THE Sarawak government is considering plans to establish a tourist centre and rebuild the monument depicting the Battles of Beting Maro in the constituency of Beting Maro.
Deputy Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Datuk Snowdan Lawan said the initiative is aimed at enhancing heritage tourism and preserving the rich historical significance of the area.
“The Beting Maro Battlefields site which is a historical for the Iban Skrang and Saribas has been proposed to be gazetted as a historical heritage site.
“However, the Battles of Beting Maro monument has been damaged due to the huge wave last year. As a result, reconstruction of the monument is deemed necessary to restore its historical importance,” he said.
He was replying to Razali Gapor (GPS-Beting Maro) who asked if the government plans to establish a tourist centre, reconstruct the monument and upgrade the graves of Temenggong Kadri, Dato Godam and Dang Isah Tandang Sari as a tourism product and centre.
Nevertheless, Snowdan said that before proceeding with the reconstruction, further studies must be conducted because the site is not protected under the Sarawak Heritage Ordinance, 2019.
“These comprehensive studies will ascertain the significance and value of the proposed monument and ensure it carries meaning and impact for the people of Sarawak, facilitating remembrance, appreciation, preservation, and restoration efforts,” he said.
To prevent future damage from wave impact, he said, the authorities are working to identify a secure and suitable location for the monument, to ensure its stability and longevity as a symbol of historical remembrance.
“On other heritage sites in Beting Maro, including the graves of Temenggong Kadir, Dato Godam, and Makam Dang Isah Tandang Sari, the ministry currently has no plans to upgrade them.
“However, given their well-maintained condition and regular upkeep by the Sarawak Museum Department, these tombs can be promoted as attractions for heritage tourism in Beting Maro,” he said.
He also said the government’s commitment to preserving Sarawak’s cultural heritage and boosting tourism aligns with its vision to enhance public service delivery and strengthen the quality of services for the people.
“As part of the Mid-Term Review (MTR) of the 12th Malaysia Plan (12MP), an allocation ceiling of RM7 million has been assigned to the construction project of the Lingga District Administrative Centre Complex, demonstrating the government’s dedication to enhancing public infrastructure and services.
“As Sarawak progresses towards a post-Covid era, these initiatives aim to revitalise cultural heritage, promote tourism, and provide a memorable experience for visitors while preserving the rich history of Beting Maro,” said Snowdan.
