By Amanda L
KUCHING, July 19: The Sarawak government is prepared to work more closely with REDEEMS to preserve Bidayuh heritage and realise its ambition of becoming a cultural tourism destination, with the proposed RM3.5 million Heritage Longhouse among projects under consideration.
Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts (MTCP) Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah said he would bring the proposal to Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg for consideration, although no funding commitment was announced.
“There must be efforts by the government to assist because this is not for personal benefit but for the community and the promotion of tourism,” he said when officiating the 18th Gawai Carnival REDEEMS at REDEEMS Centre Singai on Saturday (July 18).
Representing the Premier at the event, Abdul Karim described the proposed Heritage Longhouse as more than just a physical structure, saying it would stand as a symbol of cultural continuity where traditions, customs and indigenous knowledge could be preserved and passed on to future generations.
“The REDEEMS Centre has the potential to become a key cultural tourism destination, given the growing demand among visitors for authentic cultural experiences, indigenous knowledge and local cuisine.
“With proper planning, community participation and infrastructure, REDEEMS could attract more visitors from within Sarawak, across Malaysia and abroad,” he added.
To strengthen that vision, the minister encouraged REDEEMS to work closely with the Sarawak Tourism Federation (STF) to organise more cultural events, conferences and youth programmes that would increase the centre’s visibility while creating more opportunities for cultural exchange.
He further commended REDEEMS for its efforts in documenting, preserving and promoting Bidayuh heritage, saying cultural institutions play an important role in ensuring development does not come at the expense of Sarawak’s identity. — DayakDaily
