KUCHING: The Tourism, Arts and Culture Ministry is working with the federal government on the devolution of power to allow authorities at state-level to approve applications for tourism-related licensing and to issue licenses such as tourist guide licenses.
Its minister Datuk Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah said the devolution of power is still under discussion under the Third Sarawak Tourism Master Plan 2021-2035 as it involves the federal and state negotiation on the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63).
“We are also finalising the Third Sarawak Tourism Master Plan 2021-2035. The Sarawak Government has also put emphasis on regional development where Regional Development Plans were produced.
“My ministry will ensure policies and plans for tourism, arts and culture in these master plans are translated into action plans in stages,” he assured.
He said this at a press conference after chairing the Sarawak Tourism Steering Committee Meeting 2021 at a hotel here today (Mar 16).
Due to the movement restriction imposed during the Covid-19 pandemic, Abdul Karim said the development of digital technology-based tourism is imperative in ensuring the success of the state’s rehabilitation plans for its tourism industry.
“Utilisation of Sarawak Travel App as part of Covid-19 Sarawak Tourism Promotion Campaign is vital as it can be a great promotion and marketing tool for our tourism.
“My ministry would also look into enhancing Sarawak Travel App under the 12th Malaysia Plan (12MP) in integrating an e-commerce platform to allow tour agencies to promote and sell their tour packages online.
“This will provide a convenient one-stop service for tourists to search info on places and available tour packages for purchase,” he added.
He said ultimately, the initiative boils down into providing a secure, reliable and cost-effective digital platform for industry players to boost their income and revive the tourism industry.
“Among other digital initiatives planned include S-MM2H online application, Digital Visitors Landing App, digitalisation of Sarawak Tourism Satellite Account (STSA) and Digital Visitor Tracking App.”
