Turning Serdang locals into tourism ambassadors
Wong addressing participants during the training session at the college located in Seri Kembangan.
A NEW initiative has been launched to turn 1,000 residents in Serdang, Selangor, into social media savvy tourism ambassadors with digital storytelling skills.
The Serdang Tourism Ambassador programme, a collaboration between Seri Kembangan assemblyman Wong Siew Ki's office and Portman College, kicked off with its first weekend class.
Participants were taught how to create short videos for platforms like TikTok and Instagram to promote Serdang's attractions.
'This programme shows Serdang residents how to create short videos using TikTok so these ambassadors can share the beauty and uniqueness of Seri Kembangan or Serdang to potential visitors,' said Wong.
While the programme's focus is on youths aged 13 and above, there is no age limit.
(From left) MBSJ Zone 22 councillor Tey Boon Kiat, Wong and Chan at the press conference.
Wong is working with non-governmental organisations, tuition centres and schools to increase participation.
'We are now targeting younger ones, but anyone who really wants to learn digital media skills is welcome,' she said.
Participants will not be paid but each will receive a T-shirt, badge, certificate and a Serdang tourism map.
To reach the 1,000-person goal, organisers plan to hold at least 20 classes, each with some 30 to 50 participants.
These sessions will be arranged based on demand.
The programme supports Visit Selangor Year 2025 and aims to prepare residents for Visit Malaysia Year 2026.
'Not every youth wants to be a YouTuber or TikToker, but I believe each of us like to share what's special about our hometown,' Wong said.
Workshop participants with their Serdang tourism ambassador certificates. — LOW BOON TAT/The Star
'Let's master the skills to take better photos and videos so that content can be of high quality.'
She added that the initiative could also help support the local economy and leave a positive impression on visitors.
Portman College chief executive officer Gym Chan praised the community's enthusiasm, saying he was surprised by the level of interest and willingness to learn.
'They want to learn how to take better photos and shoot better videos,' he said.
Chan said the college's graduates guide participants in using platforms such as Xiaohongshu, Facebook, Instagram and TikTok.
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