinctive food and coffee heritage to a broader audience. A notable highlight of the festival was the participation of 13 veteran Ipoh white coffee masters, each possessing decades of experience, who shared the traditional art of brewing the city's signature beverage.
Nga underscored the cultural significance of these masters, noting, "The masters standing on stage today represent some of Ipoh's most precious cultural heritage. A world-class city must have its branding and heritage; we must preserve this taste and tradition so that the aroma of Ipoh white coffee can continue to reach the world."
Looking ahead, Nga announced plans for an Ipoh White Coffee Master Competition at the next year's festival, aimed at providing a stage for white coffee brewers to exhibit their skills. This competition is expected to preserve the craftsmanship behind Ipoh white coffee and further promote one of the city's most recognizable brands on an international scale.
The inaugural festival witnessed the Kinta Riverfront bustling with thousands of visitors, engaging in coffee brewing demonstrations and enjoying various activities, including musical and cultural performances, throughout the historic district.