By Jaythaleela K
MIRI, Sept 26: The setting up of digital infrastructures at tourist destinations is one way the state can encourage visitors to promote Sarawak to the world.
Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Tun Openg said the availability of Internet facilities would enable visitors to post about the tourist destinations in the state, especially historical and heritage sites, in the social media with access to billions of the global population.
“The state government is keen on introducing historical places that are available here to the outside world.
“This is why the state government is upgrading and providing the necessary physical and digital infrastructures at our tourist destinations, in order to accommodate the needs of our visitors,” he said when opening the International Conference on Archaeology 2019, here, today.
His text-of-speech was read by Minister of Tourism, Arts, Culture, Youth and Sports Datuk Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah.
Adding that Sarawak has unique features and a home to some of the world’s important heritage sites and monuments, Abang Johari said these are important, as the state’s tourism industry is promoting culture, adventure, nature, food and festivals.
He cited the Niah Caves as among the important archaeological sites in the state.
“While heritage tourism brings positive and rewarding economic impacts, it is imperative to have proper and feasible management of the resources for it to be sustainable.
“This invaluable historical and cultural heritage tells us about past human activities and thus, also reflects a nation’s civilisation. Therefore, the protection and preservation of these heritage assets are a priority and Sarawak is committed to this,” he said.
The three-day conference, which ends Saturday, attracted some 200 local and international participants including Indonesia, Singapore, Thailand, Brunei and Australia.
Themed “Promoting Archaeology as Heritage Tourism”, the conference will feature 19 speakers from seven countries, presenting eight of their latest research works revolving around archaeology and heritage tourism.
Federal Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture deputy secretary-general (culture) Saraya Arbi, National Heritage Department deputy commissioner (heritage) Mohamad Muda Bahadin and state Museum acting director Suria Bujang were present. — DayakDaily
