ENGKILILI: Sarawak Deputy Premier, Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas suggested that the Betong Division Development Agency (BDDA) and the Sri Aman Development Agency (SADA) collaborate to promote the tourism sector in their respective areas.
 
He said both Betong and Engkilili had a lot of attractions to offer.
 
"Our attractions are similar. We can rely on the rich and colourful Iban culture and traditions, the handicrafts, pristine nature, and traditional longhouses.
 
"For Engkilili, the nearby Batang Ai Hydro Dam Lake area and the unique ‘Batu Nabau’ (stone structure resembling a giant serpent head) and its legend are among the main attractions.
 
"For Betong, we will have the proposed Rentap's fortress at Bukit Sadok as one of our top offers. The construction of the RM15 millions project is expected to be tendered out soon," he said.
 
He spoke when launching the inaugural Lubok Antu Carnival at Dataran Rusa here, on Saturday.
 
Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah added, the Bebuling STOLport in Spaoh, Betong scheduled to be completed next year would be a boost for tourist arrival.
 
"So, both BDDA and SADA can sit down to talk on how to jointly develop tourism products. The tourism sector is now full of potentials as a new revenue stream for rural folks," he said.
 
However, the Bukit Saban Assemblyman stressed that with many cultural performers now being elderly folks, the young generation should take over to continue and preserve the many cultural and traditional activities. -UKASnews