Third Sarawak Tourism Masterplan
THE Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture (MTAC) together with Economic Planning Unit (EPU) Sarawak have embarked on the Third Sarawak Tourism Masterplan study to chart the way forward for Sarawak’s tourism industry post Covid-19.
Deputy Chief Minister Datuk Amar Awang Tengah Ali Hasan said, the Masterplan will explore new business models and strategies for both the demand and supply sides of the tourism industry.
“It will also identify and develop strategic directions and action plans for the tourism sector to spur both immediate recovery and long-term growth.
“The tourism sector is also one of key economic sectors under Sarawak Economic Action Council,” he said when winding up the debates on MTAC today.
He informed that MTAC was planning to focus on several areas with potential for high impact projects to be implemented under the 12th Malaysia Plan (12MP).
“Among them are – to develop tourism facilities and infrastructures for Sarawak’s niche ecotourism products such as national parks, beaches and waterfalls; to preserve, conserve and promote Sarawak’s unique history, culture and heritage through museums, forts, heritage buildings and archaeological sites.
“Sarawak’s own Centre for Performing Arts will also be established to become the main hub in developing local talents in performing arts industry; and the development of local crafts industry by establishing Sarawak Handicraft Centre to showcase our unique crafts and souvenir centre for visitors,” he said.
Awang Tengah pointed out that the ministry was offering support packages for the business events industry during the pandemic through the Sarawak Convention Bureau.
“The support covers a wider range of claimable items, delegate wellness pack, sponsored half-day city tours to aid delegates, costs of virtual platforms for hybrid events and greater flexibility with achievement target.
“Support is also given to encourage the growth of homegrown events,” he said.
