Sarawak eyes crocodile-based ecotourism following successful benchmarking visit to Australia’s Northern Territory

Awang Tengah (left) converse with Len Talif in the left photo, while a crocodile leaps out of the water in the right photo.

By DayakDaily Team

KUCHING, Aug 8: A Sarawak delegation, led by Deputy Premier of Sarawak, Datuk Amar Awang Tengah Ali Hasan, has embarked on a benchmarking visit to Australia’s Northern Territory to explore crocodile management and ecotourism opportunities.

According to a press release, the delegation’s first day included a visit to the renowned jumping crocodile experience at Adelaide River, followed by a visit to Kakadu National Park.

“These activities provided the delegation with a firsthand look at successful crocodile-based tourism ventures and their impact on local communities.

“During the visit, the Sarawak delegation learned how Australia has successfully managed crocodiles, reduced crocodile-human conflict and the involvement of local communities in crocodile management and conservation efforts, making it one of the saleable tourism products,” the release stated.

Meanwhile, Awang Tengah, who is also Sarawak Second Minister for Natural Resources and Urban Development, emphasised the importance of these insights for Sarawak, stating: “The successful integration of crocodile ecotourism in the Northern Territory serves as an excellent model for us.

“We are keen to explore similar opportunities in Sarawak to sustainably utilise our crocodile resources.”

The press release further noted that with the cooperation and involvement of the local community, Sarawak has the potential to develop crocodile-based tourism that will provide a new stream of revenue for the community while ensuring the sustainable management of crocodile populations.

The visit marks a step forward in enhancing Sarawak’s conservation strategies, ensuring sustainable tourism growth and preservation of its natural and cultural assets. — DayakDaily