KUCHING: Sarawak Tourism Board (STB) is celebrating the festive season with the release of a limited-edition Chinese New Year ang pao featuring the Bornean Palm Pit Viper, a species endemic to Borneo and found in Sarawak's Mulu and Gunung Gading National Parks.

From January 2, 2025 onwards, visitors can collect these exclusive ang pao packets at the Visitors Information Centres in Kuching, Miri, and Sibu while supplies last.

Marking its seventh year, STB's annual ang pao tradition celebrates Sarawak's vibrant cultural and natural heritage.

Inspired by the Year of the Wood Snake, this year's design features elegant gold stamping and the Bornean Palm Pit Viper, a symbol of resilience, growth, and Sarawak's biodiversity.

STB Chief Executive Officer, Sharzede Datu Salleh Askor said this initiative underscores STB’s commitment to promote greater appreciation of Sarawak’s unique ecosystems through responsible tourism.

"This year's ang pao highlights Sarawak's vital ecosystems, encouraging greater conservation awareness.

"Through meaningful initiatives like this, we aim to inspire residents and visitors to discover and protect Sarawak's natural heritage,” she said in a statement today.

Sharzede added that the campaign emphasises Sarawak's position as a premier eco-tourism destination.

“By blending cultural traditions with a commitment to environmental stewardship, STB strives to balance sustainable tourism growth with conservation.

“STB invites everyone to join the festivities and celebrate this unique tribute to Sarawak's natural beauty and sustainability efforts,” she said. -UKASnews