SABAK BERNAM, Nov 8 — Community involvement through the Selangor Local Community Host (HKSS) programme is among the approaches to promote Sabak Bernam’s unique culture, heritage, and local products to both domestic and international tourists.
HKSS member Siti Amirah Mohammad Razali said her interest in becoming a tour guide encouraged her to join the programme a year ago to introduce the district’s attractions to visitors.
“Community-based approaches allow tourists to learn about the local culture, customs, and heritage through direct sharing by residents who better understand the identity of the area.
“Among the locations and products that can be highlighted in Sabak Bernam include local rice mills, small and medium enterprise products such as traditional food of the Javanese and Banjar communities, as well as Selangor Melon (MeloSel),” she told Media Selangor.
Siti also hopes that more youths will join HKSS to help expand tourism promotion efforts while supporting the Sabak Bernam Development Area (SABDA) in improving the district’s image and economic standing.
Meanwhile, fellow HKSS member Hasni Kassim said her involvement since the inaugural Ban Canal Carnival in 2022 has given local residents an opportunity to introduce interesting destinations and local products to visitors.
Her positive experiences participating in tour activities around Sabak Bernam had not only created memorable experiences for tourists but also encouraged them to share their experiences with friends and acquaintances.
“When tourists are satisfied with their experience throughout the tour activities, they will share their stories and invite more people to visit Sabak Bernam.
“Besides introducing interesting locations and local products, these activities also serve as a platform to strengthen relationships and foster understanding among communities of different races and countries,” Hasni said.
HKSS is a training initiative for local residents conducted over six months on weekends through tourism modules specially developed by Tourism Selangor.
The programme, which was introduced in 2018 with 21 participants, continued in 2019 with 30 participants before increasing to 49 participants in 2025, reflecting growing community participation in the local tourism sector.
