Sarawakians must preserve their culture, tradition, heritage as tourism assets, says Abdul Karim

October 22, 2017

Abdul Karim (sixth left) and his wife Zuraini (fifth left) given a special welcome in the Kayan tradition called ‘parap’ on stage during the dinner. Dennis is on seventh left.

KUCHING: Sarawakians must do their best to preserve their culture, tradition and heritage if the state is to welcome more visitors and tourists.

According to Minister of Tourism, Arts, Culture, Youth and Sports Datuk Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, the state’s traditional cultures and heritage are important tourism assets which could also benefit the various communities economically.

“Do your best to preserve what you have which is your culture, tradition and heritage. It is not only important for your future generation, but they also can help you earn income,” he said during a dinner organised by the Kuching branch, Sarawak Kayan Association at a local hotel here on Friday.

Abdul Karim also reminded Sarawakians to take tourism seriously as it is one of the sectors which contributed a lot to the state’s economy.

“There are countries in this world whose economy depend entirely on tourism. Thus there is no doubting that tourism is a very important sector which Sarawak can develop,” he said.

He also praised the Kayan community for their spirit of togetherness and unique culture.

He noted that Orang Ulu culture and heritage has been a major tourist attraction in Sarawak throughout the years.

During the function, he pledged RM10,000 to the Kuching branch Sarawak Kayan Association to help finance its annual activities.

Also present during the dinner were Telang Usan assemblyman Dennis Ngau, Ministry of Tourism, Arts, Culture, Youth, Sports Permanent Secretary Datu Ik Pahon Joyik and Abdul Karim’s wife Datin Zuraini Abdul Jabbar. -TheBorneoPost