Seremban: The Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture (MOTAC) has allocated RM10.14 million to Negeri Sembilan this year under the Restoration, Conservation, Renovation, and Upgrading Programme (PPUN), as part of efforts to preserve heritage and strengthen the state's tourism sector. Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Aminuddin Harun stated that this allocation reflects the federal government's commitment to ensuring the state's heritage, tourism, and cultural identity are preserved, developed, and elevated.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, 18 tourism and conservation projects have been approved under PPUN in districts including Port Dickson, Kuala Pilah, Rembau, Jelebu, and Tampin. Aminuddin emphasized that these projects will enhance the state's tourism destinations and support the Visit Negeri Sembilan Year 2026 campaign.
He highlighted the RM1.2 million conservation and relocation of Masjid Lama Parit Istana to the Masjid Tanjung Beringin area as a key project aimed at preserving Islamic history and traditional Malay architecture. Additionally, RM800,000 has been allocated to upgrade 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.
Other projects include the maintenance of landmarks at the Sunggala Roundabout, the Lukut-Sepang junction, and the Port Dickson gateway, as well as the development of ecotourism at the Gunung Datuk Eco Forest Park, Kenaboi State Park, and Ulu Bendul Eco Forest Park. RM500,000 has been allocated for the Pulau Burung jetty and watchtower upgrade, which will create new opportunities for the maritime tourism sector and biodiversity conservation.
Aminuddin noted that based on Tourism Malaysia's accommodation survey, the state saw a significant rise in international tourist arrivals last year, with 0.46 million visitors compared to 0.34 million in 2023, marking a 35.1 percent increase. He added that this increase positioned Negeri Sembilan sixth among 13 states and three Federal Territories, making it one of Malaysia's emerging tourism destinations.