Cameron Highlands dismantles Santorini-themed attraction for lack of approval

The Cameron Highlands District Council (MDCH) has dismantled Cameron’s Santorini, a tourist attraction inspired by a Greek island named Santorini, due to the lack of official approval.

“The Cameron Highlands District Council has implemented enforcement action against one of the illegal constructions in Cameron Highlands, namely Cameron’s Santorini,” said MDCH, via Facebook.

MDCH aims to use the dismantling of Cameron’s Santorini as a warning to others.

“This enforcement action has been implemented for the offence of Section 70 (1) Construction without Approval under Act 133, Roads, Drains and Buildings Act 1974,”

“Hopefully, this action can serve as a warning and a reminder to any party that intends to implement a development project to fully comply with the relevant procedures and regulations currently in force,” MDCH added.

The Greek island-inspired tourist spot, reportedly opened in April this year.

Cameron Santorini is a scenic attraction featuring whitewashed buildings, vibrant flower gardens, and panoramic highland views, modelled after Santorini, Greece, it offers picturesque spots for photos, along with cafés and shops for visitors.

Each structure in Cameron Santorini reflects the creators’ careful attention to detail, featuring blue-and-white facades and cubic designs reminiscent of Santorini’s Cycladic architecture.

Google reviews indicated that tickets cost RM40 for adults and RM20 for children.

CL Cheah, 62, conceived the idea for Cameron Santorini after visiting Greece, reported The Star.

His motive was to introduce the concept to Cameron Highlands and boost local tourism.

He stated that he plans to obtain approval from the appropriate authorities to reopen the site.