Our appreciation to the right honourable Premier of Sarawak, Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Tun Abang Haji Openg for having allocated a sum of RM174 million to Ministry of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Sarawak (MTCP) next year for its operations and implementation of various tourism marketing and promotion programmes. This was announced at the recent tabling of our state’s budget for Year 2025 at Sarawak Legislative Assembly Building in Petra Jaya, Kuching.
The allocation had included RM45 million to host events and festivals that highlight our cultural vibrancy. Grants totalling RM86 million were also allocated to Sarawak Tourism Board (STB), Business Events Sarawak, Sarawak Arts Council, and Sarawak Craft Council. There is sponsorship grants for tourism activities amounting to RM10 million; and a research grant of RM5 million.
Through focused strategies, Sarawak government aims to make our state a leading destination for eco-tourism, augmented by its rich cultural experiences and unique heritage. Thus, we need to ramp up our efforts across several areas to attract more visitors and enhance Sarawak’s tourism appeal. Digital marketing initiatives will be expanded, focusing on collaboration with online travel agencies and airlines to increase accessibility, especially in key markets across Europe, Asean, and Oceania.
A strategic approach is also emphasised on encouraging extended stays and strengthening Sarawak’s brand appeal on the global tourism stage. A sum of RM81 million would be provided to continue implementing various tourism projects. These include the Performing Arts Centre at the old State Legislative Assembly Building; transformation of Brooke Dockyard into an Industrial Heritage Museum; Sadong Jaya Mangrove Tourism; Sarawak Museum Campus and Heritage Trails; Santubong Archaeological Park and Wallace Centre; and restoration and upgrading of the Islamic Heritage Museum building and Darul Hana Malay Heritage Museum.
For the record, boosting the tourism sector is the second initiative under “Strategic Thrust One: Transforming and Diversifying Sarawak’s Economy”.
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