Friday December 1, 2006

Beach akin to Kuantan town

Story and photos by SIMON KHOO

THE mere mention of Kuantan town brings Teluk Cempedak quickly to one’s mind.

Located about 5km from the town centre, one will have to pass through the affluent areas of Tok Sira and Kubang Buaya to reach the famed beach.

Scores of people thronging the beach in Teluk Cempedak last weekend. In the background is the Hyatt Regency Resort.

Along the way, visitors will get to view the Mentri Besar’s official residence and the Pahang Royal Golf Club as well.

For the uninitiated, Teluk Cempedak is almost synonymous with Kuantan, often referred to as the gateway to the east coast.

But if not for the beach, the town would probably generate less tourist interest.

The beach is a popular venue for water sports activities such as sailing, surfing, skiing and, of course, swimming, in addition to the nature trails at the nearby Teluk Cempedak Forest Reserve.

Recently, the sole fast-food outlet - McDonald’s - carried out a major renovation to beautify and expand its business premises.

Trader Liew posing with his ware outside his shop.

The new look provided additional seats and a more conducive environment for families and lovebirds to while away their time.

Located a stone’s throw away is the famed Hyatt Regency Resort where many official government and private functions are held.

Just last week, the resort hosted a three-day forum on nuclear cooperation, which saw the participation of 10 Asian countries.

On weekends, the parking site is packed with cars and buses ferrying locals and foreign visitors.

One of the many walking paths out of bounds to traffic.

Parents can be seen with their children flying kites and picnicking by the shore while feasting their eyes on the soothing view.

There are also several nightspots and seafood restaurants which offer a variety of dishes at reasonable prices.

Those yearning for a short stroll can utilise a walking path, which leads them to a hilltop overseeing the South China Sea.

During major festivities, there is a hive of activity as temporary licences are given out for petty traders to ply their ware.

The site is also the focal point for the Chinese community to celebrate the Mid-Autumn Festival yearly as the crowd, young and old, congregate by the thousands to light lanterns and candles to mark the auspicious occasion.

People of all races also swarm the beach on Dec 31 in preparation for the countdown to the New Year.

To address the occasional monkey menace, the local council stationed several coast guards to oversee the situation and keep watch on the tide.

Signboards have been erected at strategic places informing the public to keep the beach clean and swim at their own risk.

The surveillance tower has been given a new coat of paint and cordoned off to prevent mischief by irresponsible quarters.

Teruntum assemblyman Datuk Ti Lian Ker noted that the local council had made efforts to maintain cleanliness in the area although there was room for improvement.

Permanent traders in the area said they had no complaints but hoped the local council would allow the parking bays in front of their outlets to be utilised again.

“This will enable more visitors to drop in at our premises,” said Liew Lai Chai, 34, who has been trading in toys, clothing and grocery for almost 20 years.

Fellow trader Zaharah Jaafar, 30, said business picked up during weekends and public holidays.

Local Fara Wahidah Tajuddin, 28, said she normally goes on a stroll at the beach during weekends with her husband.

“We enjoy the atmosphere and serenity of the place,” she said.

Another frequent visitor S.T. Koh, 33, said she meets up with her friends at the fast-food outlet and spends hours chatting.

Today, Teluk Cempedak is more organised compared to the chaotic situation previously when motorists parked haphazardly due to the absence of proper parking facilities.

Certainly, the beach is one of Kuantan’s attractions which deters locals from migrating to other towns.

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