KUCHING: Sarawak is gearing up to become a preferred long-term stay destination, backed by improvements in public transport, air connectivity, healthcare and hospitality.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said the state’s investments in these sectors would provide visitors with a seamless and comfortable experience while encouraging them to stay longer.
He said the strategy was supported by the development of the Autonomous Rapid Transit (ART) system, AirBorneo’s planned route expansion and the strengthening of Sarawak’s healthcare services.
“Having improved land connectivity through our public transport, as well as air connectivity through AirBorneo, we anticipate that, because of our way of life and the stability we have here, people from South Korea, Japan and even India, all within a five-hour flight radius, will come here for a long-term stay.
“What is important is a long-term stay, with all the services provided, so that they can stay comfortably,” he said when officiating at the grand opening of voco Kuching Hotel by IHG here today (Jul 28).
Abang Johari said selected ART routes were expected to begin operating by the end of this year, with the remaining routes to be introduced over the next two years.
He said the hydrogen-powered public transport system represented one of the Sarawak government’s strategic investments in sustainable and environmentally friendly mobility.
“We use hydrogen as our energy for that particular public transport, perhaps the first in this region.
“If tourists want to see the villages, they can just take the ART. If they want to play golf at Damai, they can take the ART there.
“There will be no hassle for our tourists. That is what we plan for the future of the services industry,” he added.
Abang Johari said Sarawak was expanding its air connectivity across the Asean region to improve accessibility for international visitors.
“This expansion will enable our guests from those countries to come over here,” he added.
Abang Johari said Sarawak was also strengthening its healthcare ecosystem with new private hospitals, including the upcoming Gleneagles in Batu Lintang and another at the NorthBank Kuching, while expanding Normah Medical Specialist Centre.
He said medical travellers were expected to stay longer in Sarawak with their families during their recovery period, creating greater demand for accommodation and related services.
“In other words, we are going to have the whole package in terms of the services industry in Sarawak,” he said.
