By Amanda L
KUCHING: Sarawak is banking on a packed December calendar and the New Year’s Eve countdown to drive a final surge in visitor arrivals as it pushes to hit a record five million visitors for 2025.
Minister for Tourism, Creative Industry, and Performing Arts Sarawak Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah said 14 additional events have been scheduled for December, forming the State’s last push to lift arrivals before year-end.
“Sarawak recorded 4.01 million visitors as of the end of October. To reach the five-million target, strong turnout in November and December will be essential, a target that is challenging but achievable with the support of major year-end events,” he said in a press conference after his ministerial winding-up speech at the Sarawak Legislative Assembly (DUS) sitting today.
He said that despite the tight margin, tourism receipts have remained robust. Spending has averaged more than RM1 billion a month from January to October, benefitting hotels, restaurants, transport operators and communities across the state, providing momentum for December’s activities.
Key draws this month include Sibu International Bike Week, the Sarawak International Festival of Music & Arts (SIFMA), Lingga Regatta and the Samurai Phenomenon: Search & XPDC concert. The New Year’s Eve celebration at Kuching Waterfront will anchor the month, with performers from Peninsular Malaysia expected to attract both domestic and regional visitors.
To strengthen cross-border turnout, promotions will be intensified in Pontianak and Sambas. Abdul Karim noted that last year’s heavy Indonesian arrivals during the countdown demonstrated the potential for another strong wave this year.
“As preparations continue, the priority is to deliver a smooth celebration and an enjoyable experience for visitors, giving Sarawak a strong finish as it aims to reach its record tourism target,” he added. — DayakDaily
