RAUB: Local tour and homestay operators should be more creative in promoting tourist attractions here.

MCA vice-president Datin Paduka Chew Mei Fun said unique features could be included in their packages to tempt local and foreign visitors.

“Raub is strategically located and an alternative route to the east coast states.

“We should take full advantage of the natural surroundings and unexplored sites to further boost tourism.

“For example, I am sure many urbanites will enjoy spending a few nights here to experience village life, away from the hustle and bustle of the city.

“We need to be innovative and engage others through social media,” she said during a dialogue with local operators and residents in Laman Persona Resort & Spa here.

Chew said it was time to move beyond promoting musang king durian which the district is renowned for.

“Raub has much more to offer including local delicacies and homegrown food outlets, pristine waterfalls and gushing rapids.

“Those yearning for outdoor adventure can trek up hills and explore caves,” she said.

On another matter, Chew said many local men who had to stay back to continue running family businesses in Raub could not find life partners.

“Many women are leaving for better job offers in the city.

“I was told some men had no choice but to marry foreign women because there are not many locals around.

“Let’s create more opportunities for people here. With steady economic growth, locals need not leave,” she said, adding that projects in the district should focus on sustainable development without affecting the natural environment.

Last year, Chew mooted and launched the “Discover Raub” initiative to help promote the district and create economic opportunities to benefit locals.

-The Star-