By Karen Bong
KUCHING, May 1: As the tourism landscape continues to evolve with intensifying competition and increasingly discerning travellers, sustainability is no longer an option but a necessity, said Minister for Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah.
Speaking at the Sarawak Tourism Federation’s (STF) 21st Anniversary Dinner at Imperial Hotel on Wednesday (April 30), Abdul Karim stressed the importance of unified efforts across government, industry players and communities to innovate and grow together in order to remain competitive in the global tourism market.
“The tourism landscape is constantly changing. Competition is greater. Visitor expectations are higher. Sustainability is no longer an option—it is a must,” he asserted.
Abdul Karim reaffirmed the Ministry’s recognition of STF’s vital role in championing private sector interests, fostering collaboration with government, and driving tourism excellence in Sarawak.
Programmes like the STF Gawai Dayak Open House, the Sarawak Hornbill Tourism Awards, and the recently launched State Industry Report were highlighted as strong examples of effective public-private partnership.
“Tourism has always been an important pillar for Sarawak’s economy and cultural identity. STF’s efforts in bringing together stakeholders from hospitality, travel, culture, wellness, and medical tourism under one voice have been instrumental,” he said.
He added that Sarawak’s Post Covid-19 Development Strategy (PCDS) 2030 places strong emphasis on tourism as a key driver of inclusive and sustainable development, and the government is committed to fostering an environment where tourism players can thrive through town halls, dialogue sessions and continuous engagement.
“Tonight, we not only celebrate a milestone, but honour the journey and partnerships that have shaped our vibrant tourism industry,” he said in congratulating STF president Audry Wan Ullok and all members for their dedication and contributions over the past 21 years.
In her remarks, Audry reiterated STF’s commitment to inclusivity and community engagement.
She announced that STF will host its Gawai Dayak Open House on June 7 at Engkeranji longhouse in Betong, offering visitors an immersive cultural experience that includes traditional costumes, sacred rituals, tribal cuisine, and a live concert featuring Dayak musicians.
“Step into the festive world of Iban heritage… When night falls, don’t miss the live concert featuring Dayak musicians and cultural acts that bring the sounds of Sarawak to life in a tribal setting,” she said.
Audry also revealed STF’s plans to organise town hall sessions with tourism stakeholders and government ministries, aimed at fostering open dialogue, idea-sharing and collaborative solutions.
“These activities are designed to strengthen our tourism ecosystem and ensure no voice is left unheard,” she said, expressing appreciation to Abdul Karim for his support and openness to industry feedback.
She noted that the State of the Industry Report, launched earlier this year, has been well received and marks the beginning of STF’s deeper engagement with the ministry.
The evening also saw STF honouring former Sarawak Tourist Association chairmen Dato Wee Hong Seng and Philip Yong with commemorative mementoes in recognition of their contributions to the tourism sector.
Among the guests were Deputy Minister of Youth, Sports and Entrepreneur Development Dato Gerald Rentap Jabu, Deputy Minister of Tourism Datuk Sebastian Ting, Deputy State Secretary (Operations) Datu Hii Chang Kee, and permanent secretary to the ministry Datu Sherrina Hussaini. — DayakDaily
