SERIAN: A RM13 million project to develop accommodation facilities and supporting infrastructure at the Gua Silabur tourism area is expected to create more economic opportunities for local communities through tourism activities.
Tebedu assemblyman Dr Simon Sinang Bada said the project, now at the tender process, and implemented through the Greater Kuching Coordinated Development Agency (GKCDA), would include the construction of chalet units, access roads and other supporting infrastructure near the cave area.
He said the development was expected to begin in the near future and would take about a year to complete.
“The project is among efforts to strengthen tourism products in Tebedu while ensuring local communities receive direct benefits from the development of the tourism sector”, he told reporters after the closing of the Silabur Ultra Trail (SUTra) 2026 at Kampung Batu Bedang Multipurpose Hall Kampung on Sunday (May 3).
According to Simon, the accommodation facilities would be located near Kampung Lobang Batu and shared among villages connected to the Gua Silabur tourism area.
He added that around eight to 10 chalet units would be built, together with a community centre that could be used for activities such as team-building programmes, leadership courses and youth activities.
“I hope tourism operators in the surrounding areas will seize this opportunity and develop tourism products closely linked to Gua Silabur so that the benefits can be enjoyed by the people, especially communities in Tebedu and Serian,” he said.
In a related development, Simon said GKCDA had also allocated RM18.5 million for the Bung Sadung Heritage Tourism Product project, which is expected to attract more local and international visitors to Serian.
He added that Tebedu would also see the development of a RM51 million economic and cultural hub comprising Dataran Mutiara Tebedu and a centre for economic and cultural activities.
Simon also expressed hope that the proposed dual carriageway project linking Serian and Tebedu would be implemented soon.
