BELAGA: Lusong Laku, a place in the Belaga district, is not known to many outsiders.
Federal Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Datuk Seri Nancy Shukri is, however, confident that it will attract many tourists if it is promoted.
“Many interesting places in Lusong Laku are not heard of. For example, the Wong Pejik Waterfall which is similar to that of Niagara Falls in Canada and the crater of a former volcanic mountain located here.
“We must promote these attractions so that more visitors will come to Sarawak. This will contribute to making Malaysia the Top of the Mind Ecotourism Destination to the World in line with the National Tourism Policy 2020 – 2030,” she said during a visit to Lusong Laku on Saturday (Oct 16).
Nancy also praised the various intricate and unique handicrafts produced by the people of Lusong Laku.
She expressed confidence that the high-quality handicrafts would be sought after by visitors, especially foreigners who would value them as memorable mementos.
“I was informed that seven youth from Lusong Laku have registered as participants to take part in programme organised by the Sarawak Handicraft in Kuching. I hope they will gain new knowledge and skills from their participation to enhance the value of handicrafts produced in this area,” added the minister.
On the recent programme organised here by the federal Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture (Motac) office in Sarawak, the Malaysia Handicraft Sarawak, National Department for Culture and Arts, Sarawak and National Archives of Malaysia Sarawak branch, Nancy applauded their efforts in developing the local tourism and culture sector.
She pointed out that the local youth and adults were involved in the programme under the management of National Department for Culture and Arts, Sarawak. The programme showed them how different dances could be used for various events.
Nancy added that the National Archives of Malaysia Sarawak branch also organised an exhibition in conjunction with Merdeka Day to promote patriotism among the locals.
Her ministry, she said, also promoted Lusong Laku and its attractions to the outside world through various platforms, particularly social media.
Besides that, the Motac office in Sarawak also inculcated taught the locals how to beautify their surroundings and keep them clean, she said.
“We are very fortunate that Sarawak is blessed with various natural attractions. Thus, I hope everyone will do their part to protect and preserve the natural treasures that we have,” she added.
