KUCHING: Tourism industry players are urged to be more proactive in addressing emerging issues, particularly those related to cleanliness and facilities in tourist hotspots.
Minister for Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts, Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah stated that this matter is crucial as the industry involves visitors from outside Sarawak, and such issues need to be properly managed.
“These problems should not be ignored or only addressed when facility issues, such as damaged jetties, unclean restrooms, or other concerns, go viral on social media.
“Therefore, all parties, especially travel agencies and tour guides, must always pay attention to such issues as they are the ones on the ground.
“Sometimes, certain individuals are aware of these issues but hesitate to inform the higher authorities,” he said.
He said this when met by reporters after officiating at Engagement Session with Sarawak Tourism Industry Players 2025 at Riverside Hotel here today (March 18).
As a result, he added that if such issues are reported to the ministry, immediate action can be taken.
“I will channel this information directly to the relevant authorities, whether it be the local authorities, the Sarawak Forestry Corporation (SFC), or other responsible agencies.
“Improvements need to be made because this is a tourism product that attracts visitors from outside.
“If they leave negative comments, it is we who will feel ashamed. They may also lose interest in coming,” he stated.
He stressed that the efforts are vital because the tourism industry must always remain at its best in all aspects.
“Do not wait until the minister comments on it.
“The initiative should come from the ground up, and every party should have a mechanism to collect feedback from tourists and travelers,” he said.
Regarding the engagement session, Abdul Karim stated that it aims to provide briefings and information to Sarawak’s tourism industry players about available products and to assist in preparations for Visit Malaysia 2026 (VM2026) Campaign.
“I was informed that about 250 industry players participated in this session, and we hope that such engagements can be held regularly.
“Apart from strengthening relationships between Sarawak tourism industry players and Tourism Malaysia, it is also important for understanding opportunities, products, grants, and more,” he added.
