KUCHING: Sarawak Tourism Board’s foray into augmented reality (AR) technology in line with the Post COVID 19 Development Strategy and tourism master plan’s goal of embarking on virtual tourism was launched here today.
Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Minister Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah officiated at the launching of the two AR characters, Sara and Wawa, designed and built by UNIMAS.
“Making their first official appearance today, all of you here will be the first to see STB’s two AR characters: Sara who is an Orang Ulu in traditional dress and Wawa – a rhinoceros hornbill and Sarawak’s state emblem.
“They can be deployed in strategic locations with internet connectivity to welcome our visitors and also provide them with a fun and innovative tourism experience while exploring Sarawak,” he said.
Karim said he was also convinced that the latest development from STB will bring the tourism industry to greater heights and increase Sarawak’s visibility worldwide.
“I understand there are more exciting AR and VR (Virtual Reality) initiatives in the pipeline,” he said.
Similarly, Karim also congratulated the 25th anniversary of the Rainforest World Music Festival (RWMF) which will take place on June 17-19 at the Sarawak Cultural Village (SCV) and the 17th edition of the Borneo Jazz Festival at Coco Cabana Beach in Miri on June 24-26.