By Amanda L
KUCHING, Aug 9: Sarawak is eyeing South Korea’s golf-loving market as a new source of tourism revenue, with plans to upgrade golf courses and develop new facilities in Miri and Belawai, says Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.
He said the State could leverage its growing connectivity with South Korea to attract golfers looking for warmer destinations, particularly during the colder months.
Abang Johari pointed to South Korea’s strong golfing culture, noting that many Koreans travel abroad to play golf when weather conditions make the sport more difficult at home.
“Orang Korea tok, mun mereka sik main golf, something is wrong with them,” he said when officiating the 18th Triennial General Assembly of SABERKAS Sarawak here today.
With that market in mind, he said Sarawak would need to improve its golf infrastructure while pairing the sport with other experiences, including local food and attractions.
One location he identified was Belawai, where he proposed developing a golf course that could take advantage of its coastal setting while bringing visitors into the surrounding community.
“We want local businesses and rural communities to benefit from tourist spending and the opportunities that come with this development.
“If they come to Belawai, they can eat prawns there,” he said.
Meanwhile, Miri was identified as another area where existing golf facilities could be upgraded to cater to international visitors.
The potential for such developments also ties in with Sarawak’s efforts to strengthen its connectivity with South Korea, particularly Seoul.
Abang Johari said AirBorneo would be expanding its aircraft fleet in the coming months with Jakarta and subsequently Seoul among the destinations being targeted.
He also pointed to Jeju Island, which he visited in relation to UNESCO-recognised sites, as an example of how stronger links with South Korea could open up opportunities beyond conventional tourism.
“For Sarawak, the aim was not simply to bring more visitors into major cities but to encourage them to explore other parts of the State and spend within local communities,” he added.
This could give places such as Belawai a greater role in the tourism economy, with attractions and businesses developed around the needs and interests of visitors. — DayakDaily
