SUSTAINABLE farming and environmental preservation are fast gaining traction in Langkawi. Mindful that continued harmony with Mother Nature is key to maintaining this idyllic island paradise's allure, residents and tour operators are constantly on the lookout for novel ways to safeguard the fragile ecosystem while pinpointing niche opportunities that ensure a steady stream of returning visitors.
Located within the latest tourism growth area of Kubang Badak, Crab Farm Langkawi spearheads many ventures that put environmental-friendly green practices ahead of profits.
Despite its relatively recent establishment, Crab Farm Langkawi has claimed pole position as the preferred destination for those who appreciate the delightful pleasure of savouring tasty gastronomic creations amidst a tranquil natural setting.
MEMORABLE EXPERIENCE
Situated close to the ecologically diverse Kubang Badak mangrove reserve, Crab Farm Langkawi offers stunning views of the verdant Gunung Machinchang foothills, as well as glimpses of traditional Malay houses with captivating functional architectural styles that have remained unchanged for centuries.
Tucking into sumptuous dishes whipped up by experienced local chefs while watching squirrels scampering nearby and listening to distinct hornbill mating calls make for a truly memorable experience.
While Crab Farm Langkawi's extensive menu is a definite seafood connoisseur magnet, it's the peripheral facilities within this sprawling complex that proves to be most fascinating.
Meeting up with Muhammad Raziq Muhammad Redzuan at the section where latut is cultured leads to an interesting revelation about this local seaweed species that's fast becoming a popular salad option.
Known also as sea grapes or green caviar due to its soft and succulent texture, latut used to be a seasonal produce. It was largely harvested from the shallow waters around the Sungai Kilim estuary and Pulau Tuba in the past. This practice, explains Raziq, was not only the cause of irregular supply, but it also severely affected the fragile aquatic ecosystem.
Mindful of the long duration required to heal damaged habitats, Crab Farm Langkawi grows its own latut using sustainable culture systems, which minimise the environmental impact by incorporating natural sunlight and seawater pumped in during high tide.
As Raziq breaks off a strand of latut and pops it straight into his mouth to demonstrate the fact that cultured seaweed can be safely consumed without any harmful processes, he says the fibrous macroalgae is rich in antioxidants and contains nutrients that can strengthen bones and joints, prevent constipation and improve heart and eye function.
ALL THINGS CRUSTACEAN
Raziq's eyes light up as we approach the large rectangular earthen ponds, where small crabs purchased from fishermen are grown naturally until they reach marketable size. Obviously, this is where the SMK Ayer Hangat student's heart belongs. His pace quickens as he impatiently heads towards the edge to point out crabs at various stages of growth.
The marked enthusiasm in crustacean belies his tender age of 14. Turning back the sands of time to late 2019, Raziq reveals that it was love at first sight when his grandfather decided to build Crab Farm Langkawi with several partners.
The Covid-19 pandemic that struck soon after turned out to be a blessing in disguise as the series of lockdowns had provided ample time and opportunities for him to equip himself with adequate knowledge needed to earn his grandfather's trust as a contributing family member of Crab Farm Langkawi.
As restrictions were gradually lifted last year, Raziq steeled his resolve to strike a balance between studies and work at the farm. A burning ambition to be a successful entrepreneur in his chosen field is reason enough to continue pursuing excellence and giving his best to help ensure Crab Farm Langkawi's continuous success.
Crossing paths with Tuan Wan Kamarul Faisal Wan Kamardin on the way to the carpark gives the Langkawi Development Authority deputy chief executive officer (planning and development) opportunity to voice support for the sustainable efforts adopted by enterprises like Crab Farm Langkawi.
While stating that no effort must be spared in preserving Langkawi's natural beauty, Tuan Wan Kamarul Faisal expresses satisfaction at concerted endeavours from various sectors to help bring in more tourists to Kedah and support Malaysia as a premier international holiday destination.
CRAB FARM LANGKAWI
Where: Jalan Teluk Yu, Kampung Kubang Badak, Mukim Ayer Hangat, Langkawi, Kedah.
Tel: +6013 445 5644/+6011 2541 2610
Opening hours: 12pm to 8pm daily, except Thursdays.
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