BETONG: The state is planning to establish an authority to oversee the development of its lakes and natural rivers with tourism potential, opening up new opportunities for Sarawak’s tourism industry.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Tun Openg said the proposed authority would cover major lake destinations including Batang Ai, Bakun, Mulu and Bengoh.
“We will develop an authority that can develop all the lake areas,” he said when officiating at the Sarawakku Sayang programme here today (Sept 25).
He said the authority would monitor the state’s lakes and identify natural rivers that could be developed as tourism destinations.
Abang Johari said Sarawak could learn from other states that had developed their lakes into resort areas with good facilities.
He said Batang Ai, in particular, had strong potential to attract more visitors if its tourism offerings were further developed.
Reflecting on his experience as Tourism Minister, Abang Johari said the journey to Batang Ai had previously taken more than four hours from Kuching by bus, which could leave visitors tired before reaching their destination.
He said better connectivity was therefore important to making the area more accessible and supporting its tourism potential.
Abang Johari also highlighted Betong’s own tourism potential, including the Rentap Fortress, local culture, longhouse experiences and food.
Speaking to reporters after the event at a press conference, Abang Johari said Betong’s historical attractions could be further developed as tourism destinations.
He said tourists could be offered more than cultural experiences by learning about the history of the area.
Abang Johari said local communities should develop tourism packages around Betong’s attractions, creating business opportunities while giving visitors more reasons to stay longer.
“What is needed is for the people of Betong to develop packages,” he said.
He said the proposed lake and river authority would allow Sarawak to take a more coordinated approach to developing its natural tourism assets.
“We have Batang Ai, we have Mulu, we have Bakun, including Bengoh,” he said.
He said the authority would also look at natural rivers with tourism potential, allowing the state to identify and develop suitable areas systematically.
Abang Johari said developing these destinations could create new economic opportunities while adding value to Sarawak’s natural and cultural assets.
