By Shikin Louis
KUCHING, Feb 1: Sarawak Botanical Garden will be upgraded with new biodiversity attractions and connected to a heritage trail leading to Reservoir Park, says Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.
The upgrades are part of Kuching’s broader low-carbon and smart city initiatives, aimed at enhancing green spaces while showcasing Sarawak’s natural heritage.
“According to our planning, we have two components — the botanical garden and its connection to Reservoir Park via a heritage trail. Both will be complemented with biodiversity attractions,” Abang Johari told reporters after the Walk of Health Programme at the Sarawak Botanical Garden this morning.
He said the upgrades would provide more opportunities for both locals and tourists to enjoy the State’s rich biodiversity.
“The project also includes the planting of bamboo, bananas and other commercially viable plants, which are expected to contribute to sustainable urban development,” he added.
Abang Johari noted that Kuching, as the State capital, has a relatively large urban footprint and is well-positioned to integrate facilities and infrastructure that support low-carbon living.
On the implementation timeline, he said work is already underway.
“We are currently implementing it. That is why we are here this morning to see the progress,” he said.
For maintenance and long-term management, several statutory bodies are expected to be involved, including the Sarawak Biodiversity Centre (SBC) and the Forest Department Sarawak (FDS).
“These agencies will help maintain and further develop the area, especially as Darul Hana will become a connectivity point near the museum garden,” he pointed out.
Earlier, Abang Johari and other dignitaries had a brisk walk along the 2.5km stretch of the Sarawak Botanical Garden.
Also present were Deputy Premiers Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas and Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian; Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah; Minister of Food Industry, Commodity and Regional Development Dato Sri Dr Stephen Rundi Utom; and Sarawak Secretary Datuk Amar Mohamad Abu Bakar Marzuki. — DayakDaily
