by Wilfred Pilo
KUCHING, March 9: The 2nd edition of the Danau Sentrum Kapuas River Adventure Cruise this year in Kalimantan, Indonesia aims not only to strengthen Indonesia’s relationship with the people of Sarawak but is a starting point to develop and boost the tourism sector in the province.
In revealing this, Consul General of the Republic of Indonesia in Kuching Raden Sigit Witjaksomo said the government of Indonesia supported the tour as participants will visit many places of interest and promote tourism in Kalimantan.
“This is a very good starting point for the development of our tourism industry, and many of these places are tourist destinations and not known by outsiders.
“Since we are very close to one another in geographical location, we encourage more people from Sarawak to visit these tourist destinations. Kalimantan has a lot to offer,” he told reporters at the press conference at the consulate office here today.
Raden said that there were a wide range of bilateral relationships between the public and private sectors in Indonesia and Malaysia, and also between Indonesia and Sarawak.
“This kind of tour to Kalimantan is one of them and not only would it further strengthen our relationship, it is good for the local economy in the province and our tourism sectors.
“To us, what is also important is that we see this second edition tour like a historical journey, and we hope the entourage would have a memorable trip and see for themselves the social cultures of the people in Kalimantan,” he added.
Meanwhile, the second edition of the tour held from March 10-16 will see the participation of 25 people led by former federal minister Tan Sri Leo Moggie and Julau community leader Datuk Temenggong Janggu.
Among the places of interest to be visited are Unesco heritage and the biggest freshwater lake in Borneo, Danau Sentarum, the Kapuas River and towns and cities in north, west and east Kalimantan. The tour will end in Kota Pontianak.
The tour is organised by Sarawak Entrepreneurs Association and the Dayak Chamber of Commerce and Industry.
Also present at the press conference were Leo and businessmen Helbert Ubong Ngumbang and Terrence Temenggong Jayang. — DayakDaily
