A floral parade in Putrajaya will be the highlight of the four-month long Flora Fest 2008 themed Colours of Harmony.

Tourism Minister Datuk Seri Azalina Othman Said said at least 15 floats would be participating in the parade on July 26. The floats, which must use at least 70% of fresh flowers, would then be displayed in Putrajaya until July 28.

Flora Fest 2008, which started on March 1, is divided into seven segments including photography competition and exhibition, flora workshop, Florathon, design arrangement and decoration competitions, floral parade and float showcase and bazaar.

“Malaysia has almost 8,000 species of flowers and its flora and fauna should be given as much publicity as possible.

“Many of our indigenous flowers have yet to gain international recognition because they have not been given enough publicity and not because they are inferior in terms of beauty and colour,” she said at a press conference on Flora Fest here yesterday.

Bigger plans are also in store for next year, said Azalina who intends to make it a Flora and Forest Fest in 2009 to get locals and tourists to further appreciate nature.

“The Fest goes beyond parades. We are looking at incorporating nature walks and other eco-tourism activities for next year.

We also want it to be promoted in more destinations in the country,” she added.

Source: thestar.com.my