Crowds throng Putrajaya during school holidays

PUTRAJAYA - Putrajaya is often a preferred destination for tourists during school holidays due to its close proximity to Kuala Lumpur, Selangor and Negeri Sembilan, as well as various attractions such as parks and lakes.

Large crowds thronged the tourist spots at the federal government administrative centre, including the Climbing Sports Complex at Climbing Challenge Park, Equestrian Park Putrajaya, Anjung Floria and Dataran Putra.

Catherine Leong, 45, said she brought her three children to the Climbing Challenge Park as her children were interested in the extreme sport.

"We don't come here (Putrajaya) often but this time, I decided to bring my kids as my husband is working. My friend recommended this place to me and I find it very attractive with many activities and sightseeing spots," she told Bernama here today.

She said the flood and Covid-19 situation were also among the reasons for her to choose nearer and less crowded places for family outings.

Nur Huda Salam, 45, said she is more comfortable visiting nearby places to avoid traffic congestion during school holidays.

"Putrajaya is our choice because it’s closer to our home. We can enjoy various activities and visit popular food outlets here. I take the children for climbing activities at the park because it is suitable for everyone regardless of age," said Nur Huda who lives in Dengkil.

Siti Hajar Maisara, 38, who hails from Kelantan, said Putrajaya is the best place for sightseeing with her family.

"We originally wanted to go back to Kelantan but because of the floods, we have to cancel the plan. There are also many interesting places here such as mosques, parks and eateries," she said.

A worker at Sisiran Floria which provides water activities such as kayaking and fishing at Anjung Floria, Siti Nur Izzah Mokhtar Rudin, 23, said crowds have been larger than usual due to the school holidays.

"During school or public holidays, this place is lively, especially in the evening. The number of visitors increases by 20 per cent on weekends, especially during school holidays," she said.

Siti Nur Izzah said water taxi is the latest public transport service along Putrajaya Lake.

Meanwhile, Chinese national Iris Lee, 41, said her Malaysian friend recommended the Equestrian Park Putrajaya to her.

"It has a nice environment and also my son loves horseback riding," she said.

Putrajaya Equestrian Park executive Muhammad Fakhruddin Kamarul said there was a 65 per cent increase in number of visitors during the school holidays.

"Many people bring their children to get close to the horses and learn about the animals and learn to ride," he said. - BERNAMA