SINGAPORE: Sarawak took centre stage in the Lion City as it unveiled its culture, gastronomy and investment potential during the Sarawak Mega Fair 2025 at Suntec Singapore from Oct 16 to 19.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg officiated at the event.
The four-day showcase, themed ‘Experience Sarawak: Borneo’s Hidden Gem’, featured over 50 booths highlighting Sarawak’s eco-tourism, arts, crafts and cultural performances.
The event served as a regional gateway to promote Sarawak’s authentic charm and sustainable growth ahead of Visit Malaysia Year 2026.
A major highlight was the tourism-focused programme on Oct 17, which reinforced Sarawak’s position as Borneo’s Hidden Gem and deepened cross-border collaborations with Singapore.
“Tourism in Sarawak is not a slogan. It is a promise; to protect what is sacred, to uplift what is often overlooked and to balance what is beautiful with what is essential,” said Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Minister Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah.
He said Kuching’s designation as a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy reflects how food embodies the state’s heritage and deep connections between people, land and identity.
Jointly organised by the Sarawak Trade and Tourism Office Singapore (STATOS) and the Sarawak government, with support from the Ministry of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts, the fair focused on strategic engagement with Singapore through collaboration and partnership rather than mass marketing.
The event also underscored Sarawak’s advancement under the Post-Covid-19 Development Strategy (PCDS) 2030, where tourism is positioned as a key pillar for inclusive and sustainable development.
“As we look toward 2026 and beyond, our commitment is clear: tourism must serve both our environment and our people,” Abdul Karim said, emphasising Sarawak’s alignment with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the Asean vision of a resilient, inclusive and prosperous region.
Through exhibitions, cultural showcases, culinary presentations, trade networking and a business conference, the Sarawak Mega Fair 2025 offered an immersive experience of the state’s diversity, creativity and innovation.
The event marked a milestone in strengthening ties with Singapore, inviting travellers, investors and partners to experience the heart of Sarawak — truly the hidden gem of Borneo.
