By Dayangku Hidayatul
KUCHING, Oct 14: Daro assemblyman Dr Safiee Ahmad has proposed transforming the 547-hectare Pulau Tun Ahmad Zaidi Nature Reserve into an ecotourism destination, with nature trails, visitor facilities and observation points to attract visitors while preserving its natural heritage.
Debating on the 2026 Sarawak Supply (2027) Bill at the Sarawak Legislative Assembly (DUS) sitting today, he said the reserve could be developed in phases into a destination for recreation, environmental education and ecotourism, modelled after the Bukit Lima Nature Reserve in Sibu.
“I propose that the Sarawak Forestry Corporation (SFC) develop it into a recreational, environmental education and ecotourism destination, with development carried out in phases, similar to the Bukit Lima Nature Reserve in Sibu,” he said.
Safiee said small-scale facilities, including boardwalks, a visitor information centre and nature observation points, could be introduced according to the site’s suitability and environmental conservation requirements.
The reserve, which was gazetted in 2013, is a valuable natural asset with significant potential to boost Daro’s tourism industry.
He also expressed confidence that cooperation between the Sarawak government, the federal government and relevant agencies would help drive Daro’s development.
Safiee said development projects, improved public amenities and expanded economic opportunities would contribute towards realising a developed and prosperous Daro, in tandem with Sarawak’s continued progress. — DayakDaily
