KUCHING: Community-based tourism is emerging as a sustainable economic driver in Serembu, with locals taking ownership of projects and reaping direct benefits.
Serembu assemblyman Miro Simuh said the Paku Rock Maze Garden stands as a strong example of how community-based tourism can thrive when local residents are empowered to manage and operate attractions themselves.
“This kind of development has strong potential because we cannot rely solely on government departments and agencies to manage every project,” he said, noting that grassroots participation ensures sustainability and local pride.
According to him, community-based tourism initiatives not only create employment opportunities but also stimulate the surrounding economy.
“These projects generate extra income for the community and create jobs such as tourist guides, food vendors, and producers of local handicrafts and souvenirs,” he added.
Miro explained that many tourism products in Serembu follow a similar model, where infrastructure and initial development are facilitated before being handed over fully to the community.
“Most of the tourism products created in Serembu are community-based. We develop them and then entrust them to the community to manage and operate,” he said.
Beyond the Paku Rock Maze Garden, several other community-based tourism initiatives have been established across the constituency.
These include the Paku Hot Spring, Merembeh Caving Park, Tringus Nature Village, and Gumpang Cultural Centre — all designed with the same philosophy of community ownership.
“We develop these projects for the community to run. The idea is that the benefits should flow directly to them,” he emphasised.
Miro also highlighted the importance of collaboration between community operators and external tourism players.
He said partnerships with travel agencies and other stakeholders are encouraged, provided that the benefits are shared fairly.
“Those who want to work with the community can negotiate directly with them. We believe these tourism products should not benefit just one party, but all involved — including local communities, tour operators, and visitors,” he said.
He added that this inclusive approach strengthens the long-term viability of tourism not only in Serembu but in Bau overall.
