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Sarawak tourism booms as monthly receipts top RM1 bln
Abdul Karim (front, second left) flagging off the C.A.M Road Tour 2025. – Photo by Chimon Upon
KUCHING (June 25): Sarawak's tourism sector has shown robust growth in the first half of 2025, with monthly tourism receipts exceeding RM1 billion up to May, said State Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Minister Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah.
He said this reflects a steady rise in tourist arrivals and spending, with Sarawak well on track to meet its five million visitor target for the year, where the state recorded 1.6 million tourist arrivals as of May.
'Tourism receipts, calculated based on spending by both domestic and international tourists, have surpassed RM1 billion monthly.
'This includes expenditures on accommodation, food, transport, shopping and other tourism-related services,' he said during the flag-off ceremony of the C.A.M Road Tour 2025 at Roxy Hotel here today.
Abdul Karim attributed Sarawak's growing appeal to its natural beauty and rich cultural heritage, noting that tourists are drawn not to shopping malls, but to jungles, caves, national parks, and vibrant festivals.
He cited the recently concluded Rainforest World Music Festival (RWMF) as one of Sarawak's key tourism drivers, alongside the Kuching Jazz Festival, Borneo Jazz Festival in Miri, and numerous food festivals held throughout the year.
'RWMF for example is a principal event of the Ministry of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts, effectively creating a unique identity for Sarawak on the global tourism stage.
'It serves as a significant attraction, drawing thousands of concert-goers and promoting the state's cultural heritage,' he said.
Last year alone, the ministry supported 294 events, contributing to a vibrant calendar that continues to attract both domestic and international tourists, he said.
Abdul Karim also highlighted the role of medical tourism, particularly from neighbouring Indonesia, where many seek treatment at private hospitals in Kuching.
'Many of these visitors travel with family and stay for extended periods, contributing significantly to tourism spending,' he said.
He stressed the importance of local transport providers, such as C.A.M, in connecting tourists to attractions outside city centres.
'Many know that most of our nature-based tourism spots are not in the city centre. We need reliable and comfortable transport to reach them,' he said.
With continued efforts to promote major events, improve access to natural sites, and support local industry players, Abdul Karim said Sarawak is well-positioned to sustain its tourism momentum in the coming months. Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah tourism receipts
