Sarawak launches heritage trail book to boost tourism

KUCHING: Heritage tourism plays a crucial role in preserving the rich cultural heritage in Sarawak.

In stating this, Deputy Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Datuk Sebastian Ting said it is also vital in driving income for the state.

“In addition to economic benefits, heritage tourism also fosters a sense of pride and identity among the people,” he said.

He said this during the launching ceremony of the Sarawak Tua Pek Kong Heritage Trail book held at a local restaurant here today (June 17).

Commenting on the book, he said it will significantly contribute to the promotion of heritage tourism in Sarawak.

“It can also educate and inspire readers about the unique traditions and histories that define the state’s diverse community,” he said.

Ting (fifth left) promotes the Sarawak Tua Pek Kong Heritage Trail book during the launching ceremony of the book.

He added the publication which highlights an important heritage trail of Sarawak, is the culmination of a comprehensive two-year research project conducted by the Institute of Tourism Research and Innovation at Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (UNIMAS), with the support of his Ministry.

Meanwhile, UNIMAS’s Associate Professor Dr Elena Chai, who is also the book’s chief editor, said the Ministry has supported this heritage trail research because Tua Pek Kong temples are vital physical and emotional landmarks for communities in Sarawak.

“In every town, there is a Tua Pek Kong temple. Along every river network, there is at least one Tua Pek Kong temple.

“Tua Pek Kong holds a significant place in the lives of the Chinese community in Sarawak, serving not only as a tangible landmark but also as a binding force through social memory,” she said.

She added in the book, readers will discover that each of the 77 temples has a unique historical setup and distinctive story.

“This book aims not only to promote these temples as local attractions but also to remind us of their historical importance to past generations, their continued significance to the present generation, and their enduring relevance for future generations.

“Let us all remember that Tua Pek Kong has provided emotional support to our older generations. It is our duty to share this proud heritage with the younger generation, our multi-ethnic community in Sarawak and Malaysia, and to those outside our borders,” said Chai.

Among those present were Sarawak Culture Research Institute Society president Datuk David Teng, Federation of Chinese Associations of Sarawak president Datuk Richard Wee, and World Tua Pek Kong Federation Association president and Sibu Eng Ang Teng Tua Pek Kong chairman Soon Choon Hoo.