Council vows to boost tourism in Sibu
SIBU (July 27): The Sibu Municipal Council (SMC) has reaffirmed its long-term commitment to boosting the domestic tourism sector through the organisation of large-scale events such as the Borneo Cultural Festival (BCF), which recorded its 20th edition this year.
SMC chairman Clarence Ting hailed the recently-concluded festival as not only a platform to celebrate Sarawak's cultural diversity, but also a key driver in attracting visitors to Sibu.
'We believe domestic tourism is the backbone of local economic development, and BCF is a clear testament to our continuous effort to showcase Borneo's cultural uniqueness to visitors nationwide,' he said when officiating at the Malaysian Association of Tour and Travel Agents (Matta) Sibu Fair 2025 here yesterday.
Although not as prominent as regional-level events such as the Kuching Food Festival, Ting said the response to this year's BCF was encouraging, with a notable increase in income for local traders.
'This event not only draws tourists but also creates opportunities for small entrepreneurs and cultural performers to grow,' he added.
Commenting on the Matta Sibu Fair 2025, Ting welcomed the strong participation from travel agencies and industry players, which he said reflected confidence in Sarawak's, particularly Sibu's, tourism potential.
'Although the regional economy is slowing down, platforms like the Matta Fair can breathe new life into the local tourism sector.
'It also opens up opportunities for investments and collaborations among industry players.'
Meanwhile, Matta Sibu Fair organising committee chairman Patrick Ling said this year's edition featured 32 exhibition booths, covering both domestic and international destinations.
'We are offering a variety of holiday packages, from nature-based destinations to unique cultural experiences.
'Our goal is to rekindle public interest in travelling while supporting the nation's tourism economy,' he added.
Also present were Matta deputy president Sheikh Awadh Sheikh Abdullah, MATTA Sarawak deputy chairman Mok Venia, Sarawak Tourism Board senior director Maurice Balang and RHB Bank regional sales head Linda Kang. Clarence Ting sibu municipal council tourism
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