SHAH ALAM, March 28 — Klang is looking to up its tourism appeal by transforming its rich heritage into a pedestrian-focused experience with 18 thematic heritage paths.
According to the Klang Royal City Council (MBDK), the initiative is aimed at preserving the city’s cultural and historical identity while promoting it to a wider audience.
Klang Mayor Datuk Abd Hamid Hussain said the effort is built on themed narratives designed to enhance urban spaces and promote local identity amid rapid development.
“It is based on themed narratives to transform urban spaces to strengthen local identity,” he said, as reported by The Star.
He added that the move towards themed heritage walks is to ensure Klang’s growth does not come at the expense of its legacy.
“Our initial Jejak Warisan Bandar Diraja Klang and Jejak Laman Seni Safari heritage walks with tour guides on weekends have been a tourist draw.
“Based on the success of these two walks, launched in 2010 and 2020 respectively, we have drawn up 18 thematic heritage walk routes for the next five years of tourism,” he said.
According to Hamid, the new routes will combine culture, tradition, and gastronomy, linking the modern city centre with the charm of Klang’s old town.
Among the planned routes are Jejak Warisan Kota Raja, Jejak Kampung Warisan and the food-themed Jejak Pesona Selera Warisan, as well as coastal and river-based trails such as Jejak Warisan Pelabuhan Klang and Jejak Warisan Sungai Klang.
He said the rollout will be phasic to allow for site enhancements and the installation of necessary infrastructure.
“We will promote the routes in stages as we need to improve the sites and install information panel boards.
“These boards will map the route and explain the area to tourists, backpackers, and visitors who want to explore on their own,” he said.
To boost Klang’s status as a main tourism destination, MBDK is leveraging iconic landmarks such as Masjid Diraja Sultan Suleiman, Kota Raja Mahadi, and SMK Methodist ACS Klang.
Meanwhile, MBDK Corporate Communication Department director Norfiza Mahfiz said the council aims to balance conservation with modern revitalisation.
She added that plans are being considered to introduce a river cruise along Sungai Klang.
“We hope private companies come in to manage the operations and give visitors unique travel experiences.
“Klang needs a financial grant for a heritage-led urban regeneration to make the city more competitive and enhance the visitor experience,” Norfiza said.
Hamid meanwhile said the long-term goal is for the heritage walks to drive the city’s economy.
“Thematic heritage routes create a competitive tourist market and will act as an economic engine for job creation and increased revenue,” he added.
