By Christopher Lidom
KUCHING, Nov 11: The Sarawak government has allocated RM174 million to Ministry of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts (MTCP) under Sarawak Budget 2025 for tourism marketing and promotion programmes.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said from the total allocation, RM45 million will be use to host events and festivals that highlight Sarawak’s cultural vibrancy; RM86 million for grants to Sarawak Tourism Board, Business Events Sarawak, Sarawak Arts Council and Sarawak Craft Council; RM10 million for sponsorship grants for tourism activities; and RM5 million for research grants.
“An additional allocation of RM81 million will also be provided under the 2025 Development Budget for the continued implementation of various tourism projects such as Performing Arts Centre at Old DUN Building, and transformation of Brooke Dockyard into an Industrial Heritage Museum.
“This includes Sadong Jaya Mangrove Tourism, Sarawak Museum Campus and Heritage Trails, Santubong Archaeological Park and Wallace Centre, Restoration and Upgrading of Islamic Heritage Museum Building and Exhibition, and Darul Hana Malay Heritage Museum,” he said when tabling the Sarawak Budget 2025 at the Sarawak Legislative Assembly (DUS) Sitting here today.
Abang Johari, said the tourism sector is vital to Sarawak’s economic diversification and one of significant contributors to the State’s economy.
Through focused strategies, he said, the Sarawak government aims to make the State a leading destination for eco-tourism, augmented by rich cultural experiences and unique heritage.
“In 2025, we will be ramping up our efforts across several areas to attract more visitors and enhance Sarawak’s tourism appeal.
“Digital marketing initiatives will be expanded, focusing on collaboration with online travel agencies and airlines to increase accessibility, especially in key markets across Europe, ASEAN, and Oceania.
“By strategically enhancing Sarawak’s visibility and connectivity, we aim to attract 5 million visitors by the end of 2025. This strategic approach also emphasises on encouraging extended stays and strengthening Sarawak’s brand appeal on the global tourism stage,” he added.
Meanwhile, on the development of eco-tourism attractions, he said Sarawak Forestry Corporation (SFC) continues to champion conservation-based ecotourism by creating experiences that engage visitors in sustainable practices and heritage preservation while empowering local communities.
He also said that with other key initiatives being actively pursued such as promoting Niah National Park as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and expanding training for park guides, SFC integrates biodiversity awareness with rich cultural experiences, thus establishing Sarawak as a leader in regional ecotourism. — DayakDaily
