THE Tourism, Creative Industry, and Performing Arts (MTCP) is nearing its target of establishing 60 homestay clusters under the Post-Covid-19 Development Strategy (PCDS) 2030.
Its minister Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah said to date, the ministry has established 57 homestay clusters.
“These homestay clusters not only offer tourists an authentic experience of Sarawak’s diverse cultural heritage but also provide significant economic opportunities for rural communities,” he said in his ministerial winding-up speech today.
Later, in response to Baru Bian (GPS-Ba’ Kelalan), Abdul Karim said the government recognises the vital role of supporting local communities, particularly in Ba’ Kelalan to actively engage in local businesses and seize opportunities arising from the anticipated increase in visitors and tourist hotspot.
“Efforts are ongoing to assist the locals by encouraging participation in tourism through initiatives such as the Homestay Malaysia Experience Programme which also fosters entrepreneurial opportunities in handicrafts, tourism services and cultural experiences, ensuring sustainable growth and maximising benefits for the local economy,” he said.
He added currently, there is one homestay cluster registered with the Ministry of Tourism, Art and Culture Malaysia (MoTAC) in Ba’Kelalan comprising 24 homestay operators with a total of 69 rooms.
“As of September, these homestays received a total of 1,146 visitors with a receipt of RM422,510. Additionally, MoTAC has received nine new applications for homestay operators, further supporting the expansion of community-based tourism in Ba’Kelalan.
“My ministry also organises capacity building programmes from time to time to enhance their skills and knowledge in the hospitality sector,” he said.
In response to Azizul Annuar Adenan (GPS-Tanjung Datu), Abdul Karim said his ministry together with MoTAC Sarawak will also make an effort to increase the number of homestay operators and enhance their management skills to address lack of accommodation issues in Lundu once the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve is accredited.
