A roaring good time at GL Play's ‘Rimba Safari'
Visitors relishing their chance to feed hungry hungry hippos at last weekend's 'Rimba Safari' event. (Moganraj Villavan @ FMT Lifestyle)
PETALING JAYA : It was a thrilling time filled with fun and adventure last weekend when GL Play's hosted its inaugural 'Rimba Safari' event.
Held at the Paya Indah Discovery Wetlands (PIDW) on May 10 and 11, 'Rimba Safari' featured an exciting array of outdoor experiences designed to connect families and nature lovers with the area's rich natural ecosystem.
Special promotions, such as 'buy 1-for-1″ deals on selected park rides, only sweetened the deal.
PIDW is a biodiversity sanctuary located at Gamuda Cove, managed and operated by Gamuda Land. Spanning approximately 450ha, these gazetted wetlands serve as a crucial ecotourism hub in the southern Klang Valley and are a vital habitat for endangered species.
'Attractions like PIDW showcase the beauty of Selangor's natural landscapes and inspire a sense of responsibility towards protecting them,' Gamuda Land representative Liong Ve Lyn said.
'Guests can connect with the natural world through engaging outdoor experiences and learn about the importance of preserving its beauty.'
One of highlights was this exciting pushbike competition for kids. (Moganraj Villavan @ FMT Lifestyle)
Among the weekend's highlights was a pushbike competition, which saw excited young participants giving their all for a shot at biking glory. Also taking place were a bustling bazaar and a buzzing go-kart track.
'Rimba Safari' was also an excellent way to showcase some of the park's activities, such as land fishing and boat cruises, which are available on a weekly basis. Nature-loving visitors will likely enjoy a rugged ride via a Safari truck or on horseback!
The park's 'Nature Wanderlust' experience is an excellent way to see and take in this lush wetlands paradise. Go on a trek through the Bamboo Trail, or visit the picturesque Sendayan Lake during sunset. Spotting wild birds can be a real 'trill'!
Don't forget to check out Rumah Melayu, a traditional Malay-style kampung house on the grounds that has been featured in several local productions. Then grab a bite at Belibis Café, which offers a range of local-style dishes.
Visitors enjoying a boat cruise on a tranquil lake: one of the many attractions at Paya Indah Discovery Wetlands. (Moganraj Villavan@FMT Lifestyle)
The biggest attraction here may well be the chance to get up close and personal with wildlife in a safe, respectful and enriching environment.
The Petting Zoo hosts a variety of fascinating animals, from tiny Falabella horses and chatty mynah birds to slithery ball pythons and fluffy rabbits. There were even elephants on the grounds!
For a real walk on the wild side, visit the Hippo Pond and admire the sight of these majestic mammals basking in the sun. Or head to the Crocodile Lake, which hosts about 73 of these remarkable reptiles.
Here's a tip: time your visits around feeding times to experience truly unforgettable encounters with these animals!
Get acquainted with adorable animals such as this Falabella horse at the Petting Zoo. (Moganraj Villavan @ FMT Lifestyle)
And, with various MoUs signed with a reputable zoo operators and accommodation providers, the park is expected to undergo more exciting developments soon.
All in all, a visit to the Paya Indah Discovery Wetlands is certainly a fun and exciting way to spend a weekend!
