For residents of Javanese descent in Sabak Bernam however, punten, a dish of nasi impit (compressed rice) dipped in sambal (sauce), is a firm favourite and commonly served at eateries here.

Those who happen to visit Sungai Besar for the first time, particularly in conjunction with the parliamentary by-election on June 18, should not miss trying out this dish, and for that matter, other popular local Javanese food.

Sungai Besar is also a draw for nature-loving tourists. The area thrives in its spectacular paddy fields and beautiful seascape.

Dubbed the “Rice Bowl of Selangor” and “Fresh Fish Producer in Selangor”, the area offers more than 100 homestays set up by residents to cater to domestic and foreign tourists.

Visitors to Sungai Besar should also not miss the chance to drop by historical places and appreciate its heritage, such as Lubuk Pusing and Masjid Jalan in Panchang Bedena.

Sabak Bernam District Council chief Azlinda Azman said most of the residents earn their living as farmers or fishermen.

“The people here are mostly Javanese, Banjar and other ethnic Malays and have maintained the traditions of the Malay community.

“The kuda kepang (traditional Javanese ‘horse’ dance) and silat (traditional martial arts) performances in the fields are still very much in practice, and this is what makes the area unique.

“It also keeps the tourists coming,” she said.

Azlinda said various developments were being implemented in Sungai Besar for the convenience of tourists in view of their increasing number over the last 10 years.

The by-election was called following the demise of Noriah Kasnon, who was also the Deputy Plantation Industries and Commodities Minister, in a helicopter crash in Subayau, Sarawak, on May 5.

The parliamentary constituency which comprises the Sungai Panjang and Sekinchan state seats have 42,836 registered voters, of whom 67.1% are Malays; 30 .68% Chinese; and 1.91% Indian.

– BERNAMA