Weng Valley, Recreation Wonderland of Baling, Kedah

Have you heard about Weng Valley? Weng Valley is often highlighted in Google as a ‘water park’ or bee farm, but it is so much more. It’s like a sustainable wonderland with a pool. Weng Valley Recreation Park is located in Kampung Weng within a massive oil palm plantation in Baling, Kedah. Also inside the plantation perimeters there are families living kampung style with paved-roads connecting the villagers to each other, as well as all that Weng Valley offers. Enviably, well-manicured lawns are dotted with tropical foliage, colorful signboards and various up-cycle creations that beg to be in one’s Instagram gallery.

The pool (aka waterpark) may be considered the main attraction, but other highlights are at Weng Valley, such as Cucumber and Stingless Bee (Lebuh Kelulut) Farming and honey (madu) production. ATVs and kayaking are also available, making for a well-rounded family outing kind of place; something for everyone regardless of age.

The FELCRA Connection

Weng Valley is owned by FELCRA. FELCRA is the Federal Land Consolidation and Rehabilitation Authority which is under Malaysia’s Ministry of Finance. Initially established in 1966 as a statutory body, FELCRA is now responsible for developing rural areas and creating opportunities for rural communities to generate income. In 1997, FELCRA Berhad was incorporated and evolved into a Corporate Organisation owned by the Minister of Finance.

Currently FELCRA is actively involved in several areas of business such as real estate, construction, education, food producing agriculture, and plantations; including (according to the FELCRA website) owning and operating 33,145 hectares of Oil Palm Estates.

An interesting approach to development which apparently is 100% owned and operated by FELCRA, but the local people get a healthy slice of their areas’ pie through employment opportunities and Weng Valley programs and projects. Presently there are over 100,000 participants in FELCRA’s programs across Peninsular Malaysia, Sabah and Sarawak, with more than 2700 in Kedah state.

Sustainable Tourism

Weng Valley is an impressive example of sustainable tourism. It’s relaxing, fun and quite interesting. There is no entry fee but activities are charged accordingly, with pool use, kayaking, atv, and mini train running at RM20 or less. Souvenirs and locally made products are also on sale, bringing extra income into the community through sales and jobs.

Through special arrangements cooking demonstrations and group meals are offered. Which I can tell you will be a big hit with groups, because the food served at Weng Valley is delicious. And if you happen to be an appreciator of the arts, you may well be inspired by the artsy touches you will find at Weng Valley. Have fun and be sure to take lots of photos!

My participation in this media trip to Baling, Kedah was arranged and sponsored by QTT Group PLT , Global Travel Sdn Bhd (KOLA), and KembaRojak. Special thanks also go to local sponsors; Majlis Daerah Baling, APM Baling, the good folks at Gua Sireh and Malim Gunung.