By DayakDaily Team
PADAWAN, May 7: Padawan District is set to emerge as a premier tourism destination in Sarawak through the implementation of a strategic geopark-based tourism product mapping project, anchored in the rich cultural heritage of the Bidayuh community and the natural wonders of the tropical rainforest.
According to Sarawak Public Communication Unit ‘s (Ukas) news report, the initiative is championed by Deputy Minister for Transport and Mambong assemblyman, Datuk Dr Jerip Susil, who chaired the “Focus Group Geopark Trails Mapping of Tourism Product in Padawan” meeting held on Tuesday (May 6).
The meeting, which took place at the Padawan Sub-District Office, was conducted in collaboration with Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM), local community leaders, and tourism stakeholders.
Driven by UiTM’s research team under the Ranee Atlas initiative, the project aims to establish an integrated tourism trail featuring over 48 waterfalls, 50 caves, and themed Bidayuh villages — all enriched with historical narratives, cultural expressions, and local community life.
Among the key attractions identified are Penghuntan Waterfall, prehistoric caves, and the lush ecosystem of Sarawak’s tropical rainforest.
However, Datuk Dr Jerip emphasised that the true soul of the project lies in the Dayak Bidayuh community itself.
“Their culture, music, handicrafts, cuisine, and stories of resilience form the heartbeat of this tourism initiative.
“The theme ‘The Bidayuh Survived’ will serve as the foundation of Padawan’s tourism development — reinforcing cultural identity, preserving heritage, and unlocking new opportunities,” he said.
Kampung Annah Rais has been designated as the central hub for Bidayuh cultural exhibitions, while other villages such as Kampung Sikog, Kampung Bunuk, and several others will be developed with distinct tourism identities.
These developments will be supported by digital infrastructure, an amphitheatre, and adventure tourism offerings such as the Padawan Raft Safari under the Greater Kuching Coordinated Development Agency (GKCDA).
The project is expected to invigorate the rural economy and position Padawan as a sustainable tourism destination rich in cultural and ecological value.
“Without its people, a place remains an empty space. But with its people, it becomes vibrant, meaningful, and full of stories to be shared with the world,” Dr Jerip concluded. — DayakDaily
