BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN: The establishment of the Sarawak Trade and Tourism Office in Brunei Darussalam (STATOB) here will further strengthen tourism ties between Sarawak and Brunei Darussalam.
In stating this, Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Ministry Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah said based on statistics, the oil-rich nation is one of the largest contributors of tourists to Sarawak, with more than 150,000 visitors each month.
“In August 2024, the highest number of tourists visiting Sarawak came from Brunei, totalling 198,331 visitors, compared to 94,320 visitors in August 2023. This marks a significant increase over the year.”
He said this to reporters after attending the launch of STATOB at Pavo Point here on Thursday (Oct 3).
Abdul Karim added that STATOB will play a key role in fostering cooperation between entrepreneurs in Sarawak and Brunei.
“When tourists arrive in Sarawak, they need to stay, shop, and engage in various activities, which significantly impacts the economy.
“This is where STATOB plays its role. It not only facilitates networking between Sarawak and Brunei entrepreneurs but also promotes Brunei to visitors in Sarawak through network arrangements and partnerships.
“Additionally, those here will better understand the business and tourism opportunities available in Sarawak,” he said.
STATOB is the second office to be established, following the Sarawak Trade and Tourism Office in Singapore (STATOS) of which is to expand networks and promote tourism and business opportunities within the Borneo region.
Earlier, Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg officiated at the launch of STATOB.
