BAU: Bau is poised to strengthen its relationship with neighbouring West Kalimantan through improved cross border connectivity, with the completion of the Immigration, Customs, Quarantine and Security (ICQS) Complex in Serikin expected to enhance travel, tourism and economic opportunities between the two regions.
Deputy Minister for Transport Datuk Henry Harry Jinep said the project, which is currently under construction, would make movement between Sarawak and West Kalimantan more convenient while supporting closer cooperation across various sectors.
“Once the Serikin ICQS is completed, connectivity and logistics between the two regions will improve significantly.
“I have been informed that travelling to Jakarta through Kuching will become much easier once the facility is operational,” he said when officiating at the Ngaruom Rami Borneo dinner held in conjunction with the official launching of the Bidayuh Cultural Centre Bau (BCCB) on Monday (Jun 22).
Henry noted that travellers currently spend around six hours travelling to Pontianak before boarding a flight to Jakarta, while Kuching offers a much closer route once the border infrastructure is completed.
He said the Serikin ICQS, which is expected to be completed within the next two years, would become the nearest entry point to Kuching from West Kalimantan and improve accessibility for both travellers and businesses.
The Tasik Biru assemblyman also welcomed the Sarawak government’s announcement on the establishment of the Sarawak Trade and Tourism Office Pontianak, describing it as another step towards strengthening commercial, tourism and cultural relations between Sarawak and West Kalimantan.
According to Henry, visitors from West Kalimantan already make up a significant portion of tourists visiting Bau, particularly during weekends and public holidays when attractions such as Tasik Biru receive large numbers of cross border visitors.
“I am confident that once the ICQS is completed, our relationship will become even closer, not only in terms of friendship and kinship, but also through improved accessibility and travel convenience,” he said.
He added that better connectivity would also support Bau’s long term development, including the expansion of tourism facilities and accommodation to cater to increasing visitor arrivals.
Meanwhile, he added that the evening’s gathering marked an important milestone in fostering closer cultural ties between Bau and West Kalimantan, following ongoing discussions with Indonesian representatives, including Dr Abdullah Zulkifli, on expanding cooperation in culture and tourism.
