KUCHING: The Tasik Biru Festival which started last Friday has successfully attracted huge number of local and international visitors.
Tasik Biru Assemblyman Datuk Harry Henry Jinep said visitors’ turnout was great over the past two days and more people are expected to come today.
He said there will be a large gathering of bikers (on big as well as small bikes) by the lake.
He recalled that last year, more than 1,000 bikers took part in the gathering and he expected the number to be double this year.
An interesting event held on Saturday and today is ‘jong’ regatta which had attracted 120 enthusiasts.
Other activities include Miss Tasik Biru, arm wrestling, e-sport competition and Tasik Biru Saberkas Run, sales of local agricultural produce, exhibitions by government agencies, boat rides, cultural performances, and ‘zumba’.
Yesterday, Henry, who launched Tasik Biru One-Stop Centre (OSC), said the festival had helped the local people generate additional income through the sales of various products and various services.
Bau District Officer and organising chairperson, Anielia Sitam, said the event (formerly known as Pesta Jong Bau), which had its 60th anniversary this year, was aimed at popularising and promoting Tasik Biru as a tourist destination as well as introduce Bau’s unique water sports.
Infrastructure and Ports Development Assistant Minister Datuk Julaihi Narawi officiated at the opening of the festival last Friday. The closing ceremony on Sunday will be graced by Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Datuk Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah.
Jong or mini sail boats are set off by their owners — powered by the gentle breeze over the lake. 
The jong sail gracefully. 
Blowpipe contest 
Blowpipes are one of Sarawak’s native lethal weapons which requires skill of controlling one’s breath to shoot darts. 
The crowd at Tasik Biru
