New Straits Times
LETTERS
Sarawak, the "Gateway to Borneo", shows how tourism, culture and nature can seamlessly combine.
With its vibrant rainforests, rich heritage and commitment to sustainability, Sarawak stands as a shining example of what Malaysian tourism can aspire to be.
I was in Kuching recently to tutor young musicians at the Sarawak International Band and Orchestra Festival.
The festival was a spectacular event bringing together Malaysian and international musicians, who immersed themselves in Sarawak culture, music and food.
What sets Sarawak apart is a deep-rooted respect for its heritage, environment and the people who call it home.
While other destinations often lose themselves in pursuing modernity and mass tourism, Sarawak has chosen to put preservation before profit.
You sense that this is a place that values its past.
It's in stark contrast to many other tourist spots where heritage feels like a backdrop, diluted by the demands of modern-day tourism.
From sea turtle conservation programmes to efforts to protect coral reefs, Sarawak doesn't just invite tourists to witness its natural beauty, it also asks them to participate in preservation.
We also got to know that Kuching is recognised as a Unesco Creative City of Gastronomy. It's a reflection of the diversity and richness of Sarawak cuisine, which blends influences from 34 ethnic groups.
Sarawak's ability to attract a younger cohort of travellers should be studied by other states.
Celebrations like the Rainforest World Music Festival not only showcase global talent but also immerse visitors in the stunning natural beauty of the state.
For millennials and Gen Z travellers, who are increasingly seeking authentic, off-the-beaten-path experiences, Sarawak's blend of music, culture and nature is a winning combination.
Malaysia's broader tourism strategy would do well to take a page from Sarawak's playbook.
KHAIRUL ANWAR
Kuala Lumpur
The views expressed in this article are the author's own and do not necessarily reflect those of the New Straits Times