SIBU: The local community and tourism operators are urged to work together to repackage Sibu as a culturally rich tourist destination.
In making this call, Federal Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing said the community must bring out the best of Sibu’s characteristics.
Tiong, who is also the Bintulu Member of Parliament and Dudong assemblyman, said this is to create more opportunities and bring more income to local people.
“Sibu actually has the advantage to develop its tourism, art, and culture. In addition to its rich native culture, Sibu also has the largest central market in Malaysia, the century-old Tua Pek Kong Temple, the serene views of the Rajang River, Sibu Night Market, and others.
“All of these have the potential to become tourism packages with strong selling points that attract international tourists,” he said in his speech at PDP Chinese New Year gathering at a leading hotel here on Saturday night (Jan 27).
He said his ministry will work together with the state Ministry of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts to develop Sarawak’s unique tourism industries.
Meanwhile, on the shooting that occurred in Sibu in early January, Tiong said the incident affected many people, who felt concerned about their personal safety.
“I would like to warn the criminal gangs, especially those who influence them using harmful means to achieve their goals.
“To the influencers, please do not try to take the law into your own hands. I have instructed the Sibu police chief and other law enforcement agencies to crack down on similar crimes and we will never tolerate them.
“We are determined ensure the people of Sibu live a good life in peace and contentment,” he said.
Also present were Progressive Democratic Party (PDP) deputy president Datuk Henry Harry Jinep, PDP vice-president Datuk Dr Penguang Manggil, Parti Sarawak Bersatu (PSB) president Datuk Seri Wong Soon Koh, PSB deputy president Dr Johnical Rayong Ngipa, Meluan assemblyman Rolland Duat, Krian assemblyman Friday Belik, PDP Dudong chairman Datuk Teo Boon Siew, organising chairperson Agatha Ting, and others.
