KUCHING (Dec 4): Sarawak’s tourism sector is set to receive a significant boost with a RM255 million allocation under the Sarawak Budget 2025. This funding aims to propel the state toward achieving its ambitious target of five million tourist arrivals next year, according to Deputy Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry, and Performing Arts, Dato Sebastian Ting.
“This is the first time the Premier has explicitly set a five-million tourist target in the State Budget, reflecting his confidence in the tourism sector’s potential to drive economic growth,” said Ting during the Sarawak Tourism Coordination Committee (STCC) meeting held at Raia Hotel and Convention Centre.
Strategic Allocation to Drive Growth
Out of the RM255 million allocation, RM174 million will be utilized for operational purposes and tourism promotion. Specific allocations include:
- RM86 million for grants to organizations such as Sarawak Tourism Board and Sarawak Art Council.
- RM45 million to sponsor tourism activities.
- RM10 million for cultural events and festivals.
- RM5 million for tourism research grants.
Additionally, RM81 million has been designated under the Development Budget to fund infrastructure projects. These include the transformation of Brooke Dockyard into an Industrial Heritage Museum, the development of the Santubong Archaeological Park, and the restoration of the Islamic Heritage Museum.
Enhancing Tourism Appeal
Ting emphasized the importance of these projects, which include the establishment of the Wallace Centre and Darul Hana Malay Heritage Museum, in enhancing Sarawak’s global tourism appeal. The Sadong Jaya mangrove tourism initiative and upgrades to heritage trails are also expected to attract eco-tourists and cultural enthusiasts alike.
“We are committed to achieving, and possibly exceeding, the target of five million tourists,” Ting added confidently.