Paya Indah Discovery Wetlands
Discovery Wetlands Centre Discovery Park,
Gamuda Cove,
42700 Kuala Langat, Selangor
Opening hours: 9am-5pm daily (closed on Wednesdays except during school or public holidays)
For location, click here. Visit GL Play's website for more information.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Malay Mail
4 hours ago
- Malay Mail
Loke: Cruise tourism to fuel Malaysia's economy, with Penang primed as regional home port
GEORGE TOWN, June 10 — Malaysia can become a premier cruise tourism destination in South-east Asia as the country looks into transforming the sector into a key driver of national economic growth and local community development. Transport Minister Anthony Loke Siew Fook said the cruise industry has the potential to do more than just bring in foreign visitors. It can create thousands of jobs, elevate local heritage and culture, and promote Malaysia to the world. 'We want cruise tourism to directly benefit local communities, whether through cultural tours, port services, local food, handicrafts, or heritage experiences,' he said after officiating CruiseWorld Malaysia 2025 here today. He stated that it is not only about attracting tourists to the country but also giving visitors a chance to experience Malaysia. Loke said every cruise ship that docks in Malaysia generates significant economic activities, not only for the tourism escorts, but also for surrounding communities and small businesses. 'Each cruise ship arrival contributes to tourism revenue and also provides opportunities for cultural exchange and economic activities on the ground,' he said. He called on cruise operators and industry players to view Malaysia as a strategic home port for long-term operations instead of viewing it as a transit destination. 'Malaysia should be seen as a place to begin and end voyages, provide logistical support, and foster long-term cooperation,' he said. He also noted that making Malaysia as the home port will bring in benefits such as tourist arrivals, higher tourism revenue and stronger contribution to the Gross Domestic Product and growth in local economies. 'Penang can play a role in becoming a home port too,' he said, adding that the Swettenham Pier Cruise Terminal currently accommodates up to two large ships at once and plans are underway to expand it and position it as a regional cruise hub. 'Penang receives between 100 and 200 cruise ships annually, sometimes two or three in a single day. 'We want Penang Port to enhance its terminal capacity and become a key home port in the region,' he added. He noted that there needs to be close collaboration with airlines if Penang is to become a home port, as connectivity for international tourists is essential. 'Strategic collaboration between airports and ports is crucial so tourists can fly straight to Penang, embark on a cruise, and make Malaysia their destination of choice,' he said. Loke also emphasised the importance of continuing to upgrade existing port infrastructure in order to remain competitive in the region and attract high-quality foreign investment. He pointed out that next year is Visit Malaysia Year, presenting an opportunity to boost cruise tourism as a crucial component of Malaysia's transportation, tourism, and trade strategies. 'Malaysia has long been an attractive destination, but we don't just want to be a good destination, we want to become a world-class one,' he said. He said stakeholders will need to work together to ensure the success of Visit Malaysia 2026 while positioning the country as a leading cruise tourism destination in the region. When asked about regional collaboration, Loke also expressed support for Thailand's proposal to develop Asean as a single tourism market, including the introduction of a common visa that would allow seamless travel across member countries. 'We shouldn't compete against each other within Asean. Instead, we should collaborate to promote the region as one of the world's top tourism destinations,' he said.
Malay Mail
9 hours ago
- Malay Mail
‘Kopi lama', ‘kerabu' and ‘kampung' charm: A hidden Kelantanese breakfast haven in Bandar Mahkota Cheras
