ATV rides help power ecotourism in Orang Asli village

2026-03-28 - 00:50

The ATV trail at Kampung Orang Asli Sungai Tonggang stretches from the Kayuh D’Tonggang recreational site to the outskirts of the village. (Kayoh D’Tonggang Facebook pic) IPOH: On weekends, the quiet surroundings of Kayuh D’Tonggang, a nature reserve in Kampung Orang Asli Sungai Tonggang, Ulu Kinta, come alive with the roar of engines. Contrary to what one might think, the noise signals something positive – a growing source of income for the Orang Asli community that runs the nature-based recreational site. Last year, the villagers introduced all-terrain vehicle (ATV) rides as their latest attraction, adding a new adventure element to the destination that previously offered chalet stays and outdoor activities. “So far, the response to the ATV rides has been very encouraging,” Tok Batin (village chief) Che Wan Alang told Bernama. Located about 6km from Tanjung Rambutan in Perak, Kampung Orang Asli Sungai Tonggang is home to 453 residents from 137 families, all from the Temiar Orang Asli group. The Kayuh D’Tonggang recreational area opened its doors to visitors on Aug 23, 2023 as part of efforts to create new income opportunities for the community. Villagers previously depended primarily on forest resources for their livelihood. The ATV activity was made possible through a RM100,000 grant under the SejaTi Madani programme. “We purchased eight 125cc ATVs and two 200cc models, along with safety jackets, helmets and a trailer. We also built a garage to store the vehicles,” said Che Wan, 41. The ATV trail, which stretches from the recreational site to the outskirts of the village, passes through hilly terrain that adds a touch of excitement for riders. The ATV ride takes about 20 minutes, covering roughly 1km as visitors travel to the village, circle the area and return to the starting point. (Bernama pic) “Some visitors feel nervous at first because of the height, but most say they enjoy the experience as it lets them explore the village in a unique way,” he added. Rental rates are RM30 for the 125cc ATVs, and RM40 for the 200cc vehicles. Kayuh D’Tonggang also offers a variety of nature and cultural activities, including river bathing, nature walks, traditional Orang Asli dance demonstrations, blowpipe hunting, and weaving. “For the blowpipe activity, we first demonstrate how it works, then visitors can try it themselves,” Che Wan said, noting that each person gets five darts. Visitors can also climb an observation tower that has proven popular with birdwatchers, where around 25 bird species have been spotted. And those who wish to stay the night are welcome to rent chalets or camp onsite with family or friends. Currently, 19 villagers help manage the recreational area, including youths who work part-time on weekends. But despite growing interest, Che Wan said Kayuh D’Tonggang is still relatively unknown. As such, he hopes the site will continue improving the village’s socioeconomic conditions while creating job opportunities for younger residents. A destination for the entire family, Kayuh D’Tonggang offers a variety of outdoor activities, including nature walks and river bathing. (Bernama pic) Meanwhile, visitors have responded positively to the destination. Amira Hanis Asri, who visited Kayuh D’Tonggang for the first time, said the natural beauty of the area made the trip worthwhile. “The place is very beautiful and the river is shallow, which makes it suitable for children. The area is also very clean,” said the 38-year-old mother of three. “Anyone planning a family day or relaxing outing with family should come here,” she added, noting, however, that even as an Ipoh resident, she had not previously known about the site. Her sister-in-law, Khairul Anisah Khairul Anuar, 32, said she was particularly interested in giving the ATV activity a go on her next visit. “I definitely want to try it next time, as I’ve never ridden an ATV before,” she said enthusiastically. Learn more about Kayuh D’Tonggang on Facebook. Kayuh D’Tonggang Kampung Orang Asli Sungai Tonggang, Tanjong Rambutan, 31250 Ipoh, Perak Opening hours: 9am-6.30pm daily Contact: 013-500 8419