Terengganu kickstarts Strawberry Park's development again after more than 10 years
NORHASPIDA YATIM
KUALA TERENGGANU - After a decade of abandonment, the Terengganu government is ready to breathe new life into the Strawberry Park resort in Kijal, Kemaman.
Caretaker Terengganu Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Ahmad Samsuri Mokhtar unveiled plans for a RM150 million five-star hotel to grace the location.
The construction is scheduled to kick off in the coming year's first quarter, with completion anticipated by 2026.
He said the ambitious project emerges from a collaborative effort involving Terengganu Incorporated Sdn Bhd (Terengganu Inc.), the state's investment holding company, the Terengganu Negeri Heritage Trust Fund (LTAWNT), the owner of the site and building, and the developer.
Currently awaiting approval from local authorities (PBT), the project is poised to transform the locale into a haven for both tourists and locals.
"The development will be spearheaded by iKHASAS Land Sdn Bhd, with hotel operations entrusted to Courtyard by Marriott.
"This internationally acclaimed hotel will boast modern amenities and comfortable accommodations to cater to the rising demand of visitors in Terengganu," he said in a statement today.
Ahmad Samsuri said, underscoring the choice of iKHASASLand Sdn Bhd, a conglomerate with extensive involvement in property development, hospitality, and information technology.
The investment of RM150 million over a three-year period is set to resurrect the Strawberry Park resort, rejuvenating Kijal.
The project is not only a revitalisation of the resort but also a potential source of livelihood for the local community, he said.
It is projected to generate over 150 employment opportunities for residents, notably those from Terengganu.
Ahmad Samsuri added that the development is anticipated to act as a catalyst for local businesses and suppliers.
On Wednesday, the memorandum of understanding (MoU) for the redevelopment of Strawberry Park was formally signed during a ceremony at Resort World Kijal.
Among those who attended were state government secretary Datuk Tengku Farok Hussin Tengku Abdul Jalil and iKHASAS Land Sdn Bhd. Chairman Tan Sri Tan Jyh Yaong.
