Freewheeling times ahead

Cycling adventure: Participants of the Cuti-Cuti 1Malaysia Bike Ride George Town riding in the heritage enclave.

The Tourism Ministry’s Cuti-Cuti 1Malaysia Cycling Package has been well-received by cycling enthusiasts, associations and the travel trade industry. Its domestic marketing director Musa Yusof said the country had the potential to become a top cycling destination. “Professional cyclists will find our cities and towns are well-connected with highways and roads that offer scenic routes and all kinds of terrains.

“However, according to a recent listing, Malaysia was not among the top 10 cycling destinations in Asian. “Thailand and Vietnam made the list. “However, I’m sure we can become a top cycling destination if we put in a little more effort into our cycling packages,” he said.
He said those living in villages and plantations could increase their income by catering to the cyclists on the tours. “For instance, in Balik Pulau, villagers could offer homestay or food catering or sell handicraft to help increase their income,” he said. He was speaking during the Cuti-Cuti 1Malaysia Bike Ride George Town at the Tanjung City Marina, Weld Quay, Penang, yesterday.

The half-day event was organised in conjunction with the Cuti-Cuti 1Malaysia Cycling Package launched by Tourism Minister Datuk Seri Ng Yen Yen on April 1 in Raub, Pahang. Penang was the fourth state in the country to participate in the nationwide campaign.

Musa later led a convoy of some 200 trishaw and bicycle riders on a 3.8km route through Jalan Mesjid Kapitan Keling, Lebuh Cannon, Lebuh Armenian, Lebuh Farquhar, Lebuh Light, Jalan Tun Syed Sheh Barakbah, Jalan Padang Kota Lama and Pengkalan Weld. Colouring contests, crossword puzzles and free health checks were among the other activities held.
In George Town, the trishaw and bicycle packages are jointly developed by the Tourism Ministry and local travel agents to promote arts, culture, food and heritage.The packages, ranging from half-a-day to three-day-two-night tours, include accommodation and a guide. Prices range from RM98 to RM318.
For details, call 04-2505055 (Ever Best Holidays)/2623790 (Pinang Jaya Holiday)/2632145 (Ravi Sharma Travel)/2266161 (Sin Pen Travel)/ 6433585 (Suria Indah Holiday).
-thestar online.