Sarawak Tourism Board Targets 609,000 Indonesian Visitors Next Year
The Sarawak Tourism Board is aiming to attract 609,000 Indonesian visitors to Sarawak next year, drawn by its unique blend of culture, adventure, nature, food, and festivals.
Campaign to Promote Sarawak as a Key Tourist Destination
The board’s ASEAN and domestic director, Barbara Benjamin Atan, said the campaign is organized in collaboration with Tourism Malaysia Jakarta and AirAsia, and the board is also working closely with the Indonesian Travel Agent Association (ASTINDO) and the Association of Indonesian Tours and Travel Agencies (ASITA). The primary goal of the campaign is to position Sarawak as a key tourist destination alongside Brunei, Sabah (Malaysia), and Kalimantan (Indonesia).
Unique Attractions and Experiences
Sarawak boasts two UNESCO World Heritage Sites, namely Mulu National Park and Niah National Park, which further enhance its appeal as a must-visit destination. The state is renowned for its unique ethnic diversity, with 34 distinct ethnic groups, each with its own culture. Tourists can start by visiting the state’s capital, Kuching, before exploring other destinations across Sarawak and the island of Borneo.
Direct Flights and Accessibility
Barbara said there are direct flights to Sarawak’s cities, including Kuching, Miri, and Bintulu, from cities such as Jakarta, Brunei, Singapore, and mainly Kuala Lumpur. She also expressed hope for AirAsia and other airlines to launch new routes, which will improve accessibility and attract more visitors.
AirAsia’s Plans
Meanwhile, AirAsia Bhd’s Sarawak Affairs director, Hamdan Mohamad, said the airline is planning to launch new routes from Kalimantan and a city in Java. Discussions are ongoing, but an official announcement will be made once the routes are finalized.
Conclusion
Sarawak’s unique blend of culture, adventure, nature, food, and festivals makes it an attractive destination for tourists. With its two UNESCO World Heritage Sites and diverse ethnic groups, Sarawak is a must-visit destination in Borneo. The Sarawak Tourism Board’s campaign aims to position the state as a key tourist destination, and with direct flights and new routes being launched, accessibility is expected to improve.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the target number of Indonesian visitors to Sarawak next year?
A: The Sarawak Tourism Board is targeting 609,000 Indonesian visitors next year.
Q: What is the primary goal of the campaign?
A: The primary goal of the campaign is to position Sarawak as a key tourist destination alongside Brunei, Sabah (Malaysia), and Kalimantan (Indonesia).
Q: What are the unique attractions and experiences offered by Sarawak?
A: Sarawak boasts two UNESCO World Heritage Sites, namely Mulu National Park and Niah National Park, and is renowned for its unique ethnic diversity, with 34 distinct ethnic groups, each with its own culture.
Q: Are there direct flights to Sarawak’s cities?
A: Yes, there are direct flights to Sarawak’s cities, including Kuching, Miri, and Bintulu, from cities such as Jakarta, Brunei, Singapore, and mainly Kuala Lumpur.