KUCHING: Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah has called for the rebuilding of the Bidayuh Longhouse at the Sarawak Cultural Village (SCV) to be expedited, stressing that prolonged delays could affect the state’s tourism industry.
The Minister for Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts said the iconic longhouse, which was destroyed in a fire last year, remains one of the most popular attractions at SCV and should be reconstructed as soon as possible.
“I have raised it recently with the new director of the Sarawak Economic Development Corporation (SEDC),” he told reporters after officiating the launch of the BIMP-EAGA Tourism Exchange 2026 and the opening of the 22nd BIMP-EAGA Tourism Cluster Meeting at the Waterfront Hotel today.
Abdul Karim noted that SCV and its agencies do not come under his ministry’s purview but fall under SEDC and another ministry.
However, he said the matter remained important because of its significance to the tourism sector.
“I can see that the Bidayuh Longhouse is a very popular longhouse. So, I have requested that it be rebuilt,” he said.
The minister revealed that his ministry is prepared to bring the matter to the state Cabinet should there be further delays in the reconstruction process.
“If it is too late, our ministry is willing to bring it to the Cabinet. We are prepared to put in the paper,” he said.
Abdul Karim added that he had also discussed the matter with Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg, who agreed on the need to rebuild the longhouse.
“I have even told the Premier that although it is under another ministry, we need that Bidayuh Longhouse to be rebuilt. He said yes. I am still waiting for SEDC,” he said.
Asked whether restoration works had commenced, Abdul Karim said he could not compel SEDC to proceed but hoped the agency would act quickly.
“Because in the tourism industry, if it is too late, it will be quiet. You have to heat it when it is hot,” he said, stressing that tourism projects should be acted upon while public interest and momentum remain strong.
The Bidayuh Longhouse at SCV was destroyed in a fire in October last year, prompting calls for its reconstruction due to its cultural significance and popularity among visitors.
