Some 10,000 people attended the 3-day carnival celebrating the recreational offerings od Ban Canal
SABAK BERNAM, 10TH DECEMBER 2023 – The Karnival Ban Canal 2023 culminated today celebrating the unique essence of community, cultural richness, and a commitment to sustainable eco-tourism in Sabak Bernam. Organised by Menteri Besar Selangor (Incorporated) (“MBI”) as part of the Sabak Bernam Development Area (SABDA) initiative, this three-day carnival showcased local identity, environmental stewardship, and a shared vision for a sustainable future.
With a notable 10,000 attendees so far, the carnival has successfully brought together locals and visitors to immerse themselves in the natural beauty and cultural heritage of Sabak Bernam. The promise of the Ban Canal as a contemporary recreational and eco-tourism hotspot stands as a testament to the region’s dedication to preserving its historical and environmental treasures.
Diverse activities at the core of the carnival not only showcased local talent and traditional skills, but also fostered a sense of unity and pride within the community. Amongst the carnival highlights with 14 activities participated by 1,200 individuals, were the Traditional Boat Race, Rekacipta Boat Inovasi and Larian Bendang.
YAB Dato’ Seri Amirudin Shari, Menteri Besar of Selangor, highlighted, “The development of SABDA not only focuses on attracting significant investments to drive new economy, but also delves into the activities and support needed to rebuild the community’s life here and aid existing projects through grants, technology infusion, and skills enhancement, among others.”
Recognised as a key economic zone under Rancangan Selangor Pertama (RS-1), the SABDA initiative driven by MBI seeks to ensure Selangor’s food security by supporting agriculture projects in Sabak Bernam and advance Selangor’s blue economy, which will focus on the development of the region’s fishing industry including downstream production of seafood, while promoting eco-tourism in aquaculture and agriculture with minimal environmental impact. SABDA is expected to bring in some RM 1.9 billion in investments that will provide job opportunities for 3,600 people.
Datuk Hj Rizam Hj Ismail, SABDA Chairman who is also the State executive councillor for rural development announced that Karnival Ban Canal will become a major eco-tourism event in the annual SABDA calendar, and hoped to see it listed in the Visit Selangor Year 2025 campaign adding that “we hope to welcome more participants and visitors from across Malaysia in future editions”.
Meanwhile, Puan Hajah Norita, MBI Chief Executive Officer, explained that MBI’s commitment to inject new verve into Sabak Bernam extended beyond the carnival by promoting eco-tourism. Regarding financial and technology support to local businesses to improve incomes, she explained that “any grant will encompass skill development aspects to empower the local community. Our goal is to assist the residents of Sabak Bernam in understanding the best ways to utilise new methods for maximum output in farming and fishing, thereby ensuring the future sustainability of businesses and the well-being of the community.”
