By Amanda Ladang
KUCHING, Nov 29: The Samarahan Food and Cultural Festival (SFCF) is poised to become a permanent feature on Sarawak’s tourism calendar, with plans to elevate it into one of the division’s signature attractions in the years ahead.
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According to Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry, and Performing Arts Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, the festival has shown strong potential to position Samarahan as a cultural hub, noting that its mix of food showcases, traditional performances and creative industry participation reflects the division’s growing identity.
“Institutionalising the event would give travellers a consistent reason to visit Samarahan while opening long-term economic opportunities for local traders, cultural groups and young entrepreneurs,” he said at the festival’s closing ceremony this evening.
Abdul Karim also highlighted the festival’s role as a platform for small food operators and artisans to gain visibility beyond their districts, stressing that community-led events are becoming more important as Sarawak diversifies its tourism products outside major cities.
He added that the ministry will work with local councils to strengthen logistics, promotion and supporting facilities to ensure the festival meets the expectations of domestic and regional visitors.
“Positioning Samarahan as a cultural tourism stop complements wider efforts to showcase Sarawak’s food heritage and creative talent.
“With steady support and proper planning, this festival can grow into a major annual draw and contribute to Samarahan’s identity as a vibrant cultural destination,” he added. — DayakDaily
