By DayakDaily Team
KUCHING, Aug 7: Sarawak’s commitment to responsible tourism is reflected in the Post Covid-19 Development Strategy (PCDS) 2030, led by Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg, which aims to transform the region into a leading eco-tourism and business event destination, according to Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah.
Abdul Karim, who is Sarawak Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry, and Performing Arts (MTCP), highlighted that the strategy promotes responsible actions to empower communities and includes initiatives across six key economic sectors.
“This strategy includes initiatives in six key economic sectors, with tourism playing a vital role in driving economic growth, enhancing social inclusivity, and ensuring environmental sustainability,” he said during the opening ceremony of the International Conference on Responsible Tourism and Hospitality (ICRTH) 2024 held today at a local hotel here.
He went on to say that one of Sarawak’s significant achievements is the recent inscription of Niah Cave as a Unesco World Heritage Site.
“This recognition underscores the region’s rich cultural and natural heritage and its commitment to preserving these treasures for future generations.
“The inscription highlights Sarawak’s dedication to responsible tourism, which fosters peace and understanding by showcasing our shared human history.
“This ‘tourism product’ will not only attract more visitors to Sarawak which is good for our economy, it will accelerate the implementation of our strategy to conserve our environment, preserve our cultural heritage, and build an inclusive society with mutual appreciation,” he explained.
The minister further noted that ICRTH plays a crucial role in promoting responsible tourism practices that align with Sarawak’s vision.
“By prioritising eco-friendly practices, community engagement, and cultural preservation, Sarawak is setting a benchmark for responsible tourism development.
“We are working closely with our stakeholders, including government agencies, universities, business entities and associations, in formulating a responsible tourism blueprint as our policy and roadmap.”
The Sarawak Research Society (SRS) and Responsible Borneo (REBORN), in collaboration with MTCP, co-organised the 4th ICRTH.
The conference, titled ‘Tourism and Peace: Promoting Peaceful and Inclusive Societies for Sustainable Development’, aims to advance responsible tourism practices around the world.
The conference will take place from Aug 7 to 11, and will include a comprehensive programme designed to bring together tourism stakeholders such as professionals, government agencies, industry players, academics, researchers, practitioners, associations, communities, and students.
The event was attended by various dignitaries and officials, including MTCP Deputy Minister Datuk Sebastian Ting Chiew Yew, MTCP Permanent Secretary Datu Sherrina Hussaini, and Chairman of Sarawak Research Society, Professor at i-CATS University College, and Chair of ICRTH 2024, Dr Hiram Ting. — DayakDaily
