KUCHING: Sarawak is on track to make significant strides in the tourism sector, with ambitious plans for the Kuching Geopark and preparations already underway for Visit Malaysia Year 2026.
Speaking to reporters at the Ramah Tamah Aidilfitri event today, Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister, Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, stated that Kuching Geopark is striving for UNESCO World Heritage recognition, emphasising its potential to join esteemed sites like Mulu and Niah Caves.
“The process is ongoing, and we are hopeful for UNESCO’s recognition.
“It’s a significant step for Sarawak’s tourism, placing us alongside other world-class destinations,” he said.
He further explained that while Sarawak’s Tourism Ministry plays a major role in the promotion of tourism, the UNESCO application must be submitted by the national Ministry of Heritage.
“Sarawak cannot submit the application directly.
“It must go through the Ministry of Heritage at the federal level, but we are fully involved in the process,” he said.
The State has had a strong start to 2025, with over 810,000 visitors in the first two months, far surpassing expectations and typical figures for this time of year.
“January and February have been outstanding, with tourism receipts reaching over RM1 billion each month.
“We are well on track to achieve our target of five million visitors this year,” Abdul Karim said.
“This is a clear sign that Sarawak’s tourism sector is booming, and we are confident that the numbers will continue to rise.”
Abdul Karim attributed the success to a combination of factors, including the national Visit Malaysia Year 2026 campaign and Sarawak’s own efforts to promote the State internationally.
He called for more hotels to be built, as Sarawak’s current hospitality infrastructure is being stretched by the growing number of visitors.
“I’ve already spoken with the Premier to ensure that the State Planning Authority gives more consideration to hotel development requests.
“We need to plan not just for this year or next, but for the next five to 10 years,” he said.
“Sarawak is well prepared, and we have the full support of the State Cabinet.
“We’re excited about what the future holds, and we are ready to welcome the world.”
