BINTULU – The Bintulu International Kite Festival (BIKF) 2025 has significantly advanced the region’s tourism and economic agenda, drawing 160 kitesurfers from 29 countries, including first-time participants from Haiti, Macau (China), and Tamil Nadu (India).
Tanjong Batu State Assemblyman Johnny Pang Leong Ming emphasized the festival’s role in positioning Bintulu as a competitive global destination while stimulating local economic activity through increased visitor spending and vendor opportunities.
Pang highlighted the alignment of BIKF with Sarawak’s Post-COVID-19 Development Strategy (PCDS) and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), noting that the event exemplifies inclusive collaboration between government agencies, strategic partners, NGOs, and local communities.
The festival’s success underscores the potential of high-impact events to uplift communities and enhance Sarawak’s international tourism profile.
In parallel with BIKF, Bintulu has strengthened its appeal through other major events like the Bintulu Marathon, which attracted 8,951 runners from 21 countries in August 2025, and environmental initiatives such as tree planting and beach cleaning programs supported by local industries.
The town’s diverse attractions including the Taman Tumbina zoological garden, Similajau National Park, and vibrant markets further enrich its tourism ecosystem.