Sarawak Rivers Board asked to look into safety aspect of river cruise along Rajang River

Lee (second left) listens to a briefing before embarking on a river cruise.

By William Isau

SIBU, Feb 18: The Sarawak Rivers Board (SRB) has been told to look into the safety aspect of the river cruise along the Rajang River, operated by a private company.

During a working visit today, Transport Minister Dato Sri Lee Kim Shin said that passengers’ safety is a top priority.

“According to the operator of this river cruise, as the response from the people has been overwhelming since its launch last year, they are now looking into operating another one. This cruise will also be a new initiative to promote tourism,” he said.

The one-hour cruise charges RM10 per passenger and operates from Friday to Sunday.

Lee also suggested that the operator works with local tour operators to bring tourists on a sight-seeing trip of the Rajang River.

“I wish to congratulate the operator of this river cruise for converting the express boat for such usage. This should be encouraged as it can help promote tourism,” he added.

Lee said the operator of an express boat company had converted the boat for river cruise purposes as express boat services from Sibu to Kapit was affected by the completion of a road to Kapit.

“Before the Covid-19 pandemic, there were 12 boats to Kapit daily, but now there is only one left operating,’ he said.

At his visit, Lee presented a permit to the river cruise operator. — DayakDaily