KUCHING: The Sarawak Forestry Corporation (SFC) is currently taking steps to resolve the water crisis in Bako National Park, says Audry Wan Ullok.
The Sarawak Tourism Federation president addressed the issue during a press conference here on Friday (July 7), explaining that the crisis was caused by a broken pipe, and SFC was undertaking repair work that is expected to take approximately two weeks.
“We have approached the SFC chief executive officer, and he provided assurance that immediate steps were being taken to rectify the problem.
“We have received a lot of complaints from tourists, guests, and also those staying in the accommodations.”
Audry pointed out that SFC would release an official statement to confirm that the situation would be resolved within the two-week timeframe.
Highlighting the significance of the issue, she mentioned the high influx of visitors to Bako National Park in the previous year, with a total of 13,000 foreign and 16,000 domestic visitors, amounting to approximately 30,000 visitors.
Therefore, she said, a prompt resolution was crucial to maintain the park’s reputation and visitor satisfaction.
During the press conference, Audry also expressed her appreciation for the success of the STF Gawai Dayak Open House, held in Betong from June 9 to 11.
“The event showcased the rich culture and traditions of Sarawak’s Iban community, taking place at Rumah Matop longhouse in Betong, located around 246km from Kuching.
“STF organised a three-day, two-night tour package for visitors, which included attending Betong’s Gawai Parade on June 10, as well as visits to local attractions such as Fort Lili and a modelled pepper farm,” she explained.
The package, she added, also offered a two-night stay and meals in a contemporary longhouse, along with a picnic lunch at Ulu Layar River.
The event was attended by over 2,000 guests, including visitors from Australia, the United States, Indonesia, Thailand, Singapore, China, and West Malaysia.
“It is worth noting that STF regularly hosts open houses for four festivals annually – Chinese New Year, Hari Raya, Gawai and Christmas.
“The aim is to showcase authentic Sarawakian hospitality through the celebration of these festivals.”
