Sarawak Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Openg (seated, centre) chairing
the Sarawak Development Coordination Committee (SDCC) meeting in Mukah, August
14, 2024. - PIC COURTESY: SARAWAK PUBLIC COMMUNICATIONS UNIT (UKAS)
KUCHING: Sarawak Tourism
Board (STB) aims to promote the state as a premier travel destination with its
unique plethora of culture, adventure, nature, food, and festivals (CANFF) at a
travel fair in Singapore that begins tomorrow.
STB
chief executive officer Sharzede Salleh Askor said the National Association of
Travel Agents of Singapore (NATAS) Holidays 2024 attracts over 100,000 visitors
annually with its diverse range of travel products and destinations.
"This
event, which will be held from August 16 to 18, 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," she said in a statement today.
She
added that STB would showcase exciting travel packages featuring visits, among
others, to the Unesco World Heritage Sites of Niah National Park and Mulu
National Park, both located in Miri.
"As the first state
in Malaysia to boast two Unesco World Heritage Sites, Sarawak's recent
recognition of Niah National Park at the 46th World Heritage Committee Meeting
in July 2024 underscores its global significance and outstanding natural
beauty," she explained.
Sharzede said other package attractions include the Sarawak Delta Geopark,
which encompasses the Wind Cave and Fairy Cave Nature Reserve, Bako National
Park, and the Semenggoh Nature Reserve.
She added that visitors
could explore unique geological formations, and rich biodiversity including
endemic species like the proboscis monkey and fairy rock gecko at the Delta
Geopark, located in the southern part of the state that spans areas in Kuching,
Bau, Padawan, and Siburan.
Sharzede
said Sarawak also offered authentic local food, adding that Kuching was already
recognised as a Unesco Creative City of Gastronomy.
"With
over 34 ethnic groups, Sarawak's diverse cultural heritage has allowed its
culinary scene to flourish, offering visitors a chance to experience authentic
and varied local cuisine.
"Beyond
its cuisine, travellers can also explore the vibrant handicrafts scene, where traditional
crafts showcase the region's rich cultural tapestry," Sharzede said.
She
also said Kuching's recognition as a World Craft City by the World Crafts
Council further cemented its status as a world-class hub for exquisite crafts.
She
added that visitors could enjoy daily cultural dance performances at 4pm at the
Sarawak Cultural Village in Santubong, featuring six major ethnic groups such
as the Iban, Bidayuh, Malay, Chinese, Melanau, and Orang Ulu.
Apart
from that, Sharzede said visitors could also witness the artistry of Sarawak
tattoo artists, who would provide temporary tattoos for those interested in
experiencing this unique form of art.
Singapore
ranks among the top five countries for visitor arrivals to Sarawak, with a 12
per cent increase in visitors recorded until July 2024 compared to the previous
year.
"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," she added.
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