By Karen Bong
KUCHING, Dec 12: A gold mine museum and park will be established in the vicinity of Tasik Biru under the 12th Malaysia Plan (12MP) that will kick off in 2021.
Tasik Biru assemblyman Datuk Henry Harry Jinep emphasised that the project costing RM26 million would be similar to that of Waihi town in New Zealand and Sovereign Hill in Australia, which are places known for gold mining like Bau.
“Our old mining heritage and areas are untapped potential which can be revived and developed into a great tourism product that is interesting and educational,” he told a press conference about a Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) programme at Dataran Bazaar Krokong in Bau here today.
He believed that the museum park project, which is pending budget approval under the 12MP, will definitely transform the attractiveness of Tasik Biru.
“The scenic lake is the main feature, then we have the suspension bridge across the lake (scheduled to be completed by end of 2020) and the hill will be part of museum park,” he explained.
“This can be catered to Chinese tourists to Sarawak which is a much nearer destination than Australia and New Zealand,” he added.
He disclosed that the state government had allocated RM1.5 million for research and development to be done, including study visits to places famous for its mining tourism.
Henry also pointed out that all mining areas in Bau including Taiton, Krokong and all over the area must be gazetted as heritage sites.
“We want to maintain the incremental value, heritage of Bau. That’s why we must take care of our mountains and our forests which is why the issuance of land titles is important so land can be safeguarded and protected.
“Bau has everything to offer especially in the tourism sector. We have more than enough (of products) in Bau which have yet to be explored, while existing attractions needed to be upgraded,” he emphasised.
Henry thus urged villagers to cooperate with the state government and elected representatives to protect and safeguard the historical areas and resources in Bau area which can be developed into significant tourism products that will spur the socio-economy of the area.
“The heritage sites across Bau must be developed as every area has its own history including Batu Kitang, Siniawan, Paku, Buso and so on. There is the Japanese fort and armour house. We have a lot of products but it takes time to be gazetted and protect it,” he added.—DayakDaily
