KUCHING, Nov 11: The improvement of tourism infrastructure, and increasing of flight routes and tourism activities has boosted the tourism sector in the state with 12 per cent more tourists compared to the same period last year, said Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Tun Openg.
He said AirAsia would provide direct flights on the Kuching-Shenzhen route while the low-cost carrier Scoot had introduced a new route connecting Kuching and Singapore, and MASwings would give way to the commercial aviation players.
He said the state government is also upgrading all the tourism infrastructure in the state such as building the Golden S Bridge and rebuilding Satok Suspension Bridge, so Kuching will have more tourism attractions.
“I see the future of tourism in the state is very bright,” he said when met by reporters after declaring open the Sarawak Regatta-Kuching Waterfront Festival 2017 event here today.
On the 145th Sarawak Regatta which started yesterday and will run until Nov 19, Abang Johari said the festival helped promote more organised tourism in the state.
“This week we start with the dragon boat race, which will witness 23 teams participating from within and outside the state, such as Brunei which sent seven teams.
“Next week the boat race will take place, and craft exhibitions as well as art performances, will also be held throughout the Sarawak Regatta-Kuching Waterfront Festival,” he added.
The craft exhibitions and art performances include including a puppet show from local and overseas artists to promote cultural exchange. — DayakDaily
