SINGAPORE: The Sarawak Mega Fair 2025 showcases the uniqueness of the Land of the Hornbills as a ‘hidden gem’ in tourism, one that champions sustainability, cultural heritage, and the well-being of indigenous communities.
Sarawak Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts, Dato’ Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, said the future of tourism must be built on sustainable development that not only drives economic growth but also preserves the environment and empowers local communities.
“Located on the island of Borneo, Sarawak spans 12.4 million hectares of tropical rainforest and is home to 34 ethnic groups, each with centuries-old cultural traditions coexisting with a rich biodiversity ecosystem.
“It is a ‘hidden gem’ waiting to be explored by the world with respect and responsibility. For Sarawak, sustainability is not merely an option, it forms the very foundation of our economy and society,” he emphasised.
He said this during his opening address at the Sarawak Mega Fair 2025 Business Conference titled ‘Sustainable Tourism in Sarawak: Balancing Growth and Conservation’, held at Suntec Convention and Exhibition Centre here on Friday.
In the same speech, Dato’ Sri Abdul Karim also shared that Sarawak’s indigenous communities have long practised harmonious living with nature through traditional wisdom and ancestral knowledge, long before sustainability became a global agenda.
According to him, these practices make Sarawak an authentic and responsible travel destination, especially for travellers seeking meaningful and holistic experiences.
He further stated that Sarawak has demonstrated a strong post-pandemic recovery in 2024, recording 4.83 million tourist arrivals, surpassing pre-pandemic levels, and generating RM12.45 billion in tourism revenue, an increase of RM2.47 billion compared with the previous year.
“As of August this year alone, Sarawak has welcomed 3.2 million visitors, generating RM8.2 billion in revenue,” he explained.
Dato’ Sri Abdul Karim added that Sarawak’s approach to tourism focuses not merely on numbers, but on attracting visitors who make a positive impact and appreciate the state’s natural and cultural uniqueness.
“We welcome travellers who seek deeper experiences, stay longer, and directly contribute to the well-being of rural and indigenous communities,” he said.
Also present were Deputy Sarawak Secretary (Operation) Datu Hii Chang Kee, Chairman of the STATOS Board of Directors Tan Sri Datuk Amar Mohamad Morshidi Abdul Ghani, Chief Executive Officer of the Sarawak Trade and Tourism Office Singapore (STATOS) Chew Chang Guan, Permanent Secretary to the Ministry of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Datu Sherrina Hussaini, as well as other distinguished guests.
The Sarawak Mega Fair 2025, which combines conventions, carnivals, and Sarawak gastronomy from 16 to 19 October 2025, brings together government officials, investors, and industry stakeholders to forge new collaborations, promote sustainable development, and explore Sarawak’s hidden potential.
More than 50 exhibitors, including travel agents, local product entrepreneurs, artisans, and traditional culinary enthusiasts, are showcasing the uniqueness of Sarawak’s eco-tourism, cultural heritage, and authentic experiences that can only be found in this remarkable state. -UKASnews
Prepared by: Leya Ameera Annuar Rigos
Photos by: Muhammad Rais Sanusi
