RAUB: Southeast Asia's longest running bird race event, the 35th Fraser's Hill International Bird Race will be held at the hill station here this weekend.
The two-day event, starting tomorrow, is expected to attract some 400 participants from across Malaysia and neighbouring countries.
State Unity, Tourism and Culture Committee chairman Leong Yu Man said Fraser's Hill has recorded more than 250 species of migratory wild birds, making the highland paradise a first-class bird-watching destination in the region.
"The mountainous forests surrounding the hill station provide peace and comfort for the migratory species that fly across from other countries to seek the warm weather here. Their presence is a rare treat for bird watchers.
"The bird race event, held since 1988, aims to preserve nature and promote the hill station as a bird sanctuary. The event helps to promote the rich flora and fauna in Fraser's Hill to both local and foreign visitors.
"Apart from the race, various other activities including bird photography contest, conservation talks by birding professionals, fun-filled activities for children and exhibitions will be held throughout the event. The bird race programme has become an ideal family getaway," she said.
Leong is scheduled to open the event at Fraser's Hill at noon tomorrow, while Pahang Communications and Multimedia, Youth, Sports and Non-governmental Organisations Committee chairman Fadzli Mohamad Kamal, who is also the Dong assemblyman, will be attending the prize giving ceremony at 3pm on June 9.
The bird race is a fun event where teams of three compete against each other to locate, identify and record as many species of birds in Fraser's Hill within a stipulated time.
The competition will be divided into three categories, namely novice (newcomers), advanced (experienced bird watchers) and bird photography contest. Winners will walk away with prizes.