‘Slow, steady progress is better than daily excuses.’
— Robin Sharma
Bau town, once known as the Gold Town of Borneo, has been in a state of dormancy for decades. However, it is now rising from the ashes like a phoenix and embracing a new dawn. Its transformation from a sleepy town to a vibrant hub is remarkable, and evidence of this revitalisation can be seen everywhere.
Infrastructure development has been at the heart of this metamorphosis, acting as a catalyst for progress and growth. Today, Bau is gradually transforming into a vibrant town, packed with people and vehicles from dawn to dusk. Even parking lots are hard to find, resulting in some motorists resorting to illegal parking. The business community in town is proud to admit that business has been growing steadily over the years.
Bau was once a bustling gold mining hub and an essential economic centre from the late 19th till the early 20th century. However, as time marched on, the gold reserves depleted, and the glitter of Bau began to fade. Economic activities declined, and people started moving away in search of better opportunities elsewhere.
Over the past few years, however, the winds of change have been blowing, bringing with them revitalisation efforts and renewed interest to transform Bau into a vibrant town. One of the catalysts for this resurgence is the Development Blueprint for Bau District 2016-2030, geared towards a Greater Bau by 2030.
Launched in December 2019, this development blueprint is a comprehensive plan aimed at transforming the district into a prosperous hub by the year 2030. It was promoted and advocated for by Datuk Henry Harry Jinep who is Tasik Biru assemblyman and also Transport Deputy Minister.
The blueprint covers various aspects of development, including infrastructure, housing, real estate, tourism, agriculture, and industrialisation.
The plan seeks to create an environment that is conducive to the growth of businesses by improving infrastructure, such as roads, transportation facilities, and public services, to accommodate the needs and preferences of visitors.
In terms of housing and real estate, the blueprint aims to create more affordable housing options to meet the demands of the growing population.
The plan also focuses on promoting sustainable tourism and eco-tourism, leveraging the natural beauty of the surrounding rainforests, caves, and waterfalls to attract visitors and spur economic growth.
With lush rainforests, captivating caves, and pristine waterfalls surrounding the town, Bau has grown to become a leading eco-tourism hotspot, benefiting both the local community and the natural environment. The district is attracting curious explorers from both within Malaysia and beyond, spurring economic growth and the establishment of small businesses, thus breathing new life into the town’s commercial centre.
Regarding the caves, in particular, they are a major attraction for tourists visiting the town. The caves are located in the hills and mountains surrounding the town, with some of them being easily accessible while others require a bit of hiking.
One of the most popular caves in Bau is the Fairy Cave, which is located about 8km from the town centre. The cave is named after a stalagmite structure in the shape of a fairy. Visitors can climb up to the cave’s entrance, which is about three storeys high, and explore the cave’s interior, which is adorned with impressive limestone formations.
Another well-known cave is the Wind Cave, which is located about 5km from the Fairy Cave. The cave is named after the cool breeze that flows through it, making it a refreshing respite from the heat outside. The Wind Cave is also home to a variety of cave-dwelling creatures, including bats and swiftlets.
Agriculture and industrialisation are also promoted to create job opportunities and boost the local economy. The efforts include developing more efficient farming practices, processing, and marketing of agricultural products, as well as encouraging the establishment of small and medium-sized enterprises.
Overall, the Development Blueprint for Bau District 2016-2030 is a strategic plan that aims to revitalise and transform the district of Bau into a vibrant and prosperous hub. It provides a roadmap for development and growth, leveraging the district’s unique assets and promoting sustainable practices to ensure a bright future for the community.
As Bau awakens from its slumber and regains its former glory, it stands as a testament to the power of preservation, community spirit, and adaptability. The town’s journey towards a renaissance may still be ongoing, but the steps taken so far have already made a significant impact. The revitalization of this once-sleepy town is a celebration of its history, a tribute to its people, and a promising beacon for the future.
Bau’s success story reminds us that the glory of the heydays can indeed be reclaimed with determination, vision, and a collective will to preserve and share the treasure trove of the past. The town stands as a shining example of what vision, strategic planning, and a commitment to progress can achieve. It has become a beacon of hope for other communities seeking to unlock their true potential and create a brighter future.
‘Progress is impossible without change, and those who cannot change their minds cannot change anything.’
— George Bernard Shaw
The views expressed here are those of the writer and do not necessarily represent the views of the New Sarawak Tribune.
