RM3 mln set aside to upgrade tourism spots in Tarat

 KUCHING: Two popular community-based tourism (CBT) destinations in Tarat — Kampung Panchor Dayak Hot Spring and Kampung Pesang River Lodge — are set to undergo significant upgrades under a government-backed initiative.
 
Minister for Education, Innovation and Talent Development (MEITD) Datuk Seri Roland SagahWee Inn, who is also Tarat assemblyman, said RM3 million has been allocated under the Greater Kuching Coordinated Development Agency (GKCDA) fund to improve facilities at Kampung Panchor Dayak Hot Spring.
 
Describing it as one of the most successful CBT projects in the constituency, Sagah said the upgrading works will be implemented by the Serian District Council and will include refurbishing aging facilities and cleaning up the hot spring pools.
 
“Some of the facilities are a bit dilapidated and we want to modernise them with the RM3 million allocation,” he said, adding that the site is managed by the Kampung Panchor Dayak committee.
 
The project has already been generating steady income for villagers, with each family receiving about RM200 annually from tourism proceeds.
 
Located about 40km from Kuching city, Kampung Panchor Dayak Hot Spring offers visitors a tranquil retreat amid lush greenery.
 
The natural hot springs, believed to have therapeutic properties, attract both locals and tourists seeking relaxation in a serene environment.
 
Existing amenities include changing rooms and seating areas.
 
Meanwhile, Kampung Pesang River Lodge — another CBT initiative — will also benefit from ongoing improvements under the same development push.
 
Sagah described it as a “beautiful project” that has gained popularity, especially on weekends.
 
Situated on a small island formed by a meandering river, the lodge features basic accommodation such as chalets and facilities for visitors.
 
However, flooding remains a challenge, with water levels occasionally rising up to two feet.
 
To address this, all new structures, including chalets, canteens and toilets, will be built on four-foot stilts to ensure resilience against rising waters.
 
Kampung Pesang River Lodge, located in Kampung Pesang Padawan, is known for its crystal-clear river, laid-back atmosphere and outdoor activities such as picnicking, camping, barbecues and traditional farming experiences.
 
The upgrades are expected to further boost local tourism while improving safety and comfort for visitors, reinforcing the role of CBT projects in supporting rural livelihoods.