SIBU: Sarawak’s tourism sector continues to flourish, with visitor arrivals and economic contributions on an upward trend.
This was highlighted by Deputy Minister for Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts, Datuk Sebastian Ting, at the opening ceremony of the Asean Lions Leaders Summit 2025 held at a leading hotel here on Thursday (Feb 20).
Speaking to an international audience of Lions dignitaries from China, Brunei, Thailand, the Philippines, the United States, Hong Kong, Taipei, Indonesia, and Sri Lanka, Ting expressed gratitude for the Lions’ choice of Sarawak as their summit venue.
The three-day event, which began on Feb 20, was hosted by the Lions Club of Sibu Pahlawan (LCSP) and supported by its parent club and seven sponsoring clubs, brought together more than 480 distinguished leaders from across the region.
Ting, who represented Minister for Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts, Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, noted that international conferences and meetings bolster the state’s tourism industry while creating economic opportunities for various sectors.
“In 2024, Sarawak recorded 4.831 million visitor arrivals, marking a 22.95 per increase from the previous year. This generated RM12.45 billion in tourism receipts.
“This year, we are targeting five million visitors, and we have already seen a strong start, with 400,531 visitors arriving in January 2025 alone, an increase of 13.47 per cent compared to the corresponding period last year,” he stated.
Ting also highlighted Sarawak’s recent achievement in heritage conservation, with the Niah National Park being officially proclaimed as a Unesco World Heritage Site at the 46th Unesco World Heritage Committee Meeting 2024 in New Delhi, India.
With this recognition, he said, Sarawak now boasts two Unesco sites in Malaysia, further solidifying its appeal as a premier tourism destination.
He commended the Lions’ commitment to service, leadership, and humanitarian efforts, stressing that their presence in Sarawak not only strengthens global partnerships but also inspires meaningful action within communities.
“This summit is more than just an event; it is a platform for exchanging ideas, best practices, and collaborations that reinforce the Lions’ mission of service. The theme aligns perfectly with Lions Clubs International’s core values—fostering unity, strengthening leadership, and expanding service initiatives across borders.”
He encouraged delegates to take the opportunity to explore Sarawak’s rich cultural and natural heritage after the summit, including the newly recognised Unesco site. “We invite you to experience the beauty of Sarawak and witness firsthand why it continues to attract visitors from around the world.”
Expressing his appreciation to LCSP for their dedication in organising a successful event, he also thanked the international delegates for their participation, reinforcing the global Lions community’s commitment to making a difference through service and collaboration.
“Together, we can make a difference, not just in our own communities but across the world.”
Ting added that the event is expected to generate lasting impacts through strengthened partnerships, innovative service projects, and an ongoing commitment to global humanitarian efforts.
Among those present were Bukit Assek assembyman Joseph Chieng Jin Ek; Lions International director Zhao Dong; Council chairperson Sompob Pichaiwong from Multiple District 310, Thailand; District governor-general Jagath Weerasinghe from District 306D8, Sri Lanka; District governor Sammy Shun from District 303, Hong Kong & Macau; LCSP president Steady Tiau Kiu Ling; and organising chairperson Jamie Tiew.
