KUANTAN: Plans are afoot to turn food outlets in Pahang serving traditional food into the state’s tourism partners.

State Arts, Tourism and Women’s Affairs Committee chairman Datuk Shafik Fauzan Sharif said the state planned to recognise the outlets as tourism icons in the food category.

“They will be given a certificate by the state along with some incentives,” he said.

Pahang was visited for the traditional food it had to offer and tourists did not mind spending on food, he said.

“They are not particular about whether the outlet is a stall or an air-conditioned restaurant.

“They do not mind paying as long as the food is delicious and unique to the locality,” he said, adding that a nice view of a river or beach helped as well.

“For example, there is a place called Tanjung Lumpur just five minutes’ drive from Kuantan town. Across the bridge there is a spot that has become popular because of stalls offering a variety of food.

“It is known as a haven for seafood like keropok lekor, otak otak, satar and fresh fish prepared in many styles including steamed and grilled,” said Shafik Fauzan after opening the Akop Ikan Patin House restaurant which specialises in freshwater fish here.

He said the restaurant opened its first outlet near Sungai Kuantan a few years ago and business had grown despite it being partly hidden by buildings in Jalan Besar.

“This is because of its speciality fishes like krai, lampan and patin besides fish fries and other tasty dishes. This first warong (stall) has become hugely popular,” he said.

Shafik Fauzan also announced plans for a restaurant complex offering a selection of Pahang’s traditional food.

He said the complex estimated at RM5mil would be a one-stop centre built under the 10th Malaysia Plan.