BAU: The proposed RM15-million Bau Gold Mine Museum and Park project is entering its final design stage, bringing a long-envisioned tourism landmark closer to reality.
Datuk Henry Harry Jinep said the project is currently undergoing the finalisation of internal drawings and design settings, with refinements being made to ensure the museum’s concept and layout are fit for purpose.
The project, a flagship tourism and heritage initiative for the district, will be located on a 5.8-acre site beside Bau LePaPa Supermarket.
The museum project was first mooted by Henry in 2017 as part of efforts to preserve Bau’s rich mining heritage while creating a new tourism attraction for the district.
However, its implementation was delayed due to several challenges, including land acquisition, compensation matters, design preparations, and the need to secure approvals from relevant authorities.
Once completed, the Bau Gold Mine Museum will serve as the flagship heritage anchor of the Greater Bau Master Plan, which aims to transform the former mining district into a world-class tourism destination.
The museum will showcase more than 200 years of regional mining history, covering not only gold mining but also the extraction of antimony and mercury that played significant roles in Bau’s economic development.
Visitors can expect a blend of academic and interactive exhibits, including displays on traditional gold extraction techniques, live extraction demonstrations, and educational presentations designed to help students and the public better understand Bau’s historic role as Sarawak’s pioneering gold mining centre.
Henry, who is also Tasik Biru assemblyman, said the museum is intended to become a new tourism landmark and the centrepiece of a broader strategy to strengthen Bau’s tourism appeal, particularly around the Tasik Biru area.
Its strategic location will complement nearby attractions such as the proposed Bau Tourism and Cultural Park, the Tasik Biru Resort City, and other tourism products within the vicinity.
Henry said the project is expected to contribute significantly to the local economy while positioning Bau as one of Sarawak’s premier heritage and tourism destinations.
