KUCHING: The Sarawak Tourism Board (STB) recently concluded the Sarawak Gateway to Borneo Roadshow in Jakarta and Balikpapan, solidifying tourism ties with Indonesia.
The roadshow, organised in collaboration with AirAsia, positioned Sarawak as a key entry point to Borneo, offering seamless travel experiences to destinations such as Kalimantan, Sabah, and Brunei.
STB said Sarawak aims to enhance connectivity and partnerships to boost regional travel by highlighting its rich cultural heritage, natural wonders, and business tourism potential.
“Indonesia remains a crucial market for Sarawak, ranking among its top three sources of visitor arrivals.
“The recent increase in AirAsia flights between Jakarta and Kuching, now operating daily, has improved accessibility.
“Land checkpoints from Kalimantan Barat further connect the two regions, encouraging travel by road,” STB said in a statement.
The roadshow also featured collaborations with the Association of the Indonesian Tours and Travel Agencies (ASITA), Tourism Malaysia Jakarta, and the Indonesian Travel Agents Association (ASTINDO).
Key Sarawak partners, including Cat City Holidays, Ping Sing Travel & Tours, Great Leap Tours, and hotel representatives from Hemisphere Corporation and Imperial Hotel, showcased diverse travel packages and accommodations.
Business Events Sarawak also participated, highlighting the state’s growing reputation as a destination for meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions (MICE).
Sarawak’s attractions include the UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Mulu National Park and Niah National Park, as well as the Sarawak Delta Geopark, which is pursuing UNESCO Global Geopark status.
Muslim-friendly amenities and inclusive travel options further enhance Sarawak’s appeal to Indonesian visitors.
STB’s Asean and Domestic Marketing director Barbara Benjamin Atan noted the strong cultural bond between Indonesia and Sarawak, describing it as a connection that transcends borders.
“With daily direct flights, cross-border connectivity, and a shared heritage, Indonesian travellers can easily explore Sarawak’s breath-taking landscapes, unique culture, and warm hospitality in a travel environment that feels familiar yet offers something new and exciting.
“We look forward to building stronger partnerships that create rewarding travel experiences for both destinations,” she said.
Positioning itself as the Gateway to Borneo, Sarawak is ready to welcome more visitors from Indonesia, strengthening tourism and cultural ties between the two regions.
