Improved connectivity key to Sarawak’s tourism growth, says Abd Karim

KUCHING (Sept 7): The growth of Sarawak’s tourism industry hinges on improving accessibility, according to Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Minister Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah.

He highlighted the state government’s emphasis on the urgent need for a state-owned airline to ensure sustainable and reliable air connectivity, which is vital for boosting tourism in the region.

“Such an airline would ensure sustainable and reliable air connectivity, which is crucial for both maintaining and expanding tourism in our region,” he said at the launch of ‘Discover Borneo: Malaysia’s Favourite Destination’ campaign at Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre (MITEC) in Kuala Lumpur today.

Sabah’s Tourism, Culture, and Environment Minister Datuk Christina Liew was also present at the event, which was a collaboration between Sarawak Tourism Board and Sabah Tourism Board.

Meanwhile, Abdul Karim said that while significant strides have been made to improve accessibility in Sarawak, connectivity remains a challenge and there is still more work to be done.

“Yet, we see these challenges as opportunities for collaboration. Our neighbouring state of Sabah currently enjoys stronger connectivity, and we believe that by working together, we can create joint travel packages that encourage tourists visiting Sabah to also explore the wonders of Sarawak.

“After all, we share the same island – Borneo – and together, we can offer an even more compelling experience to the world,” he said.

He also said the Pan Borneo Highway promises to revolutionise connectivity across East Malaysia.

According to him, this expressway is not only opening up previously underdeveloped areas but is also making travel within Sarawak smoother and more convenient.

“To put our efforts into perspective, for 2024, Sarawak has set a target of 4 million visitors – 2 million foreign and 2 million domestic.

“By July, we have welcomed 2.84 million visitors. This includes 1.76 million foreign visitors and 1.07 million domestic visitors.

“These numbers reflect the growing demand for Borneo as a top tourist destination and the success of our ongoing campaign,” said Abdul Karim.

He also pointed out that in the long run, both Sarawak and Sabah aim to achieve their goal of welcoming 12.7 million visitors and generating RM50 billion in economic returns by 2035, all while championing sustainable and responsible tourism to protect its rainforests.