This is a pity as Selangor has its fair share of captivating and fascinating places to visit. Its northern region, in particular, is home to many tourist spots just waiting to be discovered.
Tourism Selangor recently invited FMT Lifestyle on a media trip to Kuala Selangor and Sabak Bernam, which proved a great opportunity to discover many of these regions’ highlights, including lush landscapes, cultural activities, and recreational retreats.
Here are five places that explain why Kuala Selangor and Sabak Bernam should be the top choices for your next holiday destination.
Bukit Malawati
In the 16th century, a great fort was built on the site of this scenic spot. Today, it no longer keeps intruders out: instead, Bukit Malawati has become one of Kuala Selangor’s most popular tourist destinations.
A short hike will get you to the hill’s summit. Or if you prefer, hop on a local tram, which leaves regularly from a station in town.
There’s plenty to do here – you could stop by the Historical Museum and check out the cannons scattered on its grounds. Or why not rediscover your childhood at the local Traditional Games Museum?
You can also admire the towering Altingsburg Lighthouse, or check out the Poisoned Well, where historical traitors were believed to have been punished.
Bukit Malawati also offers amazing views of the surrounding countryside. Remember to watch out for troops of local macaques and other monkeys, who enjoy roaming all over the area.
Don’t worry, though: these amusing animals are mostly harmless… unless provoked!
Sekinchan Paddy Factory
When most people think of the town of Sekinchan, the lush fields of golden rice stalks often come to mind. It is, after all, one of the major rice-producing areas in the country.
Visitors here should thus make a beeline for the Paddy Gallery, which pays homage to the industry that put Sekinchan on the map.
From planting to packaging, every step of the rice-harvesting journey is displayed here, through video presentations, elaborate diagrams and informative displays. You’ll never look at your plate of fried rice in the same way again!
Various rice-processing tools through the ages are also exhibited alongside vintage crockery and kitchen utensils, as well as texts about the background of Sekinchan. Don’t leave without trying the site’s specialty, icy brown rice cendol.
Ah Ma House, Sekinchan
Ah Ma House in Sekinchan is a whimsical museum and shop that pays homage to the wonder and innocence of childhood.
You can find everything from cut-out paper dolls to red wooden clogs, as well as childhood treats such as Choki-Choki and haw flake candies, which are all sold here. The wide variety of vintage snacks, foods, toys and household items will take visitors on a trip down memory lane.
In addition, various locally sourced products such as dry noodles, sauces and preserves are available. The good folks at Ah Ma House also make beloved snacks such as kuih kapit on location, the traditional way.
Don’t forget to check out the domestic appliances from yesteryear on display, including a vintage gramophone, obsolete mobile phones, and an old television set. Watching younger visitors react to these antique pieces of technology can be quite amusing!
Sungai Panjang Firefly Boat Ride
Ready for a light show like no other? When the sun goes down in northern Selangor, head to the Sungai Panjang Firefly Conservation Centre and book a nighttime boat ride on the verdant banks of the local river.
Strap on your lifevest, smile at your boatman, and prepare for a leisurely cruise under the moonlight. Sungai Panjang at night is a beautiful sight: enjoy the calming sound of rustling leaves and lapping waves as your boat cuts a path through the tranquil waters.
It won’t be long until fireflies appear; watch them dance through the trees, glowing like little fairy lights. Some of them may drift near the boat, allowing you to catch them – but be gentle!
The sight of them lighting up in your grasp will linger in your memory long after the ride’s done.
Alternatively, head to Pasir Penambang in Kuala Selangor, where fireflies will greet you, too.
Sungai Panjang Agro Tourism
Thanks to its rich farming history, the town of Sungai Panjang plays host to a thriving agro-tourism scene, where unique sightseeing experiences are combined with rural and agricultural activities.
Book a spot at one of the many local homestays. One highlight here is the picturesque Nazbell Cottage, a rustic collection of chalets surrounded by scenic paddy fields.
This venue offers a host of enjoyable activities, including bicycle or ATV rides through the picturesque countryside.
The best part of these agro-tourism activities, however, is the chance to meet and mingle with the locals. Many of them have a unique skill or technique they can demonstrate for you.
These include traditional mengkuang weaving, cooking local foods, or Japanese tie-dying. You might even get the chance to try out one of these village crafts for yourself!
This article was written following a trip organised by Tourism Selangor. ‘Nak Bercuti? Pusing Selangor Dulu!’