Glamping redefines camping with luxury

KUCHING: Against the backdrop of traditional camping, a new phenomenon has emerged that is transforming the camping experience in the great outdoors – glamping.

Glamping, a combination of glamour and camping, offers a more luxurious form of accommodation and amenities compared to traditional camping. It has become a popular attraction at Borneo Highlands, drawing attention over the past few years.

Lo Khere Chiang, the Chairman of Borneo Highlands Resident Club and Batu Kitang assemblyman, stated that the glamping events organized in the past two years had attracted 300 glampers for the first time.

“In the past two years, we have had very successful glamping events with 300 glampers who thoroughly enjoyed their time there,” Lo expressed with delight.

He made these remarks during the second annual general meeting (AGM) of the Borneo Highlands Resident Club (BHRC) held at Hoi Tin Lau Restaurant last night (Dec 20).

BHRC glamping event.

Tents at BHRC glamping event.

Lo expressed optimism that Borneo Highlands would become a tourist attraction, especially for Singaporeans visiting Sarawak who want to experience a “heavenly” feel that money cannot buy.

“I believe that Singaporean tourists would love to experience glamping in Borneo Highlands because it offers a heavenly experience that money can’t buy in Singapore,” Lo said.

He envisioned Borneo Highlands becoming a prominent tourist hotspot in the foreseeable future, not only for Singaporeans but for visitors from other places as well.

“I see Borneo Highlands as a major tourist destination in the future. In addition to glamping, we hope to develop ecotourism and eco-agriculture,” Lo said.

The BHRC is working diligently to maintain the relevance and vitality of Borneo Highlands for future development initiatives. They aim to collaborate and work closely with Sarawak’s tourism sector.

“One day, investors will come in, and that’s why we need to keep the place alive and relevant. This will create opportunities for tourism in Sarawak,” Lo emphasized.

Tents at BHRC glamping event.

The favourable weather conditions in Borneo Highlands make it suitable for cultivating certain types of agriculture, such as strawberries. The BHRC also intends to explore organic farming.

Furthermore, the BHRC encourages the public to organize group glamping or events to experience the breathtaking landscape and refreshing atmosphere of the Highlands.

“While we are no longer open for individual visits as the hotel is no longer operational, we encourage group events because we can provide better care for groups,” Lo assured.

Additionally, the BHRC committee members hope for increased collaboration with relevant government agencies to improve the road infrastructure leading to Borneo Highlands.

Jane Ling, the Assistant Secretary, raised concerns about the poor road conditions that often discourage visitors.

Ling’s photo edit comparison of Borneo Highlands and Switzerland Grindelwal.

Ling’s photo edit comparison of Borneo Highlands and Switzerland Grindelwal.

“Especially during the monsoon season, the road becomes dangerous and unsafe for people to drive up there,” Ling expressed.

“I have friends who want to visit but are afraid due to the road conditions. Thus, we hope that the LCDA or any government authorities can work on improving them so that we can make Borneo Highlands a better place for residents, visitors, and tourists,” Ling added.

The BHRC is a registered club under the Registrar of Services (ROS), initiated by the residents of Borneo Highlands to improve the area for landowners, visitors, and tourists.