Bario reflects strong community-based tourism with 66 homestays registered under national programme

MIRI (March 17): A total of 66 homestays in Bario are registered with the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture Malaysia (Motac) under the Malaysia Homestay Experience Programme, reflecting strong participation in community-based tourism, said Datuk Gerawat Gala.

The Deputy Minister in the Sarawak Premier’s Department (Labour, Immigration and Project Monitoring) said homestays play a vital role in introducing the uniqueness of Kelabit culture, local way of life, and natural beauty of Bario to both domestic and international visitors.

“Besides offering authentic experiences to tourists, the homestay programme also opens up economic opportunities for local residents through the provision of accommodation, traditional food, handicrafts, as well as cultural and nature-based activities,” he said after chairing a meeting with the Bario Highlands Homestay Association here on Monday.

The Mulu assemblyman said the government continues to support efforts to strengthen the tourism industry in highland areas such as Bario, as it helps generate income for local communities while promoting the area as one of Sarawak’s unique tourism destinations.

He urged homestay operators to maintain high standards of service, cleanliness, safety, and the overall quality of the visitor experience.

“Good standards are crucial to ensuring the reputation of Bario homestays is preserved and remains attractive to more visitors in the future,” he said.

Meanwhile, he said the meeting was held to discuss proposed homestay programmes in Bario for 2026, including plans to organise the Bario Highlands Homestay Festival as a platform to further promote Bario as a community-based tourism destination.