KUCHING: A total of 250 exciting events have been organised and included in the Sarawak tourism calendar, aiming to achieve the target of attracting five million tourists this year.
Tourism, Creative Industry, and Performing Arts Minister Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah added that his ministry has also successfully sponsored 248 programmes across Sarawak in 2024.
“God willing, I am confident that we will meet the target of five million tourist arrivals by December,” he said during a press conference following the Sarawak Tourism Steering Committee (STSC) 2025 meeting at a local hotel here today (Feb 27).
Abdul Karim noted that while Sarawak hosts similar events annually, the emphasis is on uniqueness and appeal, as seen with events like the Regatta and the Rainforest World Music Festival (RWWMF).
He added that the ministry strongly supports food festivals, which not only promote local culture but also showcase the diverse ethnicities of Sarawak.
“Typically, these festivals last for one or two weeks. For example, the Kuching Food Festival, organised by the Kuching South City Council (MBKS), has successfully generated sales in the millions of ringgit, benefiting traders and participants alike.
“Such events will continue to receive support, and I hope they will be expanded throughout Sarawak,” he said.
Abdul Karim asserted that the tourism industry plays a vital role in significantly boosting the state’s revenue.
This industry, he said, greatly impacts various sectors, including stall traders, car rental operators, hospitality, agriculture, food, and more.
“That is why our efforts to develop this industry are crucial for benefiting the people,” he added.
Also present were his deputy ministers, Datuk Snowdan Lawan and Datuk Sebastian Ting.
