Sarawak Hornbill Tourism Award introduces new categories for 2024

A file photo of the 8th Sarawak Hornbill Tourism Awards 2017/2018. Photo credit: SHTA website/Andy Phe Photography ©

KUCHING, March 12: The 9th Sarawak Hornbill Tourism Award (SHTA) has introduced several new categories to enhance efforts in acknowledging contributions to the development of the tourism industry.

Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah said the awards are scheduled to take place on Sept 27, 2024, at Hikmah Exchange Kuching and will be graced by Premier of Sarawak Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.

“This year’s SHTA features eight main award categories with 28 subcategories. I am pleased to announce that this year, the 9th SHTA will introduce several new categories to reflect our commitment to recognising and celebrating excellence in all aspects of the tourism industry.


“Among the new categories are Spa and Health, Education and Medical Tourism, SMM2H, as well as highlighting Best Community-Based Tourism Initiatives and Special Awards for Sustainability, and so on,” he said in a news report by TVS.

Abdul Karim highlighted this during a press conference after launching the Quick Facts Book 2023 and Calendar of Events 2024 for Sarawak at a hotel here yesterday (March 11).

This year, embracing the theme ‘Wind of Resilience’, the awards ceremony signal the remarkable journey of Sarawak’s tourism from 2019-2023, amidst the challenges posed by the recent global pandemic.

As the heart of Sarawak’s tourism beats stronger than ever, the Sarawak Hornbill Tourism Awards exemplify excellence, innovation, and dedication within the tourism sector.

At its core, these awards recognise the outstanding contributions of individuals, organisations, and initiatives that have significantly advanced the tourism landscape in Sarawak.

With eight prestigious categories and 28 sub-categories, the Sarawak Hornbill Tourism Awards showcase the diverse and impactful efforts driving Sarawak’s tourism industry. The main award category include Best Tour Operator, Tours and Tourist Guide; Best Accomodation; Best Dining, Retail and Recreational Experiences; Best Special Interest Tourism; Best Attractions; Best Promotion and Social Media Contribution to the Tourism Industry; Best Tourism Events and Festivals Experiences; and the Special Hornbill Awards.

The latest information, including the nomination process, criteria, and nomination forms, may be accessed online at https://shta.com.my/.

The nomination period is from March 25 to April 30, 2024, and forms may be submitted online or physically. — DayakDaily