SIBU: Sarawak is on track to achieve its 2023 goal of attracting three million tourists, according to Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah.
The Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry, and Performing Arts for the state stated that this projection is based on several international events scheduled to take place between now and December.
Abdul Karim highlighted that the number of tourist arrivals from January to June is commensurate with that of 2019 and 2018, indicating a recovery to pre-pandemic levels.
In 2018 and 2019, Sarawak welcomed 4.4 million and 4.6 million tourists, respectively.
Speaking at the conclusion of the Borneo Cultural Festival on Sunday (July 23) evening, Abdul Karim mentioned the challenges of securing hotel accommodations in Kuching due to the series of events taking place.
He stated, “The national-level International Museum Day from July 31 to August 6 will involve all states in the country. We are expecting thousands of participants in Kuching for the event.”
“These events will continue until the end of the year, with the Dragon Boat Race and the Sarawak Regatta. We hope that many of those visiting Kuching will also explore other parts of Sarawak and extend their holidays,” he added.
Abdul Karim also revealed that Kuching will be hosting the ASEAN International Film Festival from August 2 to 4, and South Korean celebrity Rain will be making an appearance in Kuching during the first week of August.
“We anticipate that he will bring a significant number of fans to Kuching,” said Abdul Karim.
Credit: The Star : News Feed
