Ipoh, 21 November 2025 - In anticipation of Visit Malaysia 2026 (VM2026), Perbadanan Kemajuan Negeri Perak (PKNPk) Group is driving a new phase of tourism developments through the restoration of strategic assets, operational restructuring, and the introduction of innovative tourism products. This initiative is aligned with the Perak Sejahtera 2030 plan and the state leadership’s commitment to positioning Perak as a leading tourism destination in the region. To date, PKNPk has allocated approximately RM5.5 million to enhance key attractions across Perak.
PKNPk emphasised that the restoration efforts of state-owned tourism assets are part of its overall strategy to strengthen Perak’s tourism ecosystem as effective drivers of local economic growth. This approach not only instills renewed confidence in industry players but also demonstrates the state government’s commitment in addressing post-pandemic legacy issues systematically and transparently.
Among the key projects underway is the restoration of the Casuarina Houseboat@Temenggor 1, which has been non-operational since July 2024 due to technical issues. Following detailed assessment, PKNPk has appointed a contractor for critical engine and structural repairs, scheduled for completion in December 2025. The iconic houseboat is projected to resume full operations by February 2026, just in time to support the revitalisation of Belum-Temenggor's eco-tourism sector ahead of VM2026.
This initiative forms part of the northern corridor development strategy agenda, including two new components designed to attract premium tourist segments. PKNPk reaffirms its commitment to sustainable eco-tourism development and ensuring the preservation of the Belum-Temenggor habitat while generating economic benefits for local communities.
At the state’s flagship island destination, Hotel Casuarina@Pangkor is also undergoing an extensive rebranding efforts. Its temporary closure is a strategic decision to allow for an integrated upgrading plan for a cohesive and impactful redevelopment. This includes the introduction of Water Villas, an over-water accommodation concept that aligns with and enhances the development of the Lumut Maritime Industrial City (LuMIC) and the gazettement of the waterbody area. Technical plans are being finalized and construction is expected to begin early 2028, with completion scheduled for 2030, marking a new chapter in Pangkor's tourism landscape.
At the same time, Balai Gambang Cempaka Sari, the iconic royal cruise vessel on the Perak River, has resumed operations following a successful restoration. The revival of this heritage asset not only reinstates the royal historical nostalgia of Perak but also breathes new life into river tourism, which is increasingly popular among domestic and international visitors.
Beyond hospitality developments, PKNPk is also strengthening community infrastructure and heritage preservation in Bandar Meru Raya, which now functions as a multi-purpose activity hub of local and global scale. Casuarina Hotel @ Meru and Casuarina Convention Centre continues to be the heart of hospitality in Meru Raya, with facilities and service enhancements to support official government programmes, corporate conventions and a growing number of community events.
Within the vicinity, Bulatan Sultan Azlan Shah (BSAS), has been upgraded with the installation of fully operational Smart Solar Streetlights. BSAS continues to be a focal point for local communities, which includes hosting the longest Ramadan Bazaar in Perak, stretching 500 meters and benefiting over 100 local SMEs. The location is being further enhanced as a venue for state, national, and international events.
Additionally, PKNPk reaffirms its commitment to preserving the traditional Malay houses in Meru Raya. The heritage asset is undergoing restoration works to transform the heritage asset into a local entrepreneurship hub or restaurant and is expected to be operational in the first quarter of 2026. It aims to be among the many local attractions in Meru Raya.
Through Majuperak Holdings Berhad, the PKNPk Group continues to expand eco-tourism development by managing several of the state’s most important assets, including Tasik Cermin, which welcomed over 600,000 visitors in 2025 and received the “Best Accessible Tourism Initiative Award”. Majuperak will begin full management of Gua Tempurung in early 2026 as a key step in modernising state tourism assets. This will be followed by the development of new facilities including glamping sites, an adventure hub, and safety upgrades. Monthly visitors are targeted to increase from 10,000 to 25,000 within the first year.
In Teluk Batik, development of a modern resort with 29 accommodation units is being planned, with construction expected to begin in mid-2026 to meet growing demands in the rapidly developing Manjung district. PKNPk emphasised that these efforts are part of a large-scale, phased, and data-driven execution that will be implemented aggressively. The focus is to ensure state assets are not only restored but also developed into sustainable sources of economic growth for the people, in line with the aspirations of the YAB Chief Minister of Perak.
