Bau looks to establish sister city, province ties with China, says deputy minister

BAU (Aug 8): Plans are underway for Bau to establish a sister city or province partnership with China, said Datuk Henry Harry Jinep.

The Transport Deputy Minister and Tasik Biru assemblyman said finalising such a partnership will take time as it involves government-to-government agreement before being extended to municipalities and districts.

“It’s not a difficult process, but it requires the willingness of both parties. We definitely want to establish this, given Bau’s historical ties with China dating back to the mining era.

“Those with ancestral connections to the mining era would likely want to return to visit Bau,” he told a press conference after officiating at the Bau Cultural Night in connection with the 50th anniversary of Malaysia-China diplomatic relationships at the Bau Civic Centre last night.

Henry said during a visit to Sichuan Province in China last month, he and a delegation of Chinese community leaders and business figures explored opportunities for Bau, including the creation of a Hakka village.

“Through arrangements made by the council office, we visited several places of interest, including tulou, a Hakka village that is very synonymous with the Chinese Hakka community in Bau.

“So, we have included a plan in our master plan to establish a Hakka village in Bau. This village will feature a tulou, which can be used for various purposes beyond just dwelling, such as homestays or restaurants.

“That is already part of our planning, and all our Chinese leaders are aware of our vision for Bau,” he said.

To bring these plans to fruition, Henry said further discussions will be held with the Consulate General of the People’s Republic of China in Kuching and the Sichuan provincial government.

“If the Sichuan provincial government can reach an understanding with the Sarawak government, it will proceed to discussions with municipal and district authorities. Bau could then become part of a partnership with other small cities in Sichuan.

“So, it’s a process, but we are committed to pursuing it if the Sarawak government supports the initiative,” he explained.

Henry also highlighted the potential economic benefits of increased tourism resulting from this partnership.

“If even a fraction of a million visitors come to Bau, it could generate significant economic spillover effects.

“So, we hope that this establishment will foster socioeconomic activities for our local community. This includes opening food outlets and other businesses, allowing locals to actively participate in and benefit from these developments.

“Creating these opportunities is our responsibility,” he added.

Among those present at the event were Consul General of the People’s Republic of China in Kuching Xing Weiping, Batu Kitang assemblyman Datuk Lo Khere Chiang, and Bau District officer Constantine Gerald David.