BETONG: The experience of staying overnight in a longhouse and immersing oneself in the lifestyle of a rural community has the potential to become one of Sarawak’s most unique tourism attractions.
Deputy Minister of Youth, Sports and Entrepreneur Development Datuk Gerald Rentap Jabu said the cultural authenticity, traditions and natural beauty found in the state’s rural areas are valuable assets that can further strengthen community-based tourism.
He said the opportunity to experience life in a longhouse offers visitors a unique perspective that is difficult to find elsewhere.
“For anyone coming to Nanga Mujau Longhouse for the first time, I am certain this experience is something you will never forget.
“This is the first time we are bringing tourists in large numbers to come here and enjoy what the community has to offer,” he said.
He said this while officiating the Sarawak Tourism Federation (STF) Glamping Programme at Nanga Mujau Longhouse, Spak, yesterday (June 5) as reported by the Sarawak Public Communication Unit (UKAS).
The three-day, two-night programme is among the main highlights of the Betong Gawai Dayak: Glamping, Parade, Open House and Concert event, which runs from June 5 to 7.
Rentap, who is also the Layar assemblyman, expressed his appreciation to the residents of Nanga Mujau Longhouse, STF and Borneo Glamping for successfully organising the community tourism programme.
He said the successful implementation of the initiative demonstrates the significant potential of rural communities to participate actively in the tourism industry while generating additional income and contributing to the local economy.
He added that such programmes also provide opportunities for residents to promote local handicrafts, cultural heritage and traditional practices to visitors from within and outside Sarawak.
“In addition to generating economic opportunities, programmes like this allow visitors to better appreciate the uniqueness of our communities and the traditions that have been preserved for generations,” he said.
In line with this, Rentap hoped that more longhouses and rural communities would explore community-based tourism as an alternative source of income and development.
At the same time, he called on the media to continue promoting Sarawak’s rich cultural diversity and traditions, describing them as among the state’s strongest tourism attractions.
Meanwhile, commenting on the Betong Division Gawai Parade 2026, he said more than 30 contingents involving around 2,000 participants are expected to take part in the parade, which will be held in Betong town.
He added that several other events, including the STF Gawai Open House and the Betong Gawai Kaamatan Concert, are also being organised to enliven the festive celebration.
Earlier, Rentap and his wife, Datin Rosemarie Wong, officiated the release of 3,500 tengadak fish fry and 200 empurau fish fry into the Nanga Mujau River as part of efforts to promote fishery resource conservation and ensure the sustainability of the river ecosystem.
