GERIK / BANDING ISLAND, El Sky News – In a landmark collaboration for Visit Malaysia Year 2026, the states of Pahang and Perak have officially inaugurated the “Royal Belum-Temenggor Expedition 2026.” Launched today, January 3, 2026, this cross-border eco-tourism initiative is designed to showcase the ancient majesty of the Belum-Temenggor rainforest—estimated to be over 130 million years old—while setting a new professional standard for sustainable travel in Southeast Asia.
By joining forces, the two states aim to create a seamless “green corridor” for travelers, linking the lush wilderness of Perak’s Royal Belum State Park with the expansive eco-tourism gateways of Pahang.
Sustainable Glamping and Ancestral Heritage The expedition introduces a curated selection of “low-impact” travel experiences, specifically designed to protect the delicate biodiversity of the world’s oldest rainforest. Key features of the 2026 itinerary include:
- Boutique Eco-Glamping: Travelers can stay in solar-powered, luxury canvas lodges on Banding Island and along the banks of Lake Temenggor, offering a 360-degree immersion in nature without the carbon footprint of traditional resorts.
- Indigenous Heritage Tours: Led by certified guides from the local Jahai tribe, these tours provide a rare and respectful look into the traditional knowledge, medicinal plants, and ancestral customs of Malaysia’s original inhabitants.
- Wildlife Guardianship: The expedition emphasizes “responsible sighting” of iconic species, including the Malayan tiger, Asian elephant, and all 10 species of Malaysian hornbills, with a portion of all booking fees directly funding local conservation patrols.
A Surge in Global Demand The response from the international travel community has been nothing short of exceptional. Early data released during today’s launch indicates that bookings for February 2026 have already seen a 40% increase compared to the same period last year.
“The world is looking for authentic, soulful connections with nature,” a tourism spokesperson noted. “By partnering with our neighbors in Pahang, we are offering a unified and professional experience that respects both our heritage and our future. This expedition isn’t just about visiting a forest; it’s about preserving a living legacy.”
Professional Infrastructure and Accessibility To support the influx of eco-tourists, the government has upgraded the East-West Highway checkpoints and streamlined the Permit Application Process. Visitors can now apply for their Royal Belum entry permits via a unified digital portal, ensuring a “friendly and seamless” start to their journey.
A Vision for Visit Malaysia 2026 The Royal Belum-Temenggor Expedition serves as a flagship project for the Visit Malaysia 2026 campaign’s sustainability pillar. As travelers increasingly seek “off-the-grid” experiences that contribute to local communities, this collaboration between Pahang and Perak stands as a world-class blueprint for how tourism can become a force for environmental good.
Traveler Information Permits are mandatory for entry into the Royal Belum State Park. Travelers are encouraged to book via authorized eco-operators to ensure compliance with the 2026 “Green Travel” guidelines.
(Leakim Otid)
