MIRI: The quiet communities of Lambir and Bekenu in northern Sarawak may soon find themselves at the heart of a tourism transformation as the state government gears up to welcome a surge of visitors drawn by its natural and cultural heritage.
Authorities have signalled that the areas surrounding Gua Niah, a newly recognised UNESCO World Heritage Site, are poised to become key tourism hubs.
Speaking at a ‘Majlis Melanggar Meja’ today in Bekenu, Sarawak Youth, Sports and Entrepreneur Development Minister, Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, urged constituents in Sibuti, which includes Lambir and Bekenu, to “get ready” for the coming wave of visitors.
“This is an opportunity,” said Abdul Karim.
“With Gua Niah now on the global map, the eyes of the world are on us.
“Local communities need to start thinking about how they can participate and benefit,” he added.
Plans are already underway to bolster infrastructure in the region, with resorts, hotels and access facilities in the pipeline to make the caves more accessible to international travellers.
The push is part of a broader tourism strategy centred on Miri Division, which now boasts two UNESCO sites: Gua Niah and Gunung Mulu National Park.
Improved flight connectivity and road access are expected to accelerate the region’s appeal.
Beyond the caves, authorities are placing a strong emphasis on the local culture, especially the unique traditions and culinary offerings of the Bekenu and Lambir areas.
“We have some of the most distinctive local dishes here,” said Abdul Karim.
“Traditional food can be a powerful draw for tourists.
“This is the time to preserve, innovate and promote our gastronomic heritage,” he pointed out.
Local communities are encouraged to identify and promote signature dishes and traditional instruments, and to organise cultural showcases to celebrate their diverse heritage.
The ‘Majlis Melanggar Meja’ event is a case in point, featuring 37 community booths and drawing support from Abdul Karim’s ministry.
“There are funds available for community groups to organise events, purchase traditional costumes and musical instruments.
“We need to celebrate what makes us unique and share it with the world,” Abdul Karim added.
Also present were Early Childhood Education and Family Development Deputy Minister, Datuk Rosey Yunus, Sibuti Member of Parliament, Datuk Lukanisman Awang Sauni, Youth, Sports and Entrepreneur Development Deputy Minister, Datuk Dr Ripin Lamat, and Political Secretary to the Premier of Sarawak, Sarkawi Suhaili.
