By Karen Bong
KUCHING, May 27: Sarawak is making significant investments in expanding its tourism infrastructure, including the development of a world-class Performing Arts Centre, a dedicated Sarawak Craft Centre, and a Water Fun Park, in a strategic push to attract more mega events such as international concerts and sporting tournaments.
Minister for Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah highlighted that hosting large-scale events brings immediate economic returns, global media attention, and enhances Sarawak’s appeal as a premier travel destination.
“To support the growth of Sarawak’s tourism industry, improved accessibility, especially through essential infrastructure like roads, is crucial,” he said during his ministerial winding-up speech in the august House today.
Among the major projects underway is the transformation of the historic Old Sarawak Legislative Assembly Building into a world-class Performing Arts Centre, slated for completion by the end of 2027.
“Inspired by London’s Royal Albert Hall, this state-of-the-art venue will enable Sarawak to host international-standard performances and cultural showcases,” Abdul Karim said.
Meanwhile, the Sarawak Craft Centre is scheduled to begin development in 2026. The centre will serve as a dedicated space for local artisans to market their work, preserve traditional crafts, and promote Sarawak’s rich cultural heritage.
Another key initiative is the redevelopment of the MBKS Swimming Pool into a Water Fun Park and the Centre for UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy, targeted for completion in early 2026. This project aims to celebrate Kuching’s renowned food culture and support local creative industries.
In addition, the Tourist Support Centre for Lundu and Sematan is expected to be completed by the end of this year, as part of broader efforts to develop tourism in the southern coastal regions.
Through close collaboration with the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture (MOTAC), Abdul Karim disclosed that Sarawak has also secured an additional RM3.37 million to implement 15 tourism-related projects focused on upgrading and repairing facilities and homestays across the State.
These include improvements at Telaga Air Waterfront, Bako National Park, Bukit Lambir National Park, and jungle trekking routes at Taman Tumbina. Visitor facilities at Tun Ahmad Zaidi Nature Reserve in Sibu will also be upgraded, along with enhancements to homestays such as Santubong Homestay, Lobang Batu Homestay, and Rumah Margretta Kerangan Buloh in Julau.
“This year marks the completion of the 12th Malaysia Plan (2021–2025) and the beginning of preparations for the 13th Malaysia Plan (2026–2030). I hope the 13th Plan will significantly elevate the tourism sector and ensure its continued contribution to Sarawak’s development and prosperity by 2030,” he said. — DayakDaily
