KUCHING: The Sarawak Dragon Boat Regatta 2024 is projected to significantly bolster the local economy, with expected revenues reaching RM1.5 million, surpassing last year's earnings of RM1.3 million.

Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Abdul Rahman Zohari Tun Datuk Abang Openg highlighted that the sale of handicrafts will play a crucial role in engaging visitors, especially international tourists, during the event.

He further noted that the inclusion of other major events such as the Sarawak Marathon and the Sarawak Regatta 2024 will further drive economic activity, particularly in the handicraft sector.

"This year, I believe they could generate RM1.5 million in revenue, compared to RM1.3 million last year. In fact, I expect they may surpass RM1.5 million, as we are hosting other significant events like the Sarawak Marathon," he said during a press conference after visiting the handicraft sales booth at the Kuching Waterfront on Saturday.

The Premier had earlier officiated the regatta, which began with a ceremonial paddle handover and a traditional eye-dotting ceremony on the dragon boats, marking the start of the race.

He also emphasised that hosting this international-standard regatta will greatly benefit Kuching's hospitality and accommodation sectors, noting a positive response from local hotels regarding increased tourist arrivals.

"This influx of tourists is growing, and we are receiving encouraging feedback from our hotel industry," he added.

The regatta this year has attracted international participation from countries including England, Ireland, Canada, Russia, Kazakhstan, Mongolia, Guatemala, Argentina, Qatar, Japan, Cyprus, Indonesia, Taiwan, Spain, Hong Kong, China, Singapore, Brunei, Thailand, the Philippines, and Malaysia. Teams from Sarawak, Sabah, Penang, and Kuala Lumpur are also competing.

Prominent figures attending the event included Sarawak State Legislative Assembly Speaker Tan Sri Datuk Amar Mohamad Asfia Awang Nassar, Minister for Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, Sarawak Deputy Secretary (Economic Planning and Development) Dato Sri Dr Muhammad Abdullah Zaidel, Sarawak Deputy Secretary (Operation) Datu Hii Chang Kee, and Director-General of Craft Malaysia, Datuk Ainu Sham Ramli. -UKASnews