Selangor MB only sees Kampung Baru Cina as tourist draw, says Pas Youth Chief

SHAH ALAM – Selangor Pas Youth Chief Mohamed Sukri Omar has slammed Selangor Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Amirudin Shari for highlighting only Chinese new villages as a tourist attraction.

Speaking at a media conference at the Selangor Pas Youth Office yesterday, Sukri expressed both sarcasm and concern over the state government’s focus on Chinese new villages for tourism, emphasising that Malay traditional villages across Selangor should also be preserved and promoted for their cultural heritage.

“I am ‘impressed’ with the Selangor Menteri Besar, as among all the traditional villages in the state, he seems to regard only Kampung Baru Cina as a tourist attraction. I am confident that tourists from outside the state will come seeking to experience the true Malay traditions that are deeply rooted in Selangor,” Sukri said.

He highlighted the significance of Malay traditional villages and recalled the efforts of Datuk Dr Ahmad Yunus Hairi, who previously served as a State Executive Councillor overseeing these villages.

“There are certainly many Malay traditional villages in Selangor. In fact, when he (Yunus) served as a State Executive Councillor overseeing these villages, he undertook various initiatives to attract visitors and promote tourism in these areas.

“These efforts highlight the potential of Malay traditional villages to serve as significant tourist attractions, and it is important that they be fully utilised,” he added.

Sukri clarified that his comments were not meant to oppose or diminish the Chinese community, emphasising that he recognises and appreciates the diversity in Selangor.

He stressed that the focus should remain on the roots of the state’s identity—the Malay traditional villages—ensuring they are preserved and protected rather than demolished.

He lamented that some of these villages have already disappeared from the historical map due to capitalist pressures and governments indifferent to the people.

Sukri also urged the state government to provide support and implement sustainable measures to safeguard the future of Malay traditional villages.

“While the existence of new Chinese villages is acknowledged, it is crucial that Malay traditional villages are not marginalised or neglected by government policies.

“Support and sustainable measures must be in place to maintain the continuity of these villages, safeguarding the cultural heritage of Selangor,” Sukri added.

On Nov 6, Amirudin highlighted the unique tradition of Chinese new villages in Selangor as a potential tourist attraction during the launch of the Best New Village Awards Selangor 2025.

He highlighted their historical significance and distinctive cultural features, including traditional cuisine, as key factors to promote heritage tourism.

Amirudin expressed optimism about attracting tourists, stating that the initiative could contribute to achieving the target of eight million visitors for Visit Selangor Year and build momentum for Visit Malaysia Year 2026.

He emphasised that the villages’ ability to preserve traditions amid modernization enhances their appeal for visitors.