KUALA LUMPUR, June 10 – Beneath the leafy shade of mature trees, this humble breakfast spot offers Kelantanese favourites – the sweet pleasures of roti titab, the inimitable blue tint of nasi kerabu, and more. Welcome to Baba Kafe, what I consider a most wonderful discovery hidden in a verdant corner of Bandar Mahkota Cheras. (It's the usual story of the place we wanted to visit having an unexpected day off... which worked well in our favour as it turns out.) Part of Baba Kafe's appeal is its back-to-nature, 'kampung' style setting. Part of this unassuming eatery's appeal is its back-to-nature environment. Lush greenery, with both open-air and indoor seating. A kampung style escape in the heart of the city. Built in the style of a rustic hut, the shop itself has a nostalgic charm with tables made from reclaimed wood and plenty of fans (ceiling, wall and tabletop) to ensure a breezy cool even during the midday heat. Given that Baba Kafe is a kedai kopi, after all, the drinks to order are the usual coffee and tea. You can't go wrong with the trusty Kopi Tarik, formidably frothed and not too sweet. Their signature Kopi Lama Baba – cold milk topped with kopi O and ice cubes – will offer a chilly respite on sweltering mornings. (The kopi lama here isn't 'old coffee' but pays homage to a popular shop in Kota Baru called Kedai Kopi Lama.) Kopi Tarik (left) and Kopi Lama Baba (right). Rather than old fashioned roti bakar with butter and kaya, try their Roti Titab. The word titab means 'to spread' in the Kelantanese dialect, therefore this is basically the same kopitiam toast but with the ingredients already spread on the bread, including the half-boiled egg. Those who would like more of a protein boost (or have a juvenile sense of humour like me), the 'upgraded' version called Roti Titab Jantan is a must-order. This comes with two half-boiled eggs atop the toast instead of one – or shall we say, a pair? The adults in the room might prefer something heartier for their breakfast, which is where Baba Kafe's winsome rice dishes enter the picture. Roti Titab Jantan. Everyone's favourite seems to be the Nasi Kak Wok. It's a simple dish, really: Steamed white rice; chicken curry laden with cubes of potato; a fiery, blended cili padi sauce; and some very necessary cucumber slices for a cool crunch. You can order this with a variety of sides, including ikan keli (catfish) and daging goreng (fried beef), but the standout, I reckon, is their Nasi Kak Wok Ikan Celup Tepung. The crispy, just-fried ikan kembung or local mackerel is well worth the wait. For those who would like more fibre in their diet, go for the Nasi Kerabu Ayam Goreng. Nasi Kak Wok Ikan Celup Tepung. The classic blue rice (thanks to bunga telang or butterfly pea flowers) is matched by the vibrant greens of a fresh salad and slice of lime, the pale yellow crunch of some keropok, the golden brown of deep-fried chicken, the dark nuttiness of kerisik or toasted coconut... Colourful and flavourful, it's a whole rainbow on a plate. Beautiful and mouthwatering. Nasi Kerabu Ayam Goreng. Now some purists might bemoan the lack of a more traditional ulam with wild herbs such as daun kaduk whilst others might wonder why the ayam goreng is coarsely chopped rather than presented whole. But this is nitpicking, I feel. The accompanying salad is more than satisfactory – and it is easier to source green lettuce and purple cabbage – whilst the proprietors had already warned us that the fried chicken will be cut up in cubes in their menu. Baba Kafe promises simple, honest food and a relaxing ambience. To each their own. For me, what is authentic is often in the spirit that a meal is presented. From gravy-soaked rice dishes to toast slathered in raunch rather than ranch, Baba Kafe promises simple, honest food and a relaxing ambience in which to enjoy it. Baba Kafe Jalan Putera, Bandar Mahkota Cheras, Cheras, Kuala Lumpur. Open Tue-Sun 9am-5pm; Mon closed Phone: 017-290 0844 • This is an independent review where the writer paid for the meal. • Follow us on Instagram @eatdrinkmm for more food gems.
Free Malaysia Today
2 days ago
- Free Malaysia Today
Heavy traffic on major highways heading to Klang Valley
Traffic was heavy along the North-South Expressway and Kuala Lumpur-Karak Expressway. (Bernama pic) PETALING JAYA : Traffic flow on the main highways heading towards the Klang Valley was reported to be congested as of 2pm today as people started returning to the capital after the Hari Raya Aidiladha holidays. A Malaysian Highway Authority spokesman said traffic flow from the north towards the Klang Valley on the North-South Expressway (PLUS) was congested at Permatang Pauh towards Juru, Jawi to Bandar Baharu, Kuala Kangsar to the Menora Tunnel, and Gopeng to Tapah, Bernama reported. She said traffic flow was also congested from Sungkai to Trolak, Bukit Beruntung to Sungai Buaya, and the Rawang rest and recreation (R&R) area towards Rawang. 'Traffic flow from the south on the PLUS highway is congested from Pagoh to Simpang Empat, Pedas Linggi to Seremban, the Seremban R&R area to Nilai, and the Sungai Besi toll plaza to the capital,' she said. For traffic flow from the east to the Klang Valley on the Kuala Lumpur-Karak Expressway, congestion was reported at the Karak toll plaza towards Lentang, Bukit Tinggi to the Genting Sempah Tunnel, and the Gombak R&R towards the Gombak toll plaza. In Kelantan, traffic flow increased from Kuala Krai towards Gua Musang this afternoon but was still under control. Gua Musang police chief Sik Choon Foo expects the congestion to continue until late evening.
