By Peter Sibon and Karen Bong
BAU, Dec 31: Tasik Biru assemblyman Datuk Henry Harry Jinep wants Bau to be the epicentre of the ecotourism belt in the southern region of Sarawak.
“We want Bau to be the epicentre of Sarawak’s eco-tourism industry capitalising on the tourism belt of Santubong-Bau-Sematan presenting endless potential to be developed as the eco-tourism capital of Sarawak, leveraging on digital technology,” he emphasised at Bau Bicentennial Celebration 200 Years History of Bau at Tasik Biru here today.
With Bau rich historical heritage especially in gold mining, coupled with its abundance of flora and fauna, Henry pointed out that it would be natural to turn the district into an eco-tourism hub.
“Despite the cessation of gold mining activities in Bau, a vast tract of land in Bau are still under mining lease making those land impossible to develop.
“These land hold great potential to be developed as residential areas, tourist attractions including hotels, resorts and even golf courses to support the development of Greater Bau,” he said.
Henry also stressed that the people of the district wanted Bau to be developed in an environmentally friendly and sustainable manner so that the environment is always protected for future generations.
“Therefore, we request that the areas under the ‘mining lease’ around Bau be disposed of so that the tourism industry can be developed in those areas,” he urged the Sarawak government.
He also called on the people to stand united so to further developed the district.
“Today is the last day for the second century (200 years) of Bau history.
“(And) tomorrow is the beginning of a new chapter. This moment is very meaningful because it is a moment that brings a thousand and one possibilities for us in Bau district.
“As a community, it is us who will decide our path, it is for us to choose our destiny, it is us also who will decide where we want to be in the next 200 years,” he added.
Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Tun Openg officiated at the ceremony which was also attended by Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture Datuk Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, Minister of Education, Science and Technological Research Datuk Amar Michael Manyin Jwong, Deputy State Secretary (Rural Transformation) Datuk Ik Pahon Joyik, Tanjung Datu assemblywoman Datuk Amar Jamilah Anu and Serembu assemblyman Miro Simuh, among others. — DayakDaily
