This Content Is Only For Subscribers
By Wilfred Pilo
KUCHING, July 30: A unique picnic spot and getaway destination where one can put up their feet and find reinvigoration in the great outdoors is a little-known pristine river near the Iban longhouse of Rumah Edward Benang, Batu Lintang, Jalan Layar, Betong.
This hidden gem called Sungai Batu Lintang, about 7 kilometres from Betong town, has a spacious gravel beach area shaded by thick rainforest canopy.
Visitors can breathe in the fresh air, enjoy water activities, or dive in to enjoy the cool flowing water of the river.
A longhouse elder told DayakDaily they are opening up their longhouse for tourism to share their beautiful tribal way of life and their unique natural settings for visitors to experience.
They thanked their elected representative Layar assemblyman Datuk Gerald Rentap Jabu, who is also the Deputy Minister for Youth, Sport and Entrepreneur Development, for roping in travel agencies under Sarawak Tourism Federation (STF), to further promote their longhouse.
“This is one way we can boost tourism in our State and improve the socio-economic status of the people in rural Sarawak,” he added.
“There are many other activities the village folks can share with visitors relating to our customs. We can prepare traditional music and performances featuring our stories, arts, and also prepare delectable traditional food.”
The longhouse elder said visitors who like river activities can also take boat rides to enjoy the flora and fauna of the area and get closer to nature.
“While enjoying the water activities, we can prepare al fresco dining for visitors by having a barbeque on the gravel beach while they take a dip in the river,” he said.
Those who fancy taking a well-deserved break from the hectic life for a few days may contact STF at 082-332 420 for more details. — DayakDaily
