KUCHING: The geopolitical conflict in the Middle East could affect Sarawak’s tourism sector if the situation continues, says Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah.
The Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry, and Performing Arts explained that the conflict has already disrupted several international flights, leaving many passengers stranded.
“When war breaks out, it creates multiple problems, including direct effects on the tourism industry.
“Many flights are affected and schedules disrupted, which impacts both tourists and stakeholders,” he said during a press conference on the ‘Lan Berambih Sungkei Belia’ programme at Baitulmakmur Building II here today.
He added that the situation also affected Sarawak’s participation in a tourism exhibition in Berlin, Germany.
The Sarawak Tourism Board (STB) was scheduled to showcase Sarawak’s tourism attractions at a special pavilion from March 3 to 5.
“Several representatives, including Deputy Minister Datuk Sebastian Ting and STB CEO Sharzede Salleh Askor, were forced to cancel their trips due to flight disruptions through the Middle East.
“Even though four travel agents arrived earlier and STB Chairman, Datuk Dennis Ngau, officiated the pavilion on March 4, the reduced delegation affected the state’s promotional efforts,” he said.
Abdul Karim, who is also Minister of Youth and Entrepreneur Development, noted that the conflict could also impact tourist arrivals from Europe, as many travellers from the region transit through the Middle East.
“If this conflict continues for a longer period, it will certainly affect Sarawak’s tourism industry.
“Major events such as the Rainforest World Music Festival (RWMF), scheduled in June, could be disrupted, and participants might cancel their attendance as the festival date approaches,” he said.
He stressed that the real problem arises when leaders act aggressively and resort to war as a solution.
“Leaders who enjoy attacking and seeing bloodshed should not govern nations. We hope good world leaders will be appointed to uphold peace and the well-being of major countries,” he added.
