Lenggong, Perak - Cultural Economy Catalytic Grants (CECG) and Partnership

Featured Project Site

Lenggong, Perak

Sustainable development, community-based tourism and an inclusive storytelling approach to build the local economy and an inclusive community.

A sustainable village using local indigenous skills and materials

Among projects that demonstrate the catalytic impact of support provided by the NRAN programme is the restoration of the traditional thatched roof and bridge of SukaSuka Lake Retreat in Lenggong.

This project showcases traditional techniques, locally sourced materials and indigenous craftsmanship. It also tells intricate stories of eight Old Malay houses relocated from elsewhere in Perak. The retreat, features a sustainable village concept, offers guests an experience of village ambience and a chance to savour the local way of life.

(Grantee: Asiah binti Mohd Ridzuan)

Community-based tourism, not mass tourism to develop local economy

Rumah Tiang 16 is a heritage stay run by former hotelier Nasir Jalaludin, who has three decades of experience. He created a community-based tourism website to market and brand Lenggong’s UNESCO listing, key attractions, and tangible and intangible heritage. The website also listed unique offerings of about 30 micro businesses and accommodations, providing business opportunities for the locals.

(Grantee: Abdul Nasir bin Jalaludin)

Creating an inclusive and welcoming space for all

Repairing and decluttering Wakaf Che Teh Fatimah, a traditional Malay house in Kampung Sira used as a community centre, made the building more presentable and transformed it into a dynamic focal point for community gatherings, philanthropic endeavours and festivals. In addition, the interior and landscape were improved to make the space welcoming for all. The house now hosts a resource centre, live demonstrations of traditional culinary craftsmanship and an art gallery.

(Grantee: Mohd Suhaimi bin Ahmad)

Fostering community-led tourism and young talents to promote preservation and sustainable development

This project conducted the capacity-building project to foster community-led tourism and educate the younger generation. It boosted knowledge and awareness of Lenggong’s UNESCO World Heritage status and the significant value of archaeological finds in the valley. The project benefitted 214 local heritage interpreters and tour guides and 516 local high school students.

(Grantee: Prof. Dr. Stephen Chia, Centre for Global Archaeological Research, CGAR, USM)

Crossroads of the Ancient World - Lenggong

Don, a renowned artist of Gila-Gila, vividly illustrates a graphic novel that records the journey of Malaysia’s first trained archaeologist, Emeritus Professor Dato’ Dr Siti Zuraina binti Abdul Majid, as she makes remarkable archaeological discoveries in Lenggong Valley. The graphic captures the story of prehistoric society and migration in two languages (Malay and English).

(Grantee: Saadon Ishak)

Lenggong World Heritage Site and the Town History

It is the first Mandarin publication on the UNESCO site and the town’s history, in view of the lack of resources accessible by Chinese locals and visitors. It includes the UNESCO site and map, the town’s evolution, community history in aquaculture and agriculture and stunning photographs of Lenggong’s rolling hills and natural wonders.

(Grantee: Looi Kok Keong)

(Un)Covering Lenggong Valley Architecture and Archaeology

This publication examines geomorphology, social, habitation and human behaviour in Lenggong Valley through the eyes of architectural students and history enthusiasts. It narrates and visualises history, culture and social stories using infographics and cartography in two languages (Malay and English).

(Grantee: James Lim Chin Wai, UCSI)

An Eco challenge to raise awareness and preserve Chenderoh Lake’s ecosystem

Set in the picturesque Kampung Beng located along the Chenderoh Lake in Lenggong, the aim of the Kampung Beng Mini Amazon Eco Challenge was to boost awareness on the ecosystem of the lake and educate anglers on how to identify native freshwater fish species and invasive fish species that are harmful to the lake ecosystem.

(Grantee: Roslan Abd Rahman)

Episode 2

Catalysts of Change: Empowering Culture in Lenggong

For more details and stories, watch the full video.

Implementing Partners

Featured Sites

Implementing Partners

Taiping, Perak

Kinta Valley and Other Sites in Perak

Note: A selection of projects is featured here to showcase the diverse initiatives and highlight the network connecting the unique archaeological, natural, and cultural assets across the northern region. For a complete list of all grantees and partners who benefited from the programme, please view the full list.