Pictures by HAFIZ OTHMAN, HARUN TAJUDIN, FIKRI YUSOF and MOHD KHAIRUL HELMY MOHD DIN
For the school holidays, parents are looking for easily accessible, family-friendly recreational destinations that don’t require complicated plans so they may spend quality time with their children.
If you want to escape the city’s hustle and bustle without going far, Selangor offers various tourist destinations that many may not know of yet.
With traditional fishing villages, green padi fields, beautiful lakes and historic towns, Selangor has hidden gems aplenty, be they for short getaways or long vacations.
Most of these spots aren’t just easy to reach, but offer leisurely, educational and family-friendly experiences. Check out these must-visit destinations this school holiday.
Pulau Ketam, Klang
About a 35-minute ferry trip from Klang lies Pulau Ketam, which offers the unique experience of a fishing village surrounded by mangrove swamps.
The island is known for its floating homes, colourful walkways, and peaceful car-free environment, with residents’ main mode of transport being bicycles.
Other than enjoying fresh seafood, visitors can explore the villages on foot or on bicycle while observing fishermen’s way of life on the island that came to life at the end of the 19th century.
Tasik Biru Kundang, Rawang
This former mining pool has transformed into a popular recreational spot, with its serene waters and beautiful panoramic views to enjoy during family outings like picnics and jogging.
This is a favourite location among watersports enthusiasts with jetski and kayak facilities, and is a geosite within the Gombak-Hulu Langat Geopark.
Rawang Bypass
The elevated route isn’t just an alternative road to reduce traffic congestion, but an iconic location among photography lovers.
The 2.7km-long, 58m-high bridge offers a spectacular view of the skyline, especially in the mornings when heavy mist rolls into the area, which has earned it the name “Cloud-Parting Path”.
It is also recognised as an engineering project that has preserved environmental elements as it was built near a reserve forest, with minimal impact on the ecosystem.
Sekinchan, Sabak Bernam
For a view of endless padi fields, Sekinchan is a must-visit spot. Known as among Malaysia’s main padi producers, it offers a panoramic view of green fields during planting season, which yellow as the plants ripen and harvesting season nears.
Visitors can also stop by Pantai Redang to enjoy the sea breeze and sunset, and observe the daily lives of fishermen there.
Pekan Batu Arang, Gombak
History lovers would get a kick out of visiting this town, with its tours through the nation’s coal mining heritage. This tiny town was founded in 1911 when coal was discovered there, and was once one of Malaysia’s most important mining hubs.
Now, traces of its history remain, including old structures, mine tunnels, and heritage buildings, making it the perfect spot for photography and exploration. This town was recognised as a heritage site in 2011.
Klang’s museums and historic sites
As the Royal City of Selangor, Klang has a rich history and cultural heritage. Popular spots include the Sultan Abdul Aziz Royal Gallery, which tells the history of the Selangor sultanate, and various old buildings along Klang’s heritage paths.
Visitors can explore the old town centre which still features colonial architecture, and experience the cultural diversity that has helped Klang remain unique until today.
