Abdul Karim: Ministry confident S’wak will achieve 4 mln visitors target

KUCHING (Oct 7): The Ministry of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts is optimistic that Sarawak will achieve this year’s target of 4 million visitors, with hopes of exceeding 5 million.

Its minister Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah expressed hope for the goal to be realised, breaking the previous record of 4.6 million visitors set in 2019.

“Based on the latest figures, as of Aug 31, the ministry has recorded 3.3 million visitors. We estimate that the September figures should bring us close to 4 million.

“With various events lined up, I am optimistic that Sarawak is on track to hit the 5 million visitors mark this year,” he said in a press conference for the Borneo Jazz Festival 2024 at Baitulmakmur Building II here today.

In this regard, Abdul Karim said that the upcoming festival will significantly contribute to reach the target.

Hosted by the Miri City Council, this year’s Borneo Jazz Festival is themed ‘Jazzy Miri’, and will be held at Eastwood Valley Golf & Country Club in Miri, taking place from Nov 29 to Dec 1.

“Miri, with its breathtaking scenery, warm hospitality, and vibrant culture, is undoubtedly the ideal location for this year’s Borneo Jazz Festival.

“I am confident that this festival will not only strengthen community bonds, but also boost the tourism industry, as well as showcase the remarkable talents of our region,” he added.

This year’s festival features world-class artistes, comprising the United States of America’s Makaya McCraven, Indonesia’s Rio Sidik, Germany’s The Clarinet Trio, as well as local artistes Sheila Majid, The Shang Sisters, WVC Jazz Ensemble, Gerhana Skacinta, and Ta’Dan.

On the festival’s final day, it will showcase performances by local musicians, who are set to compete in the open category of the ‘Battle of the Bands’.

Among those present were Abdul Karim’s deputies Datuk Sebastian Ting and Datuk Snowdan Lawan; the ministry’s permanent secretary Datu Sherrina Hussaini; Miri Mayor Adam Yii; his deputy Ariffin Mohamad; and Sarawak Tourism Board chief executive officer Sharzede Salleh Askor.