By Mohamad Hanip Zaini
A new river cruise initiative along Sungai Santubong is offering fresh economic opportunities for the Demak fishing community, transforming traditional livelihoods through eco-tourism while spotlighting the region’s rich natural and cultural heritage.
Finding fresh purpose through river cruise tourism
THE Demak River Fishermen’s Jetty has a history of its own. Established in 1991, the jetty was developed as a hub for the local fishing community along the Demak River.
Locally referred to as Pengkalan Bangau Botak, it is named after the endangered milky stork species found in the Santubong River habitat.
Since its inception, the jetty has become the lifeline of fishing activities for residents of Kampung Demak Baru Phase Two, playing a key role in the socioeconomic development of local fisherfolk.
The Demak River fishing community, via the Village Development and Security Committee (JKKK) of Kampung Demak Baru Phase Two, was selected to benefit from the Sejati Madani Project – a government initiative aimed at boosting the rural economy and empowering fishermen, particularly the youth.
This initiative not only provides income opportunities for the younger generation but also offers financial support to the JKKK for future use.
According to community leader Aisyah Suni, who has long been proactive in supporting the Demak River fishing community, funds from the Sejati Madani initiative enabled the JKKK to acquire three boats for rental purposes, targeting tourism and recreational use.
She said the Tourism and Recreational Boat Launch Ceremony was officiated by the Minister of Women, Family and Community Development, and Member of Parliament for Santubong, Datuk Seri Hajah Nancy Shukri, at the Pengkalan Bangau Botak on May 31.
“The boat launch marks another proactive step in diversifying income sources for the local population, especially fisherfolk, by enabling them to take part directly in the tourism and marine leisure sectors,” she said.
At the event, Nancy also announced a special RM500,000 allocation for the construction of a new jetty at the site.
Aisyah emphasised that the jetty is an essential piece of infrastructure for the Demak Baru fishing community – more than just a docking point, it is the heart of daily operations and a crucial component of their economic livelihood.
A call for a safer, more durable jetty
“A solid and safe jetty facilitates the unloading of seafood, passenger boarding (especially tourists and anglers), and the handling of equipment, fuel, and supplies.
“Without a proper jetty, tourism and leisure boat activities become challenging – especially during low tide, when it becomes dangerous for passengers to embark or disembark,” Aisyah explained.
She expressed hope that the jetty construction would be expedited, as the newly introduced boat services have strong potential to enhance Santubong’s river tourism offerings through nature, culture, and recreational packages.
Such developments are expected to improve visitor management, strengthen boating safety, and attract more domestic and international travellers to enjoy river and coastal experiences in Santubong.
Available services
According to Othman Abdul Rahman, better known as Cikgu Abu and the head of the Demak Baru Boat Tourism Project, services include river cruises along the Santubong River.
Visitors can enjoy the scenic natural landscapes along the riverbanks, including mangrove forests, native bird and animal habitats, and glimpses into the traditional fishing lifestyle that still thrives there.
The 23-kilometre journey from Pengkalan Bangau Botak to the Santubong estuary offers a relaxing, educational experience that is especially appealing to eco-tourists and nature photography enthusiasts.
Cikgu Abu added that the boats are also used for island hopping in Santubong waters, allowing tourists to explore remote beaches, coral reefs, and historical sites.
Aside from river cruises and island hopping, the boats are also available for fishing trips along the Santubong River – an activity that is gaining popularity.
Santubong is renowned for its abundance of brackish and saltwater fish, making it a favourite spot for recreational anglers and visitors seeking outdoor leisure.
Various fishing boat packages are available to the public, including domestic and international tourists. These are priced according to boat size and include options such as hourly rentals, full-day trips, and overnight stays at prime fishing spots, also known as ‘lubuk ikan’.
With these structured angling packages, the service enriches Santubong’s eco-maritime tourism offerings and opens up new economic avenues for fishermen and local boat operators.
Attracting tourists and anglers
This initiative also has strong potential to attract niche tourist groups such as avid anglers, water recreation enthusiasts, and families seeking relaxing and meaningful nature-based holidays.
Overall, the introduction of the river cruise service is expected to diversify Santubong’s tourism offerings and cement its reputation as a leading eco-maritime destination in Sarawak.
The combination of natural beauty, cultural richness, and improving infrastructure is set to draw more visitors – both local and foreign – contributing to the local economy and generating job opportunities for fishermen, youth, and small-scale entrepreneurs in the area.
For tourists or anglers interested in booking a tour or fishing trip, contact Cikgu Abu at +60 16-876 6007.
