The carnival is a continuation of the "Zoom! Malaysia Campaign" launched by the prime minister on May 14 in Kuala Lumpur.

It is part of the Tourism Malaysia's efforts to introduce domestic tourism packages that are more focused and trendy to replace the "Cuti-Cuti Malaysia" packages.

The centrepiece of the carnival is the "Desaru Seafood Nite 2008" tomorrow at 8pm, where participants can help in preparing a 100-metre long ikan bakar expected to enter the Malaysia Book of Records as the longest ikan bakar ever made.

Visitors need to pay an entrance fee of RM5 to take part. The ticket will make them eligible to win tour packages, television sets, microwave ovens and various prizes in the lucky draw later that night.

Live concerts by renowned local artists will be held from today, with popular 1960s era singers A Halim and J Sham taking centre stage first, followed by Haziq of Akademi Fantasia and others.

The activities tomorrow include telematches and traditional games between local villagers.

A colouring contest for children will also be held.

Those who want to take part can register at the carnival site.

The carnival will be officiated by Tourism Minister Datuk Azalina Othman Said.

For more information on activities, please call the Johor Tourism office at 07-2223590/91 or email to musalmah@tourism. gov.my or noralain@tourism. gov.my.