By Nancy Nais
PADAWAN, July 23: Padawan Municipal Council (MPP) will continue to improve the basic infrastructure of villages under its jurisdiction to boost rural tourism.
Its chairman Lo Khere Chiang said there are many locations under its jurisdiction which are attractive not only to local visitors but to tourists as well.
“As Padawan is blessed with ‘CAN’ (culture, adventure, and nature) attractions, we must revitalise our attractions and to do so, we will continue to provide basic infrastructures such as road widening and amenities like proper shelter, toilets, and jetty. There is also the need to repair river embankments for rafting and kayaking at villages that offer these fun activities.
“Apart from that, we will cooperate with the Ministry of Tourism, Creative Industry, and Performing Arts, who is also implementing community-based eco-tourism (CBET) projects,” Lo said during MPP’s family day at Kampung Danu, Jalan Puncak Borneo.
Lo, who is also Batu Kitang assemblyman, said he was confident that with the support of his fellow councillors, staff, government departments, community leaders, and the public, MPP would bring more development to the areas under its jurisdiction.
He further explained that improving basic infrastructure, particularly at tourist spots, will promote these places, improve the livelihood of the local folk, and help preserve their culture and tradition.
Some 80 members consisting of MPP staff and their families participated in the inaugural family day, which saw a total of 14 bamboo rafts being utilised.
The 10km journey began from Kampung Temurang and ended at Kampung Danu.
As participants paddled down the river, they got to enjoy the evergreen jungles, and some were overheard asking if durian season was near.
All participants were provided with life vests, and speed boats were also deployed along the route to provide assistance.
Among those who joined the event were MPP deputy chairman Datuk Ahmad Ibrahim and deputy secretary Henry Jalin Watt.
Commenting on the recent success of Padawan Raft Safari 2022 in June this year, Lo said: “The event was so well received until the Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah suggested holding it on a larger scale and open it to international participants.
“GRIT Event Management organised the Padawan Raft Safari, and they have done an excellent job to ensure its success. We want to see and have more events like this from them in the future.” — DayakDaily
