Mersing: The perception that Mersing is an 'old-world' district is certainly unfounded from certain perspectives, said Mersing district officer Jamil Hasni Abdullah. However, he clarified that the term 'old-world' does not imply backwardness, but rather highlights 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.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Jamil emphasized that 'old-world' in this context refers to environmental development, which is intentionally preserved. Mersing aims to maintain its forest reserves and uphold its sustainable tourism concept, 'Rainforest to Reef'. Efforts are also made to balance progress with sustainability, such as upgrading infrastructure on inhabited islands including Pulau Sibu, Pulau Tinggi, Pulau Besar, Pulau Pemanggil, and Pulau Aur.
Among the groups working diligently to safeguard these assets for future generations is the Mersing Marine Conservation Group (MMCG), comprising island youth and local communities. As a result, tourists can enjoy an authentic rainforest-to-sea experience, while local communities benefit from tourism development. Mersing is rapidly developing as a sustainable tourism hub, maritime economic center, and modern agricultural hub, all while preserving the unique culture of its communities.
Every development initiative is planned to ensure its benefits reach the people without compromising the district's beauty and heritage. 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. Key projects include the installation of LED street lights, upgrading recreational parks, roads, and pedestrian walkways, as well as repairs to stalls and hawker sites.
Various ongoing and completed development projects are expected to become new attractions, such as the Jemaluang Dairy Valley, the Peta Rainforest Discovery Centre, the Sultan Iskandar Marine Park information center on Pulau Besar, and the Pemanggil Jetty on Pulau Pemanggil.