KUCHING: With its natural lagoon and strategic location along Sarawak’s tourism belt, Kampung Telaga Air has been identified as an ideal site for future water-based events and long-term urban integration.
Sarawak’s Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts, Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, said that Telaga Air was once a small fishing village, but is now part of the tourism belt stretching from Telok Melano to Kuching.
He said this area is important for water-related events as it has a natural lagoon suitable for year-round activities such as regattas, canoeing and water sports.
“I have also discussed with the Premier that in 20 to 30 years, as Kuching continues to grow and become more congested, the Sarawak Regatta may no longer be held in the city.
“When that time comes, we will need a new venue, and there is no better place than Telaga Air with its natural setting and lagoon.
“This is why plans are being made to develop the village into a tourism hub and venue for major water events such as regattas, powerboat competitions and more,” he said when officiating the Telaga Air Regatta closing ceremony at Kampung Telaga Air Esplanade here on Sunday.
On development needs, Abdul Karim said a development blueprint for Telaga Air is required, covering road and transportation infrastructure, layout of housing, waterfront and parking, as well as safety, cleanliness and waste management.
“Telaga Air will eventually become part of Greater Kuching, just like Samarahan.
“I also have many personal memories here from 20 to 30 years ago, including fishing and diving around Pulau Satang.
“I would also like to congratulate MPP for their effort in regularly organising the Telaga Air Regatta,” he said.
He also reminded organisers to ensure cleanliness and food safety to maintain the image of the area, while stressing that the Land Custody and Development Authority (LCDA) and the Padawan Municipal Council (MPP) need to work together to draft a comprehensive development plan.
Meanwhile, MPP’s Chairman, Tan Kai, said that the Sarawak Government has agreed to upgrade the buildings and infrastructure in Kampung Telaga Air, including the waterfront.
“As the local authority, we hope that all residents, visitors and tourists will continue to take care of these facilities so they can be preserved as heritage for the future.
“Each time MPP organises events such as the Telaga Air Festival, the Telaga Air Regatta or any other major programme, we ensure the area is thoroughly cleaned in addition to the regular services.
“However, we also hope that the community and visitors will play their part in keeping the area clean, so that the treasures here can be preserved for generations to come – and even elevated to the international level,” he said.
