KUCHING – Telaga Air is gaining attention as a new spot for water sports tourism, with plans underway to turn it into a venue for large-scale regattas.
The proposal has backing from the Sarawak Ministry of Tourism Creative Industries and Performing Arts, following strong interest generated during the Telaga Air Festival.
One highlight from the festival, an endurance regatta, stood out for its unusual race format and drew both participants and spectators.
According to Abdul Rahman Junaidi, discussions around developing Telaga Air into a regatta hub have been ongoing for about two years. He pointed to the endurance race as a key attraction.
The event features boats powered by 30 rowers covering a five-kilometre stretch in one continuous push.
What sets Telaga Air apart is its river. The straight, bend-free stretch allows races to run in a single line, which creates a different experience from traditional regattas.
The race itself is short and intense, lasting around 10 to 11 minutes, which adds to its appeal for both competitors and spectators.
There are plans to hold the event every other year alongside the Telaga Air Festival. The goal is to build it into a regular feature without overlapping with established events like the Sarawak Regatta, which takes place on the Sarawak River.
Rather than replacing existing races, the idea is to offer something different. A new format, a new location, and a fresh experience for visitors.
Beyond tourism, the initiative carries economic potential. More visitors mean more activity for local businesses, from food vendors to accommodation providers. For nearby communities, that brings steady opportunities tied to the event.
Telaga Air’s natural setting adds to its appeal. With the right planning, it stands as a strong candidate for a dedicated water sports destination in Sarawak.
The direction is clear. By building on what already works and adding something new, Sarawak continues to expand its tourism offerings while creating benefits that reach local communities.
