KUCHING, 14 April 2026 – Sarawak’s tourism sector was prominently represented at Routes Asia 2026, with the state’s booth highlighting its diverse attractions and strategic potential as a destination in the Asia-Pacific region.
The delegation was led by YB Dato Sri Haji Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, Minister for Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Sarawak.
He was accompanied by YB Datuk Sebastian Ting Chiew Yew, Deputy Minister for Tourism, alongside the Deputy Permanent Secretary for the Ministry, the Chief Executive Officer of the Sarawak Tourism Board (STB), the Division Head for Sustainable Tourism, and officials from the Ministry of Transport Sarawak (MOTS).
Routes Asia is a major route development and tourism promotion event dedicated to the Asia-Pacific region.
It serves as a platform for aviation and tourism stakeholders to meet, exchange best practices, develop network strategies, and showcase tourism products to international markets.
Sarawak’s participation reflects its commitment to strengthening connectivity and positioning itself as a competitive destination.
The booth highlighted the state’s natural landscapes, cultural heritage, and sustainable tourism initiatives, aligning with global trends that prioritise eco-friendly travel and authentic experiences.
Officials emphasised that Sarawak’s presence at Routes Asia is not only about promoting tourism but also about building stronger partnerships with airlines and industry players.
By engaging directly with aviation stakeholders, the state aims to expand flight connectivity, making Sarawak more accessible to international travellers.
The event also provided opportunities for Sarawak to showcase its creative industries and performing arts, reinforcing the state’s image as a vibrant and culturally rich destination.
With tourism being a key driver of economic growth, participation in international platforms such as Routes Asia is seen as vital for expanding market reach and attracting new visitors.
Sarawak’s delegation underscored the importance of sustainable tourism development, highlighting initiatives that balance growth with environmental and cultural preservation.
This approach is expected to strengthen the state’s appeal to travellers seeking meaningful and responsible tourism experiences.
By engaging at Routes Asia 2026, Sarawak reaffirmed its ambition to position itself as a leading destination in the region, leveraging aviation partnerships and tourism promotion to drive long-term growth.
