KUCHING: In July this year, Taiwan witnessed a remarkable 24 per cent increase in visitor arrivals to Sarawak compared to the same period last year.
The Sarawak Tourism Board (STB) stated that this places Taiwan among the top 10 countries for visitor arrivals.
“Further enhancing Sarawak’s allure is the Rainforest World Music Festival (RWMF), a cultural gem that attracted 26,000 attendees in 2024 – a 35 per cent increase from the previous year.
“This annual event in Kuching celebrates world music, culture, and local flavours, all against the stunning backdrop of Mount Santubong, making Sarawak a must-visit destination,” the Board noted.
STB made this statement following the culmination of its business networking seminars held in Taichung and Taipei, Taiwan recently.
These events, part of the ‘Gateway to Borneo’ campaign, aimed to promote Sarawak, Malaysia, as a premier travel destination among Taiwanese travel industry professionals.
With the participation of three tour operators and three hotel operators from Sarawak, the seminars highlighted the region’s unique offerings and fostered stronger relationships between Sarawak and Taiwan’s travel industries.
The seminar attracted distinguished guests, esteemed partners, and influential figures from Taiwan’s travel industry, providing a unique platform to showcase Sarawak’s rich culture, thrilling adventures, stunning natural beauty, delectable cuisine, and vibrant festivals.
STB further stated that it strategically partnered with Royal Brunei Airlines to ensure seamless connectivity between Taiwan and Sarawak.
“With Royal Brunei Airlines operating four times weekly from Bandar Seri Begawan to Kuching, three times weekly from Taipei to Bandar Seri Begawan, and twice weekly directly from Taipei through Bandar Seri Begawan to Kuching, travel is made convenient and accessible.
“This robust flight schedule enhances the overall experience, promoting the appeal of dual tourism destinations,” it mentioned.
To strengthen tourism initiatives further, the Board introduced the Strategic Partnership Collaboration Fund, designed to empower tour operators by providing essential resources and support.
“This fund plays a crucial role in amplifying the promotion of Sarawak through various avenues, such as facilitating participation in prestigious travel fairs, creating compelling marketing campaigns, and developing unique cultural tourism experiences.
“Eligible applicants include those licensed by the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture Malaysia (MOTAC) or recognized by relevant tourism associations,” it added.
By leveraging this fund, tour operators can significantly broaden their reach, attract a wider audience, and drive substantial business growth.
Dylan Redas Noel, the STB North Asia and New Market Marketing Director expressed the Board’s delight with the overwhelming response from esteemed partners in Taiwan.
“This seminar has strengthened our relationships and highlighted Sarawak’s immense potential as a premier travel destination.
“The success of the Rainforest World Music Festival and the growing visitor numbers from Taiwan reflect Sarawak’s unique appeal. We eagerly anticipate welcoming more Taiwanese travellers to our beautiful state,” he concluded.
