SRI AMAN, Sept 30: Simanggang has been named the Malaysia Benak (Tidal Bore) Town as it holds a unique distinction as one of the 65 locations worldwide where this captivating natural phenomenon occurs within Malaysia.
Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah expressed his immense pride in the growing global recognition of the Sri Aman Tidal Bore Festival, earning the esteemed title of being the world’s premier tidal bore event.
This festival, he emphasised, has not only gained international acclaim but has also fostered positive interactions between the local Sri Aman community and visitors from outside the region.
It serves as an exceptional platform for locals and non-locals alike to showcase, introduce, and sell various products, including agricultural goods, handicrafts, and a diverse array of food and beverages.
“The local community or those outside of Sri Aman Division can come here to take the opportunity to exhibit, introduce and sell products to improve the socio-economic status of the region and also generate substantial income,” he said when officiating at the opening of the Tidal Bore Festival 2023 at the Sri Aman waterfront yesterday (Sept 29).
Abdul Karim added that efforts to promote festivals and ecotourism attractions, such as the Batang Lupar Tidal Bore as a unique, iconic feature of Sarawak as a whole and Sri Aman Division in particular, have been actively implemented.
He encouraged the local community to seize opportunities not only during the Tidal Bore Festival but throughout the year to bolster their income and explore their potential.
This year’s festival also features a development exhibition that will remain open until Oct 1, operating from 9am to 9pm. The public is warmly encouraged to visit this exhibition.
The festival’s pinnacle will be marked by the presence of Premier of Sarawak Datuk Pattingi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg, who is expected to officiate at the event tomorrow (Oct 1).
Adding to the festival’s allure is the Tidal Bore Regatta, an exciting event taking place in the Batang Lupar River during the festival’s duration. With an ambitious target of attracting 50,000 visitors during the three-day event, this regatta promises to be an exhilarating experience for all.
There is also a Youth Expression Event set up at Sri Aman’s mini stadium to showcase and nurture creativity and talents among local youths.
It features an array of interesting events to enliven the atmosphere, including video games, movie characters display, animation, comics and games, as well as sales of souvenir items.
Open from 9am to 10pm, the entrance fee is RM10 per person.
Deputy Minister of Talent Development and Simanggang assemblyman Datuk Francis Harden Hollis; Sri Aman MP and adviser to the 2023 Tidal Bore Festival Main Committee Dato Sri Doris Sophia Brodie; Bukit Bangunan assemblyman Datuk Mong Dagang; Lingga assemblyman Dayang Noorazah Awang Sohor; Sri Aman Resident and organising chairman Abang Mohamad Porkan Abang Budiman were among those present. — DayakDaily
