KUALA KRAI: The cascading waterfalls of Lata Rek, a recreation area popular among the Kelantanese for its serene and natural beauty, is slowly losing its tourist appeal due to a lack of basic facilities.

This picnic spot of choice for families during weekends, is situated about 30km from Kuala Krai and has remained unchanged by modernisation.

A survey by Bernama found that the area did not have rubbish bins, which gave visitors a free pass to litter.

A visitor, Wan Halimah Wan Daud, 51, felt that the state government should provide basic infrastructure for the public.

"They should put up huts so we can take cover from the sun, and it would also be easier for us to serve food. There would be no need to sit on the ground," said the housewife from Ladang Taku.

According to her son, Che Rahman Che Khalid, 19, the parking facilities must also be improved.

"It is difficult for visitors to park as the parking area is not tarred and narrow," he said.

Lata Rek village chief, Che Hasan Che Ngah, 51, when met said villagers wished to develop the area into a famous recreation and picnic area, however, their efforts were not approved by the state government.

"Some of them had submitted a proposal to the state government to develop the waterfalls because the area was owned by the government, but they did not receive any response.

"They planned to build a hall, rest house, food stalls, huts and more ... the place is also frequented by students who camp there so it would be a waste not to develop the area," he said.

Che Hasan said villagers would also benefit from the development. "They would be able to carry out small businesses, as well as build a rest house for tourists to provide them a bit of comfort.

"If the area is furnished with these facilities, tourists will want to drop by Lata Rek each time they visit Kelantan," he added.

He said should the state government delay in taking action, the waterfall which had big potential for development, would lose its appeal and be forgotten. (By NURULHUDA CHE DAS/Bernama)