KUCHING: Sarawak is reinforcing its status as a prominent ecotourism destination in the region, with significant international accomplishments, including efforts to designate Bako National Park and Lambir Hills National Park as ASEAN Heritage Parks (AHP).
Deputy Minister for Tourism, Creative Industry, and Performing Arts, Datuk Sebastian Ting said Sarawak currently boasts 67 fully protected areas, which include 47 national parks, 15 nature reserves, and five wildlife sanctuaries.
“Among these, Gunung Mulu National Park and Niah National Park have earned recognition as UNESCO World Heritage Sites, while Sarawak Delta Geopark is expected to be added to the list of UNESCO Global Geoparks this month,”he said during the opening of the Park Guide Training Course at Bako National Park on Tuesday (Sept 2).
“This achievement is a vital component of our tourism offering under the Culture, Adventure, Nature, Food, and Festivals (CANFF) concept,” he said.
He emphasised the importance of striking a balance between conservation and ecotourism, stressing the collective moral responsibility of all parties to preserve both the environment and cultural heritage for future generations.
He urged park guides to embrace their role as Sarawak’s frontline ecotourism ambassadors.
“Every guided tour should inspire, not just inform. Guides have a significant influence in shaping visitors’ attitudes and behaviors towards our environment,” he said.
As part of the Post-Covid-19 Development Strategy (PCDS) 2030, Sarawak aims to train at least 300 park guides by 2030.
The Sarawak Forestry Corporation (SFC) has already trained around 400 licensed park guides, though only 231 remain active.
Recognition is also given through the Sarawak Hornbill Tourism Awards (SHTA), held every two years, with special categories for park guides and region-specific tour guides.
He encouraged more locals to seize opportunities like this training to enhance their skills, create job prospects, and bolster Sarawak’s position as a world-class ecotourism destination.
