Taiping: The Taiping Municipal Council (MPT) has entered into a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Bukit Merah Laketown Resort (BMLR) and Bukit Merah Orang Utan Island Foundation (BMOUIF) to advance tourism, conservation, and education initiatives in Perak.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the MoU was formalized by MPT president Mohamed Akmal Dahalan, Bukit Merah Sdn Bhd director Md Nazri Tumin, and BMOUIF chairman Prof Emeritus Datuk Dr Abdul Latif Mohamad at a ceremony at the Taiping Zoo and Night Safari Pavilion. This strategic partnership is set to develop an integrated ecosystem for tourism, education, conservation, and community development, thereby reinforcing the connection between two of Perak's leading tourist destinations, Taiping and Bukit Merah.

Mohamed Akmal stated that the collaboration would bring forth various initiatives, including the creation of integrated tourism packages, cross-promotion between destinations, educational and conservation programs, development of new tourism products, and community and sustainability programs designed to benefit the public. He emphasized that this MoU marks the beginning of efforts to establish a more cohesive tourism ecosystem in Perak, which will provide economic opportunities and foster sustainable community development.

Md Nazri highlighted that the alliance would not only boost visitor numbers to both destinations but also create economic opportunities for local entrepreneurs. The collaboration aims to encourage longer tourist stays and higher spending in the state. Additionally, it serves as a vital platform to raise awareness of environmental and biodiversity conservation, especially among the younger generation, by exposing them to conservation efforts and the importance of safeguarding natural heritage.