Rentap Fort Replica set to become new tourism attraction in Betong, completion by March 2028

Uggah (centre) at the Groundbreaking and Handover Ceremony for the Proposed Construction of the Rentap Fort Replica with Supporting Facilities at Bukit Sadok on April 1, 2026. Photo credit: UKAS

by DayakDaily Team

KUCHING, April 2: The RM16 million construction of the Rentap Fort Replica at Bukit Sadok is expected to be completed by March 28, 2028. The project is a strategic initiative designed to strengthen history-based tourism in Betong while creating new economic opportunities for the local community.

According to the Sarawak Public Communication Unit (Ukas), Sarawak Deputy Premier and Minister of Infrastructure and Port Development, Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas, said the initiative is expected to bring significant benefits to residents through increased tourist arrivals and broader economic opportunities.

“The construction of the Rentap Fort Replica will benefit the people, especially the local community. We are striving to create an attraction that draws outsiders to visit Betong,” he said, during the Groundbreaking and Handover Ceremony for the Proposed Construction of the Rentap Fort Replica with Supporting Facilities at Bukit Sadok on Wednesday.

The replica will be built in the style of an old fort, incorporating traditional longhouse design elements along with modern supporting facilities. It will feature 10 chalets complete with pantries and bathrooms, a tanju (fortified platform), panggau (guard post), ruai (veranda), tempuan (watchtower), and an information centre.

Uggah noted that the first phase of the development is a key step in introducing Bukit Sadok to visitors while enhancing the area’s historical value and appeal.

He also highlighted complementary infrastructure developments that will support tourism growth in the area, including the opening of Spaoh Airport and the construction of the Batang Lupar 2 Bridge.

Construction of the Rentap Fort replica began on March 24 and is progressing steadily. In addition, a 3.1-kilometre road connecting Rumah Panjang Jambu Kerampak to the foot of Bukit Sadok is under construction at a cost of RM39 million to improve access to the site.

Also present at the event were former Sarawak Deputy Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Alfred Jabu Numpang and Betong Member of Parliament Dato Dr Richard Rapu. – DayakDaily