KUCHING – Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Johari bin Tun Datuk Abang Haji Openg has announced plans for a major riverside development project during the official opening of the Brooke Dockyard Industrial Heritage Museum.
The initiative will see the creation of a 4.8-kilometre corridor linking the Brooke Dockyard area to Satok Bridge. Designed to highlight Sarawak’s cultural and historical assets, the project aims to transform the riverfront into a vibrant tourism hub.
The Premier explained that the first stage of construction is scheduled to begin next year, with an allocation of approximately RM160 million.
A second phase, valued at RM400 million, will follow, incorporating distinctive architectural features such as elevated walkways to ensure community well-being and accessibility.
“This development will provide a different experience for tourists, besides connecting elements of history, culture and community life on both banks of the river,” he said.
Sarawak’s growing international profile was also emphasised. The Premier highlighted the state’s recognition through UNESCO World Heritage listings for Gunung Mulu National Park and Niah National Park, alongside Kuching’s designation as a gastronomic city.
He noted that efforts are underway to secure UNESCO geopark status for the Kuching Delta, which would further strengthen Sarawak’s position as a global tourism destination.
In addition, he pointed to the AirBorneo regional flight initiative as a key driver in boosting visitor numbers, offering improved connectivity across the region.
The Premier expressed appreciation to the Ministry of Tourism, Creative Industries and Performing Arts, as well as the Sarawak Museum Department, for their ongoing contributions to the state’s tourism development.
The Brooke Dockyard Industrial Heritage Museum, where the announcement was made, represents a significant addition to Sarawak’s cultural landscape.
The museum showcases the state’s industrial heritage and maritime history, reinforcing the broader vision of integrating heritage into modern tourism strategies.
The event was attended by several dignitaries, including Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Prof Dr Sim Kui Hian, State Legislative Assembly Speaker Tan Sri Datuk Amar Mohamad Asfia Awang Nassar, Minister of Tourism, Creative Industries and Performing Arts Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, Minister of Food Industry, Commodities and Regional Development Dato Sri Dr Stephen Rundi Utom, Minister of Transport Dato Sri Lee Kim Shin, and Deputy Secretary to the Government (Economic Planning and Development) Dato Sri Dr Muhammad Abdullah Zaidel.
The riverside project is expected to play a pivotal role in shaping Kuching’s future as a destination that blends heritage, culture, and modern infrastructure. With significant investment and international recognition, Sarawak is positioning itself as a tourism leader in the region.
