By Shikin Louis
BAU, Sept 27: Premier of Sarawak Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg today officiated the newly completed Siniawan Waterfront, a RM10.8 million project that aims to further enhance the charm of the historic town.
According to Serembu assemblyman Miro Simuh, the waterfront, completed this month after a slight delay from the contractor, is expected to become another iconic attraction for Siniawan, which has long been a hub for tourists from both within Sarawak and neighbouring Kalimantan.
On weekends, the town’s streets are bustling, with up to 30 to 40 per cent of visitors coming from Kalimantan, drawn by Siniawan’s preserved heritage, vibrant atmosphere and diverse food offerings.
“Even international visitors really enjoy coming here. They want to experience something different.
“With so many modern buildings elsewhere, they often ask, ‘How do you preserve this town?’ We replied: We preserve it with heart,” he said during the Siniawan Waterfront launch ceremony held at the site today.
The launch coincides with a series of festivities, including the 8th edition of the Siniawan Country Music Festival, which has grown to become the largest country music festival in Asia.
The three-day event features 12 bands, mostly local, with audiences exceeding 5,000 last night. Visitors came from Singapore, Kota Kinabalu, Pontianak and beyond to enjoy the performances.
Miro also noted that Siniawan is celebrating the 185th anniversary of its establishment as a trading town and entry port, dating back to 1840 when gold was discovered in Bau.
Once larger than Kuching and home to casinos, banks and cinemas, Siniawan experienced decline before local efforts revived it with the opening of a night market in 2009, which continues to operate 15 years later with over 70 vendors.
The waterfront now also features a special Muslim food court, ensuring that visitors from all communities can enjoy local delicacies comfortably.
“At the new waterfront, we have a special food court for Muslim food. Visitors and our brothers and sisters in Islam can now easily enjoy meals in Siniawan.
“We also offer many unique dishes at the food court,” he added.
Also present were Sarawak Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah; Tasik Biru assemblyman Dato Henry Harry Jinep; Bukit Semuja assemblyman John Ilus; Kuching Resident Dayang Joanita Azizah Abang Morshidi; and Dayak Bidayuh National Association (DBNA) president Datu Ik Pahon Joyik. – DayakDaily
