Plenty to see, unique local products abound at fishing village of Kampung Kuala Batu 1

Lee (2nd from right) visiting the booths at Kampung Nelayan Kuala Batu 1 in Kuala Baram.

Oleh Jaythaleela K

MIRI, March 12: A quaint fishing village situated in Kuala Baram, Kampung Kuala Batu 1 is capable of attracting tourists to the northern part of the city with its unique products and laidback atmosphere, says Minister of Transport Sarawak Datuk Sri Lee Kim Shin.

“This area has the potential to lure tourists for several reasons. Apart from its strategic location, they have high quality products which I think they should develop as a local brand to generate income,” he reckoned.

He added that the village’s produce of ‘bubok‘ or krill shrimp, cencalok and shrimp paste (belacan) can be established as Kampung Kuala Batu 1’s local brand to help promote the area to tourists.

Lee urged the fishing communities in the area to be actively involved in marketing their products to meet with the demand.

“Turn it into a local brand to attract buyers,” he advised.

He also told them not to be shy to seek out the Miri Agriculture Department if they need assistance.

Lee said this during the opening of ‘Pesta Bubok 2022’ held at the Kampung Kuala Batu 1 Kuala Baram fishing market on Saturday morning.

Also present was Deputy Minister I of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Dato Sebastian Ting Chew Yew and Deputy Miri Mayor Julaihi Mohamad.

The festival is held annually in conjunction with the bubok season, which normally starts in January or February and ends in April.

The season’s peak occurs in February if the good weather holds, as shrimpers can harvest up to five to 10 buckets of bubok upon returning from sea each time. — DayakDaily