By DayakDaily Team
KUCHING, Aug 15: Singapore has emerged as one of the top five countries for visitor arrivals in Sarawak, with a 12 per cent increase in visitors recorded up to July 2024 compared to the previous year.
In light of this growing interest, Sarawak Tourism Board (STB) in a press release announced its participation in National Association of Travel Agents Singapore (NATAS) Holidays 2024, Singapore’s premier consumer travel fair.
According to the press release, from Aug 16 to 18, STB will be showcasing a range of exciting travel packages at booth 4H35 at the Singapore Expo in Singapore.
Attendees can choose from a variety of appealing travel packages that include visits to Niah National Park and Mulu National Park, both of which are UNESCO World Heritage sites.
NATAS Holidays, a major travel event attracting over 100,000 attendees annually, features a diverse selection of travel products and destinations.
The fair features exhibitors from a variety of industries, including outbound travel agents, cruise lines, airlines, hotels, resorts, national tourism organisations, and more.
STB chief executive officer (CEO) Sharzede Salleh Askor was quoted as saying: “We are incredibly excited to showcase Sarawak’s unique offerings at NATAS Holidays 2024.
“Visitors can look forward to discovering the breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and delectable cuisine that make Sarawak a must-visit destination.”
The release highlighted that Sarawak’s rise in popularity among Singaporean travellers is attributed to its diverse offerings, including authentic local food, captivating cave tours, national parks, and wildlife experiences.
“By participating in NATAS Holidays 2024, STB aims to promote Sarawak as a premier travel destination, highlighting its unique plethora of culture, adventure, nature, food, and festivals (CANFF).
“This event offers STB the chance to increase awareness of Sarawak’s cultural
and natural attractions, and engage directly with potential travellers, travel agents, and other industry stakeholders.
“Through strategic marketing efforts and partnerships, STB is committed to driving tourism growth, fostering relationships, and enhancing the overall tourism experience in Sarawak, ultimately leading to increased tourist arrivals and economic benefits for the region,” it added.
The fair will highlight exclusive tour packages tailored specifically for Singaporean travellers, including visits to Sarawak’s newly recognised UNESCO World Heritage Site, Niah National Park, and the renowned Mulu National Park.
Sarawak’s designation as the first Malaysian state with two UNESCO World Heritage Sites underscores its global significance and exceptional natural beauty.
Additional package attractions will feature the Sarawak Delta Geopark, encompassing the Wind Cave and Fairy Cave Nature Reserve, Bako National Park, and Semenggoh Nature Reserve.
Located in the southern part of the State, the geopark spans Kuching, Bau, Padawan, and Siburan, offering unique geological formations and rich biodiversity, including the proboscis monkey and fairy rock gecko.
Kuching, the capital of Sarawak, is recognised as a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy, celebrated for its vibrant culinary scene shaped by over 34 ethnic groups.
The city’s status as a World Craft City by the World Crafts Council highlights its rich tradition of exquisite crafts.
“Visitors can enjoy daily cultural dance performances at 4pm, featuring six major ethnic groups: Iban, Bidayuh, Malay, Chinese, Melanau, and Orang Ulu.
“Additionally, there will be captivating Sape performances. The Sape, a traditional lute of the Orang Ulu community, is known for its enchanting melodies and is an integral part of Sarawak’s musical heritage.
“Visitors can also witness the artistry of Sarawak tattoo artists, who will be providing temporary tattoos for those interested in experiencing this unique form of art.”
Admission to NATAS Holidays 2024 is free. For more information, visit the STB website at https://sarawaktourism.com/. — DayakDaily
