Malaysia, South Korea discuss boosting tourism to northern Sarawak

MIRI (March 14): Efforts to attract more South Korean tourists to Sabah and Sarawak were a key topic during a recent meeting between Deputy Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture Chiew Choon Man and Ambassador of South Korea to Malaysia Yeo Seung-bae.

Chiew said the meeting followed up on their first meeting in 2023 after the Asean Parliament Forum in Jeju Island, focusing on strategies to increase tourist arrivals, particularly to northern Sarawak including Miri.

“Attracting more tourists to this region is one of my main priorities, and this discussion is an important step towards bringing more Korean visitors to northern Sarawak,” he said in a statement on Friday.

He noted that South Korean travellers often seek destinations that offer a peaceful escape and value nature, making Sabah and Sarawak’s ecotourism offerings ideal.

Highlighted attractions included Niah National Park, Lambir Hills National Park, and Gunung Mulu National Park, home to one of the world’s largest cave chambers.

Chiew also emphasised Miri’s accessibility, with a 30 to 45-minute flight from Kota Kinabalu and multiple daily connections, making it an ideal extension for Korean tourists visiting Sabah.

The ambassador shared insights on South Korea’s corporate incentive travel culture, presenting opportunities for Malaysian tour operators to develop packages targeting these high-value travellers.

Discussions also touched on collaboration with South Korea’s entertainment and K-pop industry, including potential concerts in Miri.

Additionally, Chiew welcomed news that South Korean producer Lee Sang Chan will film the feature movie ‘Distinct: Becoming Sarawak’ in the state, citing Sarawak’s harmony among diverse cultures, races, and religions.

The project is expected to showcase Sarawak’s attractions to a wider global audience, particularly in South Korea.