KUCHING: Universiti Teknologi Mara (UiTM) Sarawak has been called upon to assist the Sarawak government in developing the rural tourism industry in Bengoh through knowledge transfer in tourism package development.
Mambong assemblyman Datuk Dr. Jerip Susil said the proposed tourism packages would highlight the culture and arts of the local community, attracting both domestic and international visitors.
He made this statement during a recent courtesy visit by a delegation from UiTM Sarawak to his office.
During the visit, Dr. Jerip was briefed on UiTM Sarawak’s academic programsmes, including its pre-diploma courses, which will be promoted to SPM school leavers in the Mambong constituency.
The delegation also discussed potential collaborations between the university and the state government.
Deputy Rector of Academic Affairs Dr. Firdaus Abdullah outlined UiTM’s research initiatives, particularly in algae as a renewable energy source and high-tech rice cultivation.
Dr. Jerip expressed strong support for these efforts and proposed a pilot project in Bengoh, supported by research grants, as a testing ground for these innovations.
Dr. Firdaus also presented a research proposal titled ‘Emission and Carbon Reduction Programme: Retrofitting Programme for Kuching’s Public Bus Fleet’ to Dr. Jerip.
The proposal aims to establish a strategic partnership between the Ministry of Transport and UiTM Sarawak to explore sustainable transport solutions.
Dr. Jerip welcomed the collaboration and stressed the importance of academic institutions in driving innovation and sustainable development in Sarawak’s rural areas.
