International cruise operator StarDream Cruise is looking at launching a Sarawak cruise package and including the state’s ports in its Southeast Asia cruise itineraries.
Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Minister Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah said the ministry and Sarawak Trade and Tourism Office Singapore (STATOS) are currently pursuing the matter with the Singapore Tourism Board and Marina Bay Cruise Centre Singapore.
“The cruise industry presents a significant and growing opportunity for Sarawak’s tourism sector, offering not only substantial economic benefits but also fostering inclusive social impact and sustainable development,” he said during his ministerial winding-up speech at the Sarawak Legislative Assembly (DUN) today (May 19).
On the same note, Abdul Karim said air connectivity remained the foundation of Sarawak’s tourism industry, noting that 9 Air from China and Batik Air recently launched direct flights connecting Kuching to Haikou and Guangzhou.
“At the same time, we look forward to the jet operation of AirBorneo, which is scheduled to provide direct connectivity to Jakarta, Singapore, Kota Kinabalu and Kuala Lumpur.
“Sarawak is also targeting more domestic visitors by capitalising on existing connectivity with major airports such as Kota Kinabalu, Johor Bahru, Kota Bharu, Pulau Pinang and Kuala Lumpur International Airport,” he added.
Additionally, he said the ministry continued strengthening the protection and commercial value of Sarawak’s creative products and signature events through intellectual property (IP) registration.
He said the ministry, together with the Sarawak Multimedia Authority (SMA) and related stakeholders, had secured copyright protection for 41 signature events and two trademarks to date.
“We will continue to encourage wider IP registration, including Geographical Indication (GI) for heritage-based products such as the Baju Kuas Balau, Buriek Kapit, and Baju Gagong Bintulu to ensure authenticity is preserved and communities benefit from their cultural assets,” he said.
