KUCHING: The collaboration between the Sarawak government and the Malaysia Association of Tour and Travel Agents (MATTA) Sarawak Chapter is crucial to ensure sustainable and impactful tourism development.
Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Minister Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah said through the collaboration, hard work and innovation, the state have seen positive progress in boosting arrivals, diversifying its tourism products.
“It had also strengthened Sarawak’s brand as a top travel destination.
“Despite the global challenges we had faced in recent years, Sarawak’s tourism sector has remained resilient.
“In 2024, we had welcomed an encouraging number of visitors, signalling strong recovery and renewed interest in our unique offerings. This success would not have been possible without the relentless efforts of industry players like yourselves,” he said.
He said this in his speech during the MATTA Chap Goh Mei networking dinner at Imperial Hotel on Wednesday (Feb 19).
Abdul Karim emphasised that tourism is a collective effort, and by working together, related parties can unlock even greater potential for Sarawak.
“We encourage industry players to continue forging partnerships, exploring new markets, and leveraging technology to enhance visitor experiences.
“Sarawak has much to offer — from our UNESCO-listed national parks to our vibrant cultural festivals, from adventure tourism to eco-tourism.
“By embracing innovation and sustainability, we can position Sarawak as a top-tier destination in the region and beyond,” he added.
Meanwhile, MATTA Sarawak Chapter chairman Oscar Choo said despite the tourism facing challenges over the past couple of years, the industry continue to see progress through perserverance and teamwork.
“With international travel having fully recoveed and domestic tourism thriving, we must seixe this momentum to further elevate Sarawak as a premier travel destination.
“I would like to express my sincere appreciation to all our members for your dedication and hard work in promoting tourism in Sarawak.
“Your efforts contribute not only to our association but also to the broader economy and cultural exchange that tourism brings. Let us continue to work together to create innovative and sustainable travel experience for our visitors,” he said.
Also present during the ceremony were Deputy State Secretary (Operation) Datuk Hii Chang Kee, Deputy president of MATTA heikh Awadh Abdullah, acting Permanent Secretary of the Ministry Desmond Jerukan, chief executive officer of Sarawak Tourism Board (STB) Sharzede Salleh Askor, chief executive officer of Business Events Sarawak (BESarawak) Amelia Roziman, director of Tourism Malaysia Board Sarawak Rubiah Tul’adawiyah Md Yusof and president of Sarawak Tourism Federation (STF) Audrey Wan Ullok.
