Limbang eyes ecotourism boost with Gunung Buda, cultural, natural attractions

LIMBANG (Jan 31): Natural attractions, cultural heritage, and cottage industry products have been identified as key drivers to further strengthen the ecotourism sector in Limbang.

According to State Deputy Minister of Food Industry, Commodity and Regional Development Datuk Dr Abdul Rahman Ismail, the opening of Gunung Buda – a world-class tourism destination – within the next five years should significantly enhance the district’s tourism profile.

“Once operational, the site will make Limbang’s ecotourism sector more sustainable and capable of attracting higher tourist numbers,” said the Bukit Kota assemblyman when met by reporters during a working visit to the Limbang River embankment project (foreshore land) site yesterday.

Dr Abdul Rahman added: “Limbang remains one of the main contributors to foreign tourist arrivals to Sarawak, following the state’s record of 2.4 million foreign visitors from January to November last year.

“Apart from tourism, various development projects are being actively implemented in the district, including three major road network linkages: the Sarawak-Sabah Link Road, the Trans Borneo Highway Project, and the Northern Coastal Highway.

“My hope is that Limbang residents would not merely observe development, but must participate in economic activities, especially as Limbang is focusing on nature-based ecotourism.

On the project, Dr Abdul Rahman called upon the contractors and consultants to ensure completion of the 1.8km embankment – touted as the longest of its kind in Sarawak – by April this year.

He said the previous delays were caused by foreshore land issues, particularly during Phase I.

“This is now in its final stage,” he said.

Accompanying the deputy minister during the site visit were Limbang Deputy Resident Rozita Kulai and Limbang District Officer Sulaiman Engal.