Tourism Selangor pilots local experts programme

Tourism Selangor is piloting a state-endorsed initiative to train and certify locals in Sabak Bernam, Klang and Kuala Selangor as community experts to tourists.

Training for the first batch of 26 locals in the Selangor Community Host Programme, set to conclude in September, comprises four parts, each spanning four days over a five-month-period. It culminates in a written examination which candidates must pass to receive a certificate from the Department of Skills Development.

The certificate is also recognised by Malaysia’s Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture and Tourism Selangor.

Tourism Selangor general manager, Noorul Ashikin Mohd Din, said the pilot was initiated to groom community experts with knowledge of the history, culture, heritage, local food and the rich stories in their areas.

The project will also have a social impact, helping rural communities earn additional income through guiding and showcasing cottage industry products and local craft products.

Tourism Selangor will also help them market their services through its website, and the local experts can broker guiding arrangements with inbound agents, added Noorul.

She further shared that Tourism Selangor plans to roll out the training programme to four other districts in Selangor, namely Ulu Langat, Gombak, Ulu Selangor and Kuala Langat.

Read more...