SIBU: The Sibu United Chinese Association (UCA) has been urged to collaborate with tourism-related industries to actively promote and showcase all that Sibu has to offer.
According to Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing, this will allow more people to discover Sibu as a destination rich in history and culture.
“With the fruitful outcomes of the recently concluded Asean Tourism Forum (ATF 2025), preparations for Visit Malaysia Year 2026, which was officially launched on Jan 6, are progressing full swing.
“Our ministry, in collaboration with relevant agencies, industry players, and stakeholders, is working to enhance cultural and eco-tourism experiences, empower local communities, and improve infrastructure to extend tourist stays.
“Through the promotion of niche tourism experiences, we aim to encourage higher spending among visitors,” he said at the UCA Chinese New Year celebration on Saturday night (Feb 1).
Therefore, he hoped everyone recognises that VM 2026 is an excellent opportunity to showcase Sarawak’s unique charms to the world.
“Sibu, in particular, is a city rich in history and culture, blessed with the captivating beauty of the Rajang River.
“It should be positioned as a highlight in the tourism calendar year-round, showcasing our hospitality, multicultural heritage, natural landscapes, and more,” he said.
He added that the town boasts a diverse range of traditional delicacies from various Chinese dialect groups, making it one of the key attractions for visitors.
“Not only can travellers savour these traditional dishes, but they can also gain insight into the history, heritage, and culture of a place, a community, and a people through its cuisine,” he added.
He stressed that with improved infrastructure, Sibu can provide greater convenience for tourists.
“Let us all work together to elevate Sibu’s development to new heights, enhancing its brand image and enabling more people to appreciate Sibu’s cultural value and growth potential.
“By embracing a positive and inclusive approach, we can connect with the world and contribute to the prosperity and progress of Sibu and Sarawak as a whole,” he said.
Meanwhile, on the programme, Tiong who is also Dudong assemblyman, said that it is not only a tradition of Chinese culture but also an important platform to unite the community of Sibu, fostering friendship and collaboration.
“By organising diverse and enriching activities such as Chinese New Year gatherings, cultural festivals, traditional art exhibitions, and food carnivals, Sibu can attract more visitors, invigorate the local economy, and create more opportunities for its people,” he said.
Also present were Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian, Utility and Telecommunication Minister Datuk Seri Julaihi Narawi, Deputy Minister for Public Health, Housing and Local Government Datuk Micheal Tiang, Deputy Minister for Education, Innovation and Talent Development Datuk Dr Annuar Rapaee and UCA Sibu Chairman Lau Ing Siong.
