By Jacob Achoi
KUCHING, July 30: Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah is optimistic that the number of tourists arrival in Sarawak will hit 1.2 million by the end of the year.
He said as of June 30, tourists’ arrival to the State have reached more than 600,000.
“With more flights coming to Sarawak after we opened our borders from April 1 onwards, I am very optimistic that the number of tourist arrivals can reach the 1.2 million mark by the end of this year,” he said when officiating at the opening of Bidayuh Mystique Festival 2022, organised by Persatuan Segu Bunuk Penrissen (PSBP) at St Paul Parish Hall, along Jalan Borneo Height last night.
According to him, there were already about 650 flights, including from Singapore, entering Sarawak since the borders were reopened.
He cited recent events such as the Spartan Race, Padawan Raft Safari and World Rainforest Festival, which saw high number of tourists entering the State.
He pointed out that there are also plans to increase tourists destinations including to Hong Kong.
The minister also pointed out that Padawan has plenty of attractive places which are potential tourists destinations, such as Anah Rais Longhouse and hot springs in the area.
In view of this, he urged the locals to protect and preserve the environment, culture, heritage and traditions of the area.
“In Sarawak, our tourism promotion is based in Culture, Adventure, Nature, Food and Festival (CANFF), so it is very important that the locals preserve their culture and nature that we have because tourists would love to see all these,” he stressed.
He added that his ministry would always help the locals when it comes to promoting Bidayuh culture, heritage and traditions among the younger generation.
“For the promotion of Bidayuh heritage, culture, cuisine and traditions, my ministry has funds for that, so I hope that the various Bidayuh associations can help to prevent all these from fading in the future,” he said.
Among those present at the event was Deputy Minister of Plantation Industries and Commodities Datuk Willie Mongin. — DayakDaily
