KUCHING: Sarawak’s tourism sector continues to thrive, recording 3.2 million tourist arrivals and RM8.18 billion in tourism receipts as of August this year.
Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts, Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, said the figures reflected the significant contribution of the tourism sector to the state’s economy.
“From January to August 2025, Sarawak received a total of 3,205,519 visitors, generating tourism receipts amounting to RM8,185,036,694.83.
“Each month, the revenue collected exceeded RM1 billion,” he said at the official opening ceremony of Santubong Archaeological Park and Wallace Centre, officiated by Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg at Santubong on Saturday.
He added that the tourism revenue did not benefit the government alone but also flowed directly to the people through economic activities such as hotels, homestays, tour services, and other related businesses.
“This return does not go into the government’s pocket. It directly benefits the people, from hotel operators, homestay owners, to tour guides and local hawkers,” he said.
On another note, Abdul Karim said the opening of the Santubong Archaeological Park and Wallace Centre is expected to become a new landmark on Sarawak’s tourism map, particularly in the Santubong area, which is rich in history and heritage.
“I believe this museum will not only attract more visitors but also generate greater spillover benefits for the local community’s economy, particularly through the growth of the tourism sector and related activities.
“Therefore, this launch is very much in line with our aspiration to make Sarawak as a leading destination for ecotourism and business events in the Asian region,” he said.
